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Monday, Apr 20

Daily Current Affairs: 20 April 2026

Analysis for 20 April 2026

Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) Authorises Banks to Import Gold and Silver

[Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)]

Key Updates:

  • The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has authorised 15 banks to import both gold and silver and two banks to import only gold for a period of three years.
  • The authorisation is effective from April 1, 2026, and remains valid until March 31, 2029.
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the list of nominated banks on April 6.
  • Banks authorised to import both gold and silver include Axis Bank, Bank of India, Federal Bank, HDFC Bank, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Deutsche Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, and Punjab National Bank.
  • Union Bank of India and Sberbank are authorised to import only gold.
  • Due to a delay in the notification, more than 5 metric tonnes of gold and around 8 metric tonnes of silver were stalled for customs clearance.

Similar Coverage

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Expands Mandatory Gold Hallmarking to 380 Districts (Mid of March) ▼
  • The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has expanded mandatory gold hallmarking to seven additional districts under the sixth phase of implementation.
  • The newly added districts include Rupnagar (Punjab), Banda (Uttar Pradesh), Beed (Maharashtra), Gomati (Tripura), Katihar (Bihar), Beawar (Rajasthan), and Neemuch (Madhya Pradesh).
  • With this expansion, the total number of districts covered under the mandatory hallmarking regime in India has reached 380.
  • Mandatory hallmarking is applicable to gold jewellery and artefacts of 14, 18, 20, 22, 23, and 24 carats.
  • The BIS launched the first phase of the programme on June 23, 2021, initially covering 256 districts.
  • Subsequent roll-outs included Phase 2 (April 2022) with 32 districts, Phase 3 (September 2023) with 55 districts, Phase 4 (November 2024) with 18 districts, and Phase 5 (July 2025) with 12 districts.
  • As of March 5, a total of 60 crore gold items have been hallmarked to ensure consumer protection and certify gold purity.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) records $9.06 billion rise in India's foreign exchange reserves (Mid of April) ▼
  • India's foreign exchange reserves rose by $9.06 billion to $697.12 billion during the week ended 3 April 2026, ending four consecutive weeks of decline.
  • Gold reserves surged by $7.22 billion during the reported week.
  • Foreign currency assets increased by $1.78 billion to $552.85 billion in the same period.
  • Gold prices climbed 4.06% to $4,676 per ounce during the week.
  • Foreign exchange reserves expanded by $22.72 billion during the previous financial year.
  • Special Drawing Rights grew by $58 million to $18.7 billion.
  • India's reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) remained unchanged at $4.82 billion.
Controller General of Accounts (CGA) launches Government Bank Dashboard and Government Bank Manual to strengthen compliance and accountability. (Start of March) ▼
  • The Controller General of Accounts (CGA) launched the Government Bank Dashboard and the Government Bank Manual on 27 February 2026.
  • The Dashboard and Manual aim to strengthen compliance, reduce risk and enhance accountability in banks handling government business.
  • Real-time digital monitoring under the initiative will enable proactive oversight and performance management of government banking transactions.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issues operational guidelines for Export Credit Interest Subvention Scheme (End of January) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued operational guidance for the implementation of the Government of India’s Interest Subvention Scheme for pre- and post-shipment export credit.
  • The scheme is introduced on a pilot basis under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM) – Niryat Prothsahan.
  • The RBI directed all scheduled commercial banks (excluding regional rural banks), primary urban co-operative banks, state co-operative banks, and all-India financial institutions to extend the interest subvention.
  • Lending institutions must adhere to operational instructions issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) through Trade Notices dated January 2, 2026, and January 16, 2026.
  • The scheme aims to support exporters by reducing the interest burden on eligible export credit.
  • The RBI circular, dated January 19, 2026, emphasizes that claims must be submitted according to prescribed procedures and existing regulatory instructions.

World Bank (WB) approves USD 225 million loan for Rajasthan highway modernisation

[World Bank, Rajasthan]

Key Updates:

  • The World Bank (WB) has approved a USD 225 million loan for the highway modernisation project in Rajasthan.
  • The project aims to benefit more than 3 million people and stimulate job creation across the agriculture, industrial, mining, and tourism sectors.
  • The funding will support the transformation of the Rajasthan State Highway Authority into a modern, service-oriented highway agency.
  • Approximately 800 km of selected highway corridors will be upgraded and maintained to be safer and climate-resilient.
  • The loan is provided by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) with a final maturity of 35 years.
  • The IBRD loan includes a grace period of 5 years and a step-up loan feature.
  • Rajasthan connects 40 per cent of India's markets and recorded an annual growth rate of 11 per cent between 2015-16 and 2023-24.

Similar Coverage

Union Cabinet clears Rs 1.74 lakh crore proposals including nutrient-based subsidy for Kharif 2026, HPCL Rajasthan refinery expansion, Jaipur Metro Phase 2 and two hydropower projects (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Union Cabinet approved a nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) scheme worth Rs 41,534 crore for phosphatic and potassic fertilisers for the Kharif 2026 season from 1 April 2026 to 30 September 2026.
  • Retail price of DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) kept stable at Rs 1,350 per 50 kg bag.
  • Cabinet approved revised cost of Rs 79,459 crore for HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Ltd project in Pachpadra, Balotra district, Rajasthan with HPCL equity contribution of Rs 19,600 crore.
  • The 9 MMTPA refinery is scheduled to start commercial operations in July 2026 and is expected to generate about 1 lakh construction jobs and 10,000 direct operational jobs.
  • Jaipur Metro Phase 2 covering the 41 km Prahladpura to Todi Mod corridor approved at an estimated cost of Rs 13,038 crore.
  • Cabinet cleared Kamala Hydro Electric Project (1,720 MW) at Rs 26,070 crore and Kalai-II Hydro Electric Project (1,200 MW) at Rs 14,106 crore to boost renewable energy capacity.
World Bank (WB) releases USD 340 million for Amaravati Capital Phase-I development (Mid of April) ▼
  • The World Bank (WB) has released USD 340 million for the Amaravati Capital Phase-I development in Andhra Pradesh as of April 2026.
  • The WB and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have committed a total of USD 1,600 million for the project, with each entity contributing USD 800 million.
  • The Central Government will fund ₹1,400 crore out of the ₹15,000 crore committed for the capital development.
  • The loan has a 29-year final maturity and a six-year grace period, with repayment scheduled to begin on June 15, 2031.
  • The interest rate for the funding is approximately 8% to 8.5% and will fluctuate based on international rates.
  • The Amaravati Integrated Urban Development Programme (AIUDP) is being implemented under the Program for Results framework, linking disbursements to milestones.
  • Flood management works have achieved over 35% completion across six locations in the capital region.
World Bank (WB) signs $300 million loan for Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Management Program. (Mid of March) ▼
  • The World Bank (WB) signed a $300 million loan agreement with Uttar Pradesh for the UP Clean Air Management Program.
  • The program targets transport, agriculture, and industry to adopt cleaner technologies.
  • Around 200 new air quality monitors will be deployed under the initiative.
  • The project anticipates leveraging an additional $150 million in private investment.
  • Over 700 brick kilns will shift to eco-friendly technology.
  • 3.9 million households will gain access to clean cooking solutions.
  • Juhi Mukherjee from the Ministry of Finance, B Chandrakala from Uttar Pradesh Government, and Paul Procee from the World Bank attended the signing.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) approves USD 182 million loan for Assam flood management (Mid of February) ▼
  • The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved USD 182 million in additional financing to strengthen Assam's resilience to chronic flooding and riverbank erosion along the Brahmaputra.
  • The funding supplements the ongoing USD 200 million Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and Riverbank Erosion Risk Management Project approved in October 2023.
  • The project will extend integrated risk management measures into four additional high-priority reaches of the Brahmaputra river.
  • The initiative is expected to directly benefit approximately 600,000 rural residents, including poor households, women, and disadvantaged groups.
  • Under the expanded scope, ADB will support the construction of 63.5 kilometres of riverbank protection and the installation of pro-siltation measures to reclaim eroded land.
  • Nature-based solutions, including reed propagation and wetland restoration, will be implemented to reduce flooding and improve ecological resilience.
  • The financing will enhance knowledge-based river management through flood risk maps, asset condition surveys, erosion prediction models, and early warning systems.
  • The project includes community disaster preparedness programmes and the upgrading of disaster-resilient flood embankments.

AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) and CheQ launch LED-powered co-branded credit card

[CheQ, AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB)]

Key Updates:

  • AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) and CheQ have launched a co-branded credit card featuring an LED-powered tap-to-pay indicator.
  • The LED feature is powered by the Near Field Communication (NFC) field of the point-of-sale terminal and does not require a battery.
  • Applications for the card open on the CheQ app from April 28.
  • The card operates on both Visa and RuPay networks to support global acceptance and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions.
  • The reward structure includes 12% rewards on e-commerce and bill payments, 5% on everyday spending, 2.5% on UPI transactions via RuPay, and 1% on other spends.
  • The card has an annual fee of ₹499, which is waived on annual spends of ₹3 lakh.
  • The LED variant carries a one-time fee of ₹999, which is waived until May 31.
  • Cardholders receive a complimentary EazyDiner membership as a welcome benefit.

Similar Coverage

PayU and GoKwik Partner to Launch India's First Integrated Conversion-to-Completion Stack for D2C Brands (Mid of March) ▼
  • PayU and GoKwik have entered into a strategic partnership to launch India's first Integrated Conversion-to-Completion stack specifically for the Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) sector.
  • The collaboration combines GoKwik's conversion intelligence with the payments infrastructure of PayU to address revenue leakage caused by checkout drop-offs and payment failures.
  • PayU is a fintech platform regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) that empowers over 4.5 lakh businesses and supports more than 100 online payment methods.
  • GoKwik is an e-commerce enablement platform that serves over 15,000 brands and maintains a network of more than 200 million shoppers.
  • The integrated solution aims to simplify the commerce stack for digital-first Indian brands by improving transaction success rates and reducing operational complexity.
HDFC Bank and Visa launch FIFA World Cup 2026-themed Pixel credit card (Mid of April) ▼
  • HDFC Bank and Visa have introduced a co-branded, limited‑edition FIFA World Cup 2026‑themed Pixel credit card.
  • The card is issued on the Visa network and is positioned as a digital‑first offering with instant issuance, app‑based access and customisation options.
  • It is available to both existing and new users of the bank’s Pixel Play platform.
  • The partnership also covers the bank’s debit, business and forex prepaid cards, allowing eligible customers to join a “spend and win” campaign.
  • Rewards under the campaign include FIFA World Cup 2026 match tickets, themed travel packages, merchandise and vouchers.
  • The launch was announced at an event in Mumbai attended by former England footballer Michael Owen.
  • Ashish Parthasarthy, group head for payments and related businesses at HDFC Bank, said the collaboration aims to combine digital payments with sports engagement for cardholders.
  • Rishi Chhabra, country manager for Visa India, said the initiative leverages Visa’s global association with FIFA to offer event‑linked experiences through everyday transactions.
Swiggy and HDFC Bank launch BLCK and Ornge co-branded credit cards with up to ₹48,000 annual savings. (Start of March) ▼
  • Swiggy and HDFC Bank introduced Swiggy BLCK HDFC Bank Credit Card and Swiggy Ornge HDFC Bank Credit Card.
  • Both cards target food delivery, quick commerce, travel, and online shopping users.
  • Cardholders can earn up to ₹48,000 in annual savings through cashback and partner discounts.
  • The cards amplify 5% cashback earnings across various partner merchants alongside Swiggy cashback.
  • Rewards ecosystem covers over 30 online platforms including Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Cleartrip, and Nykaa.
  • Existing Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card holders launched in 2023 continue to receive cashback benefits.
  • Applications for the new cards will be accepted via the Swiggy app and HDFC Bank digital channels in a phased rollout.
Punjab National Bank (PNB) launches LUXURA Metal Credit Card on Visa Infinite platform (Start of February) ▼
  • Punjab National Bank (PNB) has launched its LUXURA Metal Credit Card on the Visa Infinite platform, expanding its premium credit card portfolio and increasing the card’s global acceptance.
  • The LUXURA Metal Credit Card is now available on both RuPay and Visa networks, allowing wider international usability for cardholders.
  • The card provides 4 reward points for every ₹100 spent, with higher rewards for travel and dining purchases.
  • Customers are eligible for bonus reward points upon reaching specified annual spending thresholds.
  • The card includes zero foreign currency mark-up on international transactions and complimentary access to domestic and international airport lounges.
  • Cardholders can access benefits under the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection, which may include complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, late check-out and food and beverage credits, subject to availability.
  • Additional dining benefits are offered under the Visa Dine & Save programme at select restaurants.
  • Travel-related benefits include discounts on flight and hotel bookings through third-party platforms such as Ixigo, Agoda, Expedia and Trip.com.
  • The card provides lifestyle benefits such as movie ticket offers, grocery discounts, and a fuel surcharge waiver of up to ₹350 per billing cycle.
  • PNB has integrated 24x7 Visa Concierge Services with the card, covering assistance for travel, dining, healthcare, entertainment and shopping.
  • The joining fee for the PNB LUXURA Metal Credit Card is ₹4,999 plus GST, while the annual fee is ₹1,999 plus GST.

JSW Steel and POSCO Group form joint venture for 6 mtpa steel plant in Odisha

[JSW Steel, POSCO]

Key Updates:

  • JSW Steel Ltd and POSCO Group have formed a 50:50 joint venture (JV) to establish a greenfield 6 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) integrated steel plant in Odisha.
  • The JV will be operated through Saffron Resources Pvt Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of JSW Steel.
  • The project is located in the Keonjhar district of Odisha, involving 2,445 acres of land across 12 villages under Patna tehsil.
  • The total investment for the plant is ₹35,000 crore, with an estimated employment potential of around 8,000 direct and indirect jobs.
  • POSCO Group will subscribe to shares of Saffron Resources Pvt Ltd for approximately ₹508.8 crore, with the transaction expected to be completed by December 31, 2026.
  • JSW Steel currently has a crude steel production capacity of 35.7 mtpa, including 34.2 mtpa in India and 1.5 mtpa in the United States, with a target of 50 mtpa in India by FY31.
  • POSCO Group, headquartered in Pohang, South Korea, has a steelmaking capacity of around 45 mtpa.

Similar Coverage

Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) obtains Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) approval for high-strength steel grades (Mid of March) ▼
  • The Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) has obtained an extension of its certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
  • The new approval includes four advanced steel grades: ISC 440 LA, ISC 470 LA, ISC 510 LA, and ISC 550 LA.
  • The existing BIS licence for the plant previously covered steel grades only up to ISC 410.
  • The certification standardises High Strength Low Alloy (HSLA) cold-rolled steel produced at the plant under the IS 513 (Part 2) framework.
  • These HSLA grades are designed to meet nationally recognised quality benchmarks for use across critical industrial sectors.
Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves combination involving Bhushan Power and Steel Ltd, JSW Sambalpur Steel, JFE Steel Corp and JSW Kalinga Steel. (End of January) ▼
  • Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposed combination between Bhushan Power and Steel Limited (BPSL), JSW Sambalpur Steel Limited (JSW Sambalpur), JFE Steel Corporation (JFE) and JSW Kalinga Steel Ltd (JSW Kalinga).
  • The combination involves transfer of BPSL’s steel business undertaking (Target Business) to JSW Sambalpur by way of slump sale.
  • JFE will acquire 50% direct shareholding in JSW Kalinga, resulting in indirect acquisition of 50% shareholding in JSW Sambalpur.
  • Post-transaction, JSW Kalinga and JSW Sambalpur will operate as a 50:50 joint venture between JFE and JSW Steel Ltd.
  • JSW Kalinga is a wholly owned subsidiary of Piombino Steel Limited, which is a subsidiary of JSW Steel Limited.
  • JSW Sambalpur is a wholly owned subsidiary of JSW Kalinga and is yet to commence commercial operations.
  • BPSL is currently an indirect subsidiary of JSW Steel, held through Piombino Steel Limited.
MoPSW and KOICA Sign Implementation Plan to Boost Shipbuilding Skills (Start of April) ▼
  • The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) signed an implementation plan with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) on April 2, 2026.
  • The partnership aims to enhance skill development in India’s shipbuilding and marine industries to build a future-ready workforce.
  • The Korea Research Institute for Vocational Education and Training will support the project by identifying skill gaps and creating a talent development roadmap.
  • The agreement proposes the establishment of a Shipbuilding Workforce Development and Technology Cooperation Center in India to provide industry-focused training.
  • The initiative aligns with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which seeks to establish India as a global hub for maritime services.
SAIL Great Place to Work Certification for February 2026 to February 2027 (Start of February) ▼
  • Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), has been certified as a Great Place to Work for the period February 2026 to February 2027.
  • This recognition marks the third consecutive year that SAIL has received this certification following an assessment by the Great Place To Work Institute, India.
  • The assessment process involved a company-wide survey measuring the TRUST INDEX© score, which evaluates parameters such as credibility, respect, fairness, pride, and camaraderie.
  • SAIL has implemented the SAIL DARPAN initiative to establish a transparent and performance-driven work environment focused on objective evaluation and accountability.
  • The organisation has partnered with several institutions for capability enhancement, including Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode, IIM Bangalore, IIM Jammu, IIM Raipur, IIM Ranchi, XLRI, and Administrative Staff College of India (ASCI).
  • Shri Amarendu Prakash currently serves as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of SAIL.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issues Master Direction on Facility for Exchange of Notes and Coins

[Reserve Bank of India (RBI)]

Key Updates:

  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the Master Direction – Facility for Exchange of Notes and Coins on April 01, 2026.
  • The guidelines were issued under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, for providing note and coin exchange facilities to the public.
  • The consolidated Master Direction aims to ensure uniform implementation by banks across the country by bringing all existing instructions into a single reference document.
  • All previous circulars and master directions on the subject of note and coin exchange facilities stand withdrawn from the date of issuance.

