Agriculture

Southwest Monsoon 2026 Ends with 13% Rainfall Deficit

• The 2026 southwest monsoon ended with rainfall at 87% of the Long Period Average (LPA).
• India received about 759.4 mm of rainfall against the LPA of 868.6 mm.
• The 13% deficit was the largest in more than a decade, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
• A strong El Niño in the Pacific was one of the factors associated with the deficient monsoon.

Annual Survey of Industries 2024–25

• The Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) 2024–25, released by MoSPI, reported 2.7 lakh factories and 1.67 crore workers.
• The average wage per factory worker increased 5.3% to ₹2.28 lakh.
• Jharkhand recorded a 5.2% fall in average wages, although its average wage of ₹3.04 lakh remained above the national average.
• Bihar recorded a 16.7% increase in average wages to ₹1.63 lakh.

Banking and Finance

SEBI Approves Reforms for Portfolio Management Services

• SEBI approved changes to the Portfolio Management Services (PMS) regulatory framework.
• PMS providers will be allowed to invest client funds in direct mutual fund schemes and Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs) under the proposed framework.
• PMS can also invest up to 10% of client AUM in investment-grade unlisted debt, subject to conditions and client consent.
• SEBI also approved changes to settlement proceedings, including formula-based settlement amounts and a fast-track mechanism for certain violations.

India’s Net FDI Rises to Five-Year High

• India's net FDI increased to US$7.35 billion in July 2026, the highest since May 2021.
• Gross FDI inflows stood at US$14.58 billion during July.
• Major sectors receiving equity inflows included communication, financial services and computer services.
• During April–July 2026, net FDI reached US$13.4 billion, compared with US$9.7 billion a year earlier.

India’s First Blue Bond by SMFCL

• Sagarmala Finance Corporation Ltd. (SMFCL) launched India's first blue bond.
• It aims to raise ₹600 crore, with a ₹500 crore green-shoe option.
• The 10-year bond will support maritime lending, greenfield ports and coastal road projects.
• Blue bonds are debt instruments used to finance projects linked to marine and water-related sustainability.

IndusInd Bank Launches GCC Banking Vertical

• IndusInd Bank launched a dedicated Global Capability Centre (GCC) Banking vertical.
• It combines digital banking, employee banking, commercial cards, FEMA/capital-account solutions and foreign-currency banking.
• Its International Banking Unit at GIFT City will support cross-border banking requirements.
• India's GCC ecosystem has grown significantly, with 2,117 GCCs reported in the supplied data.

Reports & Articles

1. Status of Policing in India Report (SPIR) 2026

Source: The Hindu

Context SPIR 2026 was released, based on a 16-state survey of 8,306 citizens — mapping cybercrime exposure, vulnerability patterns and police redressal mechanisms.

What It Is

• An empirical multi-state study of the everyday interface between citizens and the police
• Tracking the lifecycle of cyber frauds — from digital exposure and victimisation to formal reporting and financial recovery
• Published jointly by Lokniti–CSDS and Common Cause

Key Findings

• Cybercrime increased sharply: Cybercrime cases rose 17.9%, from 86,420 in 2023 to 1,01,928 in 2024, while overall registered crime fell by about 6%.
• High exposure to scams:
  • 33% received calls about unordered deliveries.
  • 31% encountered high-return investment scams.
  • 27% received calls from fake bank officials seeking account details.
• More internet use, more exposure: 46% of high internet users reported moderate-to-high scam exposure, compared with 19% among non-internet users.
• Cybercrime victims: Around 13% of respondents had directly experienced cybercrime in the previous 2–3 years. Among them, 54% faced financial fraud, and 23% lost more than ₹20,000.
• Higher-income and educated groups also targeted: Financial fraud affected 57% of affluent victims compared with 47% of poor victims. Among education groups, 59% of graduates were targeted compared with 40% of non-literate citizens.
• Low police reporting: Only 49% of victims filed a formal police complaint, while 39% did not complain and 9% discontinued the process after the first visit.
• Bribery and recovery: 27% of complainants reported paying a bribe. Among those who paid, 41% recovered their full loss, compared with 12% among those who did not pay. This is a survey finding showing an association, not proof that bribery causes better recovery.
• Greater burden on poorer victims: 51% of poor victims reported paying a bribe, compared with 12% of affluent victims. 55% of poor victims relied on informal influence networks to advance their cases.

Important Facts for Exams

• Cybercrime: Crime committed using computers, mobile phones, networks or the internet.
• Social Engineering: Manipulating people psychologically to obtain money, passwords or sensitive information.
• Cyber Fraud: Using digital technologies to deceive people and illegally obtain money or information.
• CFCFRMS: System designed to coordinate rapid action to freeze funds lost through cyber financial fraud.
• I4C: Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, which coordinates India's cybercrime response.
• CEIR: Central Equipment Identity Register, used to track and block lost or stolen mobile phones.
• ASTR: Technology used to identify suspicious or fraudulent mobile connections.
• Procedural Fatigue: Discouragement or withdrawal caused by lengthy, complicated or repeated official procedures.

The Ageing World and India's Narrowing Window

Source: Business Standard

Context A new global demographics report by Moody's Ratings underscores a structural shift — more than 70 per cent of the world's population now lives in countries with fertility at or below replacement rate.

Key Highlights

• Global ageing: Over 70% of the world’s population lives in countries with fertility at or below replacement level. Global fertility fell from 4.9 (1950) to about 2.2.
• India’s ageing: India entered the “ageing” category around 2024, with 65+ population crossing 7%. It may become “aged” (14%) by 2049 and “super-aged” (21%) by 2065.
• Demographic dividend: About 68% of Indians were aged 15–64 in 2025, but the working-age share is expected to decline after 2030.
• Economic opportunity: Demographic change contributed about 1.9 percentage points annually to India’s growth during 1981–2021.
• Women’s employment: Female labour-force participation is around 32%. Raising it to 50% could add about 1 percentage point annually to GDP growth, according to the World Bank estimate cited.
• Elderly population: Indians aged 60+ are projected to rise from 153 million (2022) to 347 million (2050).
• Policy challenge: India needs more jobs, skills and female employment while preparing for higher demand for pensions, healthcare, geriatric care and senior housing.

Key Terms

• Demographic Dividend: Economic growth potential created when the working-age population becomes larger relative to dependants.
• Replacement-Level Fertility: Fertility rate needed to maintain a broadly stable population; generally around 2.1 children per woman.
• Working-Age Population: Usually the population aged 15–64 years.
• Ageing Population: A population in which the share of older people is increasing significantly.
• Super-Aged Society: A society where 21% or more of the population is aged 65 or above.
• Silver Economy: Economic activities and markets related to the needs of older people.
• Female Labour-Force Participation Rate (FLFPR): Share of working-age women who are employed or actively seeking employment.

Economy

US State Department Report on India’s Investment Climate

• A US Department of State report assessed India's investment environment and highlighted issues related to foreign-investment restrictions and regulatory practices.
• The report noted that India permits 100% FDI in many sectors, while some sectors still require government approval.
• These include areas such as multi-brand retail, private banking, pharmaceuticals, defence, media and satellites.
• These are claims and assessments of the US report, rather than an independent conclusion.

CAFE-III Norms for Passenger Vehicles

• The government notified the third phase of Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE-III) norms.
• The norms will apply from 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2032.
• They tighten fleet-level fuel-efficiency requirements and provide incentives for EVs, hybrids, flex-fuel vehicles and other cleaner technologies.
• Under the framework, a battery electric vehicle counts as three vehicles for the fleet-efficiency calculation.

Green Energy Corridor Phase III Approved

• The Union Cabinet approved Green Energy Corridor Phase III with an outlay of over ₹1.86 lakh crore.
• It aims to integrate up to 135 GW of renewable energy into the electricity grid by FY2032–33.
• Around ₹1.36 lakh crore is allocated for intra-state transmission systems.
• A dedicated ₹50,000 crore component will support 50 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

India Participates in ASEAN-India Economic Ministers’ Meeting

• India participated in the 23rd ASEAN-India Economic Ministers Consultation and the 14th East Asia Summit–Economic Ministers’ Meeting in Manila.
• Discussions covered trade, investment, energy security, industrial clusters and regional economic cooperation.
• India called for a balanced and trade-facilitative review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).
• India-ASEAN trade reached US$128.38 billion in 2025–26.

HAL–SkyPulse ₹2,491 Crore Helicopter Programme

• HAL and SkyPulse Solutions IFSC signed an MoU for a proposed ₹2,491 crore helicopter programme.
• The programme covers 30 HAL-manufactured helicopters, with 10 planned during 2027–29 and 20 from 2030 onwards.
• Applications include emergency medical services, disaster response, search and rescue, tourism and UDAN.
• The programme also covers leasing, financing, MRO, training and engineering support.

India International Water Week 2026

• India International Water Week 2026 was held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from 22–26 September.
• The theme was “Climate Resilient Water Management.”
• Participants from around 150 countries discussed sustainable and technology-driven water management.
• The event also promoted South-South cooperation and progress towards SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation.

Social Issue

Seva First Innovation Challenge 2026

• The Seva First Innovation Challenge (SFIC) was launched to encourage young people to develop solutions to community problems.
• It has three levels: Junior, Technical and Open for school students, ITI/polytechnic students, and higher-education/research participants.
• Key themes include sustainable development, farmers, health, education and security.
• The challenge is being organised by the Ministry of Education, AICTE and UGC, with IISc Bengaluru as a nodal institution.

