President Droupadi Murmu gave assent to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The Bill criminalises intentional disruption or prevention of the singing of the national song 'Vande Mataram'.
President Droupadi Murmu gives assent to Taxation and Payment Settlement Systems (Amendment) Acts, 2026
Key Updates:
- President Droupadi Murmu gave assent to the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Act, 2026, and the Payment and Settlement Systems (Amendment) Act, 2007, on August 17, 2026.
- The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Act, 2026, replaces the June 5 ordinance providing income tax exemption to FPIs on interest income and capital gains from G-Secs.
- The act extends income tax exemption for foreign companies using contract manufacturing in India for electronics production until 2040-41.
- It also provides a 15-year income tax exemption till 2040-41 for foreign companies storing components in customs warehouses for supply to contract manufacturers in India.
- The Payment and Settlement Systems (Amendment) Act gives legal backing to the government to modify the zero-MDR framework on UPI and RuPay card transactions.
- The government can now decide via notification which electronic payment modes remain free from MDR charges.
- The UPI and Services Steering Committee, headed by NPCI, will decide on MDR charges.
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that UPI payments will remain free for consumers, and any future MDR will apply only to certain categories of merchant transactions.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Lok Sabha passes Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 (Start of August)
The Lok Sabha passed the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 to attract foreign investment, promote domestic manufacturing, and provide greater tax certainty. The Bill replaces the Income-tax (Amendment)…
President Droupadi Murmu launched the RAAHI (Rashtrapati Bhavan Access and Heritage Interconnector) fare-free electric bus service for residents and staff of the President's Estate. The RAAHI bus service is operated…
Finance Minister introduces Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 to allow MDR on UPI and RuPay debit card payments (Start of August)
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in Parliament. The bill proposes changes to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 to allow banks and payment system…
Paramotor Digital partners with NSDL Payments Bank to issue prepaid cards
Key Updates:
- Paramotor Digital Technology Ltd has entered into a co-branded partnership agreement with NSDL Payments Bank to issue prepaid cards across India.
- The partnership will support Paramotor's consumer spend management, digital gifting, and rewards and loyalty platforms, including SpendPro, Yayyy.shop, and RewardOn.
- The partnership will leverage NSDL Payments Bank's prepaid card issuance services and banking infrastructure for secure, RBI-compliant prepaid payment solutions.
- Paramotor Digital filed draft papers with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in May 2026 for an initial public offering (IPO) through the confidential route.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services Ltd (Zaggle) launch biodegradable co-branded twin credit cards (End of June)
Punjab National Bank (PNB) has partnered with Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services Ltd (Zaggle) to launch biodegradable co-branded twin credit cards to target the Gen Z and Millennial segments. The PNB-Zaggle Co-branded Twin…
AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) has partnered with Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services to launch a co-branded retail credit card available on both Visa and RuPay payment networks. The Visa variant offers up to 8% Zagg Coins on…
On July 1, 2026, Razorpay partnered with NBBL, a wholly owned subsidiary of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), to launch Banking Connect. Banking Connect is a mobile-first solution that modernises NetBanking…
NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the international arm of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has partnered with ACLEDA Bank Plc to enable Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments in Cambodia.…
Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves Prudential's ₹3,500 crore majority stake acquisition in Bharti Life Insurance
Key Updates:
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of certain equity shareholding in Bharti Life Insurance Company Ltd by Prudential Corporation Holdings Ltd.
- Prudential will acquire a majority 75% stake in Bharti Life Insurance for ₹3,500 crore from Bharti Life Ventures Pvt Ltd and 360 ONE Asset Management.
- Prudential currently holds around 22% stake in ICICI Prudential Life Insurance and will need to reduce its holding to meet regulatory requirements.
- Post completion, Prudential's Indian operations will comprise majority-owned Bharti Life Insurance Company and Prudential HCL Health Insurance Ltd.
- Bharti Life will also explore strategic distribution agreements with Bharti Airtel and 360 ONE.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves Sanlam Group's stake purchase in Shriram Life Insurance (Mid of June)
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the proposal of South Africa-based Sanlam Group to acquire a stake in Shriram Life Insurance Company Ltd (SLIC). The acquisition involves 2.80 per cent of the expanded…
Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves Tata Steel's acquisition of 23% stake in TM International Logistics (Mid of August)
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved Tata Steel Ltd's acquisition of the entire 23% equity stake held by IQ Martrade Holding Und Management GmbH in TM International Logistics Ltd (TMILL). Following the…
Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves DWS Group's stake acquisition in Nippon Life India AIF Management Ltd (Start of July)
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the proposal of Germany-based DWS Group to acquire a 40 per cent equity stake in Nippon Life India AIF Management Ltd (NIAIF). NIAIF is a subsidiary of Nippon Life India…
Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves TVS Group acquisition of PGIM India and Temasek investment in Romsons Group (Mid of June)
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of 100 per cent share capital of PGIM India Asset Management Pvt Ltd and PGIM India Trustees Pvt Ltd by TVS Emerald Ltd and TVS Venu Management and…
Wizzmoni and Oman Air launch AI-powered co-branded Wizz Voyager multi-currency travel card
Key Updates:
- Wizzmoni Financial Services Ltd and Oman Air have partnered to launch the co-branded Wizz Voyager Multi-Currency Card, an AI-powered travel card supporting multiple global currencies.
- The card supports more than 35 currencies and is issued in partnership with VISA.
- The card offers customers access to Oman Air flight vouchers, upgrades, and exclusive travel benefits through milestone-based rewards.
- The card will be available across Oman Air counters, Wizzmoni branches, and authorized partners with a digital onboarding process.
- Wizzmoni is an NBFC and AD-II licensed financial services provider with more than 350 branches across India.