Similar Coverage

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) releases Rs 2.54 lakh crore state borrowing calendar for April-June 2026 (Start of April) ▼
  • RBI announces indicative calendar for state market borrowings worth Rs 2,54,509 crore during April-June 2026.
  • Nine pilot states—Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh—adopt Benchmark Issuance Strategy (BIS).
  • Pilot states to raise Rs 1,53,900 crore under BIS framework.
  • Remaining states and Union Territories to borrow Rs 1,00,609 crore through traditional methods.
  • RBI retains right to revise auction dates and amounts in consultation with states.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) caps banks’ daily net open forex exposure at $100 million. (Start of April) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) instructed banks to limit their net open exposure to the currency in the foreign exchange market to $100 million by the end of each day.
  • The new cap must be complied with by April 10.
  • Previously, banks could hold net open positions up to 25 per cent of their total capital.
  • India’s forex reserves have fallen by over $30 billion, to $698.34 billion, since the West Asia conflict began.
  • The RBI has used dollars from its forex kitty to stabilise the rupee, which breached 95-per-dollar.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) releases draft Directions on Foreign Exchange Dealings of Authorised Persons (Mid of February) ▼
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the draft Directions on Foreign Exchange Dealings of Authorised Persons on Tuesday.
  • The draft aims to ease reporting obligations and provide greater flexibility to Authorised Persons for hedging exposures, balance sheet management and market-making.
  • The format for reporting net open position limits has been updated.
  • Comments and feedback on the draft directions are invited by March 10, 2026.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launches pilot ‘Awareness Program on Digital Payments’ for 10 lakh participants in Maharashtra. (Mid of March) ▼
  • The sixth edition of Digital Payments Awareness Week (DPAW) is being observed during March 9-13, 2026.
  • RBI Governor Shri Sanjay Malhotra launched the pilot program titled 'Awareness Program on Digital Payments'.
  • The pilot will be conducted in Maharashtra in partnership with CSC e-Governance Services India Limited.
  • The pilot will include in-person awareness programs for 10 lakh participants in rural and semi-urban areas through Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs).
  • RBI also launched a multi-media awareness campaign 'Thoda Dhyan Se' to encourage users to be careful while making payments and transacting online.
  • Governor Shri Sanjay Malhotra interacted with Managing Directors/Chief Executive Officers of select Payment Systems Operators (PSOs) after the launch.
  • Deputy Governors Shri T Rabi Sankar, Dr Poonam Gupta, and Shri S C Murmu attended the launch event.

Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill 2026: Stringent Punishments for Sacrilege

[Punjab]

Key Updates:

  • Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria gave assent to the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill 2026.
  • The legislation focuses exclusively on protecting the sanctity of the Guru Granth Sahib.
  • Standard acts of sacrilege attract a minimum imprisonment of 7 years, extendable up to 20 years, and a fine ranging from ₹2 lakh to ₹10 lakh.
  • Offences committed as part of a conspiracy to disturb communal harmony carry a minimum of 10 years imprisonment, extendable to life imprisonment, and fines between ₹5 lakh and ₹25 lakh.
  • The offences are classified as non-bailable and cognisable, triable by a sessions court.
  • Investigations must be conducted by officers not below the rank of deputy superintendent of police or assistant commissioner of police.
  • The law replaces the terms Bir and Birs with Saroop and Saroops to align with Sikh religious terminology.
  • Only the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) or entities authorised by it can print, publish, store, or distribute Saroops.
  • The SGPC is mandated to maintain a centralised physical and electronic register of all Saroops, updated monthly, with public access via the SGPC website within 45 days of the law coming into force.
  • The legislation introduces the concept of a custodian, encompassing individuals, institutions, and gurdwara committees responsible for the care and protection of a Saroop.
  • Sacrilege is broadly defined to include physical acts such as burning, tearing, or theft, as well as spoken, written, symbolic, or electronic actions.

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.
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.
Uniform Civil Code (UCC) – Uniform Legal Framework for Chhattisgarh (Mid of April) ▼
  • On 16 April 2026, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet approved a high‑level committee to prepare a draft of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) framework.
  • The committee is headed by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai.
  • The committee will consult citizens, legal experts and stakeholders and may invite feedback through a web portal.
  • The draft prepared by the committee will be placed before the state Assembly after Cabinet approval.
  • Article 44 of the Constitution directs states to work towards implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) for all citizens.
  • The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Uttarakhand implemented the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in January 2025, becoming the first state to do so.
  • The Gujarat Assembly passed a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill last month.
Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026 introduced in Lok Sabha to decriminalise minor offences (End of March) ▼
  • Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026 introduced by Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada in Lok Sabha after incorporating select committee recommendations.
  • Bill proposes to amend 79 central acts administered by 23 ministries, affecting 784 provisions, of which 717 provisions are being decriminalised for ease of doing business and 67 for ease of living.
  • Earlier version Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025 was introduced by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on 18 March 2024 and referred to a select committee.
  • Bill withdrawn on 17 March 2026 and re-introduced after select committee recommendations.
  • Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, notified on 11 August 2023, decriminalised 183 provisions across 42 Central Acts administered by 19 ministries/departments.

Women's quota law comes into effect in UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Puducherry

[Jammu and Kashmir, Puducherry]

Key Updates:

  • The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) notified April 17, 2026, as the date from which women's quota provisions for the Union Territories (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir and Puducherry will come into force.
  • The Constitution (One Hundred and Sixth Amendment) Act, 2023, providing one-third seats reservation for women in the House of the People, legislative assemblies of all states, and the UT of Delhi, came into effect on April 16, 2026.
  • Reservation for women in the legislative assemblies of Puducherry was enacted via the Govt of Union Territories (Amendment) Act, 2023, and for Jammu and Kashmir via the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Second Amendment) Act.
  • The women's reservation will become operative after the first delimitation based on Census 2027, which is scheduled to take place from April 1, 2026, to March 1, 2027.

Similar Coverage

Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill 2026 and Delimitation Bill Shelved Following Lok Sabha Vote (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Government of India decided to drop the Delimitation Bill 2026 after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill 2026 failed to pass in the Lok Sabha.
  • The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, which proposed 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, secured 278 votes in favour and 211 against, falling short of the required two-thirds majority.
  • Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the delimitation exercise was interconnected with the women’s reservation amendment and the proposed extension of the quota to Union Territories (UTs).
  • The delimitation exercise, mandated under Articles 82 and 170 of the Constitution of India, involves redrawing parliamentary and assembly constituencies based on census data.
  • Under the shelved proposal, most states were expected to see a 50% increase in seat allocation, while Sikkim, Nagaland, and Mizoram would have seen no increase in parliamentary seats.
  • The legislation also included a proposal for a marginal rise in representation for Scheduled Castes (SC) in the Lok Sabha.
Karnataka Menstrual Leave Policy – One Day Paid Leave per Month (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Karnataka government issued notifications on 12 November 2025 and 20 November 2025 providing women employees with one day of paid menstrual leave each month.
  • The Karnataka Menstrual Leave and Hygiene Bill, 2025 proposes monthly paid menstrual leave for women in both government offices and private establishments and a 2 per cent attendance relaxation for girl students in government and private educational institutions.
  • The Karnataka High Court directed the state government to ensure effective operationalisation of the menstrual leave policy through suitable guidelines, circulars and administrative instructions across organised and unorganised sectors.
  • The petition prompting the court's direction was filed by Chandravva Hanamant Gokavi, a hotel worker from Belgavi.
  • The court observed that the policy is intrinsically linked to the realisation of a fundamental right and the constitutional promise of equality.
Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill – Lok Sabha Strength Raised to 850 Seats (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 proposes to increase the total strength of the Lok Sabha from the current 545 to 850 members.
  • The Delimitation Bill, 2026 provides for a Delimitation Commission headed by a Supreme Court judge, with the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and State Election Commissioners (SECs) as members.
  • The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 makes changes to the laws for Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, and Puducherry.
  • The amendment removes the constitutional freeze on readjustment of Lok Sabha seats that was based on the 1971 Census and allows delimitation based on the latest published census figures.
  • One-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, including within SC and ST quotas, will be operationalised, with seats to be rotated after each delimitation cycle for a period of 15 years.
  • The amendment raises the cap on elected members from states to 815 and from Union Territories to 35.
  • The Delimitation Commission will allocate seats, redraw constituency boundaries, and determine reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women, ensuring constituencies are geographically compact and consider physical features, administrative boundaries, communication facilities, and public convenience.
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.