ECI’s Electoral Roll Management Systems

• ECINET, launched by the Election Commission in 2026, is a unified digital platform integrating more than 40 election-related portals and applications.
• It provides services relating to electoral rolls, candidates, political parties and polling information.
• The issue discussed in the supplied article concerns the balance between centralised software systems and the statutory role of Electoral Registration Officers (EROs).
• The Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer sought changes to preserve ERO discretion in handling voter-data discrepancies.

Misc GA

Sunil Kumar Wins Bronze in Greco-Roman Wrestling

• Sunil Kumar won bronze in the men's 87 kg Greco-Roman wrestling event.
• He defeated the Philippines' Roberts Callum Johnston 9–0 by technical superiority.
• He had earlier lost his semifinal 0–11 to Japan's Taizo Yoshida.
• This became his second Asian Games medal, making him the first Indian Greco-Roman wrestler to achieve this.

Lovlina Borgohain Reaches Asian Games Final

• Lovlina Borgohain reached the women's 75 kg boxing final.
• She defeated Kazakhstan's Natalya Bogdanova 3–2 in the semifinal.
• She became the first Indian woman boxer to reach back-to-back Asian Games finals.
• Priya Ghanghas and Kapil Pokhariya won bronze medals.

India Reaches Women’s Hockey Final

• India defeated South Korea 2–0 to reach the women's hockey final.
• Ishika Chaudhary and Salima Tete scored for India.
• India dominated possession but struggled to convert penalty corners during the early stages.
• The result put India one step away from reclaiming the Asian Games women's hockey gold.

Sanskrit Subhashitam on Six Qualities of Success

• The Sanskrit verse highlights six qualities: diligence, courage, patience, wisdom, strength and valour.
• The verse conveys that human effort and ability are important for achieving success.
• It links wisdom and courage with effective action.
• The message combines the ideas of human effort and destiny.

Skytrax World Airline Awards 2026

• Singapore Airlines was named the World’s Best Airline in the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards.
• Qatar Airways ranked second and Cathay Pacific third.
• Air India was the highest-ranked Indian airline at 57th globally.
• IndiGo ranked 61st and was recognised as the Best Low-Cost Airline in India & South Asia.

TakeMe2Space to Launch Orbital Data Centre

• Indian spacetech company TakeMe2Space plans to launch India's first networked orbital data-centre mission in 2028.
• Two satellites of about 100 kg each are planned for launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9.
• Each satellite is planned to carry NVIDIA Thor GPUs, 100 TB storage and 1.5 kW power.
• The project aims to enable in-orbit computing and data processing across satellites.

Bodhana Sivanandan Becomes Youngest Woman Grandmaster

• Indian-origin British chess player Bodhana Sivanandan became the youngest Woman Grandmaster (WGM) at age 11.
• She secured her third and final WGM norm at the 46th Chess Olympiad.
• She represented England at the Olympiad in Samarkand.
• She also became one of the youngest players to achieve major international chess milestones.

V.S. Rathanvel Becomes India’s 99th Grandmaster

• V.S. Rathanvel of Tamil Nadu became India's 99th Grandmaster.
• He crossed the required 2,500 Elo rating.
• The achievement came during the 3rd Guwahati Smart City International Open 2026.
• The milestone added another Indian player to the country's growing pool of chess Grandmasters.

World Contraception Day 2026

• World Contraception Day is observed on 26 September.
• The 2026 theme was “No Barriers, Just Choices.”
• It promotes awareness of contraceptive methods and informed reproductive-health choices.
• The first observance was held in 2007.

International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons

• Observed annually on 26 September.
• It promotes awareness about the dangers of nuclear weapons and nuclear disarmament.
• The UN General Assembly designated the day through Resolution A/RES/68/32 in 2013.
• The first observance took place in 2014.

World Environmental Health Day 2026

• Observed on 26 September every year.
• The 2026 theme was “Environmental Health: Standing with Science to Protect Communities.”
• It highlights the role of environmental health professionals in public health and community protection.
• The observance is coordinated by the International Federation of Environmental Health (IFEH).

Delhi Launches ‘Udyog Mitra’ Portal

• Delhi launched the ‘Udyog Mitra’ portal under the Ease of Doing Business initiative.
• It provides a single-window platform for business licences and NOCs.
• The portal initially integrates 50+ services from 15 departments, with plans for further expansion.
• It includes features such as Single Sign-On, Common Application Form, Know Your Approvals and application tracking.

Schemes

National Coastal Mission 2.0

Source: ThePrint

Context The Union Environment Minister launched implementation guidelines for the National Coastal Mission 2.0 (NCM 2.0) — a Central Sector Scheme with an outlay of ₹767 crore for 2025-26 to 2030-31, across nine coastal States and four Union Territories.

What It Is

• A Central Sector Scheme establishing an integrated ecological governance and marine spatial planning framework
• Subsuming NCM 1.0 (2021-22 to 2025-26)
• To protect fragile coastal ecosystems and scale up nature-positive economic activities
• Administered directly by the MoEFCC

Aim

• Protect coastal and marine ecosystems
• Strengthen climate resilience
• Reduce marine pollution
• Sustainably harness India's Blue Economy toward Viksit Bharat @2047

The Five Thematic Pillars

• Blue Economy growth
• Coastal risk reduction
• Climate adaptation and mitigation
• Capacity building
• Effective project management

Important Facts for Exams

• NCM 2.0 — ₹767 crore, 2025-26 to 2030-31; 9 coastal States and 4 UTs; administered by MoEFCC
• ICZM — Integrated Coastal Zone Management; the ICZM Project has been World Bank-supported since 2010
• CRZ Notification, 2019 governs coastal regulation; zones CRZ-I to IV
• NCSCM — National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management, Chennai, the technical arm
• Blue carbon — carbon stored by mangroves, seagrass and salt marshes; the Indian Sundarbans stores about 24 million tonnes
• India has a coastline of about 7,500 km; 40 per cent of mangroves lost over the past century
• Green Climate Fund — the largest climate fund under the UNFCCC, established 2010

Air Ayodhya Receives NOC under UDAN

• Air Ayodhya, operated by Megamax Aviation, received a NOC from the Ministry of Civil Aviation to operate under RCS-UDAN.
• It aims to connect Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, pilgrimage centres and tourism hubs in Uttar Pradesh.
• Operations are planned with Cessna Grand Caravan EX aircraft, later expanding to larger aircraft.
• The airline plans to build a 50-aircraft fleet by 2036.

Reports & Articles

WHO-UNICEF Report on WASH in Schools

• WHO and UNICEF released Progress on Drinking Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Schools 2015–25 under the JMP-WASH programme.
• Around 50 million Indian children lacked access to sanitation services at school in 2025, the highest number globally.
• Globally, 244 million children lacked school sanitation services.
• About 20 million Indian children also lacked hygiene services at school.

Misc GA

UIDAI Launches Five New Aadhaar Initiatives

• UIDAI launched five initiatives at Aadhaar Samvaad in Kolkata on 29 September 2026, marking the 17th Aadhaar Day.
• Initiatives include Face Authentication for ePDS, SWIK Portal 2.0, Sub-AUA/Sub-KUA (LITE) Framework, New Token Management System and a revamped UIDAI website.
• Aadhaar Day commemorates the issuance of the first Aadhaar number on 29 September 2010.

MoMSME–MoSPI MoU for Statistical Business Register

• MoMSME and MoSPI signed an MoU to strengthen the Statistical Business Register (SBR).
• Udyam Registration data will be shared with MoSPI through APIs.
• The data will help improve the coverage, consistency and reliability of business statistics.
• SBR is a regularly updated database of businesses and economic units used for statistical purposes.

DRDO–CSIR-CGCRI Indigenous Bulletproof Glass

• DRDO and CSIR-CGCRI are developing lightweight bulletproof glass for armoured vehicles.
• The ₹50-crore, four-year project uses glass-ceramic technology and nanocrystals.
• The project aims for multi-shot protection against AK-47-class threats.
• Initial trials successfully stopped TAR rounds at around 695 m/s.

Banking and Finance

JNPA–IFC Blue Financing for Shore Power

• Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority partnered with IFC for India’s first blue financing for shore power infrastructure.
• The financing is worth USD 70 million (about ₹672 crore) through a 10-year ECB loan.
• Shore Power Supply (SPS) allows ships at berth to use electricity from the grid instead of diesel engines.
• The project will help reduce fuel consumption and port-related emissions.

Apple Pay Launched in India

• Apple Pay was launched in India with Axis Bank-issued Visa and Mastercard credit cards.
• Transactions use tokenisation and can be authenticated through Face ID, Touch ID or a device passcode.
• The initial rollout covers sectors such as food and beverages, travel, fashion and lifestyle.
• The initial service supports cards but not UPI or RuPay cards.

Bank of India Launches Programmable CBDC

• Bank of India launched user-level programmable CBDC with auto-issuance.
• Users can schedule recurring Digital Rupee (e₹) payments with fixed amounts and frequencies.
• Users can also specify the purpose for which the recipient can use the funds.
• Applications include allowances, education expenses and other recurring purpose-bound payments.

1. The Green Energy Corridor Phase-III Scheme

Source: News on

Context The Union Cabinet approved the Green Energy Corridor Phase-III (GEC-III) scheme with an outlay of ₹1,86,405 crore.