- Oman Air is a member of the oneworld Alliance and began operations in 1993.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services Ltd (Zaggle) launch biodegradable co-branded twin credit cards (End of June)
Punjab National Bank (PNB) has partnered with Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services Ltd (Zaggle) to launch biodegradable co-branded twin credit cards to target the Gen Z and Millennial segments. The PNB-Zaggle Co-branded Twin…
AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) has partnered with Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services to launch a co-branded retail credit card available on both Visa and RuPay payment networks. The Visa variant offers up to 8% Zagg Coins on…
SBI Card and Google Pay launch co-branded credit card with UPI-linked RuPay option (Start of August)
SBI Card and Google Pay have launched a co-branded credit card named Google Pay Flex SBI Card. The card is available on both RuPay and Visa payment networks, with the RuPay variant supporting UPI linkage.
Razorpay launched Vulcan, described as India's first transformer-based AI foundation model built specifically for payments. Vulcan was developed using technology from NVIDIA and Amazon Web Services (AWS) and is built on…
PM-AASHA Scheme 2026: Objectives, MSP Benefits, Components and Latest Updates
Key Updates:
- The Central government allocated ₹7,200 crore for PM-AASHA for 2026-27.
- The Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) was launched in September 2018.
- The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is the nodal implementing agency for PM-AASHA.
- The scheme's components include the Price Support Scheme (PSS), Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS), and Market Intervention Scheme (MIS).
- Under PM-AASHA, the government allowed up to 100% purchase of Tur, Urad, and Masur from certified farmers.
- The scheme covers pulses, oilseeds, copra, and perishable crops under MIS.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
The Gruha Jyothi Scheme is a Karnataka government initiative providing free electricity up to 200 units per month to households and tenants. Eligibility requires the beneficiary to be a resident of Karnataka or a…
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) implemented the revamped Integrated Ombudsman Scheme on 1 July 2026. The scheme covers banks, eligible Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), prepaid payment instrument (PPI) issuers…
Maharashtra disburses ₹5,027 crore under Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar loan waiver to 6.2 lakh farmers (Start of August)
The Maharashtra government began disbursing the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar loan waiver with ₹5,027 crore released into 6.2 lakh farmer accounts through direct benefit transfer. The loan waiver was declared by the state…
The Government of Uttar Pradesh launched the UP Kisan Karj Mafi Scheme (UPKMS), also known as Uttar Pradesh Kisan Rin Mochan Yojana, in 2017 to waive agricultural loans for small and marginal farmers. The UPKMS provides…
Delhi Master Plan 2047: 30-40 Lakh Homes and 695 km Metro Expansion
Key Updates:
- The Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal released the Delhi Master Plan 2047 on August 20, 2026.
- The plan targets construction of 30-40 lakh housing units to accommodate Delhi's projected population of 3.2 crore by 2047.
- The plan focuses on affordable housing and vertical growth, including potential 100-plus-floor buildings.
- The metro rail network in Delhi will be expanded to 695 km by 2047 under the master plan.
- The plan proposes 24-hour city zones and transit-oriented development to support high-density growth along transport corridors.
- Building height norms have been removed except in specified zones such as Lutyens' Bungalow Zone, Connaught Place, and the Yamuna floodplain.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Delhi Development Authority Approves Delhi Master Plan 2047 (Mid of August)
On August 12, 2026, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) approved the Master Plan for Delhi 2047. The approval ended a five-year delay in finalising Delhi's Master Plan.
The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the Delhi government inaugurated 18 Namo Oxygen Parks and launched the nationwide 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign on World Environment Day 2026. The 18…
PM Modi Unveils Sapta Dhara Framework for Viksit Bharat (Mid of August)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the 'Sapta Dhara' seven-point reform framework on August 15, 2026, from the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day. The framework aims to accelerate India's progress towards Viksit…
The Delhi government announced the "Clean Air, Healthy Delhi" project with a total outlay of ₹8,300 crore to combat air pollution. The funding for the project will be shared between the World Bank, providing 65 per cent…
Himachal Pradesh Prohibits Sale of Analogue Paneer for One Year
Key Updates:
- The Himachal Pradesh government prohibited the manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of non-dairy analogue paneer passed off as genuine paneer.
- The order was issued under Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and is effective for one year.
- The ban applies to food business operators including restaurants, hotels, cloud kitchens, hostels, dhabas and caterers.
- Such establishments cannot use synthetic or analogue paneer in dishes advertised or listed as paneer on their menus.
- Non-dairy alternatives must be clearly declared to consumers, and FBOs must maintain purchase invoices, batch details and labelling as per FSS Labelling and Display Regulations, 2020.
- Food Safety Officers are empowered to inspect premises, collect samples, and take action including seizure, recall and destruction of non-compliant products.
- Violators may face prosecution under applicable food safety laws for manufacturing or selling substandard, misbranded or unsafe food.
- The government clarified that separately regulated non-dairy products complying with standards are not prohibited, but must be accurately labelled and cannot be represented as genuine dairy paneer.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Maharashtra Bans Analogue Paneer for One Year (Start of August)
Maharashtra enforced a one-year ban on the production, storage, and distribution of analogue or non-dairy paneer across the state. The ban covers manufacturing, processing, packing, storage, transportation, wholesale and…
Karnataka Imposes One-Year Ban on Tobacco and Nicotine Products (Mid of August)
Karnataka imposed a one-year ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine. The ban is effective from June 15, 2026, and applies across…
Widow and Orphan Cess on Fuel Begins in Himachal Pradesh (Mid of August)
The Himachal Pradesh government imposed a 60-paise-per-litre cess on petrol and diesel from August 12, 2026. The 'Widow and Orphan Cess' aims to fund welfare measures for widows and orphans from economically weaker…
Uttarakhand has become the sixth state in India to achieve full literacy status under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The state achieved this milestone through the implementation of the Understanding Lifelong…
NCW Launches 'Yashoda AI' Initiative for Women's Digital Empowerment
Key Updates:
- The National Commission for Women (NCW) launched the 'Yashoda AI' initiative in Jalandhar, Punjab.
- The initiative is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Literacy Program aimed at promoting digital empowerment of women.
- It focuses on enhancing digital inclusion and empowering women in cyber security, digital privacy, and safe online practices.
