October 2026 — exam-ready facts

Southwest Monsoon 2026 Ends with 13% Rainfall Deficit

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

Zuppa–TNUAVC Drone Training Programme

• Zuppa plans to train and certify over 2,000 personnel in three years.
• The programme will train Agniveers and defence personnel in UAV operations.
• 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.

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.
• Three more tigers are planned to be released over the next two months.

ICAR–FCI MoU on Alternative Fumigation Technologies

• Phase-I has an approved outlay of ₹3.28 crore and will be implemented by ICAR-CIPHET.

Up to 30% of Cotton Area Under Illegal GM Hybrids

• Scale of cultivation: Of 114.8 lakh hectares under cotton in 2025–26, around 26.2–29 lakh hectares may involve unauthorised GM hybrids.
• Illegal seed market: Unauthorised HTBt cotton seed sales are estimated to have increased from 35 lakh packets in 2017–18 to 82–88 lakh packets in 2025–26, potentially worth ₹820–880 crore.
• Glyphosate imports: Imports increased by about 29%, from 27,721 kilolitres in 2024–25 to 35,642 kilolitres in 2025–26.
• cp4-epsps: Provides tolerance to glyphosate herbicide, allowing farmers to spray glyphosate for weed control without killing the cotton plant.

WWF Living Planet Report 2026

• The WWF's biennial Living Planet Report 2026 found a 73 per cent average decline in the sizes of monitored vertebrate populations — mammals, fish, birds and amphibians — over the 52 years from 1970 to 2022.
• 73% decline: Average monitored vertebrate population sizes declined by 73% between 1970 and 2022, based on data from 35,803 populations and 5,790 species.
• Recovery is possible: Green turtles, bluefin tuna, tigers and southern African elephants have shown recovery due to targeted conservation efforts. Global wild tiger numbers increased from around 3,200 in 2010 to 5,700 in 2025.
• Freshwater ecosystems: Recorded the highest decline at 85%, followed by terrestrial ecosystems (69%) and marine ecosystems (59%).

Rural Economy Becoming More Resilient to Monsoon Shocks

• For small farm households owning up to one acre, wages contribute more than 55% of income, while crops and livestock together contribute about 36%.
• An RBI study found that India's rural economy is becoming less dependent on rainfall because of non-farm activities, allied sectors and better irrigation.
• The finding is important for understanding rural income diversification and climate resilience.

VB–G RAM G Act: Permissible Rural Works Expanded to 375

• The Ministry of Rural Development expanded permissible works under the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) [VB–G RAM G] Act, 2025 from 266 to 375, a 41% increase.
• 181 works are agriculture-related, including water management, land development, plantations, livestock and productive assets.

The Sarus Crane

• IUCN: Vulnerable; Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972; CITES Appendix II
• Sarus Crane (Antigone antigone) — the world's tallest flying bird, up to 1.5 m tall, wingspan 2.4 m
• Survey announced by the BNHS — founded 1883, headquartered at Mumbai

World Bank Backs Kerala’s Carbon Credit Cell Proposal Under KERA Project

• The World Bank backed Kerala’s proposal to establish a Carbon Credit Cell under the Department of Agriculture as part of the ₹2,365 crore Kerala Climate Resilient Agri-Value Chain Modernisation (KERA) Project.
• KERA is a five-year project covering 2024–2029, focused on climate-resilient agriculture and stronger agricultural value chains.
• The initiative aims to promote climate-friendly farming, increase carbon sequestration and provide additional income opportunities for farmers.

Nagaland Launches SAY-SOBLOK to Support 4,000 Vulnerable Households

• The Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission partnered with BRAC International to launch SAY-SOBLOK, a three-year initiative targeting 4,000 extremely vulnerable households.
• Support includes livelihood development, financial inclusion, household coaching and access to government benefits, with priority for women-led families and persons with disabilities.
• The initiative operates under Samaveshi Aajeevika Yojana (SAY) and the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).