What It Is

• A flagship central infrastructure scheme to expand and modernise state-level transmission grids (InSTS)
• Renewable Energy Evacuation: The scheme will enable evacuation of up to 135 GW of renewable energy across States/UTs.
• Battery Energy Storage: 50 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) will be deployed to improve grid flexibility.
• Total Outlay:₹1,86,405 crore
  • ₹1,36,378 crore – Intra-State Transmission Systems
  • ₹50,000 crore – 50 GWh BESS
• Central Financial Support:₹54,082 crore
  • This will help reduce intra-state transmission charges, ultimately keeping electricity costs lower.
• Target: The projects are planned for completion by FY 2032-33.
• Non-Fossil Energy Target: GEC-III will support India's goal of 900 GW installed non-fossil fuel capacity by 2035.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)

Important Facts for Exams

• Green Energy Corridor (GEC): Transmission network designed to integrate and evacuate electricity generated from renewable energy sources.
• Intra-State Transmission System (InSTS): Transmission network used to transfer electricity within a State.
• BESS: Battery-based system that stores electricity and supplies it when required.
• TBCB: A competitive bidding system where transmission projects are awarded to the bidder offering the required service at the most competitive tariff.
• BOOM: Build-Own-Operate-Maintain model in which a private transmission provider builds, owns, operates and maintains the infrastructure.
• Brownfield Project: Expansion, upgrading or strengthening of an existing infrastructure/network.
• Non-Fossil Capacity: Power capacity based on sources such as solar, wind, hydro and nuclear, rather than fossil fuels.

ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026)

Source: TH

Context The second edition of AIME commenced at Subic Bay, Philippines — with INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish deployed alongside naval assets from ASEAN member states.

Key Details

• A multilateral joint naval exercise between the Indian Navy and ASEAN maritime forces
• The second edition, after the inaugural edition hosted by Singapore in May 2023
• Host: the Philippines, at Subic Bay, Zambales, opening into the South China Sea / West Philippine Sea

The Sengol

Source: New Indian Express

Context The NCERT incorporated the Sengol into its newly released Class 9 Social Science textbook, citing it as a historic symbol marking the transfer of power to Jawaharlal Nehru on the eve of Independence in 1947.

What It Is

• A ceremonial gold-plated silver sceptre rooted in ancient Tamil statecraft
• Historically presented at the coronation of monarchs, as an emblem of righteous rulership, judicial impartiality and adherence to dharma

Historical Background

• Chola legacy — the tradition originated over a millennium ago under the Imperial Cholas, where the high priest or royal guru handed the sceptre to a newly crowned sovereign, symbolising that temporal authority is subordinate to ethical law
• 1947 — commissioned by the Thiruvaduthurai Adheenam, a centuries-old non-Brahmin Saivite mutt in Tamil Nadu, and crafted by Madras jewellers Vummidi Bangaru Chetty; the five-foot sceptre was presented to Jawaharlal Nehru in August 1947
• Modern installation — preserved for decades at the Allahabad Museum, consecrated by pontiffs of Tamil Nadu Adheenams, and installed beside the Lok Sabha Speaker's chair in the new Parliament building in May 2023

Social Issue

International Day of the Deaf 2026

• Observed on 27 September 2026, the last Sunday of September.
• It promotes rights, inclusion, education and communication access for deaf people.
• The World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) was established in 1951.
• It is observed during the International Week of Deaf People.

International Day for Universal Access to Information 2026

• Observed on 28 September to promote the right to access information.
• 2026 theme: “Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age: The role of access to Information in addressing Information Disorder.”
• UNESCO adopted the observance in 2015, while the UN General Assembly formally recognised it in 2019.

International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste 2026

• Observed on 29 September to highlight the need to reduce food loss and waste (FLW).
• 2026 theme: “Transformative Potential of Reducing Food Loss and Waste.”
• The UN General Assembly established the day in 2019.
• The first observance was held on 29 September 2020.

Misc GA

Lalit Kala Akademi National Exhibition of Art

• The 65th National Exhibition of Art showcased 6,175 artworks by 2,495 artists.
• The Lalit Kala Akademi announced 20 awards across visual art forms.
• Major categories included painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking and mixed media.
• The exhibition was held at Rabindra Bhavan, New Delhi.

Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma Crowned King of Tooro

• Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma was crowned the 13th King (Omukama) of Tooro Kingdom, Uganda.
• He succeeded the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.
• He was selected by a 21-member Babiito clan committee.
• He adopted the regnal name Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I.

Schemes

The GOBARdhan Scheme

Source: TH

Context The Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas launched the GOBARdhan Central Sector Scheme with an outlay of ₹23,731 crore, to accelerate India's Compressed Biogas (CBG) sector over 10 years — FY2026-27 to FY2035-36.

What It Is

• Objective: Promote domestic CBG production, reduce LNG imports and biomass burning, and convert agricultural waste and cattle dung into green energy and bio-fertilisers.
• Nodal Ministry:Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
• Capital Assistance: Up to ₹2 crore per TPD of installed CBG capacity for eligible greenfield plants.
• Credit Guarantee: Up to 85% of outstanding defaults, with an exposure cap of ₹20 crore, increased to ₹25 crore for women-led enterprises.
• Ecosystem Challenge Fund: Supports R&D, capacity building and district-level biomass mapping through the Unified GOBARdhan Portal.

Aim

• Boost domestic CBG production
• Reduce LNG imports and biomass burning
• Convert agricultural waste and cattle dung into green energy and bio-fertilisers

Important Facts for Exams

• GOBARdhan: Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan — initiative for converting organic waste into biogas, CBG and bio-fertilisers.
• CBG: Purified biogas with high methane content that can be used as a CNG substitute.
• FOM: Fermented Organic Manure, a useful by-product of CBG production.
• TPD: Tonnes Per Day, a measure of plant production capacity.
• SATAT: Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation, launched in 2018 to promote CBG production and its use as an alternative transport fuel.

India's First Female Farmer Worker Conference

Source: New Indian Express

Context India's first Female Farmer Worker Conference was held in New Delhi to recognise women's contributions to agriculture and rural livelihoods — coinciding with the UN International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026.

What It Is

• A national-level convention for celebrating, networking and addressing structural challenges faced by women farmers, agricultural labourers and pastoralists
• Organised by the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS)

Aim

• Establish the formal social and legal identity of women as legitimate "farmers" (Kisan) rather than unpaid family helpers
• Facilitate access to institutional land rights and credit
• Promote sustainable agrarian models

Important Facts for Exams

• 2026 is the UN International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF) — proposed by India and adopted by the UNGA
• The core issue is land title. Without a patta in her name, a woman cannot access institutional credit, crop insurance, subsidies or compensation — regardless of how much farm work she does
• Joint patta — land title recorded jointly in the names of husband and wife
• Women constitute roughly one-third of the agricultural workforce and a far higher share of operations in some activities, but own only about 14 per cent of operational holdings
• Mahila Kisan Diwas is observed on 15 October, also the International Day of Rural Women
• MKSP — Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana, under DAY-NRLM
• Female LFPR: 41.7 per cent (2023-24) on usual status; agriculture absorbs the largest share
• India ranks 131st on the Global Gender Gap Index 2026

PRAGATI-50 Initiative for Clean Cities

• MoHUA launched PRAGATI-50 under SBM-U 2.0 to develop 50 clean role-model cities across 24 States.
• It will use KPI-based monitoring and technology-enabled governance.
• A Swachh Bharat Test Bed & Innovation Centre will be established at Durgapur with CSIR-CMERI.
• A new cohort of sanitation and waste-management startups was also launched with IIT Kanpur.

National Coastal Mission 2.0

• NCM 2.0 aims to strengthen conservation and sustainable management of India's coastal and marine ecosystems.
• It has a total budget of ₹767 crore and will continue up to 2030–31.
• It covers 9 coastal States and 4 Union Territories.
• Focus areas include climate-resilient blue economy, coastal risk reduction, climate adaptation and capacity building.

Agriculture

Zuppa–TNUAVC Drone Training Programme

• Zuppa and Tamil Nadu Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Corporation (TNUAVC) signed an MoU to establish indigenous drone training labs at Army Regimental Centres.
• The programme will train Agniveers and defence personnel in UAV operations.
• Zuppa plans to train and certify over 2,000 personnel in three years.
• Training will cover drone flying, simulation, maintenance, safety, mission planning and DGCA regulations.

MoTA–IGNCA MoU on Tribal Heritage

• The Ministry of Tribal Affairs and IGNCA signed an MoU to preserve and promote India's tribal cultural heritage.
• It covers tribal languages, traditions, art, folklore and freedom-struggle contributions.
• Activities include digitisation, documentation, research, publications, exhibitions and cultural festivals.
• Tribal Research Institutes will work with IGNCA on preservation and dissemination.

Banking and Finance

Small Savings Scheme Interest Rates Unchanged

• The Ministry of Finance kept Small Savings Scheme (SSS) interest rates unchanged for Q3 FY27 (October–December 2026).
• Rates have now remained unchanged for 14 consecutive quarters.
• The last revision was made in Q4 FY24.
• SSS instruments are government-backed savings products administered mainly through Post Offices and designated banks.

ICICI Lombard Launches VIBE Health Insurance

• ICICI Lombard launched VIBE, a health insurance product aimed at Gen Z customers aged 18–35 years.
• It combines hospitalisation, outpatient care, mental-health support, fitness benefits and wellness rewards.
• It offers six variants, with coverage from ₹7 lakh to ₹1 crore.
• The product uses the company's IL TakeCare digital ecosystem.

Pramerica Life Launches Poorna Rakshak

• Pramerica Life Insurance launched Poorna Rakshak, a non-linked, non-participating individual savings life insurance plan.
• It offers five variants based on different financial and income needs.
• Variants include Smart Scholars, Early Income, Income Booster, Smart Money Back and Smart Saver.
• The plan combines life protection with guaranteed benefits.