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

[Tripura]

Key Updates:

  • Tipra Motha won 24 out of 28 seats in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections.
  • The TTAADC governs nearly 70 per cent of the territory of Tripura and covers 20 tribal-reserved seats in the State Assembly.
  • Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma launched a new political entity called One Northeast to foster tribal unity across the region.
  • The Supreme Court (SC) has ordered the conduct of ADC village council elections in July after a gap of 10 years.
  • Security deployment for the election counting included 24 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and the Tripura State Rifles (TSR).

Similar Coverage

Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) Election Results April 18, 2026 (Mid of April) ▼
  • 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.
Tripura Government launches T-NEST Innovation Hub in Agartala (Start of March) ▼
  • The Government of Tripura launched T-NEST, the state’s flagship incubation and innovation hub, at the International Trade Centre in Agartala.
  • The hub was inaugurated by Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh, Tripura Chief Minister (CM) Dr. Manik Saha, and Information Technology (IT) Minister Pranajit Singha Roy.
  • T-NEST will serve as the operational backbone for Startup Tripura and the State Innovation Mission, acting as a single-window platform for entrepreneurs.
  • The initiative focuses on priority sectors including agri-technology, bamboo and forest-based enterprises, tourism innovation, health technology, digital public services, and rural enterprise solutions.
  • The hub introduces a Government-as-First-Customer model, allowing startups to pilot and validate solutions by addressing real-world challenges presented by government departments.
  • A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with T-Hub to facilitate knowledge exchange, mentorship, and market access for the state's entrepreneurial framework.
  • Future developments include the establishment of a Modern Incubation and Innovation Park at Chandmari and the Tripura IT & Data Economic Zone (TIDEZ).
Advanced food testing laboratory with French e-tongue and e-nose technology to be established in Tirumala (End of February) ▼
  • The Andhra Pradesh state government is installing advanced e-tongue and e-nose machines worth ₹3.5 crore at a new food testing laboratory in Tirumala.
  • These high-precision instruments, manufactured in France, replicate human sensory functions to scientifically analyse taste and aroma profiles and detect microscopic adulteration.
  • The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) sanctioned ₹23 crore for the establishment of the 12,000 sq ft laboratory.
  • The facility will test approximately 60 varieties of raw materials, including ghee, cashew nuts, raisins, almonds, Bengal gram, sugar, cardamom, turmeric, and chilli powder.
  • The laboratory will operate through microbiology, chemistry, and sensory analysis divisions to detect up to 200 types of pesticide residues, heavy metals, and antibiotics.
  • A total of 40 personnel will be jointly deployed by the health department and the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) to operate the facility.
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.

IndiaAI Startups Global Acceleration Programme (ISG) selects 10 startups for Paris residency

[Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)]

Key Updates:

  • The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) announced the selection of 10 startups for the second cohort of the IndiaAI Startups Global Acceleration Programme (ISG).
  • The ISG is developed in collaboration with HEC Paris and Station F, Paris, which is the world's largest startup campus.
  • The programme is a component of the IndiaAI Mission's Startup Financing Pillar and aligns with the National AI Strategy.
  • Selected startups will undergo a three-week online preparatory phase followed by a three-month immersive residency at Station F in Paris.
  • The 10 selected startups are: AI Health Highway India Pvt Ltd (AI-enabled smart stethoscope), Awiros (Vision AI platform), Cognecto (AI-driven infrastructure intelligence), Flaunt (Multimodal AI agents for beauty, fashion, and digital marketing), GreenFi.ai/Climateforce Technologies Pvt Ltd (ESG compliance and risk management), Infiheal Healthtech Pvt Ltd (AI mental health companion 'Healo'), InLustro Learning Pvt Ltd (AI-powered job simulation platform), PredCo (AI compliance for manufacturing), SkyServe/Hyspace Technologies Pvt Ltd (AI infrastructure for Earth and space monitoring), and TestAIng Solutions Pvt Ltd (QA and compliance for responsible AI).

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Ministry of Commerce and Industry Recognises 55,200 Startups in FY26 (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recognised more than 55,200 startups in FY26, representing a 51.6% increase over the previous year.
  • Direct job creation by startups grew by 36.1% in FY26, marking the highest single-year growth since the launch of the Startup India initiative in 2016.
  • The total number of recognised startups reached 2.23 lakh as of March 31, 2026, generating more than 23.36 lakh direct jobs.
  • Approximately 48% of these startups, amounting to over 1.07 lakh entities, have at least one woman director or partner.
  • Under the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), more than ₹7,000 crore was disbursed to over 135 Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) in FY26.
  • The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) doubled its guarantee cover per borrower to ₹20 crore, with over 410 loans worth ₹1,250 crore guaranteed by the end of FY26.
  • The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) committed its entire corpus of ₹945 crore to 219 selected incubators, which approved ₹605 crore for over 3,400 startups.
  • Patent applications filed by startups exceeded 19,400, with annual filings rising from 2,850 in FY25 to more than 4,480 in FY26.
Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 (FoF 2.0) – Rs 10,000 crore (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) notified the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 (FoF 2.0) with an outlay of Rs 10,000 crore.
  • The scheme aims to mobilise venture and growth capital for deep‑tech startups, early‑growth‑stage companies and technology‑driven manufacturing enterprises.
  • The corpus will be contributed to SEBI‑registered alternative investment funds (AIFs) for investing in equity and equity‑linked instruments of entities recognised as startups by the central government.
  • The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) will issue operational guidelines and a committee chaired by the DPIIT secretary will monitor implementation.
Gujarat launches herSTART 5.0 to incubate and mentor women-led startups (Start of March) ▼
  • Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the fifth edition of the herSTART programme run by the Gujarat University Startup and Entrepreneurship Council.
  • The herSTART programme provides incubation, mentorship and market access support to women-led startups.
  • CM Patel announced that the number of startups in India has risen from fewer than 500 about a decade ago to nearly 2,00,000, with women accounting for a substantial share of participation.
  • He highlighted that opportunities are expanding for women in the semiconductor sector, including chip design, fabrication management, semiconductor packaging and deep-technology innovation.
  • The Chief Minister inaugurated a newly built research park at Gujarat University and named the university's convention centre as Vidyagauri Nilkanth Sabhapuram.
Startup India programme widened to include deep-tech firms and cooperative societies (Start of February) ▼
  • Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) notified revised norms expanding Startup India eligibility.
  • General startups now recognised up to 10 years from incorporation with annual turnover not exceeding ₹200 crore.
  • Deep-tech startups eligible for 20 years from incorporation with turnover cap raised to ₹300 crore.
  • Multi-state and state-registered cooperative societies included as eligible entities under the framework.
  • Entity formed by splitting or reconstruction of an existing business cannot qualify as a startup.
  • Deep-tech startup must focus on new scientific or engineering knowledge, incur high R&D expenditure, and create significant novel intellectual property.
  • Recognised startups gain access to government funding schemes, tax exemptions and regulatory relief.
  • India has recognised more than 200,000 startups since Startup India launch in 2016.

Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises signs MoU with NICDC Logistics Data Services to boost data-driven logistics

[Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME), National Logistics Development and Services Limited (NLDSL)]

Key Updates:

  • The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with NICDC Logistics Data Services Limited (NLDS) to strengthen a data-driven logistics ecosystem for MSMEs.
  • The collaboration aims to create a digital framework for seamless data exchange through API-based integration to improve policymaking and supply chain efficiency.
  • NLDS operates under the guidance of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust.
  • The MoU was signed by Anuja Bapat, Deputy Director General at the Office of the Development Commissioner (MSME), and Arvind Devaraj, Chief Operating Officer of NLDS.
  • The initiative aims to help MSMEs gain access to logistics insights, reduce inefficiencies, optimise costs, and enhance competitiveness in domestic and global markets.