- The initiative was launched by NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) is set to launch revised operational guidelines for the Anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) Abhiyaan on June 29, 2026. The programme has transitioned from AMB to AMB Abhiyaan…
Gujarat Police launched 'Operation Surakshit Cyberspace', a 28-day statewide campaign running from July 1 to July 28, 2026, to create a secure digital ecosystem for women and children. The initiative is conducted under…
NCVET Grants Awarding Body (Dual) Recognition to NIIT Foundation to Strengthen AI-Enabled Skill Development (End of July)
The National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) signed an agreement granting Awarding Body (Dual) recognition to NIIT Foundation. NIIT Foundation is now eligible to directly conduct training…
Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Bill, 2026 to Legally Recognise Women as Independent Farmers (Mid of June)
The Maharashtra government will introduce the Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Bill, 2026, to grant women engaged in agriculture independent legal recognition as farmers. The legislation aims to provide women…
Supreme Court reduces mandatory legal practice to one year for entry-level judicial service
Key Updates:
- The Supreme Court reduced the mandatory legal practice requirement for entry into judicial service from three years to one year.
- The majority judgment by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice A.G. Masih upheld the May 2025 judgment mandating legal practice for judicial service entry.
- Successful applicants with one year of legal practice will undergo one year of intensive training at the State judicial academy.
- This will be followed by a final year of law clerkship with senior judicial officers and High Court judges.
- The transitional arrangement for candidates who applied during the review period will be operative till March 31, 2027.
- The one-year prior legal practice rule will come into force in earnest from April 1, 2027.
- The scheme will run for five years, after which it will be reviewed.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
The Supreme Court proposed the creation of a Young Lawyers' Professional Assistance Fund to address financial hardships faced by junior advocates and stop brain drain. The bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and…
SC Restricts Social Media Posting of Court Proceedings (End of July)
The Supreme Court of India passed an interim order on July 24, 2026, barring unauthorized posting of audio-video recordings of judicial proceedings on social media. The order was issued by a bench comprising Chief…
The Supreme Court of India directed the Centre to set up a panel for uniform post-retirement benefits for former high court judges. The panel is to be constituted within two weeks and must submit its report within three…
Tushar Mehta Re-appointed Solicitor General (End of June)
Tushar Mehta was re-appointed as Solicitor General (SG) for a period of three years or until further orders by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). The ACC extended the tenure of Additional Solicitor Generals…
Union Health Ministry restricts FDCs with chlorpheniramine and phenylephrine for children below four
Key Updates:
- The Union Health Ministry has imposed restrictions on the manufacture, sale and distribution of all fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) containing chlorpheniramine maleate and phenylephrine hydrochloride.
- The restriction mandates a warning that these medicines shall not be used in children below four years of age.
- The notification extends the requirement to all formulations containing these two ingredients, following a previous restriction on certain FDCs.
- The decision follows recommendations of an expert committee and the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB).
- The Government noted that the use of such combinations may pose risks to children below four years of age and that safer alternatives are available.
- Manufacturers have been directed to prominently display the warning on the label, package insert and promotional literature.
- The notification has been issued under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and is effective from the date of publication in the Official Gazette.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued a notification under the Drugs (Fifth Amendment) Rules, 2026, making all syrups, including cough syrups, available only on a doctor's prescription. The amendment…
The Central Government amended the Drugs Rules, 1945 to bring cell or stem cell derived products, gene therapeutic products, and xenografts under the Centrally License Approving Authority (CLAA) framework. The amendment…
The Assam government launched a statewide drug disposal programme, featuring the inauguration of the state's first special narcotics incinerator in Doulasal, Nalbari district. The incinerator was provided by the Union…
Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the Vision Document on Drug Control (2026-2029) during the 10th Apex Level Meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) in New Delhi. The government launched the Online Drugs…
PM GatiShakti: Chhattisgarh signs two pacts for enhanced geospatial and logistics planning
Key Updates:
- The Chhattisgarh government signed two memoranda of understanding with BISAG-N and NLDSL under the PM GatiShakti framework on August 20.
- The pacts aim to enhance the use of geospatial technology and integrated logistics data to foster sustainable economic growth and investments.
- The MoUs were signed during the PM GatiShakti and LEADS 2025 Dissemination Workshop jointly organized by the state Commerce and Industries Department and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
- The state has onboarded 35 state departments onto the PM GatiShakti platform.
- The state has mapped 41 mandatory and over 600 additional data layers.
- The state has developed 45 use cases and 30 tools for infrastructure and development planning.
- Chhattisgarh was recognized as a high performer among landlocked states in DPIIT's LEADS 2025 assessment.
- The Forest Department's Gaj Sanket app uses geospatial data to reduce human-elephant conflict.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Digital Bharat Nidhi signs Amended BharatNet Program agreement with Chhattisgarh for Rs 3,942 crore (End of August)
Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) signed an agreement for implementation of the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) in Chhattisgarh under the state-led model. The agreement was signed between DBN, Department of Telecommunications…
PhonePe, MeitY sign MoU to integrate PulsePro with PM GatiShakti (End of August)
PhonePe and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) signed an MoU to integrate PulsePro into the PM GatiShakti framework. PulsePro is an enterprise data intelligence platform that transforms…
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister, approved the upgradation of the 82.578-km Muzaffarpur-Sitamarhi-Sonbarsa section of NH-22 in Bihar to four-lane standard at a total capital…
Chhattisgarh Reserves 10% Jobs for Agniveers (End of July)
The Chhattisgarh Cabinet approved 10% reservation for Agniveers in direct recruitment to Group C posts in state government services. The reservation applies to posts such as Constables in the Police Department, Forest…
DoT Caps Mobile Connections at Nine per Subscriber
Key Updates:
- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed telecom operators to deny new mobile connections to subscribers who already have nine SIM cards registered in their name.
- The directive will be effective from August 24, 2026, as per the circular dated August 17.
- Telecom service providers (TSPs) must use the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) to identify subscribers seeking connections beyond the prescribed limit.
- From August 23, a representative image of each subscriber who has reached the limit will be made available on DIP.