Jio Financial Services–Allianz Capital Infusion

• Jio Financial Services and Allianz Europe invested a combined ₹640.10 crore in their 50:50 Jio Allianz General Insurance joint venture.
• Each partner invested ₹320.05 crore through a rights issue.
• The capital will support the expansion of general insurance operations in India.

CAG-BHASHINI Anuvaad

Source: PIB

Context The Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD) and the Comptroller and Auditor General of India launched CAG-BHASHINI Anuvaad — an AI-powered multilingual translation solution for official and audit-related documents.

What It Is

• An AI-enabled multilingual document translation solution
• Developed by BHASHINI specifically for the CAG
• To translate official documents and audit reports into Indian languages

Aim

• Integrate Language AI into CAG workflows
• Enabling faster and consistent multilingual translation
• While ensuring human oversight, security and data sovereignty

Important Facts for Exams

• CAG-BHASHINI Anuvaad — by the Digital India BHASHINI Division and the CAG
• BHASHINI supports 36 Indian text languages, 23 Indian voice languages, 35 international languages
• BHASHINI — Bhasha Interface for India, launched 2022 under the National Language Translation Mission; an initiative of MeitY
• It is built as Digital Public Infrastructure for language, with an open API ecosystem
• CAG — Article 148; appointed by the President; tenure six years or age 65
• The CAG audits accounts under Articles 149-151; reports go to the President or Governor, who lays them before Parliament or the State Legislature
• CAG reports are examined by the Public Accounts Committee, the Committee on Public Undertakings and the Estimates Committee
• Dr B. R. Ambedkar called the CAG the "most important officer under the Constitution"
• India has 22 scheduled languages in the Eighth Schedule; Hindi and English are the languages of the Union under Articles 343-351

Economy

Delhi ITMS Project Approved

• The Cabinet approved the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) for Delhi at an estimated cost of ₹1,789.52 crore.
• The project will cover 42 traffic corridors.
• It will be implemented in three phases over 24 months, followed by five years of operation and maintenance.
• The project aims to improve traffic management, urban mobility and transport infrastructure.

Green Energy Corridor Phase-III Approved

• The Cabinet approved Green Energy Corridor Phase-III (GEC-III) to strengthen intra-state transmission networks.
• It will facilitate the evacuation of up to 135 GW of renewable energy.
• The project supports India's expansion of renewable-energy infrastructure.
• It was covered earlier as a major clean-energy transmission initiative.

India Energy Week 2027 to Be Held in Kolkata

• India Energy Week 2027 will be held in Kolkata from 28–31 January 2027.
• Theme: “Unlocking Innovation. Securing Energy. Shaping Tomorrow.”
• The event will focus on oil and gas, LNG, hydrogen, biofuels, petrochemicals, AI and digitalisation.
• It will be the first India Energy Week hosted in eastern India.

Misc GA

ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise 2026

• The 2nd ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) was held at Subic Bay, Philippines.
• Indian Navy ships INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish participated.
• The exercise aims to improve interoperability, operational coordination and maritime cooperation.
• It has two phases: Harbour Phase and Sea Phase.

HSBC Global Entrepreneurial Wealth Report 2026

• The report found that around 74% of Indian entrepreneurs surveyed planned to relocate or secure overseas residency.
• Singapore was the most preferred destination, followed by France, the UK and the US.
• Around 99% were adopting or planning to adopt AI in business.
• Major AI-related concerns included data privacy, employee resistance and integration with legacy systems.

Appointments & Resignations

Anup Kumar Saha Appointed Kotak Mahindra Bank MD & CEO

• RBI approved Anup Kumar Saha as the next MD & CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank.
• He will take charge on 1 January 2027 for a three-year term.
• He will succeed Ashok Vaswani.

Mahesh Muralidhar Pai Appointed South Indian Bank MD & CEO

• Mahesh Muralidhar Pai became MD & CEO of South Indian Bank from 1 October 2026.
• His appointment has RBI approval and is for a three-year term.
• He succeeds P. R. Seshadri.

Lavanya R. Mundayur Appointed NIACL CMD

• The Central Government approved Lavanya R. Mundayur as Chairman-cum-Managing Director of New India Assurance Company Limited.
• She will serve until 31 May 2029, subject to the applicable terms of appointment.

Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri Appointed Morocco PM

• Morocco's King Mohammed VI appointed Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as Prime Minister.
• She became the first woman Prime Minister of Morocco.
• She belongs to the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM).
• Morocco follows a constitutional monarchy with a bicameral Parliament.

Acquisitions & Mergers

CCI Approves BNP Paribas Cardif–IndiaFirst Life Deal

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved BNP Paribas Cardif's proposal to acquire a 26% stake in IndiaFirst Life Insurance.
• The stake is being acquired from Warburg Pincus.
• After the transaction, the shareholding is expected to be Bank of Baroda 65%, BNP Paribas Cardif 26% and Union Bank of India 9%.
• CCI is India's statutory competition regulator under the Competition Act, 2002.

Important Days

World Rabies Day – 28 September

• Observed annually on 28 September to promote rabies prevention and elimination.
• 2026 theme: “Stronger Together.”
• The day was established in 2007 by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control.
• It commemorates the death anniversary of Louis Pasteur, developer of the first successful rabies vaccine.

World Rivers Day – 27 September

• Observed on the fourth Sunday of September to promote river conservation and sustainable management.
• 2026: 27 September.
• The initiative was associated with Canadian river conservationist Mark Angelo.
• The first World Rivers Day was observed in 2005.

World Heart Day – 29 September

• Observed to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and heart health.
• 2026 theme: “Don’t Miss a Beat.”
• The first World Heart Day was observed in 2000.
• The observance is associated with the World Heart Federation and WHO.

International Translation Day – 30 September

• Observed on 30 September to recognise the role of language professionals in international communication.
• 2026 theme: “Linguistic Diversity and Language Rights.”
• The UN officially recognised the day through UNGA Resolution A/RES/71/288 in 2017.
• The date coincides with the feast day of St. Jerome, regarded as the patron saint of translators.

Agriculture

Tiger Reintroduction at Buxa Tiger Reserve

• A three-year-old tigress (T138) was released into Buxa Tiger Reserve, West Bengal, starting a phased tiger reintroduction programme.
• The tigress was translocated from Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Bihar.
• Three more tigers are planned to be released over the next two months.
• The aim is to establish a viable and self-sustaining tiger population in Buxa.

ICAR–FCI MoU on Alternative Fumigation Technologies

• ICAR and FCI signed an MoU to develop safer and more sustainable alternatives to chemical fumigation for wheat and rice storage.
• Phase-I has an approved outlay of ₹3.28 crore and will be implemented by ICAR-CIPHET.
• Technologies being tested include nitrogen, carbon dioxide and combined CO₂-phosphine fumigation.
• The programme aims to reduce worker, environmental and ecological risks associated with conventional fumigation.

PIB

ICAR–FCI MoU on Alternative Fumigation Technologies

• ICAR and Food Corporation of India (FCI) signed an MoU to develop alternative fumigation technologies for wheat and rice storage.
• The two-year Phase-I will be implemented by ICAR-CIPHET, Ludhiana.
• It seeks alternatives to aluminium phosphide and malathion, whose repeated use has contributed to pest resistance and health risks.
• Pest resistance in key Indian states has reached 72–100%, increasing fumigation costs and risks to workers and the environment.

National Biodiversity Authority – 23rd Foundation Day

• The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) observed its 23rd Foundation Day.
• The focus was on strengthening Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS).
• ABS ensures that benefits arising from the use of biological resources and associated traditional knowledge reach local communities.

Banking and Finance

NPS Swasthya

Source: Mint

Context The PFRDA launched NPS Swasthya on 1 October 2026, observed as NPS Diwas — pairing a dedicated investment corpus with a super top-up health insurance policy. Axis Pension Fund is so far the only pension fund manager to launch the scheme.

How It Works

• Pairs a dedicated investment corpus with a super top-up health insurance policy
• Aims to help individuals prepare for health contingencies without disrupting long-term retirement savings
• A family floater covering the subscriber's spouse and children — parents are excluded
• Sum insured: ₹1 lakh to ₹30 lakh
• The first-year premium is paid upfront; from the second year, renewal premiums can be funded from the NPS Swasthya balance

Important Facts for Exams

• NPS Swasthya launched 1 October 2026 (NPS Diwas) by PFRDA; first offered by Axis Pension Fund
• Sum insured ₹1 lakh to ₹30 lakh; family floater excluding parents; 12-month pre-existing disease waiting period; renewal only to age 85
• Withdrawal: up to 25 per cent of own contributions, no waiting period or frequency limit
• Deductibles: ₹10,000 / ₹50,000 / ₹1 lakh / ₹3 lakh for covers of ₹1 lakh / ₹5 lakh / ₹10 lakh / ₹30 lakh
• NPS Vatsalya — for minors; Atal Pension Yojana — for the unorganised sector

Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 2026 Comes into Force

• The Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 2026 came into force on 1 October 2026.
• It replaces the Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 1891.
• The new law provides a modern framework for using banking records as evidence, including records maintained electronically.
• It received Presidential assent on 13 August 2026.

Bank of Baroda Becomes Second PSU Bank Sponsor of Pension Fund

• Bank of Baroda (BoB) received PFRDA approval to become a Pension Fund Sponsor through its subsidiary BoB Pension Fund Management Company.
• SBI was the first PSU bank to enter the pension fund segment in 2008.
• BoB has an 80.10% stake in its pension fund subsidiary, while Baroda BNP Asset Management Company holds 19.90%.
• BoB has also integrated Tatkal NPS with the BHIM App for digital NPS onboarding.