Sex Reversal in Animals Raises Concerns About Extinction Risk

• Sex reversal occurs when an animal develops reproductive traits that differ from its genetically determined sex.
• The study found that climate change-related sex reversal can create reproductive disadvantages and increase the risk of extinction.

Lakshadweep Achieves 100% Literacy

• A survey identified 1,113 adult non-literate people across the islands, who received literacy and numeracy training.
• The learners successfully passed the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test.

Nameri Wild Classroom

• It became a Tiger Reserve in 1999-2000
• Create future conservationists and researchers

OPEC Cuts India’s 2026 Oil Demand Growth Forecast to 40,000 Barrels per Day

• The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) reduced its forecast for India’s oil demand growth in 2026 to 40,000 barrels per day (bpd), down from 60,000 bpd in its September report.
• India’s total oil demand is projected to reach 5.7 million barrels per day in 2026.

India's Ramsar Sites Reach 103

• India joined in 1982; its first sites were Chilika Lake (Odisha) and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan)
• Mainpuri is the only district in India with two Ramsar sites — the other is Saman Bird Sanctuary (2019)
• The Ramsar Convention was signed at Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, and came into force in 1975. It is the oldest of the modern global environmental treaties
• Ramsar Site number 2602

Cheruvayal Raman, Traditional Rice Conservationist, Passes Away

• He received the Padma Shri in 2023 and the National Plant Genome Saviour Award in 2016 for his contribution to agricultural biodiversity.
• He preserved more than 45 traditional rice varieties through traditional farming in Wayanad and distributed indigenous seeds to farmers free of cost.
• Cheruvayal Raman, known as “Nellachan” and the “Living Paddy Gene Bank,” passed away in Kerala at the age of 74.

FSSAI Proposes Pesticide Residue Limits for Tea

• The proposed limits are 20 mg/kg for acetamiprid and 50 mg/kg for imidacloprid.
• The acetamiprid limit is stricter than the limits mentioned for Japan (30 parts per million) and the United States (50 parts per million).
• The proposal aims to improve food safety, pesticide monitoring and regulatory clarity for tea growers and processors. Pasted text.txt
• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) proposed maximum residue limits (MRLs) for acetamiprid and imidacloprid in tea.

Telangana Seeks 100% Minimum Support Price Procurement Amid Drought

• The State Agriculture Minister requested the Centre to remove the 25% procurement cap on major crops and ensure 100% procurement at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
• The State planned the Khet Bachao Abhiyan from 22 to 30 October 2026.
• Telangana reported drought conditions in 315 out of 621 mandals, affecting agricultural activities and crop production.
• The State also sought additional funds for micro-irrigation equipment, intercropping seeds, water conservation and employment for agricultural workers. Pasted text.txt

Agrivoltaics in India

• Design standard: panels should let 70 per cent or more of natural radiation reach the crop canopy
• 7th AgriVoltaics World Conference, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, 21-23 October 2026; theme "Powering the Global South"
• Centre of Excellence on Agri-Photovoltaics at ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, set up 2025, 100 kW; run by ICAR and NISE under MNRE
• ISA — International Solar Alliance, launched by India and France at COP21, Paris, 2015; headquartered at Gurugram

Kufri Jamunia

• Released in 2024
• Kufri Jamunia — biofortified purple potato from ICAR-CPRI, Shimla; released 2024
• Anthocyanins 42.05 mg, Vitamin C 42.75 mg, iron 3.22 mg, zinc 2.28 mg per 100 g
• Biofortification is promoted under the Poshan Abhiyaan and Krishonnati Yojana

National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)

• Created under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002
• Set up in 2003, headquartered at Chennai
• The NBA disbursed about ₹1.19 crore to 29 State Biodiversity Boards and one UT Biodiversity Council, under the Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) mechanism.
• Under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