Similar Coverage

National Career Service (NCS) Portal – Creation of 30 Lakh Jobs by 2030 (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoLE) signed MoUs with Porter and Gigin Technologies on 13 April 2026 to expand employment opportunities through the NCS portal.
  • Over 7 lakh vacancies are currently active on the NCS portal and nearly 59 lakh establishments have registered.
  • The NCS portal has registered over 6 crore jobseekers and mobilised more than 9 crore vacancies since its inception.
  • Porter aims to generate approximately 6 lakh logistics and driving opportunities annually via NCS and around 30 lakh opportunities by 2030.
  • Gigin Technologies aims to create at least 2–3 lakh verified job opportunities annually with over 1.5 lakh employer engagements through NCS.
  • The collaborations are expected to mobilise nearly 10 lakh job opportunities annually for youth.
  • Budget outlay: Not specified in the article.
  • Launch date of the MoUs: 13 April 2026.
  • Target beneficiaries are youth and jobseekers registered on the NCS portal.
TVS Supply Chain Solutions and ALA Group sign MoU to target India’s $28 billion aerospace and defence market (End of February) ▼
  • TVS Supply Chain Solutions (TVS SCS) signed an MoU with Italy-based ALA Group to jointly pursue opportunities in India’s aerospace and defence supply chain sector.
  • India’s aerospace and defence market is estimated at around $28 billion.
  • TVS SCS will leverage its domestic presence and UK defence experience; its aerospace, defence and utilities business generates approximately $140 million in annual revenue.
  • ALA Group reported revenues of $345 million in 2024 and will contribute aerospace and defence domain expertise, global technology platforms and OEM relationships across Europe, the US and the UK.
  • The partnership will focus on integrated production and aftermarket services including production support, spare parts distribution, inventory optimisation, defence-grade logistics, logistics engineering, and MRO support.
Kempegowda International Airport (BIAL) and Frankfurt Airport sign MoU to boost India-Europe cargo connectivity (End of February) ▼
  • Kempegowda International Airport operated by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) signed an MoU with Frankfurt Airport on Wednesday to enhance cargo connectivity between South India and Europe.
  • The collaboration focuses on joint trade lane analytics, digital corridor development, pharma integrity standards, and knowledge exchange to improve visibility and reduce dwell times.
  • Frankfurt Airport is one of Europe's most connected cargo hubs and serves as a key gateway for the partnership.
  • BLR Airport serves one of India's fastest-growing manufacturing and export regions.
  • The partnership aligns with Frankfurt Cargo Hub Masterplan and aims to create optimal conditions for customers and the cargo community.
GeM–WTC Mumbai MoU to Boost MSME Inclusion in Public Procurement (End of January) ▼
  • GeM and MVIRDC World Trade Centre Mumbai signed an MoU to foster domestic and international collaboration in public procurement.
  • The MoU aims to enhance GeM’s global positioning, promote knowledge exchange, and drive inclusive participation for MSMEs, startups, women entrepreneurs, and underrepresented suppliers.
  • Joint initiatives include global procurement dialogues, capacity-building programs, supplier outreach, and research on AI in procurement, sustainability, and green practices.
  • A Joint Working Group will oversee implementation, ensuring alignment with Government of India policies on public procurement, data security, and inclusivity.

Divya Bharat: A Window to the Soul of India launched to strengthen India’s tourism ecosystem

[National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog]

Key Updates:

  • National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) launched the anthology titled "Divya Bharat: A Window to the Soul of India" on 17 April 2026.
  • The initiative aims to inspire citizens and global travellers to explore India's diverse tourism landscape through a structured and immersive approach.
  • The anthology presents tourism offerings through a seasonal lens, covering iconic landmarks, heritage sites, cultural traditions, festivals, cuisines, and lesser-known destinations across all States and Union Territories.
  • The launch was a collaborative effort involving NITI Aayog, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Ministry of Culture.
  • Industry and academic partners participating in the launch included Airbnb, Atithi Foundation, Indian School of Public Policy (ISPP), Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), and Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI).

Similar Coverage

NITI Aayog releases reports on "Ease of Doing Research & Development in India" (Mid of April) ▼
  • The reports titled “Ease of Doing Research & Development in India” and “Survey Report on Ease of Doing R&D in India” were released on 9 April 2026 in New Delhi.
  • The release was officiated by Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, and Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Science & Technology (MoST).
  • The exercise leading to the reports spanned approximately nine months and involved outreach to over 400 institutional leaders and insights from more than 850 distinguished scientists and researchers across the country.
  • The event featured senior officials including Dr. V. K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog; Prof. Vivek Kumar Singh, Senior Adviser, NITI Aayog; Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, Former President, Indian National Science Academy (INSA); Prof. Vinod Kumar Singh, President, National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI); Dr. Shekhar C. Mande, President, INSA; and Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.
  • The reports propose actionable recommendations to improve funding mechanisms, institutional governance, regulatory frameworks, and research translation in India’s R&D ecosystem.
Gyan Bharatam Mission launches nationwide survey to map India’s manuscript heritage (Mid of March) ▼
  • Ministry of Culture (MoC) will conduct a three-month nationwide survey from Monday to map India’s manuscript heritage.
  • Survey teams will identify manuscripts in institutions, private collections and with individual custodians starting at district level.
  • Discovered manuscripts will be geotagged and uploaded in real time through the Gyan Bharatam mobile application.
  • The mission aims to create a consolidated database and national digital repository on the Gyan Bharatam Mission central portal.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Gyan Bharatam Mission in the Union Budget 2025–26 and described it as the proclamation of India's culture, literature and consciousness.
  • State and district-level committees chaired by chief secretaries and district magistrates have been set up to oversee the survey.
  • Existing digitised collections exceeding one million manuscripts held by institutions and state governments will be integrated into the central platform.
India boosts tourism at ITB Berlin 2026 with new partnerships and 10% GDP share goal (Start of March) ▼
  • On 5 March 2026 India held tourism talks with Indonesia and Germany at ITB Berlin 2026 led by Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
  • Discussions covered increased tourism flows, air connectivity, sustainable travel and people-to-people ties.
  • Shekhawat met UNWTO’s Shaikha Al Nowais to explore sustainable tourism models.
  • India launched a 700 sq m Incredible India Pavilion featuring 37 companies and six states showcasing heritage, culture, wellness and wildlife.
  • The Ministry of Tourism announced a Netflix partnership to promote Indian destinations through cinematic storytelling and new tourism films.
  • The government reiterated its goal to raise tourism’s GDP share from 6% to 10%, emphasised during the 33rd South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange in New Delhi that gathered over 2,000 exhibitors.
Upgraded Indian Culture Portal launched with AI chatbot 'Bharti' (Start of March) ▼
  • Ministry of Culture (MoC) Secretary Vivek Aggarwal launched the upgraded Indian Culture portal in New Delhi on 06-03-2026.
  • The portal features an AI-powered chatbot named 'Bharti' integrated with the Government of India's Bhashini platform to respond in 22 Indian languages.
  • It offers 46 curated cultural categories and new sections such as Iconic Battles of India, Folktales of India, Healing Through the Ages, Legendary Figures of India, and Classical Dances of India.
  • The upgraded portal functions as a Progressive Web App (PWA) enabling app-like access across devices without app store downloads.
  • It includes 3D walkthroughs and 360-degree virtual tours of heritage monuments and interactive cultural games, quizzes, puzzles, and crosswords for all age groups.

India Vice President CP Radhakrishnan visits Sri Lanka on 19-20 April 2026

[Sri Lanka]

Key Updates:

  • Vice President CP Radhakrishnan embarked on a two-day official visit to Sri Lanka from 19-20 April 2026.
  • This marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian vice president to Sri Lanka.
  • The Vice President will meet the President of Sri Lanka Anura Kumara Disanayaka and the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Harini Amarasuriya.
  • The visit includes interactions with Tamil leaders and the Indian-origin Tamil community from the Northern and Eastern regions of Sri Lanka.
  • The Vice President will address the Indian diaspora in Colombo and virtually hand over houses to beneficiaries under the third phase of the Indian Housing Project.
  • With the completion of the third phase, the total number of houses for Tamil communities will reach 50,000.
  • A fourth phase of the Indian Housing Project is currently building 10,000 additional houses.
  • The itinerary includes a visit to Nuwara Eliya to inspect Indian Housing Projects and interact with the local Tamil community.