HDFC Bank Appoints Anup Bagchi as MD & CEO

• Anup Bagchi was appointed MD & CEO of HDFC Bank for three years, subject to RBI approval.
• He becomes the first external candidate to lead HDFC Bank.
• He previously served as MD & CEO of ICICI Prudential Life Insurance and held senior positions at ICICI Bank and ICICI Securities.
• He has more than 30 years of experience in banking and financial services.

Rising Child Leprosy Cases Challenge India's 2027 Goal

Source: The Hindu

Context India recorded 3,832 new child leprosy cases in 2025-26, including 37 with Grade-2 disability at diagnosis — 91.6 per cent above the National Leprosy Eradication Programme's target of 2,000 cases.

The National Figures (2025-26)

India's Global Position

Per the WHO's latest global update, for 2025:

• The three together account for 78.3 per cent of all new cases globally
• India also reported the world's largest number of new child cases — 3,832
• India's data covers April 2025 to March 2026, though presented in the WHO's 2025 table

High-Burden States

Districts with prevalence above one per 10,000:

• Chhattisgarh — 23 districts
• Jharkhand — 21
• Maharashtra — 18
• Odisha — 18
• Madhya Pradesh — 10

About Leprosy

• Also called Hansen's disease
• A chronic bacterial infection, caused mainly by Mycobacterium leprae
• Primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves
• Transmitted mainly through prolonged, close contact with an untreated person
• Curable with multidrug therapy (MDT)

Coal Mine Near Ramappa Temple Raises Heritage Concerns

Source: The Hindu

Context Heritage activists, including the Kakatiya Heritage Trust, are demanding withdrawal of the proposed PVNR opencast coal mine at Venkatapur, Mulugu district, Telangana — contending it threatens the UNESCO-inscribed Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple and the adjacent Ramappa Lake.

About the Ramappa Temple

• Formally the Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple, at Palampet, Mulugu district, Telangana
• Built in 1213 CE under the Kakatiya ruler Ganapati Deva, by his general Recharla Rudra
• Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021 — India's 39th at the time
• The only temple in India named after its sculptor, Ramappa
• Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Rudreshwara

Samudra Manthan Mission

Source: Times of India

Context Details emerged on the operationalisation of the ₹84,084-crore Samudra Manthan (National Offshore Exploration Scheme) — expanding India's hydrocarbon exploration into deep and ultra-deep offshore frontier waters.

What It Is

• A Central Sector initiative of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
• Outlay ₹84,084 crore till FY2030-31
• Targeting deep and ultra-deep offshore basins

Aim

• De-risk and accelerate offshore exploration
• Add over 600 MMTOE of recoverable reserves
• Raise domestic production to 80 MMTOE annually
• Reduce crude oil import dependence

Haryana's IoT-Based Waste Management for Pilgrimage Sites

Source: New Indian Express

Context The Haryana Government planned an IoT-based waste management system for high-footfall pilgrimage sites, religious places, fairs and festivals.

What It Is

• A technology-driven solid waste management system
• Combining IoT-enabled smart bins, four-stream segregation, geo-tagging and real-time monitoring

Aim

• Ensure scientific waste segregation, collection and disposal
• Prevent littering and improve cleanliness, particularly during periods of high visitor footfall

Key Features

• IoT-enabled smart bins — sensor-equipped bins providing real-time fill-level data and automatically opening lids, enabling timely collection
• Four-stream segregation — dedicated waste stations with covered storage facilities
• 500-metre clean zone — no open waste collection points permitted within a 500-metre buffer, covering approach roads, parking areas and vendor zones
• Waste audits and geo-tagging — a minimum seven-day waste audit to assess generation; littering hotspots geo-tagged for targeted intervention

RoDTEP Scheme Extended to 31 December 2026

Source: News on Air

Context The Department of Commerce extended the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme up to 31 December 2026.

What It Is

• A WTO-compliant export promotion and tax neutrality scheme
• Refunding previously un-rebated Central, State and local levies, taxes and duties borne on exported goods
• Including prior-stage cumulative indirect taxes on inputs and transport
• Came into effect on 1 January 2021, replacing the WTO-disputed Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS)

Who Runs It

• Notified by: the DGFT, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• Administered and implemented by: the CBIC, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance

Aim

• Neutralise embedded domestic taxes on outbound goods
• Eliminate cost disabilities for domestic producers
• Prevent the export of domestic taxes
• Enhance the cost competitiveness of Indian merchandise globally

Economy

Minimum Support Prices for Rabi Crops 2027–28

• The CCEA approved higher MSPs for all mandated Rabi crops for the 2027–28 Marketing Season.
• The increase aims to provide remunerative prices to farmers and encourage production of key Rabi crops.
• Major crops covered include wheat, barley, gram, lentil, rapeseed-mustard, safflower and toria.
• Wheat MSP was increased by ₹25 to ₹2,610 per quintal.

India’s GDP Growth Projected at 7.3% in Q2 FY27

• The Ministry of Finance projected India’s real GDP growth at 7.3% in Q2 FY27.
• India recorded 7.8% growth in Q1 FY27.
• Growth is supported by domestic consumption, investment, bank credit, infrastructure activity and services.
• Total exports were nearly US$400 billion during the first five months of FY27, keeping India on track for strong annual exports.

Amended BharatNet Programme Expanded in Maharashtra

• DBN signed an agreement with Maharashtra, MDIL, BSNL and MahaIT to implement the Amended BharatNet Programme (ABP).
• The Centre has approved ₹10,520 crore for the programme in Maharashtra.
• It will cover 28,237 Gram Panchayats and provide connectivity to 15,799 villages on demand.
• The programme aims to improve rural broadband and last-mile digital connectivity.

Schemes

New Discovery Track Under PRIP Scheme

• The Department of Pharmaceuticals launched a New Discovery Track under the PRIP Scheme.
• It aims to provide early-stage funding for New Chemical Entities (NCEs), New Biological Entities (NBEs), complex generics, biosimilars and medical devices.
• Projects require 25% co-funding and can receive support through different funding stages.
• The PRIP Scheme was launched in 2023 with an outlay of ₹5,000 crore to strengthen pharmaceutical research and innovation.

PMGSY-IV and PM-JANMAN Rural Roads Impact Assessment

• NRIDA signed an MoU with IIM Kolkata for a four-year longitudinal impact assessment of rural roads under PMGSY-IV and PM-JANMAN.
• The study covers 10 States/UTs, 50 districts, 150 blocks, 250 roads and around 5,000 households.
• It will assess changes in mobility, livelihoods, accessibility and access to essential services.
• The study includes baseline, transition and endline surveys.

Misc GA

Pranavi Urs Wins Historic Asian Games Golf Gold

• Pranavi Urs became the first Indian woman golfer to win an Asian Games gold medal.
• She won the individual women's golf event by maintaining a one-stroke lead in the final round.
• She also contributed to India's team silver medal.

Kumkum Mohod Wins Asian Games Recurve Gold

• Indian archer Kumkum Mohod won gold in the recurve event at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
• Her victory was part of India's strong performance in archery, boxing and wrestling.
• The achievement added to India's medal tally on Day 14 of the Games.

Mahatma Gandhi’s 157th Birth Anniversary

• 2 October 2026 marked the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Indian missions across the world observed the day.
• The observances highlighted Gandhi's message of truth, peace and non-violence.

CAG-BHASHINI Anuvaad Launched for Audit Documents

• Digital India BHASHINI Division and CAG launched CAG-BHASHINI Anuvaad.
• It uses AI-based multilingual translation for official documents and audit reports.
• The system focuses on context-aware translation, consistent terminology and data sovereignty.
• BHASHINI, launched in 2022, supports multiple Indian and international languages for digital public services.

India Reaffirms Whale Conservation Commitment at IWC-70

• India participated in the 70th International Whaling Commission meeting (IWC-70) in Hobart, Australia, held from 28 September to 2 October 2026.
• The meeting adopted the Hobart Declaration by consensus.
• India called for science-based cetacean conservation, better data and stronger international cooperation.
• India protects cetaceans through the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, Marine Protected Areas and Project Dolphin.

THE World University Rankings 2027

• IISc Bengaluru was the highest-ranked Indian institution, placed 254th globally.
• University of Oxford retained the 1st position for the 11th consecutive year.
• The USA was the most represented country with 168 universities, followed by India with 143.
• Rankings consider teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook and industry.

SpaceX Transporter-18 Launches 130 Payloads

• SpaceX launched 130 payloads aboard its Falcon 9 rocket under the Transporter-18 rideshare mission.
• The mission included Google’s Project Suncatcher satellite experiment.
• The project aims to study the operation of AI chips in space and support future orbital data centres.
• The payloads were deployed into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Flying Wedge Defence–Keydef Partnership

• Indian defence startup Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace (FWDA) partnered with Portugal’s Keydef.
• The partnership will manufacture Kaal Bhairava autonomous UAVs and YAMA swarm interceptor drones in Portugal.
• The initial investment is €6 million.
• The companies will also pursue NATO certification to expand global market access.

International Day of Older Persons 2026

• Observed annually on 1 October to highlight the rights, dignity, health and contributions of older persons.
• 2026 Theme: “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.”
• The UN officially designated the day through UNGA Resolution 45/106 in 1990.
• The first observance was held on 1 October 1991.