- TSPs must streamline the process with DIP by November 30, and any connection activated beyond the limit shall be immediately suspended until resolution.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
DoT Enforces Nine-SIM Limit Using Subscriber Photographs (End of August)
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issued a circular on August 17, 2026, to enforce the nine-SIM limit using subscriber photographs. The limit is nine mobile connections per individual across all telecom…
DoT Disconnects Over Five Crore Fake Mobile Connections (Mid of July)
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) disconnected over five crore fraudulent mobile connections in the past two years. Over 12 lakh lost and stolen mobile phones were recovered during the same period.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Telecommunications Standards Development Society of India (TSDSI) to boost India's participation in global telecom standards…
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Launches Theme ‘Scale Without Boundaries’ for India Mobile Congress 2026 (Start of August)
The India Mobile Congress 2026 will be held from October 7 to October 10 at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in New Delhi. Mobile data tariffs in India have decreased from ₹287 per GB to approximately ₹8 per GB over the…
Maharashtra Bans Sale of Loose Edible Oil
Key Updates:
- The Maharashtra FDA banned the sale of loose (unpacked) edible oil across the state.
- Violations of the ban can attract imprisonment of up to seven years.
- The ban is effective immediately and applies to the entire supply chain, including oil expeller units and online sellers.
- The order was issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- Unauthorised blending of mustard oil is prohibited; mustard oil must be sold as 100% pure.
- Penalties for unsafe food can be up to Rs 10 lakh, substandard oil up to Rs 5 lakh, misbranded oil up to Rs 3 lakh, and misleading advertisements up to Rs 10 lakh.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Maharashtra Bans Analogue Paneer for One Year (Start of August)
Maharashtra enforced a one-year ban on the production, storage, and distribution of analogue or non-dairy paneer across the state. The ban covers manufacturing, processing, packing, storage, transportation, wholesale and…
The Maharashtra government announced a prohibition on the sale of 'Sting' energy drink and other intoxicating substances within a 500-metre radius of schools. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Minister Narhari Zirwal…
The Government of India (GoI) is implementing the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) to enhance domestic production and reduce reliance on imported edible oils. Oil palm cultivation is currently being…
Karnataka Imposes One-Year Ban on Tobacco and Nicotine Products (Mid of August)
Karnataka imposed a one-year ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine. The ban is effective from June 15, 2026, and applies across…
Six Indians Among Crew of Cargo Ship Hijacked off Somalia
Key Updates:
- A Cameroon-flagged cargo ship M/V LUTUF was hijacked by pirates off Somalia's Puntland coast.
- The ship was carrying Turkish weapons destined for a Turkish military training facility in Mogadishu.
- The crew included six Indians, one Turkish national, one Georgian, and two Serbian security guards.
- The vessel was owned by Polar Movement Shipping.
- The hijacking occurred near Eyl district, and the pirates took the ship toward the Nugaal coast.
- An airstrike after a small boat delivered khat killed four and wounded two, but details were unverified.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
On 19 August 2026, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu flagged off the scaled-up phase of transshipment cargo reform at Delhi's IGI Airport. The Proof of Concept on the Chennai–Delhi–Frankfurt route reduced…
China launches 24th batch of low-orbit internet satellites from Hainan aboard Long March-12 (Mid of August)
China launched the 24th batch of low-orbit internet satellites from a commercial spacecraft launch site in Hainan province. The batch was carried aboard a Long March-12 rocket that lifted off at 12:10 pm Beijing time.
India has become the world's second-largest supplier of seafarers with a 12.2% share of the global seafaring workforce. The Philippines remains the largest supplier of seafarers globally.
Russia imported gasoline from India for the first time, with the first cargo arriving on August 5, 2026. The first shipment consisted of approximately 42,000 tonnes of gasoline loaded on the Russian-flagged tanker…
Cochin Shipyard Delivers 'Mangrol', Third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, to Indian Navy
Key Updates:
- Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) delivered 'Mangrol', the third of eight indigenously designed Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), to the Indian Navy on August 21, 2026.
- The vessel is designed for coastal anti-submarine warfare, underwater surveillance, search and rescue operations, low-intensity maritime operations, and advanced mine-laying capabilities.
- 'Mangrol' is equipped with lightweight torpedoes, indigenous ASW rockets, and advanced shallow-water sonars.
- The warship is powered by a Diesel Engine–Waterjet Propulsion system and constructed in accordance with DNV classification rules.
- The vessel is named after the coastal township of Mangrol in Gujarat's Surat district.
- The delivery is a milestone in India's defence manufacturing self-reliance and the government's 'Aatma Nirbhar Bharat' vision.
- The induction of 'Mangrol' is expected to significantly boost the Indian Navy's shallow-water anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Indian Navy to Commission INS Malvan, Second Mahe-Class ASW Shallow Water Craft on July 22 (Mid of July)
INS Malvan, the second ship in the Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft series, will be commissioned on July 22, 2026. The commissioning ceremony will be led by Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, Chief of the…
Indian Navy launches seventh Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft 'Machilipatnam' at Cochin Shipyard on 29 July 2026 (Start of August)
Indian Navy launched 'Machilipatnam' (BY 529), the seventh of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, at Cochin Shipyard Limited on 29 July 2026. The vessel was launched by Goolrukh Anand in the presence of…
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will commission three indigenously built naval ships—Dunagiri, Sanshodhak, and Agray—at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata. The vessels were designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design…
India to induct five indigenous naval platforms in June 2026 (Start of June)
The Indian Navy is set to induct five indigenously built naval platforms in June 2026. The new additions comprise two Project 17A stealth frigates (INS Dunagiri and INS Mahendragiri), one large survey vessel, and two…
BRICS Tourism Ministers Adopt Jaipur Declaration to Strengthen Cooperation
Key Updates:
- BRICS Tourism Ministers adopted the Jaipur Declaration at a meeting in Jaipur to strengthen cooperation in the tourism sector.
- The tourism track under India's BRICS presidency was themed 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability'.
- The BRICS Tourism Working Group meeting was held in Jaipur on August 19-20, 2026.
- The four key priorities discussed were AI and tourism, sustainable and responsible tourism, skill and capacity building, and tourism exchanges with seamless travel facilitation.