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India and Israel elevate ties to special strategic partnership and advance mutually beneficial FTA (Start of March) ▼
  • India and Israel elevated their relationship to a special strategic partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel.
  • Both sides agreed to soon finalise a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
  • India and Israel signed multiple agreements to expand cooperation in trade, agriculture, energy, cyberspace and digital payment.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi held extremely fruitful and wide-ranging talks with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to enhance cooperation in education, start-ups, innovation, tech and connectivity.
  • Modi and Herzog planted an oak tree at the President’s residence as a symbol of friendship and shared future.
  • Prime Minister Modi addressed the Knesset, becoming the first Indian to speak in Israel’s Parliament.
  • Modi voiced strong support for the Gaza peace initiative and stated that terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere.
  • The Speaker of the Knesset conferred the Speaker of the Knesset Medal on Prime Minister Modi for his exceptional contribution to strengthening India-Israel strategic relations.
India and Seychelles Adopt SESEL Joint Vision and Announce USD 175 Million Economic Package (Mid of February) ▼
  • India and Seychelles adopted a comprehensive Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL) on 9 February 2026.
  • The visit of Seychelles President Patrick Herminie coincides with the 50th anniversary of Seychelles' Independence and 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
  • India announced a USD 175 million Special Economic Package for Seychelles, consisting of a USD 125 million Rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance.
  • Seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed covering pharmacopoeial cooperation, meteorological collaboration, a Cultural Exchange Programme (2026-2030), digital transformation, maritime research, civil servant training, and food procurement.
  • India will provide a gratis refit for the patrol ship PS Zoraster and gift 10 ambulances, 10 utility vehicles, and five Laser Radial class boats to the Seychelles Defence Force.
  • The package includes the provision of 1,000 metric tonnes of grains and lentils and the establishment of a Seychelles Hydrographic Unit with Indian assistance.
  • Seychelles has decided to become a full member of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC).
  • President Patrick Herminie reaffirmed Seychelles' support for India's permanent membership in an expanded United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
  • The partnership is framed under India's MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision for the Indian Ocean Region.
  • India will support Seychelles in building Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and digitising governance systems, including digital payments and financial inclusion.
India and France Elevate Relations to Special Global Strategic Partnership during President Macron's Visit (End of February) ▼
  • Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron elevated the India-France relationship to a Special Global Strategic Partnership.
  • Bilateral trade between India and France crossed $15 billion in 2024-25, driven by aircraft manufacturing, information technology, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals.
  • An annual Foreign Ministers Dialogue was established to review the implementation of the elevated partnership and the Horizon 2047 Roadmap.
  • The leaders launched the India-France Year of Innovation and the India-France Innovation Network.
  • An H125 helicopter final assembly line was inaugurated at Vemagal, Karnataka.
  • Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Safran entered a joint venture to produce Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range (HAMMER) missiles in India.
  • The bilateral agreement on defence cooperation was renewed for a period of 10 years during the 6th India-France Annual Defence Dialogue.
  • Reciprocal deployment of officers will be implemented at Indian Army and French Land Forces establishments.
  • A Joint Advanced Technology Development Group was constituted to enhance technological cooperation.
  • A Joint Declaration of Intent was signed for cooperation in the sector of critical minerals and metals.
  • The Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to establish a centre on advanced materials and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for scientific collaboration.
  • The protocol on the Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between the two nations was amended.
  • The Indo-French Centre for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Health was launched at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.
  • New centres were established for Digital Sciences and Technology, Metabolic Health Sciences, and a National Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Aeronautics.
  • The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and ANRS signed an LoI for cooperation in research and development on infectious diseases and global health.
  • T-Hub and Nord France signed an LoI for strategic cooperation in start-up ecosystems, innovation, and technology.
  • The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) renewed its MoU on renewable energy cooperation with the French Ministry for the Economy, Finance and Industrial, Energy and Digital Sovereignty.
  • The Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, signed an LoI with La Poste, France.
  • President Macron invited PM Modi to the Group of Seven (G7) Summit to be chaired by France in 2026.
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.

Indian Army to host Surya Devbhoomi Challenge 2.0 in Uttarakhand from 16 to 20 April 2026

[Uttarakhand]

Key Updates:

  • The Indian Army, in association with IconMetrix, will host the Surya Devbhoomi Challenge 2.0 in the Uttarakhand Himalayas.
  • The high-altitude endurance event will span 113 kilometres in the Badrinath–Kedarnath corridor from 16 to 20 April 2026.
  • The event is organised with the support of the Government of Uttarakhand and Uttarakhand Tourism.
  • Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan will interact with athletes during the Expo on 16 April.
  • The challenge will feature participation from the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.
  • The event aims to promote sustainable mountain tourism and border region engagement.
  • The closing ceremony on 20 April is expected to feature the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami.

Similar Coverage

KSRTC Dhwani Spandana: Award for innovation aiding visually impaired (Mid of March) ▼
  • Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) received the Governance Now 12th PSU National Award in the 'Excellence in Innovation' category for its Dhwani Spandana initiative.
  • KSRTC implemented the Dhwani Spandana — Onboard Bus Identification and Navigation System on 200 Mysuru city transport buses with support from the German company GIZ.
  • KSRTC Director Personnel and Vigilance Gayithri KM received the award in New Delhi on Wednesday.
RSS launches Kashmir to Kanyakumari 'Dhwaj Yatra' (Start of February) ▼
  • Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) started the 'Dhwaj Yatra' flag rally from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.
  • The yatra began symbolically at Lal Chowk and culminated at the Tourist Reception Centre in Kashmir.
  • Participant Veer Kapoor stated the yatra aims to clear misgivings that RSS is against some people.
  • A movie titled 'Shatak' has been made to celebrate 100 years of RSS and is scheduled for release on February 19.
India: COAS General Upendra Dwivedi flags off culmination ceremony of Bharat RannBhoomi Darshan D2D Expedition at National War Memorial, New Delhi (End of February) ▼
  • Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi flagged off the culmination ceremony of Bharat RannBhoomi Darshan D2D Expedition at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.
  • The 22-day expedition covered approximately 3,400 kilometres, starting from Dwarka on 3 February 2026.
  • Led jointly by the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Border Security Force (BSF), the expedition traversed key locations across Gujarat and Rajasthan to honour war heroes and showcase India’s military heritage.
Uniform Civil Code (UCC) – Uniform Legal Framework for Chhattisgarh (Mid of April) ▼
  • On 16 April 2026, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet approved a high‑level committee to prepare a draft of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) framework.
  • The committee is headed by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai.
  • The committee will consult citizens, legal experts and stakeholders and may invite feedback through a web portal.
  • The draft prepared by the committee will be placed before the state Assembly after Cabinet approval.
  • Article 44 of the Constitution directs states to work towards implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) for all citizens.
  • The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Uttarakhand implemented the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in January 2025, becoming the first state to do so.
  • The Gujarat Assembly passed a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill last month.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to deploy nuclear reactors on the Moon by 2030

[United States]

Key Updates:

  • The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) aims to place nuclear reactors on the Moon by 2030 through its Fission Surface Power Project.
  • NASA plans to launch a medium-power reactor into orbit by 2028.
  • The Fission Surface Power Project will be a joint effort between NASA, the US Department of Energy, and the Department of Defence.
  • The White House Office of Science and Technology (OSTP) has shared guidelines for federal agencies to develop a roadmap for space nuclear technology.
  • The Fission Surface Power Project is expected to have a design capacity of 40-100 kilowatts of electricity.
  • The NASA Artemis II mission includes astronauts Reid Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover, and Jeremy Hansen.
  • Nuclear power is being prioritised over solar power because a single lunar night lasts approximately 14 Earth days, and solar panels cannot function in permanently shadowed regions such as the lunar south pole.
  • The project is intended to strengthen the US space technology position relative to China and Russia and serve as a test bed for future crewed missions to Mars.

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White House Establishes National Initiative for American Space Nuclear Power (Mid of April) ▼
  • 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.
India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) Achieves Criticality at Kalpakkam (Start of April) ▼
  • India's first Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, achieved criticality on 6 April at 8:25 pm.
  • The achievement marks the formal entry into the second stage of India's three-stage nuclear power programme.
  • The 500 MWe reactor is designed to produce more fuel than it consumes, making it a self-sustaining nuclear fission chain reaction.
  • The PFBR uses a Mixed Oxide (MOX) fuel comprising Plutonium-239 and Uranium-238, with liquid sodium as a coolant.
  • India will be the second country after Russia to operate a commercial fast breeder reactor once the indigenously designed unit is commissioned.
  • The reactor uses fast neutrons to convert Uranium-238 into fissile Plutonium-239, which will eventually feed stage three reactors.
  • Stage three of the programme aims to achieve energy independence by utilising India's thorium reserves, which are the third-largest in the world.
  • The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) will oversee low power physics experiments before the plant reaches full commercial operation, expected by late 2026 or early 2027.
  • Stage one of the national nuclear doctrine involved Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) using natural Uranium-238 to generate energy and Plutonium-239.
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.
India's 100 GW Nuclear Power Roadmap targets 100 GW capacity by 2047 (Mid of April) ▼
  • 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.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and SpaceX to launch European Space Agency (ESA) Rosalind Franklin Mars rover

[Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX)]

Key Updates:

  • The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) confirmed that SpaceX will launch the European Space Agency (ESA) Rosalind Franklin Mars rover as soon as late 2028.
  • The mission will be launched using a Falcon Heavy rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
  • The Rosalind Franklin rover is expected to reach Mars in 2030.
  • The mission will be the first to extract and analyse soil samples from as deep as 6 feet (2 metres) into the Martian crust.
  • The rover features novel mobility capabilities, including six-wheel steering and wheel walking.
  • NASA is providing a mass spectrometer to analyse Martian soil, braking engines for landing, and nuclear-powered heaters for the electronics.
  • The rover was built by Airbus in the United Kingdom, the carrier spacecraft was manufactured by OHB in Germany, and Thales Alenia Space of Italy is responsible for the overall assembly.