International Coffee Day 2026

• Observed on 1 October to recognise coffee farmers, workers and communities and promote a sustainable coffee sector.
• 2026 Theme: “Celebrating Coffee, Honouring the People Behind Every Cup.”
• 2026 marked the first official UNGA-recognised observance of International Coffee Day.
• The day highlights coffee’s role in livelihoods, sustainable agriculture and international trade.

World Vegetarian Day 2026

• Observed annually on 1 October to promote awareness of the ethical, environmental and health aspects of vegetarianism.
• Established by the North American Vegetarian Society (NAVS) in 1977.
• The International Vegetarian Union endorsed it in 1978.
• It marks the beginning of Vegetarian Awareness Month.

DAD Launches Digital Financial Management Initiatives

• The Defence Accounts Department (DAD) launched three major initiatives to improve digital financial management in defence.
• SAKSHAM was integrated with the Indian Army Financial Information System (IAFIS) for real-time financial data exchange.
• The Treasury Single Account (TSA) was operationalised through PRISM, integrated with RBI’s e-Kuber.
• The revamped National Compilation System (NCS) will improve defence expenditure monitoring and budget reporting.

Desert National Park

Source: IE

Context The Union Environment Minister released two captive-bred male Great Indian Bustards into the wild at Sam, Desert National Park, Jaisalmer.

What It Is

• One of India's largest national parks, in the Thar Desert
• A sanctuary for desert wildlife, winter migrants and critically endangered avian fauna

Location

• Extreme western Thar Desert, Rajasthan, along the India-Pakistan border
• Gazetted in 1980 to arrest desertification
• A hyper-arid zone receiving under 100 mm annual rainfall
• Bordered by the Aravalli Range (east), Indus plains (west) and Great Rann of Kutch (south)

Important Facts for Exams

• DNP — 3,162 sq km; Jaisalmer and Barmer, Rajasthan; gazetted 1980; on India's UNESCO Tentative List
• Rainfall under 100 mm; breeding centres at Sam and Ramdevra
• Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) — IUCN Critically Endangered, CITES Appendix I, Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act; state bird of Rajasthan; locally Godawan

Annual Survey of Industries 2024–25

• MoSPI released the ASI 2024–25, covering India’s registered manufacturing sector.
• Manufacturing GVA increased by 9.59%, while employment rose 7.19% to 2.10 crore.
• Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka accounted for 53.30% of total establishments.
• Total emoluments increased by 12.08% during 2024–25.

Schemes

PM-SETU Completes One Year

• PM-SETU aims to modernise Government ITIs and make skill training more industry-oriented.
• It has an outlay of ₹60,000 crore for five years: ₹30,000 crore Centre, ₹20,000 crore States and ₹10,000 crore industry.
• It targets 1,000 Government ITIs — 200 Hub ITIs and 800 Spoke ITIs.
• In the first year, 850 ITIs were identified, including 172 Hub and 678 Spoke ITIs.

PMAY-G 2.0 Houses and 3D-Printed Housing in Andhra Pradesh

• The first instalment for 3 lakh PMAY-G houses worth ₹3,600 crore was released in Andhra Pradesh.
• A pilot project for 177 houses using 3D concrete printing was also launched.
• 3D printing can reduce construction time, labour requirements and costs.
• PMAY-G provides ₹1.20 lakh assistance in plain areas and ₹1.30 lakh in North-Eastern and hilly areas.

Banking and Finance

NABKISAN Lists India’s First WASH-Focused Social Bond

• NABKISAN Finance Ltd, a subsidiary of NABARD, listed India’s first WASH-focused Social Bond on the NSE.
• It raised ₹180 crore through a 5-year bond carrying an 8.10% coupon.
• The bond was 1.8 times oversubscribed and received CRISIL AAA (Stable) and CARE AAA (Stable) ratings.
• Funds will support Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) projects for rural and underserved communities.

RBI Grants CIC Registration to Indiabulls

• RBI granted Certificate of Registration (CoR) to Indiabulls Limited as a Core Investment Company (CIC).
• A CIC is an NBFC mainly engaged in holding investments in and providing loans to group companies.
• Generally, at least 90% of net assets of a CIC must be in group-company investments/loans, with at least 60% in equity investments.
• The registration brings Indiabulls under the RBI regulatory framework for CICs.

Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2026

Source: Indian Express

Context

The 2026 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was jointly awarded to Karl Deisseroth, Peter Hegemann and Georg Nagel for discoveries that led to optogenetics — a technique that uses light to control specific nerve cells.

Key Highlights

• What is Optogenetics?
  • It is a technique that uses light-sensitive proteins to control the activity of specific neurons.
  • Scientists can switch selected brain cells ON or OFF using light.
• Role of Channelrhodopsin
  • Peter Hegemann and Georg Nagel discovered channelrhodopsin, a light-sensitive protein in the single-celled alga Chlamydomonas.
  • When exposed to blue light, this protein opens a channel and allows ions to flow into the cell, producing an electrical signal.
• Contribution of Karl Deisseroth
  • Deisseroth introduced the gene for channelrhodopsin into nerve cells.
  • In 2005, he demonstrated that light could trigger nerve signals.
  • In 2007, the technique was successfully used to control nerve cells in the living brain of mice.
• Why is it important?
  • Earlier, scientists could mainly observe brain activity.
  • Optogenetics allows them to actively control specific neurons and establish a cause-and-effect relationship between brain circuits and behaviour.
  • It has helped researchers study memory, pain, emotions, thirst, hunger, reward, attention and social behaviour.
• Medical Applications
  • It is being studied for neurological and psychiatric conditions such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, depression and schizophrenia.
  • Researchers are also exploring it to restore vision in people with certain forms of blindness.

Example

• Think of the brain as a huge electrical circuit. Earlier, scientists could watch the circuit working, but could not easily control one particular wire.
• Optogenetics = putting a light-controlled switch on selected neurons.
• So, scientists can shine light on a particular group of neurons and observe what happens to memory, movement, emotion or behaviour.

Key Terms

• Optogenetics: Use of light to control genetically modified cells, especially neurons.
• Channelrhodopsin: A light-sensitive protein that acts as a switch for controlling cell activity.
• Light-gated ion channel: A protein channel that opens or closes when exposed to specific light.
• Neuron: A nerve cell that transmits electrical and chemical signals.
• Neural circuit: A network of interconnected neurons responsible for a particular function or behaviour.
• Causal relationship: Showing that one event directly produces a particular effect.

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)

Source: PIB

Context A high-level Indian Parliamentary Delegation led by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh departed for Arusha, Tanzania, to participate in the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

What It Is

• The global multilateral organisation of national parliaments
• A non-governmental international platform for parliamentary diplomacy, democratic institution-building and international cooperation among legislatures

Key Details

• Established 1889 in Paris
• Co-founded by William Randal Cremer (United Kingdom) and Frédéric Passy (France)
• One of the oldest international political organisations in the world
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• 183 Member Parliaments and 15 Associate Members
• Slogan: "For democracy. For everyone"

Aim

• Promote democratic governance, accountability, rule of law and legislative transparency
• Strengthen parliaments while advancing human rights, gender equality, youth participation and international peace

The Ramappa Temple

Source: TH

What It Is

• A 13th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva as Ramalingeswara or Rudreshwara
• Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2021 — India's 39th — as "Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana"
• At Palampet village, Venkatapur Mandal, Mulugu district

History

• Built in 1213 CE under Ganapati Deva, by his general Recharla Rudra
• Construction took roughly 40 years
• Named after its chief sculptor Ramappa — perhaps the only historic temple in India named after its builder rather than the deity

Important Facts for Exams

• Built 1213 CE; UNESCO listed July 2021; India's 39th World Heritage Site
• Ganapati Deva (Kakatiya ruler); general Recharla Rudra; sculptor Ramappa
• Sandbox technique gives earthquake resistance; floating bricks reduce structural load
• Madanika — a sculpted female figure; Yali — a mythical composite beast in South Indian temple art
• Kakatiyas ruled from Warangal, 12th–14th centuries; Rani Rudrama Devi was among India's few women rulers

3D-Printed Rural Houses under PMAY-G

Source: The Hindu

Context Andhra Pradesh will launch India's first national-level pilot to construct rural houses using 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) under PMAY-Gramin.

What 3DCP Is

• An automated, construction-scale additive manufacturing technology
• Replacing traditional brick-and-mortar masonry by depositing high-performance cementitious mixtures layer by layer, using robotic gantry or arm printers

How It Works

• Digital modelling — a 3D plan created using Building Information Modelling (BIM), sliced into precise numerical computer paths
• Material extrusion — a computer-guided robotic nozzle extrudes specially engineered fluid concrete along the toolpath
• Rapid in-situ setting — the mix maintains high buildability and fast setting, forming load-bearing walls without conventional formwork

Misc GA

NSO National Household Travel Survey

• The National Statistics Office (NSO) released findings from India’s first National Household Travel Survey.
• Only around 15% of workers use public transport such as buses, trains, trams and auto-rickshaws.
• Around 46% depend on cars or two-wheelers, while 28% travel on foot.
• The data helps understand urban mobility and transport patterns in India.

Five New Cheetah Cubs Born in Kuno

• Five cheetah cubs were born in Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh.
• India’s cheetah population increased to 60, including 41 cubs born in India.
• The cubs were born to KJP21, the third India-born female cheetah to give birth in India.
• The development strengthens Project Cheetah and efforts to establish a sustainable cheetah population.

Five Centres of Excellence for Classical Languages

• The Ministry of Education approved five Centres of Excellence (CoEs) for Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali and Prakrit.
• Assamese: Tezpur University; Bengali: Visva-Bharati.
• Marathi: Deccan College, Pune; Pali: Central University of Odisha; Prakrit: Central University of Gujarat.
• The centres will focus on research, preservation, digitisation and wider dissemination of classical-language heritage.