- The Jaipur Declaration establishes a framework for practical collaboration, including responsible use of AI, human-centric tourism, capacity building, tourism investment, data and best-practice exchange, and people-to-people ties.
- Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the primary objective of BRICS tourism cooperation is to link tourism with the economy while creating employment opportunities and empowering local communities.
- India's e-visa system allows tourists from many countries to apply online.
- Domestic tourist visits in India have more than tripled over the last decade.
- India is strengthening the Destination Management Organization (DMO) system at key tourist destinations, drawing on the experience at Ekta Nagar.
- BRICS nations will enhance cooperation to train youth and tourism-sector workers and to exchange artists and cultural groups.
- Delegates visited Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Amer Fort and were introduced to Rajasthan's traditional arts and crafts.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
The Ministry of Tourism hosted the 2nd BRICS 2026 Tourism Working Group (TWG) Meeting in Jaipur, Rajasthan, under India's BRICS Chairship. The meeting was chaired by Bhuvnesh Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism…
India hosted and concluded the 16th BRICS Trade Ministers' Meeting in Jaipur on August 7, 2026, under its BRICS Chairship 2026. The meeting was chaired by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and attended by…
India chaired the inaugural Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) 2026 Tourism Working Group (TWG) meeting in virtual mode. The meeting was chaired by the Joint Secretary (Tourism) in the Ministry of…
The 16th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting was held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, on June 12 and 13 under India’s Presidency. The BRICS Network of Centres of Excellence on Agroecology and Regenerative Agriculture will be…
Turkey seeks Interpol red notice for Israeli PM Netanyahu over Gaza flotilla case
Key Updates:
- Turkey's Justice Minister Akin Gurlek announced arrest warrants for Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on charges including genocide, crimes against humanity and torture.
- The warrants relate to Israel's interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza in international waters.
- Turkey's Justice Ministry has requested the Interior Ministry to issue Interpol red notices for Netanyahu and another suspect.
- An Interpol red notice is a request to locate and provisionally arrest a person while extradition is considered, not an international arrest warrant.
- Netanyahu's office dismissed the Turkish move as a 'pathetic attempt' by President Erdogan.
- The dispute coincides with a confrontation over Syria, where Israel carried out airstrikes on a Syrian air base that Turkey could potentially use.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
India Secures Extradition of Virender Singh Basoya from United Arab Emirates on August 14, 2026 (Mid of August)
Wanted drug trafficker Virender Singh Basoya was brought back from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and arrested at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on August 14, 2026. Basoya was arrested in the UAE in June…
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) notice to Telegram on pirated content (Start of July)
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) issued a notice to Telegram over the dissemination of pirated films, OTT content, and audio-visual material, having previously acted against over 3,000 Telegram…
Palestinian Embassy appeals to India for $100 million medical aid under Aarogya Maitri project (End of June)
The Embassy of the State of Palestine to the Republic of India has requested the Government of India for life-saving medical supplies valued at 100 million USD. The appeal seeks assistance under the Aarogya Maitri…
The Indian government has issued a notice to Meta to provide a detailed explanation regarding the introduction of usernames on WhatsApp within three days. The government has directed Meta to pause the rollout of the…
Israel Inducts Second Boeing KC-46 'Gideon' Aerial Refueling Tanker into Air Force
Key Updates:
- The Israeli Air Force received its second Boeing KC-46 'Gideon' aerial refueling aircraft at Nevatim Airbase.
- The aircraft joined the Israeli Air Force's 46 Squadron.
- It is the second of six KC-46 tankers purchased by Israel's Ministry of Defense through the Pentagon's Foreign Military Sales process.
- The new tanker adds 15% more fuel capacity and multi-role transport capability to Israel's refueling fleet.
- The aircraft can also be used to deliver humanitarian aid across the world.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
The Ministry of Defence has floated a tender valued at approximately ₹1 lakh crore to procure 60 multirole transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force. Indian companies, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)…
The YFQ-44A Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) fired an AIM-120 AMRAAM missile for the first time over the Mojave Desert. The live-fire test was conducted in coordination with the 412th Test Wing’s Air Dominance…
U.S. Central Command announces multinational Task Force Falcon Strike attack drone unit (Mid of August)
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced Task Force Falcon Strike, an inaugural task force focused on multi-domain, multinational attack drones. Task Force Falcon Strike will use one-way attack drones composed of…
The World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA) ranked the Indian Air Force (IAF) third in its 2026 global airpower rankings. The IAF outranked China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), which was placed…
Territorial Army Launches Terrier Cyber Quest 2026
Key Updates:
- The Territorial Army, in collaboration with CyberPeace, launched Terrier Cyber Quest 2026 (TCQ 3.0), the third edition of the national-level hackathon.
- The hackathon aims to develop innovative solutions in Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, threat mitigation and digital awareness for national security.
- TCQ 3.0 comprises three competition tracks: Bug Hunting, AI Kavach, and Creators Challenge.
- Registrations for the competition are open until 31 August 2026, with the online shortlisting phase scheduled from 1 to 10 September 2026.
- The Grand Finale will be held in New Delhi from 6 to 8 October 2026, followed by the award ceremony on 9 October 2026.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
An Indian Army contingent is participating in Exercise KHAAN QUEST, a multilateral military exercise scheduled from 20 June to 3 July at the Five Hills Training Area in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The exercise aims to enhance…
National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) launches CYBER KUSHTI 2026 hackathon (Mid of August)
The National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) launched CYBER KUSHTI 2026, a national cybersecurity and artificial intelligence hackathon, on 15 August 2026. CYBER KUSHTI 2026 is the official…
Indian Army launches Kautilya and Q-FORCE Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms on 25 May 2026 (End of May)
The Indian Army launched two digital platforms, Kautilya and Q-FORCE, to improve real-time decision making and battlefield support. Kautilya focuses on structured data generation, AI-enabled analytics, and Natural…
Gujarat Launches Cyber Financial Fraud e-Zero FIR Service for Victims to Register Complaints from Home (End of July)
The Gujarat government launched the 'Cyber Financial Fraud e-Zero FIR' service on July 27, 2026, in Gandhinagar. The service allows victims of cyber financial fraud to register complaints from home via the national…
India and Brazil sign MoU to deepen telecom and ICT cooperation on 21 August 2026
Key Updates:
- India and Brazil signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen bilateral cooperation in telecommunications and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) on 21 August 2026.
