Daily Current Affairs Quiz
16 July , 2026
National Affairs
1. Seafarer-First Initiative
Source: News on Air
Context:
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched the ‘Seafarer-First’ Initiative to protect Indian seafarers operating in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman amid rising maritime security threats in West Asia.
About the Seafarer-First Initiative
What is it?
- The Seafarer-First Initiative is a comprehensive safety and welfare programme launched by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) to ensure the protection, monitoring, and timely assistance of Indian seafarers working in conflict-prone maritime regions.
- It was introduced following attacks on the merchant vessels MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa in the Strait of Hormuz, which affected 30 Indian seafarers among a crew of 46.
Aim
- To safeguard the lives, welfare, and rights of Indian seafarers through real-time monitoring, emergency response, and coordinated government support during maritime crises.
Key Features
Real-Time Monitoring
- The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) will establish a vessel-by-vessel operational dashboard to monitor every Indian seafarer, irrespective of the vessel’s flag.
Dedicated Liaison Officers
- Special liaison officers will coordinate with Indian seafarers, shipping companies, and government agencies during emergencies.
Focus Region
- Covers Indian seafarers operating in:
- Persian Gulf
- Strait of Hormuz
- Gulf of Oman
2. Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC)
Source: PIB
Context
At the 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) held in Geneva, Switzerland, India achieved significant success as the Commission adopted seven international food standards and guidelines developed under Indian leadership.
About the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC)
- Codex Alimentarius (Latin for “Food Code”) is a collection of internationally recognized food standards, guidelines, codes of practice, and recommendations.
- It serves as the global reference for harmonising national food safety regulations and facilitating international food trade.
- Established by:
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) – 1961
- World Health Organization (WHO) – joined in 1962
- Headquarters: Hosted jointly by FAO and WHO (Secretariat at FAO Headquarters, Rome, Italy).
Objectives
- Protect consumer health.
- Ensure fair practices in international food trade.
- Harmonise global food standards and reduce technical trade barriers.
Key Functions
- Establishes standards for:
- Food additives.
- Contaminants and toxins.
- Pesticide residues.
- Veterinary drug residues.
- Develops international guidelines on:
- Food hygiene.
- Food labelling.
- Food processing and packaging.
- Uses scientific risk assessments from expert bodies such as:
- JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives).
- Acts as the international food safety reference under the WTO Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures.
India’s Achievements at CAC49
- Adoption of India-led international standards for:
- Dried Coriander Seeds.
- Fresh Curry Leaves.
- Adoption of standards developed under India’s co-chairmanship for:
- Vanilla.
- Large Cardamom.
- Approval of India’s proposal to develop a new Codex Standard for Cashew Kernels under the Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables (CCPFV).
- India elected Co-Chair of the newly created Electronic Working Group on New Food Sources and Production Systems (NFPS).
3. Abathsahayeswarar (Thukkachi) Temple
Source: The Hindu
Context
The 12th-century Abathsahayeswarar Temple at Thukkachi, Tamil Nadu, received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award of Distinction 2024 for excellence in heritage conservation.
About the Thukkachi Temple
- Also known as the Abathsahayeswarar Temple.
- A 12th-century Shaivite temple representing the architectural excellence of the Later Chola period.
- It is a living heritage temple, continuing to function as an active place of worship.
- Location: Thukkachi village, Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu.
Historical Background
- Associated with the Later Chola dynasty.
- Kulottunga I endowed the temple for the daily recitation of Thevaram hymns.
- Vikrama Chola expanded and renovated the temple, making it one of the few major temples built during his reign.
- Temple inscriptions refer to the site as:
- Thenthirukalathi
- Vikramacholeeswaram
Architectural Features
- Built in the rare Kara Kovil style, where the sanctum resembles a processional chariot.
- Houses one of the oldest known stone idols of Lord Sarabeshwarar.
- Reflects the mature architectural style of the Later Cholas through intricate sculptures and stone craftsmanship.
UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award of Distinction
- Awarded under the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation.
- Recognises outstanding conservation projects that preserve cultural heritage while maintaining authenticity.
- The award highlights India’s expertise in conserving historic monuments using both traditional and scientific methods.
4. Cabinet Approves Semicon 2.0
Source: PIB
Context: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister, approved Semicon 2.0.
About India Semiconductor Mission (Semicon 2.0)
What is it?
- The second phase of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) aims to build a complete semiconductor ecosystem by promoting chip design, manufacturing, packaging, raw materials and supply chains.
Approved Outlay
- ₹1.27 lakh crore
Objective
- Achieve self-reliance in semiconductor manufacturing.
- Reduce dependence on imported chips.
- Support AI, electronics and strategic industries.