Barda Wildlife Sanctuary

• Lions have returned after nearly 144 years; study published in PLOS One
• Barda Wildlife Sanctuary — 192.31 sq km, in Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka, Gujarat; notified February 1979
• Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is the primary habitat; the 2025 census put the population at 891
• Project Lion was launched in 2020

Upgraded Agri Welfare Portal Launched

• PM-KISAN pays ₹6,000 a year in three instalments of ₹2,000
• Agri Welfare Portal upgraded and launched by Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare
• Built per DBIM 3.0 and GIGW 3.0, both from MeitY
• Connects FPOs, PACS, scientists, researchers and startups

Keralam’s First Vistadome Coach on Kollam–Sengottai Route

• Launch date: The first vistadome coach in Keralam is scheduled to operate on the Kollam–Sengottai route from 22 October 2026.

Green Diwali Campaign 2026

• Objective: To encourage people to celebrate Diwali without firecrackers and adopt cleaner, more sustainable festive practices.
• Launch: WWF-India’s Environmental Information, Awareness, Capacity Building and Livelihood Programme (EIACP) Programme Centre launched the nationwide campaign with support from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
• Mission LiFE: The campaign supports Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) by promoting responsible lifestyles and reducing air and noise pollution.

Agrivoltaics World Conference 2026

• Edition and venue: The 7th Agrivoltaics World Conference (AWC) 2026 was held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking the first time India and the Global South hosted the conference.
• Meaning: Agrivoltaics refers to the combined use of the same land for agricultural crop production and solar photovoltaic electricity generation.
• Organising ministry: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, hosted the conference.

Sixteen New Indigenous Breeds Recognised

• The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare notified 16 newly recognised indigenous breeds of livestock and dogs, across 13 states and one Union Territory, on the recommendation of the Breed Registration Committee.
• India is the world's largest milk producer, with about 24 per cent of global output
• NBAGR maintains the National Animal Gene Bank and registers all indigenous breeds
• India has over 200 registered indigenous breeds of livestock and poultry

MoAFW Launches ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan – Rabi 2026’

• The government aims to reach nearly 1 crore participants through the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
• Around 4,150 teams and over 12,000 scientists and ATMA functionaries are expected to participate through training, farmers’ meetings and field demonstrations.
• Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the campaign in Karnal, Haryana, for the period 22 October to 30 November 2026.
• The campaign promotes soil health, balanced fertiliser use, crop diversification and sustainable farming.

Maharashtra Launches Mission Murghas to Tackle Fodder Shortages

• Maharashtra launched Mission Murghas on 24 October 2026 to address fodder shortages during drought conditions.
• The launch comes amid widespread drought, with 305 talukas reportedly declared drought-affected by 14 October 2026.

Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF)

• Launched in 2020-21; ₹1.03 trillion sanctioned for 2,28,428 projects; over ₹1.75 trillion mobilised
• AIF extended to 31 March 2027, from the earlier deadline of 30 September 2026
• The Union government has extended the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) beyond 30 September 2026, up to 31 March 2027. The Department of Expenditure gave the approval.
• It covers cold storages, warehouses and grading units

The Snow Leopard

• On International Snow Leopard Day (23 October), the Environment Ministry highlighted India's first Snow Leopard Population Assessment (SPAI). It recorded 718 snow leopards, of which 477 are in Ladakh.

Farmer IDs Created Under Digital Agriculture Mission

• Digital Agriculture Mission was approved by the Cabinet in 2024, with an outlay of about ₹2,817 crore
• The Union Agriculture Ministry has created 11 crore Farmer IDs — five months ahead of the deadline of 31 March 2027. The milestone was completed on the night of 23 October.
• 11 crore Farmer IDs created, as on 23 October 2026 — five months ahead of the 31 March 2027 deadline
• Run by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare

Enhanced NMMS 2.0 Mobile App for VB-G RAM G

• Launch: Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the upgraded National Mobile Monitoring System (NMMS) 2.0 app in October 2026.
• Purpose: Records attendance of workers under the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar & Ajeevika Mission (Gramin).