- The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the 12th BRICS Communications Ministers' Meeting held in Pune.
- Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia represented India, while Brazil's Communications Minister Frederico de Siqueira Filho represented Brazil.
- The cooperation framework covers emerging technologies including AI, 5G, 6G, Open RAN, IoT, Direct-to-Device connectivity, LEO satellites, and Non-Terrestrial Networks.
- The MoU also includes areas such as cybersecurity, universal connectivity, digital inclusion, spectrum management, optical fibre, and submarine cables.
- The agreement is significant in the context of India's BRICS Chairship in 2026, focusing on digital transformation and trusted technology.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
India and Mauritius Sign Oil and Gas Cooperation MoU (End of August)
India and Mauritius signed a government-to-government Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on oil and gas cooperation. Indian Oil Corporation and the State Trading Corporation of Mauritius signed a five-year petroleum…
12th BRICS Communications Ministers Meeting Held in Pune (End of August)
The 12th BRICS Communications Ministers' Meeting was held in Pune, India, on August 20, 2026. The Digital BRICS Forum and Expo, institutionalised at the 7th BRICS Communications Ministers' Meeting hosted by India in…
India hosted the 7th meeting of the BRICS Working Group for Cooperation in ICTs in Pune on August 18, 2026, under India's BRICS Chairship. The in-person meetings of the BRICS Track on Cooperation in Information and…
Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Madhya Pradesh Sign MoU for India's First Telecom Manufacturing Zone at Gwalior with Rs 493 Crore Grant-in-Aid (Start of August)
On July 30, 2026, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Government of Madhya Pradesh signed an MoU to establish India's first Telecom Manufacturing Zone in Gwalior. The total grant-in-aid from DoT for the…
Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi visits India on August 20, 2026, meets Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Key Updates:
- Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi visited India on August 20, 2026, and held meetings with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
- India and Japan launched their first defence co-development project, the UNICORN integrated mast, which features 'ninja tech' for enhanced stealth capabilities on warships.
- Japan revised its Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology in April 2026, relaxing export restrictions to enable broader defence-industrial cooperation.
- Under the UNICORN project, Japanese companies will supply design and core technology while Bharat Electronics Limited will undertake manufacturing and integration in India.
- Japan's defence strategy now calls for multilayered networks among allies and like-minded countries, connecting training, operations, defence equipment, and industrial bases.
- Japan has set a target of ¥10 trillion (about US$63 billion) in private investment in India.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
India and Japan Sign Maritime Security Pact (End of August)
India and Japan signed a Memorandum of Arrangement on Maritime Security Cooperation on August 20, 2026, in New Delhi. The pact aims to strengthen coordination between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense…
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is exploring a visit to India in July for the annual Summit. The visit aims to strengthen cooperation in security to counter China's increasing economic pressure on other nations.
Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to attend 16th India-Japan Annual Summit from July 1 to 3 (End of June)
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will visit New Delhi from July 1 to 3 for the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit. The visit marks the first official trip to India for Sanae Takaichi since assuming office.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit in New Delhi to deepen the Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Both leaders established a target to…
AkinAnalytics Launches Indigenous NIKA2 Kisan Medium Drone for Farmers
Key Updates:
- Hyderabad-based drone startup AkinAnalytics launched the indigenous NIKA2 Kisan medium drone for agricultural applications.
- Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan unveiled the drone in New Delhi and witnessed its demonstration.
- The NIKA2 is a multi-payload agricultural drone with a 16-litre spraying payload and a 12-litre spreading payload.
- The drone features an easy payload-change mechanism for switching between spraying and spreading applications.
- NIKA2 incorporates terrain-following capability, fail-safe features and night-operation capability.
- The drone can also be used for aquaculture feed distribution besides conventional agriculture.
- Its terrain-following capability is suited for uneven and sloping agricultural landscapes, including tea-growing areas in Shillong and Meghalaya.
- AkinAnalytics is also developing an AI-Augmented Drone product Analytics and Digital Twin technologies to convert drone and field data into actionable intelligence.
- AkinAnalytics operates a DGCA-authorised Remote Pilot Training Organisation in Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in collaboration with the Drone Federation India (DFI), launched the second edition of the National Innovation Challenge for Drone Application and Research…
China Establishes High-Altitude Drone R&D Centre in Tibet (Start of August)
China launched the Plateau Drone R&D Application Centre at Xizang University on July 3, 2026, as its first dedicated platform for high-altitude UAV research and deployment. The centre aims to deploy drones for border…
Tamil Nadu announces Vetri Vaanmagal scheme to train women farmers in drone operation (Start of August)
Tamil Nadu announced the 'Vetri Vaanmagal' scheme to train women farmers in drone operation. The scheme was announced in the state's first agriculture budget by Agriculture Minister R Vinoth.
Indigenous unmanned systems including one-way attack drones, long-range loitering munitions, and cargo UAVs will be showcased at a special event for the Indian Air Force at Pokhran firing ranges. The event is planned for…
National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS&LUP) develops India's first soil texture map
Key Updates:
- The National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS&LUP) has developed India's first soil texture map.
- The map provides detailed information on soil characteristics across every hectare of the country.
- It was prepared using extensive field studies, remote sensing, satellite imagery, and artificial intelligence.
- The map helps farmers scientifically determine which crops are best suited to specific plots.
- The data can assist government agencies in formulating region-specific agricultural policies and land-use strategies.
- The map was released on July 16, 2026.