Key Features
- Six-pillar strategy covering:
- Chip design
- Chip development
- Semiconductor manufacturing
- Raw materials
- Specialty gases and minerals
- Supply chain ecosystem
- Incentives extended to suppliers of semiconductor raw materials and gases.
- Focus on indigenous chip production.
Background
- Semicon 1.0 (2021):
- Outlay: ₹76,000 crore
- Approved 12 semiconductor projects
- Total investment attracted: ₹1.64 lakh crore
Banking/Finance
1. RBI Issues Draft Guidance on Data Governance Framework for Regulated Entities
Source: The Hindu
Context:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a Draft Guidance on Regulatory Expectations for Data Governance for banks and other Regulated Entities (REs) to strengthen data governance, improve data quality, and ensure compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023.
About the Draft Data Governance Framework (DGF)
What is it?
- The Data Governance Framework (DGF) is a comprehensive regulatory framework prescribing the RBI’s expectations for effective management, security and governance of data by Regulated Entities (REs).
- It covers the entire data lifecycle, from data creation and collection to storage, usage, sharing, archival and deletion.
Issued By
- Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Objective
- Improve data quality, integrity and consistency.
- Strengthen accountability and data ownership.
- Enhance data security and privacy.
- Improve risk management.
- Ensure compliance with the DPDP Act, 2023 and other applicable laws.
Key Features
Comprehensive Data Governance Framework
- Every Regulated Entity must establish a comprehensive Data Governance Framework (DGF) aligned with its overall risk management framework.
Risk-Based and Proportionate Approach
- The framework should be proportionate to:
- Size of the institution.
- Business complexity.
- Business model.
- Technology infrastructure.
- Nature of operations.
Annual Review
- Regulated Entities must review the framework:
- At least once every year, or
- More frequently whenever significant business or technology changes occur.
About the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023
- India’s primary law governing the processing of digital personal data.
- Seeks to balance individuals’ right to privacy with the need for lawful data processing.
- Establishes obligations for data fiduciaries regarding data protection, security and user consent.
2. Index of Services Production (ISP)
Source: Business Standard
Context
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the trial Index of Services Production (ISP) for April 2026, introducing a high-frequency indicator to measure short-term performance of India’s services sector.
What is the Index of Services Production (ISP)?
- A monthly high-frequency indicator that measures the real output of the services sector.
- Serves as the services sector counterpart of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).
- Developed by: National Statistical Office (NSO), under MoSPI.
- Base Year: 2024–25.
- Covers 19 formal service sub-sectors, representing about 60% of India’s services economy.
- Released on the 29th of every month.
Key Features
- Measures volume of services produced, rather than only the value of transactions.
- Uses GST data, administrative databases, and the Annual Survey of Incorporated Services Sector Enterprises (ASISSE).
- Nominal turnover is adjusted for inflation using:
- Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for wholesale trade.
- Consumer Price Index (CPI) or proxy CPIs for other services.
- Future improvements are expected through the use of Producer Price Indices (PPIs).
Agriculture
1. Gramodyam Programme
Source: NABARD
Context
On 13 July 2026, NABARD Chairman Dr. Shaji K. V. launched Gramodyam, an Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP), on the occasion of NABARD’s 45th Foundation Day to strengthen the rural enterprise ecosystem.
About Gramodyam
What is it?
- A nationwide entrepreneurship development programme launched by NABARD to identify, train, mentor, and support rural youth and aspiring entrepreneurs in establishing sustainable enterprises.
Implemented by
- NABARD
- National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)
- Institute for Industrial Development (IID)
Aim
- To promote rural entrepreneurship, self-employment, and improve access to formal finance, thereby strengthening the rural enterprise ecosystem.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Digital-first Hybrid Model | Combines online and offline entrepreneurship training across all States and Union Territories. |
| Entrepreneurship Support | Psychometric assessment of participants, business mentoring and handholding, and support for enterprise establishment. |
| Credit Linkage Framework | Preparation of bankable Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), linkage with Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and other financial institutions, access to government schemes and incentives, and digital assistance for loan applications. |
| National Coverage | Implemented across all States and Union Territories. |
| Pilot Target | Aims to create around 4,000 rural entrepreneurs during the 3-year pilot phase. |
Exam Relevance
- NABARD
Facts To Remember
1. Japan Recognises Cryptocurrency as Financial Assets
Japan’s Parliament passed a law to classify cryptocurrencies as financial assets, moving them from the Payment Services Act to the financial regulatory framework. The change brings stricter regulations, including insider trading rules and tougher penalties for unregistered crypto trading, as cryptocurrency adoption continues to grow in the country.
2. RBI Approves Rajiv Kumar as Part-Time Chairman of HDFC Bank
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of former Finance Secretary and Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar as the Part-Time Chairman of HDFC Bank for a three-year term, effective 15 July 2026.