Ramsar Sites in India Reach 103

• India joined in 1982; its first sites were Chilika Lake (Odisha) and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan)
• India has 103 Ramsar Sites, covering over 13.87 lakh hectares, across 28 States and UTs
• An intergovernmental treaty signed at Ramsar, Iran, in 1971
• 100th site: Surha Tal / Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary, Ballia, UP, June 2026

Hydroseeding: Restoring Mined Land in Jharkhand

• Tata Steel introduced hydroseeding at its West Bokaro Division in Ramgarh district, Jharkhand. It covers over 50 acres of mined land, nurseries and overburden dumps. This is the first such effort in the state.
• Binders, called tackifiers

The Camels of Kutch

• The camel population in Gujarat’s Kutch district has fallen sharply. From a peak of over 17,600 in 1992, numbers are now critically low. Attendance at the traditional Bhed Mata Camel Fair has dropped from thousands to under 200 animals.
• India’s camel population has fallen sharply across censuses — it is now around 2.5 lakh
• Kharai was recognised as a distinct breed by NBAGR in 2015
• Rajasthan declared the camel its state animal in 2014

Plant-Based Meat Shows Higher Protein Bioavailability Than Chicken

• Key Findings: Plant-based seekh kebabs recorded protein bioavailability of 80.8% and 86.1%, compared with 38.8% for chicken. Plant-based nuggets scored 61.2% against 43.4%, while two plant-based burger patties scored approximately 57% and 58%, compared with 21.2% for chicken.
• Research Method: The researchers used an in vitro method, which studies biological processes outside a living organism under controlled laboratory conditions.

Arabian Black Electric Ray

• Named after M. V. Ramana Murthy, Mission Director of the Deep Ocean Mission, for his work in marine science and ocean engineering

Ladakh Declared India's First Fully Organic Union Territory

• Sikkim became India's first fully organic state in 2016, and won the FAO Future Policy Gold Award in 2018
• Chemical and synthetic fertilisers banned in July 2026; organic fertilisers distributed in March 2026
• Ladakh declared India's first 100 per cent Organic Union Territory, by LG Vinai Kumar Saxena
• Vinai Kumar Saxena, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, declared Ladakh India's first 100 per cent Organic Union Territory.

E100 Flex-Fuel Vehicles in India

• Amendment: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) amended the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, to provide a regulatory framework for flex-fuel vehicles capable of running on ethanol blends up to E100.
• E100 Fuel: E100 refers to fuel consisting almost entirely of ethanol, an alcohol produced through the fermentation of feedstocks such as sugarcane, molasses and maize.

Nobel Laureate on GM Crops

• India released its first genome-edited rice varieties in 2025 — DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala) and Pusa DST Rice 1
• A guide RNA steers the Cas9 enzyme to a chosen spot in the DNA
• Richard J. Roberts — 1993 Nobel laureate in Physiology or Medicine, for the discovery of split genes. He spoke at ESTIC 2026, Bharat Mandapam
• CRISPR-Cas9 won the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, for Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna

IUCN Coral Reef Assessment 2026

• Corals are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
• The IUCN released its first global assessment of coral reefs under the Red List of Ecosystems, at the UN Biodiversity Conference in Yerevan, Armenia. It warns that 96 per cent of shallow-water coral reefs face an extremely high risk of collapse by 2075.
• These algae provide up to 90 per cent of the coral's energy and give reefs their colour
• 122 of 127 ecoregions (96 per cent) are Critically Endangered; the Western Galápagos is classified collapsed

New Genetic Tools for India's Staple Crops

• Bt cotton remains India's only commercially approved transgenic crop, since 2002
• GM mustard (DMH-11) was cleared by GEAC in 2022; the Supreme Court gave a split verdict in July 2024 and asked for a national policy
• So improving their productivity matters directly for food security
• In 2025, India released two varieties developed using CRISPR-Cas9:

Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme

• The Union Cabinet approved the scheme with an outlay of ₹1,856.67 crore for 2026–27 to 2033–34 to strengthen India's sports goods manufacturing industry.
• Implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, it aims to promote domestic manufacturing, investment, research and development, innovation and exports while reducing import dependence.
• The scheme has two broad components: manufacturing incentives and ecosystem development interventions. It also proposes four integrated Sports Goods Manufacturing Zones, each spread over 300 acres or more.
• Two major support components have a combined outlay of ₹1,130 crore: 20% capital expenditure support for eligible anchor investors investing at least ₹100 crore, and turnover-linked incentives of up to 15% for eligible manufacturers investing at least ₹10 crore.

Two New Plant Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

• Researchers from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) and Madras Christian College discovered two new flowering plant species in the Vijoynagar region of Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh.

PI Industries Develops India's First Indigenous Insecticide Molecule

• Registered by the CIB&RC under the Insecticides Act, 1968
• Related: the ban on Paraquat Dichloride, the proposed Carbosulfan ban, and the Pesticides Management Bill meant to replace the 1968 Act
• PI Industries Ltd, based in Gurugram, has developed Pioxaniliprole — recognised by the CIB&RC as India's first indigenously discovered insecticide active ingredient. It will be sold under the brand name Pioxazon from the Rabi 2026-27 season.
• Developed by PI Industries Ltd, Gurugram; about ₹2,000 crore and over a decade of research

UNEP Honours India's Ganges Dolphin Recovery

• Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
• The UNEP report "Nature's Comeback – Scaling Ecosystem Restoration for People and Planet" recognised India's Ganges River dolphin recovery programme as one of 35 UN World Restoration Flagships.

Punah Bharan Mobile Application

• With the National Water Mission, under the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti

Union Cabinet Approves Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana

• In October 2026, the Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana (PM-VGSY), a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with a total outlay of ₹7,395.55 crore for five years, from FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31.
• The total outlay includes a Central share of ₹4,869.48 crore and a State share of ₹2,526.07 crore. The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj through State Governments and Union Territory Administrations.
• It will cover all States and Union Territories, including over 2.55 lakh Panchayats and Traditional Local Bodies, including areas where Panchayats do not exist under Part IX.
• The scheme aims to strengthen grassroots governance through Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs), capacity building, digital support and better financial accountability.

SEBI Approves Reforms for Portfolio Management Services

• PMS can also invest up to 10% of client AUM in investment-grade unlisted debt, subject to conditions and client consent.
• PMS providers will be allowed to invest client funds in direct mutual fund schemes and Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs) under the proposed framework.

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.
• During April–July 2026, net FDI reached US$13.4 billion, compared with US$9.7 billion a year earlier.
• Gross FDI inflows stood at US$14.58 billion during July.
• Major sectors receiving equity inflows included communication, financial services and computer services.

India’s First Blue Bond by SMFCL

• It aims to raise ₹600 crore, with a ₹500 crore green-shoe option.
• Sagarmala Finance Corporation Ltd. (SMFCL) launched India's first blue bond.
• The 10-year bond will support maritime lending, greenfield ports and coastal road projects.

IndusInd Bank Launches GCC Banking Vertical

• India's GCC ecosystem has grown significantly, with 2,117 GCCs.
• IndusInd Bank launched a dedicated Global Capability Centre (GCC) Banking vertical.

JNPA–IFC Blue Financing for Shore Power

• The financing is worth USD 70 million (about ₹672 crore) through a 10-year ECB loan.
• Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority partnered with IFC for India’s first blue financing for shore power infrastructure.

Apple Pay Launched in India

• The initial rollout covers sectors such as food and beverages, travel, fashion and lifestyle.
• Apple Pay was launched in India with Axis Bank-issued Visa and Mastercard credit cards.