28 Places and Geographical Features Identified in Ladakh

• The Ministry of Home Affairs, with the Ladakh administration, identified 28 geographical features using standard names on Survey of India maps.
• These include peaks, mountains, glaciers, passes, land areas, a river, lake and valley.
• The initiative provides standard references for geographical features and improves awareness of their locations.
• Examples include Yangpa River, Guru Rinpoche Lake, Shkorga Valley and Hot Spring.

Nālandā University–CSIR-TKDL MoU

• Nālandā University and the CSIR-Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) Unit signed an MoU on traditional knowledge and cultural heritage.
• The collaboration covers Traditional Knowledge, IPR, Traditional Cultural Expressions and Indian Knowledge Systems.
• It includes research, documentation, training, internships and academic exchanges.
• Special focus will be given to Bihar’s cultural heritage.

Pondicherry University–NIT Nagaland Research Collaboration

• Pondicherry University and NIT Nagaland signed an MoU under the ANRF-PAIR programme.
• IISc Bengaluru will act as the hub, while Pondicherry University and NIT Nagaland will function as spoke institutions.
• NIT Nagaland became the first North-Eastern institution participating in this PAIR project.
• Research will focus on functional materials for healthcare, energy, catalysis and computational materials.

HAL to Acquire Full Ownership of HATSOFF

• HAL signed an agreement to acquire the remaining 50% stake in HATSOFF Helicopter Training from CAE Canada.
• The shares are being acquired at nil consideration.
• After completion, HATSOFF will become a 100% wholly owned subsidiary of HAL.
• HATSOFF provides simulator-based training for military and civil helicopter pilots.

DRDO’s Kaveri Dry Engine Completes Trials

• DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) successfully completed high-altitude and flight trials of the Kaveri Dry Engine in Russia.
• The engine is being developed for the Ghatak Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV).
• It recorded a maximum dry thrust of 48.5 kN, exceeding the target of 46 kN.
• The engine is a non-afterburning version of the Kaveri engine.

India’s First Free-Space Quantum Key Distribution Link

• QNu Labs, BISAG-N and IIT Gandhinagar demonstrated India’s first free-space Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) link.
• The secure communication link covered 5.56 km.
• It achieved a Quantum Bit Error Rate below 5% and generated secure keys at 230–260 bps.
• QKD uses quantum principles to enable highly secure encryption-key distribution.

New Lizard Species Discovered in Peru

• Scientists discovered a new cryptic lizard species named Liolaemus arequipensis in southern Peru.
• It was found at an altitude of about 4,818 metres in the Arequipa region.
• It belongs to the Liolaemus genus, a group of South American lizards mainly found in the Andes.
• The species was described in the scientific journal Diversity.

Asian Games 2026 – India Finishes Fourth

• The Aichi–Nagoya Asian Games 2026 concluded on 4 October 2026.
• India finished 4th with 85 medals: 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze.
• China topped the table with 341 medals, followed by Japan and South Korea.
• The Games featured 469 medal events across 43 sports.

Filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao Passes Away

• Veteran filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao passed away at the age of 94.
• He directed around 60 films across several Indian languages.
• Notable works include Pushpaka Vimanam, Aditya 369, Mayuri and Bhairava Dweepam.
• He received 2 National Film Awards and several state and Filmfare awards.

International Day of Non-Violence 2026

• Observed on 2 October, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
• The UN established the day through UNGA Resolution 61/271 in 2007.
• India observes 2 October as Gandhi Jayanti and Swachh Bharat Diwas.
• 2026 marked Gandhi’s 157th birth anniversary.

World Animal Day 2026

• Observed annually on 4 October to promote animal welfare and protection.
• 2026 Theme: “See the World Through Their Eyes.”
• October 4 is also associated with St. Francis of Assisi, regarded as the patron saint of animals.
• Since 2003, the Naturewatch Foundation has coordinated the global observance.

National Wildlife Week 2026

• Observed in India from 2–8 October to promote wildlife conservation.
• 2026 Theme: “Connecting Habitats, Thriving Wildlife.”
• The focus is on habitat connectivity, which enables wildlife to move and survive across landscapes.
• National Wildlife Week developed from the National Wildlife Day first observed in 1955.

1. COFO 28: India's Forest Progress and the SOFO 2026 Report

Source: PIB

Context of the News

India presented its progress on forest cover, restoration and climate action at the 28th Session of the FAO Committee on Forestry (COFO 28), held from 28 September to 2 October 2026 in Rome, Italy. India's forest and tree cover now stands at 82.74 million hectares, or 25.17 per cent of its geographical area.

Key Highlights

What Is COFO?

• A biennial session — held every two years
• Brings together 128 member countries, including ministers, heads of forest services, senior officials and partner organisations
• Discusses global forestry issues
• COFO 28 was chaired by Pierre Taty of the Republic of the Congo

What Was the Theme?

• Held alongside the 10th World Forest Week
• Theme: "Forests for food, resilience and prosperity"

How Did India Participate?

• Through the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
• India presented its national statement on forest and landscape restoration
• Reported forest and tree cover of 82.74 million hectares — 25.17 per cent of geographical area

What Did the FAO Report Say?

The FAO released "The State of the World's Forests 2026: Restoring Forests and Landscapes – The Way Forward for a Sustainable Future"

• A global assessment of land degradation
• With practical strategies for scaling up high-quality Forest and Landscape Restoration (FLR)
• Key finding: nearly 1.56 billion hectares of land is degraded globally
• That is 10 per cent of the world's total land area
• And about 5.2 times the size of India

Important Facts for Exams

• India's forest and tree cover: 82.74 mn ha, 25.17 per cent of geographical area
• India ranks 9th globally in total forest area and 3rd in net annual forest area gain (FRA 2025)
• Bonn Challenge: India pledged 26 mn ha by 2030; 21.76 mn ha already under restoration
• India's carbon sink: additional 2.29 billion tonnes CO₂e by 2021; target 3.5–4.0 billion tonnes by 2035
• FAO — headquartered at Rome, founded 1945; also publishes SOFI (food security) and SOFA (agriculture)
• The Global Forest Resources Assessment (FRA) is published every five years

PM E-DRIVE Scheme Completes Two Years

• The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme completed two years on 29 September 2026.
• About 26.59 lakh electric vehicles (EVs) were sold under the scheme as of June 2026.
• The scheme was launched in October 2024 and has been extended up to 31 March 2028.
• It supports e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-ambulances, e-trucks, e-buses and EV charging infrastructure.

World Bank Raises India's FY27 Growth Forecast to 7.1%

Source: Business Standard

Context The World Bank raised India's FY27 growth projection to 7.1 per cent from 6.6 per cent, citing robust domestic demand and strong exports despite global headwinds — in the October edition of its India Development Update.

The Revised Forecast Table

What Is Driving Growth

• "Growth has held up better than expected despite trade and geopolitical uncertainties"
• Private consumption is expected to remain the main driver
• A rainfall deficit through August is likely to weigh modestly on rural demand
• Government consumption will stay subdued

2026 Nobel Prize in Physics: Neutrinos and the IceCube Observatory

Source: Indian Express

Context of the News

The 2026 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to Francis Halzen, a Belgian-American scientist, for his pioneering work on detecting high-energy neutrinos using the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole in Antarctica.

Key Highlights

What are Neutrinos?

• Neutrinos are extremely tiny subatomic particles produced mainly during nuclear reactions, such as those occurring inside the Sun.
• They are among the most abundant particles in the universe, after photons.
• They are electrically neutral and interact very weakly with matter, earning them the nickname “ghost particles.”
• Billions of neutrinos pass through our bodies every second without noticeable effects.

Why are Neutrinos Important?

• Because neutrinos interact very weakly with matter, they can travel through very dense regions of space without being absorbed or scattered.
• This allows scientists to study cosmic events that cannot be observed clearly through ordinary light.
• Neutrinos therefore provide a new window into the universe.

What did Francis Halzen do?

• Francis Halzen developed the idea of using the deep Antarctic ice itself as a huge neutrino detector.
• This led to the development of the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole.
• IceCube covers about 1 cubic kilometre of ice and contains more than 5,000 light sensors installed deep inside the Antarctic ice.

How does IceCube detect neutrinos?

1. A neutrino occasionally collides with an atomic nucleus in the ice.
2. The collision produces a charged particle.
3. The charged particle travels through the ice and produces a faint blue light/glow called Cherenkov light.
4. IceCube's light sensors detect this glow.
5. Scientists use the direction and energy of the light to determine the direction and energy of the original neutrino.

Why Antarctica?

• The South Pole provides a large volume of extremely clear and stable ice.
• Deep ice is naturally dark and isolated, reducing interference from other sources.
• This makes it suitable for detecting the extremely rare interactions of neutrinos.

India's Rising Supercomputing Ecosystem

Source: PIB

Context of the News

India has deployed 40 indigenous supercomputers with a combined capacity of 68 Petaflops under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) — strengthening self-reliance in high-performance computing (HPC) ahead of ESTIC-2026.

Key Highlights

What Is the National Supercomputing Mission?

• Launched in April 2015 with an outlay of ₹4,500 crore
• Jointly run by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
• Implemented by C-DAC, Pune and IISc, Bengaluru
• Its aim is to build an indigenous high-performance computing system, so India does not depend on other countries for computing power

How Did Indian Supercomputing Develop?