3. India’s Exports Reach USD 232.73 Billion in Q1 FY27
The Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I) reported that India’s total exports reached USD 232.73 billion during Q1 FY27 (April–June 2026), while imports stood at USD 270.15 billion. Merchandise exports increased to USD 129.32 billion, reflecting continued growth in India’s external trade.
4. MeitY Launches NIDAR 2.0 for Indigenous Drone Innovation
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Drone Federation India (DFI) launched NIDAR 2.0 under the SwaYaan Initiative to promote drones powered by indigenous VEGA processors. The challenge offers a prize pool of over ₹65 lakh and supports innovation in autonomous drones and indigenous drone components.
5. IAF Retains 3rd Position in WDMMA Global Air Power Rankings 2026
According to the World Defence Military Analysis (WDMMA) Global Air Power Rankings 2026, the Indian Air Force (IAF) retained its position as the third-most powerful air force globally, behind only the United States and Russia, remaining ahead of China’s Air Force for the fifth consecutive year.
6. Codex Commission Adopts Seven Food Standards Led by India
The 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) adopted seven Codex standards and guidelines developed under India’s leadership. The Commission also approved India’s proposal to develop a global Codex standard for cashew kernels, strengthening India’s role in global food standard-setting.
7. Ukraine and Nine Nations Form Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition
Ukraine and nine European countries announced the formation of an Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition to strengthen Europe’s missile defence capabilities. The coalition aims to jointly develop affordable missile defence systems to counter emerging ballistic missile threats.
8. Axis Max Life Launches Smart RISE Retirement Plan
Axis Max Life Insurance launched Smart RISE, a retirement plan combining guaranteed annuity with a NIFTY 50-linked variable annuity. The product is designed to provide stable post-retirement income while offering potential market-linked returns and legacy planning options.
9. Gujarat’s Unjha Cumin and Fennel Receive GI Tags
The Geographical Indications Registry (GIR) granted GI tags to Unjha Cumin and Unjha Fennel from Gujarat. With this recognition, Gujarat now has six GI-tagged agricultural products, highlighting the state’s rich agricultural heritage.
10. India Wins Five Gold Medals at International Physics Olympiad 2026
India recorded its best-ever performance at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) 2026 in Colombia, with all five participants winning gold medals. India jointly topped the overall medal tally alongside Russia, China, Kazakhstan, South Korea, and Taiwan.
11. Three Indian-Origin Experts Appointed to US Federal Reserve Review Panels
The US Federal Reserve appointed Raghuram Rajan, Raj Chetty, and Asha Sharma to lead key task forces reviewing the US monetary policy framework. Their work will focus on balance sheet policy, economic data, and the impact of artificial intelligence on productivity and employment.
12. Russia Launches Soyuz MS-29 Mission to ISS
Russia successfully launched the Soyuz MS-29 mission carrying NASA astronaut Anil Menon and two Roscosmos cosmonauts to the International Space Station (ISS). The crew will undertake scientific research and technology demonstrations during an eight-month mission.
13. India Finishes Fourth at Inaugural Asian U23 Athletics Championships
India finished fourth at the inaugural Asian U23 Athletics Championships 2026 in China with 16 medals, including 3 gold, 4 silver, and 9 bronze. China topped the medal table, while India excelled in relay events and javelin throw.
14. India Wins First-Ever Women’s Deaf T20I Series Against Sri Lanka
The Indian Deaf Women’s Cricket Team created history by defeating Sri Lanka 5–0 to win the first-ever Women’s Deaf T20 International Series. The victory marked India’s first overseas triumph in international deaf women’s cricket.
15. Delhi Unveils ‘Mayur’ Mascot for Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled ‘Mayur’, the official mascot of the 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026. Inspired by the Indian Peacock, the mascot symbolizes unity, pride, energy, and the spirit of the Commonwealth nations.
16. International Day of Hope Observed on 12 July
The United Nations observed the International Day of Hope on 12 July to promote hope, peace, resilience, and sustainable development worldwide. 2026 marked the second observance of the international day.
17. Google India Signs MoU with Tripura to Build AI Ecosystem
Google India signed an MoU with the Government of Tripura to strengthen the state’s AI ecosystem, cloud infrastructure, digital governance, and workforce development. The partnership also supports the establishment of an AI Centre of Excellence and the Tripura IT & Data Ecosystem Zone (TIDEZ).
18. Japan Recognises Cryptocurrency as Financial Assets
Japan’s Parliament passed a law to classify cryptocurrencies as financial assets, moving them from the Payment Services Act to the financial regulatory framework. The change introduces stricter regulations, including insider trading rules and tougher penalties for unregistered crypto trading, as cryptocurrency adoption continues to grow across the country.
19. RBI Approves Rajiv Kumar as Part-Time Chairman of HDFC Bank
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of former Finance Secretary and Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar as the Part-Time Chairman of HDFC Bank for a three-year term, effective 15 July 2026.