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National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) selects SpaceX Falcon Heavy for ESA Mars Rover Mission (Mid of April) ▼
  • 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.
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.
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.
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.

Herbalife India and IIT Madras Establish India's First Centre of Excellence on Plant Cell Fermentation

[Herbalife, Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)]

Key Updates:

  • Herbalife International India Private Limited (Herbalife India) and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) signed an agreement to establish the Herbalife-IIT Madras Centre of Excellence (CoE) on Plant Cell Fermentation Technology.
  • The CoE is located at the IIT Madras Research Park and is India's first exclusive facility dedicated to translational research and development (R&D) on plant cell-based fermentation.
  • The initiative is part of Phase 2 of the collaboration between Herbalife India and IIT Madras and is funded through the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme of Herbalife India.
  • The centre focuses on the sustainable and scalable production of herbal biomass, enriched herbal extracts, and high-value phytochemicals for applications in human health and wellness.
  • The CoE is expected to commence its operations from June 2026.

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Union Minister inaugurates BIRAC-BioNEST Incubation Centre at CSIR-CFTRI in Mysuru. (Start of April) ▼
  • Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh launched the BIRAC-BioNEST Incubation Centre on the CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) campus.
  • The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) supported the initiative under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India.
  • The facility nurtures entrepreneurial talent in food bioprocessing and biotechnology research and supports advanced research, scale-up, and efficacy studies.
  • CSIR-CFTRI’s incubation ecosystem has supported 26 start-ups, including 12 physical incubatees, 11 hybrid incubatees, and three graduated ventures.
  • Incubated companies have filed 12 patents so far and operate in domains such as CRISPR technology, nutraceuticals, precision fermentation, probiotics and postbiotics, and botanicals.
  • The Indian Army has shown interest in the incubated innovations during high-profile visits in 2025 and 2026.
  • A hostel facility for farmers, FPOs, SHGs, cluster representatives, and other training participants will be built under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) and will include a 50-seat classroom, twin-sharing accommodation, kitchen, dining, and other amenities.
  • The Minister performed the bhoomi puja for the hostel facility on the M.G. Halli campus during his visit.
  • CSIR-CFTRI conducts nearly 30-35 training programmes every year and the hostel is expected to be ready in a year to strengthen skill development initiatives aligned with the government’s ‘Skill India’ programme in food processing.
India Pharma 2026 to position India as global life-sciences innovation hub (Start of April) ▼
  • India Pharma 2026, 9th edition, will be held on 13-14 April at Federation House, New Delhi.
  • Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP), Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) are jointly organising the event.
  • Theme of the conference is “Discover in India: Leapfrogging Life-Sciences Innovation”.
  • Event will focus on drug discovery, complex generics and biosimilars to shift sector from volume-based to value-led growth.
  • FICCI, established in 1927, represents over 2.5 lakh companies across sectors.
Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) targets India as global pharma innovation hub by 2026 (Start of April) ▼
  • India Pharma 2026 will be held on 13-14 April at Federation House, New Delhi.
  • The 9th edition is organised by the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP), Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA).
  • Theme of the event is 'Discover in India: Leapfrogging Life-Sciences Innovation'.
  • Conference will focus on drug discovery, complex generics and biosimilars.
  • FICCI, established in 1927, represents over 2.5 lakh companies across sectors.
MoFPI Inaugurates ₹2.35 Crore Food Processing Incubation Centre under PMFME Scheme (Mid of March) ▼
  • Union Minister for Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) Chirag Paswan inaugurated a Common Incubation Centre at Tezpur University in the Sonitpur district of Assam on 13 March 2026.
  • The facility was established with a total outlay of ₹2.35 crore, funded through 100% financial assistance from the MoFPI.
  • The centre is launched under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, which operates under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
  • The project aims to support micro food processing enterprises, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), cooperatives, and start-ups.
  • The incubation hub includes seven specialised processing lines for fruits, grains, spices, bakery products, confectionery, packaging, and quality testing.
  • The facility is designed to serve entrepreneurs in the Assam districts of Sonitpur, Darrang, Udalguri, Biswanath, Nagaon, and Golaghat.
  • According to the MoFPI, more than 1.87 lakh micro food processing enterprises have received loan approvals nationwide under the PMFME Scheme.

World Liver Day observed on April 19 with theme 'Solid Habits, Strong Liver'

Key Updates:

  • World Liver Day is observed annually on April 19 to raise global awareness about liver health and the importance of preventing liver-related diseases.
  • The theme for World Liver Day 2026 is 'Solid Habits, Strong Liver'.
  • Metabolic dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) affects nearly one in three adults worldwide and is linked to obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
  • Nearly 90% of liver disease is preventable through consistent lifestyle choices.
  • The 2026 observance is significant in India due to the rising intersection of diabetes and liver disease.
  • The 'Solid Habits' campaign focuses on four pillars: balanced plant-forward diet, physical activity, re-evaluating alcohol, and routine screenings.
  • Recommended routine screenings for liver health include Liver Function Tests (LFTs) and FibroScans.
  • The Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) highlighted that the best time to protect the liver is before treatment becomes necessary.

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World Homoeopathy Day 2026 observed on April 10 with theme 'Homoeopathy for Sustainable Health' (Mid of April) ▼
  • World Homoeopathy Day 2026 was observed by the Ministry of Ayush at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on April 10, 2026.
  • The theme for 2026 was 'Homoeopathy for Sustainable Health'.
  • The day marks the birth anniversary of Dr Samuel Hahnemann.
  • Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav highlighted the role of research institutions Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH), National Commission for Homoeopathy (NCH), and National Institute of Homoeopathy (NIH).
  • Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha mentioned initiatives like the Ayush Grid for digital integration of the Ayush ecosystem.
World Parkinson’s Day 2026: Theme 'Bridge the Care Gap' (Mid of April) ▼
  • World Parkinson’s Day 2026 theme is 'Bridge the Care Gap'.
  • Early-onset Parkinson’s disease (EOPD) accounts for roughly 5–10% of global cases according to a 2025 review in The Lancet Neurology.
  • The Lancet Neurology review highlighted increasing identification of EOPD in younger working-age adults.
World TB Day 2026 spotlights science-driven push to eliminate tuberculosis (End of March) ▼
  • World Health Organization (WHO) reported an estimated 10.6 million people developed TB in 2022, including 1.3 million children.
  • WHO recorded 1.3 million TB deaths among HIV-negative individuals and an additional 300,000 deaths among people living with HIV in 2022.
  • Approximately 410,000 people developed multidrug-resistant or rifampicin-resistant TB (MDR/RR-TB) in 2022.
  • Sustainable Development Goal 3 calls for ending the TB epidemic by 2030.
  • WHO’s End TB Strategy targets a 90% reduction in TB deaths and an 80% reduction in TB incidence by 2030 compared with 2015 levels.
Rare Disease Day observed on 28 February 2026 with the theme More Than You Can Imagine (Start of March) ▼
  • Rare Disease Day 2026 is observed globally on 28 February with the official theme More Than You Can Imagine.
  • Approximately 300 million people worldwide live with a rare disease, of which nearly 80 per cent are genetic and 70 per cent appear in childhood.
  • Statistics indicate that 95 per cent of rare diseases have no approved therapy, and the average time to receive an accurate diagnosis is 4.8 years.
  • Nearly 30 per cent of children affected by rare diseases do not survive beyond their fifth birthday.
  • The year 2026 marks the tenth anniversary of the National Alliance for Rare Diseases Support – Malta, founded by Michelle Muscat.
  • UK-based Healx is applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) to identify drug repurposing opportunities for conditions such as Fragile X syndrome.
  • Italian biotech AAVantgarde Bio is developing treatments for Usher syndrome type 1B by splitting and reassembling large genes inside the body.
  • Beam Therapeutics is advancing base editing for Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, while Tune Therapeutics is focusing on epigenetic tuning.
  • Actio Biosciences is developing therapies for KCNT1-related epilepsy, and French firm InnoSkel is targeting Type II collagenopathies.
  • AstraZeneca reinforced its rare disease strategy through the acquisition of Alexion Pharmaceuticals.
  • India link not mentioned in the article.