• PARAM 8000 (1991) — India's first indigenous supercomputer, built by C-DAC, with a speed of 1 Gigaflop. It was made after Western countries refused to sell India the Cray X-MP machine
• PARAM Yuva series (2008–2013) — raised Indian computing to the Teraflop level (54 TF), used for fluid dynamics, weather modelling and bioinformatics
• NSM launched (2015) — shifted from building one-off machines to a connected national grid
• PARAM Shivay and Pravega (2019–2022) — the first multi-petaflop systems. PARAM Shivay at IIT BHU was the first built under NSM, followed by PARAM Pravega (3.3 PF) at IISc Bengaluru
• PARAM Rudra (2024 onwards) — uses Indian-designed Rudra servers, Indian high-speed interconnects and Indian liquid-cooling parts

National Household Travel Survey (NHTS)

Source: PIB

Context of the News

The National Statistics Office (NSO) released the findings of India's first-ever National Household Travel Survey (NHTS), conducted from July 2025 to June 2026.

Key Highlights

What Is the Survey?

• India's first all-India household travel survey
• It records why people travel, how they travel, how far, for how long and how much they spend
• Covered 4.92 lakh households and over 20.34 lakh persons
• Conducted by the NSO under MoSPI
• Important note: in this survey, "travel" means a trip of 1 km or more. Shorter trips are not counted

Important Facts for Exams

• NHTS — India's first household travel survey; July 2025 to June 2026; 4.92 lakh households, 20.34 lakh persons; by the NSO under MoSPI
• "Travel" means trips of 1 km or more
• Students: 66.4 per cent travel 1 km+; walking 37, bus 29.5, bicycle 15.8 per cent
• Workers: 57.6 per cent travel 1 km+; urban 64.1, rural 54.5 per cent
• Two-wheelers: 42.6 per cent overall; 52.3 urban, 37.1 rural
• Gender gap: 61.9 per cent men against 41.9 per cent women
• Average travel time: 23 minutes (students), 25 minutes (workers)
• Monthly commute cost: ₹785 average; ₹1,044 urban, ₹612 rural
• Overnight travel: buses 55.8, railways 17.7 per cent; 70.2 per cent for social and religious reasons
• The female work-travel gap connects to India's low female labour force participation of 41.7 per cent (PLFS 2023-24)

Pneumonic Plague

Source: TOI

Context of the News

Nearly 200 people were quarantined and monitored in Irkutsk, Siberia, after a researcher at an anti-plague institute died of severe pneumonia suspected to be pneumonic plague.

Key Highlights

What Is Pneumonic Plague?

• The rarest, most severe and most deadly form of plague
• It is an infection of the lungs
• Caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis
• It is the only form of plague that spreads directly from person to person

Important Facts for Exams

• Pneumonic plague — the deadliest form and the only one spreading person to person
• Caused by Yersinia pestis; carried by rodents, spread by the rat flea (Xenopsylla cheopis)
• Incubation: 24 hours to 3 days
• Three forms: bubonic (lymph nodes), septicaemic (blood), pneumonic (lungs)
• Treated with gentamicin, doxycycline, ciprofloxacin
• Yersinia pestis is named after Alexandre Yersin, who identified it in Hong Kong, 1894
• Plague caused three historic pandemics — the Plague of Justinian (6th century), the Black Death (14th century) and the Third Pandemic (19th century), which reached Bombay in 1896
• India's last major outbreak was in Surat, 1994
• The Haffkine Institute, Mumbai was founded after the 1896 plague; Waldemar Haffkine developed the first plague vaccine there

India-Japan Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM)

Source: PIB

Context of the News

India and Japan jointly launched the Operational Manual for the India-Japan Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) in New Delhi — moving the arrangement from design to actual project execution.

Key Highlights

What Is the JCM?

• A bilateral project-based mechanism started by Japan with partner developing countries
• Japan supplies advanced low-carbon technology, infrastructure and services
• The emission reductions achieved are counted as credits and shared between the two countries

What Is the Legal Basis?

• Governed by Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement, which allows two countries to cooperate voluntarily and transfer emission reductions between them
• These transferred reductions are called ITMOs — Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes
• Built on a Memorandum of Cooperation signed 7 August 2025
• And Rules of Implementation adopted 8 June 2026

Economy

India, Japan Launch Operational Manual for Joint Crediting Mechanism

• India and Japan launched the Operational Manual for the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) in New Delhi.
• It operationalises cooperation under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement.
• The JCM promotes low-carbon technologies, climate finance and emission reduction projects.
• The manual covers the complete project cycle, from project idea submission to credit issuance and authorisation.

Odisha Launches MICE Incentive Portal

• Odisha launched India's first dedicated digital portal for MICE — Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions tourism.
• The portal will simplify incentive applications and approvals for large business events.
• Eligible events can receive incentives of ₹1,000 per room per day, subject to specified conditions.
• The initiative aims to strengthen business tourism and corporate event infrastructure in Odisha.

Social Issue

World Habitat Day 2026

• World Habitat Day is observed on the first Monday of October to promote adequate housing and better human settlements.
• The 2026 theme was “Adequate Housing for All.”
• The global observance was held in Muscat, Oman, from 5–8 October 2026.
• In India, the focus included progress under PMAY-U and PMAY-U 2.0.

World Teachers’ Day 2026

• World Teachers’ Day is observed every year on 5 October.
• The 2026 theme was “Standing with teachers: 60 years of protecting the profession, advancing its status and shaping our futures.”
• It marked the 60th anniversary of the 1966 ILO-UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.
• The day was first observed globally in 1994.

World Cerebral Palsy Day 2026

• World Cerebral Palsy Day is observed on 6 October to promote awareness, inclusion and accessibility.
• The 2026 theme was “Unique and united.”
• Cerebral Palsy is a group of neurological disorders affecting movement, posture and muscle coordination.
• The day was designated in 2012 by the Cerebral Palsy Alliance.

Misc GA

India Among Countries Interested in Hosting 2036 Olympics

• India is among seven countries that expressed interest in hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics.
• Other interested countries include Qatar, South Africa, South Korea, Germany, Hungary and Turkey.
• The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is expected to decide the host through its members in 2029.
• The IOC is also discussing potential hosting for 2040 and 2044.

HAL Delivers Its 2,000th Aero-Engine

• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) delivered its 2,000th aero-engine from its Koraput division in Odisha.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stressed the need for indigenous capabilities in aero-engine design, development, manufacturing and maintenance.
• Around ₹5,000 crore of proposed investment will support the aerospace ecosystem.
• India is also developing its first indigenous high-thrust engine testing facility, important for the AMCA programme.

24 Departmentally-Related Standing Committees Reconstituted

• The Lok Sabha Speaker and Rajya Sabha Chairman reconstituted 24 Departmentally-Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) for 2026–27.
• Bhartruhari Mahtab was appointed Chairperson of the Finance Committee.
• Shashi Tharoor will head the Committee on External Affairs.
• Radha Mohan Singh was appointed Chairperson of the Defence Committee.

MeitY Launches Centre for AI in Keralam

• MeitY launched the Centre for AI in Keralam (CAIK) in Thiruvananthapuram under the IndiaAI Mission.
• Digital University Kerala will be the implementing agency.
• Focus areas include healthcare, agriculture, climate resilience, sustainability and e-governance.
• Its first cohort includes 15 AI startups across healthcare, AgriTech, legal technology, Edge AI and other fields.

Three High Court Chief Justices Appointed as Supreme Court Judges

• Justice Sunita Agarwal, Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh were appointed as Supreme Court judges.
• The appointments were made under Article 124(2) of the Constitution.
• New Acting Chief Justices were also appointed for the Gujarat, Delhi and Telangana High Courts.
• Gurvinder Pal Singh was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Delhi High Court under Article 224(1).

Rajeshwari Kumari Elected to OCA Athletes Commission

• Indian trap shooter Rajeshwari Kumari was elected to the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) Athletes Commission for 2026–2030.
• She will represent South Asia.
• She becomes the second Indian on the Commission after Shiva Keshavan.
• She won a silver medal in the Women’s Trap Team event at the 2022 Asian Games.

Fleet Support Ship ‘Surya’ Launched

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched Fleet Support Ship-1 (FSS-1) ‘Surya’ at Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Visakhapatnam.
• It is the first of five indigenously designed Fleet Support Ships for the Indian Navy.
• The 43,500-tonne ships will carry fuel, water, ammunition and other supplies for naval vessels.
• The ship also has a helicopter deck, maintenance facilities and self-defence systems.

Max Verstappen Wins 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix

• Max Verstappen won the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix for Oracle Red Bull Racing.
• Kimi Antonelli finished second, while Lewis Hamilton finished third.
• It was the 16th round of the 2026 Formula One World Championship.
• The race was held at Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia, marking Formula One's return to the circuit since 2017.

India Wins Four Gold and One Silver at IOAA 2026

• India won four gold medals and one silver medal at the 19th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) 2026.
• All five members of India's team won medals.
• The achievement highlights India's performance in astronomy and astrophysics education.

India Mobile Congress 2026

• The 10th edition of India Mobile Congress (IMC) began at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.
• The 2026 theme is “Scale Without Boundaries.”
• The event focuses on telecommunications, digital connectivity and emerging technologies.
• It provides a platform for global collaboration in India's digital ecosystem.

Novak Djokovic Wins Seventh China Open Title

• Novak Djokovic won the China Open men's singles title in Beijing.
• It was his seventh China Open title.
• The victory also gave him his 102nd Tour-level trophy.
• Australia's Alex de Minaur retired during the final.