- The bureau's next project will focus on developing maps showing water retention and absorption capacity of soils.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Shabdalok, India's first immersive language museum, was inaugurated at the National Library campus in Kolkata on July 19, 2026. The museum was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
The ePlane Company, an IIT Madras-incubated startup, unveiled India's first full-scale electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft prototype, designated PT-01. The prototype has a carbon-fibre composite…
India Launches First Guide to Grasslands and Other Open Natural Ecosystems at UNCCD COP17 (Mid of August)
India launched its first-ever Guide to Grasslands and Other Open Natural Ecosystems (ONEs) at the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)…
Mother Dairy, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), unveiled India's first naturally degradable milk pouch. The rollout is scheduled to commence on June 5 in the Delhi-NCR region to…
Sophie Adenot becomes first French woman to walk in space
Key Updates:
- Sophie Adenot became the first French woman to walk in space during a spacewalk outside the International Space Station (ISS).
- The spacewalk was performed with American astronaut Anil Menon and lasted nearly six and a half hours.
- The spacewalk was carried out about 400 kilometres above the Earth.
- Adenot and Menon attempted to replace an antenna that allows the ISS to communicate with mission control in Houston.
- The two astronauts successfully removed the faulty antenna but could not replace it with new equipment due to time constraints.
- Adenot was the second European woman to conduct a spacewalk, after Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti in 2022.
- She became in February the second Frenchwoman in history to fly into space, after Claudie Haigneré.
- Adenot is an engineer by training and a former test pilot.
- The last French person to walk in space before her was Thomas Pesquet, who did so six times over two stays aboard the ISS.
- Flight engineer Jack Hathaway and station commander Jessica Meir remained inside the ISS and operated a robotic arm during the spacewalk.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Varsha Ashok Aglawe Becomes First Woman Director General of Geological Survey of India (GSI) (Start of August)
Varsha Ashok Aglawe took charge as the 54th Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), becoming the first woman to lead the 176-year-old organisation. She succeeded Asit Saha, who served as Director…
Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth Became First Woman 'Top Gun' Pilot of Indian Air Force (IAF) (Start of August)
Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth of the Indian Air Force (IAF) became the first woman fighter pilot to complete the Fighter Combat Leader (FCL) course at the Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) in…
Elon Musk becomes world's first trillionaire (Mid of June)
Elon Musk became the world's first trillionaire with a total net worth of $1.11tn (£828bn) according to the Bloomberg rich list. Space Exploration Technologies Corp (SpaceX) listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange with a…
China Harvests First Rice Crop Grown in Space (Start of August)
China has harvested the first rice grown entirely in orbit aboard its Tiangong Space Station, a world first in space farming. The experiment was conducted by the Shenzhou-23 crew and aimed to grow two generations of rice…
India’s First Large-Scale Biopolymer Plant Set for October Launch
Key Updates:
- India’s first large-scale biopolymer plant is being built in Lakhimpur Kheri district, Uttar Pradesh, with an investment of Rs 3,080 crore.
- The plant will produce Polylactic Acid (PLA)-based bioplastic from locally grown sugarcane.
- The entire manufacturing process, from sugarcane to PLA-based bioplastic, will take place on a single campus.
- The plant is expected to become operational in October 2026.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
L&T's Vyoma.AI to build India's largest Nvidia B300 AI factory in Chennai for Together AI (Mid of August)
Vyoma.AI, the data centre business of L&T, secured India's largest single-cluster AI infrastructure order for a 10,000-GPU Nvidia B300 AI factory. The AI factory will be set up at Vyoma's Chennai data centre campus…
The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, approved a five-year extension of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) to establish India's first geothermal power…
Russia agreed to build Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plant under a $16.5 billion deal, with an agreement signed on Thursday, May 28, 2026. The plant will be located in the village of Ulken on the shores of Lake…
A 1 MW solar power plant set up by the Chaitanya Self Help Group (SHG) was inaugurated at Venkatapuram in Errupalem mandal of Khammam district, Telangana. The solar power plant was constructed at a cost of ₹2.84 crore…
Madras Day 2026: August 22 Marks Chennai’s 387 Years
Key Updates:
- Madras Day is celebrated on August 22 to commemorate the acquisition of land on the Coromandel Coast in 1639.
- The land was acquired by representatives of the English East India Company from local Nayak rulers.
- The agreement involved Francis Day, Andrew Cogan and Beri Thimmappa.
- The acquired land later became the location of Fort St. George.
- Madras Day began as an organised city celebration in 2004.
- The initiative involved historian S. Muthiah, journalist Sashi Nair and publisher Vincent D’Souza.
- Madras Day 2026 marks the 387th anniversary of Chennai.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) Unveils Advanced Maritime Research Facility (End of May)
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) launched an advanced maritime research facility to strengthen indigenous ship design, ocean engineering research, and hydrodynamic testing. The facility was…
IIT Madras to Host Digital India RISC-V Symposium 2026 (End of July)
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) will host the 3rd Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Symposium 2026 on August 1-2, 2026 at its Research Park in Chennai. The symposium is organized in partnership with the…
Independence Day 2026: 80th Anniversary on August 15, Theme 'Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047' (Mid of August)
India will celebrate its 80th Independence Day on August 15, 2026. The theme for Independence Day 2026 is 'Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047'.
PM Modi Independence Day Speech 2026: AI Training, Saptadhara, Free Coaching and Viksit Bharat 2047 (Mid of August)
PM Modi announced a nationwide mission to provide AI skill training to 1 crore youth over the next year. Free online coaching for competitive examination aspirants was announced to ease the burden on poor and…
International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism 2026: August 21, Theme 'Healing through Memory'
Key Updates:
- The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is observed on August 21 every year.
- The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 August as the International Day through resolution 72/165 in 2017.
- The theme for the 2026 International Day is 'Healing through Memory'.
- The 2026 observance marks the ninth International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism.
- The United Nations will host a high-level virtual event on 21 August 2026, featuring keynote remarks by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and a Global Minute of Silence.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
World Humanitarian Day 2026: August 19, Theme 'Strengthening Global Solidarity and Empowering Local Communities' (Mid of August)
World Humanitarian Day is observed annually on August 19. The 2026 theme is 'Strengthening Global Solidarity and Empowering Local Communities'.
International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is observed annually on 26 June to honour survivors and advocate for justice, rehabilitation, and prevention. The Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or…
Partition Horrors Remembrance Day 2026 observed on August 14 (Mid of August)
Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, also known as Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas, is observed on August 14 every year in India. The day was officially announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 14, 2021.