20. India’s Exports Reach USD 232.73 Billion in Q1 FY27
The Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I) reported that India’s total exports reached USD 232.73 billion during Q1 FY27 (April–June 2026), while imports stood at USD 270.15 billion. Merchandise exports increased to USD 129.32 billion, reflecting continued growth in India’s external trade.
21. MeitY Launches NIDAR 2.0 for Indigenous Drone Innovation
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Drone Federation India (DFI) launched NIDAR 2.0 under the SwaYaan Initiative to promote drones powered by indigenous VEGA processors. The challenge offers a prize pool of over ₹65 lakh and supports innovation in autonomous drones and indigenous drone components.
22. IAF Retains Third Position in WDMMA Global Air Power Rankings 2026
According to the World Defence Military Analysis (WDMMA) Global Air Power Rankings 2026, the Indian Air Force (IAF) retained its position as the third-most powerful air force globally, behind only the United States and Russia, remaining ahead of China’s Air Force for the fifth consecutive year.
23. Codex Commission Adopts Seven Food Standards Led by India
The 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) adopted seven Codex standards and guidelines developed under India’s leadership. The Commission also approved India’s proposal to develop a global Codex standard for cashew kernels, strengthening India’s role in global food standard-setting.
24. Ukraine and Nine Nations Form Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition
Ukraine and nine European countries announced the formation of an Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition to strengthen Europe’s missile defence capabilities. The coalition aims to jointly develop affordable missile defence systems to counter emerging ballistic missile threats.
25. Axis Max Life Launches Smart RISE Retirement Plan
Axis Max Life Insurance launched Smart RISE, a retirement plan combining guaranteed annuity with a NIFTY 50-linked variable annuity. The product is designed to provide stable post-retirement income while offering potential market-linked returns and legacy planning options.
26. Gujarat’s Unjha Cumin and Fennel Receive GI Tags
The Geographical Indications Registry (GIR) granted GI tags to Unjha Cumin and Unjha Fennel from Gujarat. With this recognition, Gujarat now has six GI-tagged agricultural products, highlighting the state’s rich agricultural heritage.
27. India Wins Five Gold Medals at International Physics Olympiad 2026
India recorded its best-ever performance at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) 2026 in Colombia, with all five participants winning gold medals. India jointly topped the overall medal tally alongside Russia, China, Kazakhstan, South Korea, and Taiwan.
28. Three Indian-Origin Experts Appointed to US Federal Reserve Review Panels
The US Federal Reserve appointed Raghuram Rajan, Raj Chetty, and Asha Sharma to lead key task forces reviewing the US monetary policy framework. Their work will focus on balance sheet policy, economic data, and the impact of artificial intelligence on productivity and employment.
29. Russia Launches Soyuz MS-29 Mission to ISS
Russia successfully launched the Soyuz MS-29 mission carrying NASA astronaut Anil Menon and two Roscosmos cosmonauts to the International Space Station (ISS). The crew will undertake scientific research and technology demonstrations during an eight-month mission.
30. India Finishes Fourth at Inaugural Asian U23 Athletics Championships
India finished fourth at the inaugural Asian U23 Athletics Championships 2026 in China with 16 medals, including 3 gold, 4 silver, and 9 bronze. China topped the medal table, while India excelled in relay events and the javelin throw.
31. India Wins First-Ever Women’s Deaf T20I Series Against Sri Lanka
The Indian Deaf Women’s Cricket Team created history by defeating Sri Lanka 5–0 to win the first-ever Women’s Deaf T20 International Series. The victory marked India’s first overseas triumph in international deaf women’s cricket.
32. Delhi Unveils ‘Mayur’ Mascot for Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled ‘Mayur’, the official mascot of the 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026. Inspired by the Indian Peacock, the mascot symbolizes unity, pride, energy, and the spirit of the Commonwealth nations.
33. International Day of Hope Observed on 12 July
The United Nations observed the International Day of Hope on 12 July to promote hope, peace, resilience, and sustainable development worldwide. 2026 marked the second observance of the international day.
34. Google India Signs MoU with Tripura to Build AI Ecosystem
Google India signed an MoU with the Government of Tripura to strengthen the state’s AI ecosystem, cloud infrastructure, digital governance, and workforce development. The partnership also supports the establishment of an AI Centre of Excellence and the Tripura IT & Data Ecosystem Zone (TIDEZ).
35. MY Bharat to Launch Nationwide ‘Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme’
The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, through MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat), will launch the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme (VBYCP) across universities and colleges from 16 July to 15 August 2026 under the theme “Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat.” The month-long campaign aims to mobilise youth against substance abuse, with youth icons leading awareness sessions to promote a drug-free society and contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 and Nasha Mukt Bharat.