World Quantum Day observed on April 14

Key Updates:

  • World Quantum Day is an annual event observed on April 14 to promote awareness and understanding of quantum science.
  • The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) hosted a STEM Open House for local high school students to mark the occasion.
  • Dr. Rick Mukherjee is the inaugural director of the UTC Quantum Center.
  • The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) has introduced a Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE) certificate.
  • A study by McKinsey & Company forecasted the quantum sector to be a trillion-dollar industry.

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Abhay Karandikar leads Department of Science and Technology (DST) as secretary. (Start of April) ▼
  • Abhay Karandikar is the secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
  • He announced the 1,000-km quantum communication milestone under the National Quantum Mission.
  • The milestone was achieved in less than two years after the mission’s launch in October 2024.
  • The network uses indigenous technology developed by QNu Labs, a startup supported under the mission.
Amaravati Quantum Reference Facilities (AQRF) launched to build India’s first sovereign quantum hardware ecosystem (Mid of April) ▼
  • Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the Amaravati Quantum Reference Facilities (AQRF) in Amaravati.
  • AQRF comprises Amaravati 1S located at a private college and Amaravati 1Q located at Medha Towers.
  • The facility is part of the broader Amaravati Quantum Valley project backed by IBM, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
  • The Quantum Valley is expected to attract about $1 billion in investments by 2029.
  • The state targets starting production and export of quantum computers within two years.
Andhra Pradesh unveils India’s first open-access quantum computer test beds at Amaravati Quantum Valley (Mid of April) ▼
  • Andhra Pradesh launched two open-access quantum computer test beds under the Amaravati Quantum Valley project.
  • The 1Q test bed is located at Medha Towers and the 1S test bed at SRM University, Amaravati.
  • Both systems use entirely locally developed components and operate at about minus 273°C.
  • Technical support was provided by Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
  • The 1Q test bed was set up by Qubitech and Qbit Force; the 1S test bed uses superconducting technology.
  • Delhi-based QUTE Electronics developed the ultra-low noise power supply systems with six decimal point stability.
  • The mission aims to create 100 quantum algorithms within the next two years.
  • Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu will unveil the facilities on April 14, World Quantum Day.
Andhra Pradesh to unveil India's first open-access quantum computer in Amaravati (Start of April) ▼
  • Andhra Pradesh (AP) will launch India's first open-access quantum computer on 14 April 2026 at the SRM University campus in Amaravati.
  • The quantum computer is a collaborative initiative between SRM University and Qubit Force to provide research and testing access to students and researchers.
  • The state government has established the Amaravati Quantum Valley (AQV) to facilitate indigenous quantum hardware manufacturing, system integration, and algorithm development.
  • AP is the first state in India to implement a dedicated quantum computing policy, with the State Quantum Computing Mission currently operating from Medha Towers in Vijayawada.
  • The project aligns with the National Quantum Mission (NQM) and aims to position AP as one of the top five global quantum hubs by 2030.
  • International Business Machines (IBM), Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) are partnering with the state to establish these computing capabilities.
  • The initiative involves participation from central institutions including the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), and Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).
  • Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed stakeholders to achieve domestic manufacturing of quantum computing hardware within the next two years.

World Art Day observed on April 15

Key Updates:

  • World Art Day is observed on April 15.
  • The global observation celebrates culture, creativity, and artistic expression worldwide.
  • Science Central museum in Fort Wayne, Indiana, hosted a celebration to explore the intersection of art and science.
  • Local artists featured during the Science Central celebration included Eduar Paz, Ally Peck, Angelina Dolores Possemato, Bonnie “BonJo” Andrews, Megan Wiegand, and Kyla Covington.

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World Heritage Day observed on April 18 (Mid of April) ▼
  • World Heritage Day, also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites, is observed every year on April 18.
  • The theme for 2026 is Emergency Response for Living Heritage in Contexts of Conflicts and Disasters.
  • The day was established by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in 1982 and later approved by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
  • India is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Taj Mahal and the Ajanta Caves.
Global Recycling Day 2026 marked by SOMANY Ceramics waste tile reuse initiative (End of March) ▼
  • Global Recycling Day 2026 was marked by SOMANY Ceramics expanding its waste tile reuse initiative.
  • The initiative repurposed 8,100 sq. ft. of waste tile, diverting 12 tons from landfills and cutting an estimated 4.8 tons of CO₂ emissions.
  • Over 3,000 students across 40 institutes—including Manipal University Rajasthan, Amity University Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, KIIT School of Architecture and Planning Odisha, Sushant University Haryana, Indian Institute of Art and Design Delhi, and the Institute of Indian Interior Designers Hyderabad—participated in the campaign.
World Puppetry Day observed on March 21 (End of March) ▼
  • World Puppetry Day is celebrated annually on March 21.
  • Cirque Du Soleil marked the occasion at the Disney Springs venue by showcasing intricate puppets from the production Drawn to Life.
  • Drawn to Life is a collaborative show between Cirque Du Soleil and Disney that originally opened in 2021.
  • The production features specialised puppetry including a moving pillow, moving trash cans, a living desk, and a giant hand.
World Theatre Day observed on March 27 (End of March) ▼
  • World Theatre Day is celebrated annually on March 27 to honour the art of theatre and its impact on society.
  • The International Theatre Institute (ITI) established World Theatre Day in 1961.
  • The first celebration of World Theatre Day took place in 1962.
  • A key tradition of the day is the World Theatre Day Message, delivered by a renowned theatre personality to reflect on the role of theatre in society.
  • The day aims to promote cultural exchange, diversity, and creative expression while raising awareness about performing arts in education.

Dinesh Trivedi set to be appointed High Commissioner to Bangladesh

[Bangladesh]

Key Updates:

  • Dinesh Trivedi, a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is likely to be appointed as India's next High Commissioner to Bangladesh.
  • Trivedi previously served as the Railway Minister and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government as a member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC).
  • He has served as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the Rajya Sabha from West Bengal and as a Lok Sabha MP from Barrackpore.
  • Trivedi joined the BJP in February 2021 after leaving the TMC.
  • Pranay Verma, the former High Commissioner to Bangladesh, was appointed as the next Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union (EU).
  • Pranay Verma is a 1994-batch diplomat who took charge as High Commissioner in Dhaka in September 2022.

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Muanpuii Saiawi appointed as High Commissioner of India to New Zealand (End of January) ▼
  • Muanpuii Saiawi has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to New Zealand.
  • She is a 2005-batch Indian Foreign Service officer and was serving as Joint Secretary for Disarmament and International Security Affairs in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
  • She will succeed Neeta Bhushan, who has served as India’s High Commissioner to New Zealand since 2022.
India supports Bangladesh’s call for justice over 1971 genocide by Pakistan (End of March) ▼
  • India on Friday backed Bangladesh’s ‘desire for justice’ for the genocide committed by Pakistan during Operation Searchlight in 1971.
  • Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the atrocities involved the systematic murder of millions of Bangladeshi people and mass sexual crimes against women.
  • Jaiswal noted the atrocities forced millions to flee to India as refugees and shook the conscience of the world.
  • Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman wrote on 25 March 2026 calling the Pakistani action a pre-planned massacre and one of the most heinous genocides in history.
  • Pakistan maintains that all 1971 issues were settled through the 1974 tripartite agreement signed between New Delhi, Dhaka and Islamabad.
  • Dhaka has consistently demanded a formal apology from Islamabad for the 1971 acts committed by its military.
Nitai Roy Chowdhury sworn in as cabinet minister in Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government. (Mid of February) ▼
  • Nitai Roy Chowdhury is the only Hindu minister in Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's cabinet.
  • He was elected MP from Magura-2 on a Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) ticket, defeating Jamaat-e-Islami rival.
  • Chowdhury previously served as Minister of Youth and Sports for about three months from September 1990 in Hussain Muhammad Ershad's government.
  • He is Vice Chairman of BNP's Central Committee and a senior advisor and strategist to the party leadership.
  • Chowdhury is an alumnus of University of Dhaka and studied law there after early education at Magura Government College.
  • His daughter Nipun Roy Chowdhury is an active BNP member and has held district-level leadership positions.
Tarique Rahman sworn-in as Prime Minister of Bangladesh. (Mid of February) ▼
  • Tarique Rahman took oath as Prime Minister of Bangladesh on 17 February at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad.
  • President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath to Tarique Rahman and his initial cabinet.
  • The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) won over 200 of the 300 seats in the 12 February parliamentary elections.
  • Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha (India), attended the ceremony and handed over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s personal letter to Tarique Rahman.
  • Other foreign attendees included Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Pakistan Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Nepal Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, Sri Lanka Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, and UK Indo-Pacific Under Secretary Seema Malhotra.