International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica 2026 – 11 July (Mid of July)
The International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica is observed on July 11 every year. The 2026 commemoration included events in Belgrade and Novi Sad under the slogan 'People…
Dr. Eluri Sreedhar Appointed Honorary Advisor to BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BRICS CCI)
Key Updates:
- Dr. Eluri Sreedhar has been appointed as Honorary Advisor to the BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BRICS CCI).
- The appointment letter was presented by Sameep Shastri, Chairman of BRICS CCI.
- Sameep Shastri is the grandson of former Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri.
- Dr. Sreedhar's experience includes social development, entrepreneurship, community empowerment, and inclusive growth.
- In his advisory role, he is expected to contribute to economic collaboration, strategic partnerships, and inclusive development.
- Dr. Sreedhar has been associated with initiatives focused on self-employment, livelihood creation, and economic empowerment.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) organized the Meeting of Heads of BRICS Competition Authorities on August 8, 2026, in Udaipur, Rajasthan, under India's BRICS Chairship 2026. CCI Chairperson Smt. Ravneet Kaur…
Pradeep Singh Kharola has been appointed as the executive advisor to the chairman of Air India. He will serve as a full member of the management committee of Air India.
India hosted the International Governing Board (IGB) meeting of the BRICS Network University (BRICS NU) virtually on July 21, 2026, as part of its BRICS Presidency 2026. The meeting followed the BRICS Network University…
India hosts 13th BRICS Education Ministers' Meeting in Bhubaneswar from August 5-7, 2026 (Start of August)
India is hosting the 13th BRICS Education Ministers' Meeting in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from August 5 to 7, 2026, under India's BRICS Chairship 2026. Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi is scheduled to participate in the…
President Droupadi Murmu to Honour 48 Teachers with National Teachers Awards 2026
Key Updates:
- President Droupadi Murmu will confer the National Teachers Awards 2026 to 48 school teachers at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on September 5, 2026.
- The awards are organised by the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Ministry of Education.
- The selection process involved three stages at district, state, and national levels.
- The awardees include 26 male and 22 female teachers from 27 states, 7 Union Territories, and 6 Central Government organisations.
- The National Teachers Awards are given annually on Teachers Day, which commemorates the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.
- The ceremony will be telecast live on Doordarshan and SWAYAM PRABHA channels.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
National Anubhav Awards 2026 to Be Conferred at Vigyan Bhawan (Mid of August)
The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW), Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, will organise the 9th National Anubhav Awards Ceremony and the 60th Pre-Retirement Counselling Workshop on…
The Personnel Ministry announced the selection of 17 projects and initiatives for the 29th National Awards for e-Governance (NAeG) 2026 across seven categories. The awards ceremony will be held during the 29th National…
The Maharashtra School Education department signed a memorandum of understanding with Google for Education to provide free AI and digital technology training to more than four lakh teachers in government-run and aided…
Chief Minister’s Teachers’ Cashless Medical Scheme launched in Uttar Pradesh with ₹5 Lakh Coverage (Mid of July)
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the Chief Minister’s Teachers’ Cashless Medical Scheme in Varanasi to provide medical benefits to education staff. The scheme offers cashless medical coverage of up…
Sri Lankan singer Nanda Malini died at 82
Key Updates:
- Nanda Malini, an iconic Sri Lankan singer, died on Thursday at the age of 82 in Nawala, near Colombo.
- She was born in 1943 in British Ceylon and studied Hindustani music at Bhatkhande College of Hindustani Music in Lucknow, India.
- The Sri Lankan government announced three days of mourning beginning on Friday, August 21, 2026.
- She entered the film industry under the guidance of musician W.D. Amaradeva and won many prestigious awards for her songs.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Renowned Mand folk singer Gavri Devi passed away at the age of 98 at her residence in Pali, Rajasthan. She was a prominent exponent of Mand singing, which is one of the oldest music traditions originating from Rajasthan.
Suman Kalyanpur Passes Away Playback Singer (Start of June)
Suman Kalyanpur, a playback singer of Hindi cinema, passed away on 31 May at the age of 89 at her residence in Lokhandwala, Mumbai. She made her debut with the song Ek dil, do hain talabgaar in the film Darwaaza (1954).
Legendary Playback Singer S. Janaki Dies at 88 (Mid of July)
Veteran playback singer S. Janaki, known as the 'Nightingale of South India,' passed away at the age of 88 in a private hospital in Mysuru due to age-related health issues. She recorded over 40,000 songs in about 20…
Veteran Actor Sowcar Janaki Dies at 94 (End of August)
Veteran actor Sowcar Janaki died on August 21, 2026, at the age of 94 in Chennai. She was hospitalised at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai before her death.
Somanath Panicker Appointed, Anand Mahindra Re-appointed as Part-time Non-official Directors of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Central Board
Key Updates:
- Somanath Sreedhara Panicker was appointed as a part-time non-official director on the Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a period of four years, effective August 20, 2026.
- Anand Gopal Mahindra was re-appointed as a part-time non-official director on the RBI Central Board for another four-year term, also effective August 20, 2026.
- The appointments were made by the Central Government.
- The RBI Central Board comprises official directors, including the Governor and up to four Deputy Governors, government-nominated directors, and other non-official directors from various fields.
Connects with 4 related updates for revision context.
Related Current Affairs Coverage
Sanjay Lohiya appointed Director on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and State Bank of India (SBI) central boards (Mid of June)
Sanjay Lohiya, Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, has been nominated to the central boards of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and State Bank of India (SBI). Lohiya was appointed…
Swaminathan Janakiraman re-appointed as Reserve Bank of India Deputy Governor for two years (Start of June)
Swaminathan Janakiraman's tenure as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been extended for two years effective June 26, 2026. He was initially appointed as RBI Deputy Governor for three years in June…
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) appointed Monisha Chakraborty as Executive Director with effect from August 3, 2026. Prior to this, she served as Chief General Manager-in-Charge in the Department of Supervision.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of Elias George as the part-time chairman of Federal Bank. The appointment is for a three-year term effective from May 23, 2026.