Bank of India Launches Programmable CBDC

• 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.
• Bank of India launched user-level programmable CBDC with auto-issuance.

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.

ICICI Lombard Launches VIBE Health Insurance

• ICICI Lombard launched VIBE, a health insurance product aimed at Gen Z customers aged 18–35 years.
• It offers six variants, with coverage from ₹7 lakh to ₹1 crore.

Pramerica Life Launches Poorna Rakshak

• 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.

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.

NPS Swasthya

• NPS Swasthya launched 1 October 2026 (NPS Diwas) by PFRDA; first offered by Axis Pension Fund
• Sum insured: ₹1 lakh to ₹30 lakh
• 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

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.
• It received Presidential assent on 13 August 2026.

Bank of Baroda Becomes Second PSU Bank Sponsor of Pension Fund

• 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%.
• Bank of Baroda (BoB) received PFRDA approval to become a Pension Fund Sponsor through its subsidiary BoB Pension Fund Management Company.

HDFC Bank Appoints Anup Bagchi as MD & CEO

• He has more than 30 years of experience in banking and financial services.
• 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.

NABKISAN Lists India’s First WASH-Focused Social Bond

• 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.
• NABKISAN Finance Ltd, a subsidiary of NABARD, listed India’s first WASH-focused Social Bond on the NSE.
• Funds will support Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) projects for rural and underserved communities.

RBI Grants CIC Registration to Indiabulls

• Generally, at least 90% of net assets of a CIC must be in group-company investments/loans, with at least 60% in equity investments.

RBI Raises Repo Rate to 5.5% and Shifts to Calibrated Tightening

• The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) raised the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.5 per cent and shifted its stance from neutral to calibrated tightening — signalling that rate cuts are off the table in the near term.
• Crude oil prices: Oil prices have risen above $100 per barrel, creating inflationary pressure because India is heavily dependent on imported crude.
• Basis Point (bps): 1 bps = 0.01 percentage point; therefore, 25 bps = 0.25 percentage point.
• CPI Inflation: Inflation measured using changes in the Consumer Price Index.

SEBI Launches ‘Samajh Se Investing Simple’ Campaign

• SEBI launched the ‘Samajh Se Investing Simple’ campaign under Project Jagrook during World Investor Week 2026.
• The MUST programme trains university and college faculty, staff and senior students as investor-education trainers.

RBI to Enable Interoperability Among Account Aggregators

• Announcement: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced plans to enable interoperability among Non-Banking Financial Company Account Aggregators (NBFC-AAs).
• Implementation Deadline: The framework is expected to be implemented by 31 December 2026.
• Purpose: Customers will be able to view information about all their financial assets through a single platform, instead of accessing multiple aggregators.

Foreign Exchange Risk Reserve (FERR)

• Banks must set aside 20 per cent of any forex derivative contract above $2 million involving the rupee
• China has long used a Foreign Exchange Risk Reserve Ratio of 20 per cent
• In March 2026, China cut its ratio to zero — because the yuan was strengthening, and it wanted to remove the cost of betting against its own currency
• Hedging is normally good practice — importers protect themselves from a falling rupee

The GST Council and the 57th Meeting

• Inserted by the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016, under Article 279A
• The GST Council held its 57th meeting in New Delhi under the chairpersonship of the Union Finance Minister, announcing a package of administrative and process reforms effective from 1 April 2027.
• The President was mandated to constitute it within 60 days of the Act's commencement
• Notified on 12 September 2016

SEBI's Credit Risk-o-Meter for Debt Securities

• All advertisements by issuers and Online Bond Platform Providers (OBPPs)
• Commercial Papers (CPs)
• Security Receipts (SRs)
• OBPP: Online Bond Platform Provider — a SEBI-registered platform selling bonds to retail investors

Federal Bank Launches Verto Premium Savings Account

• The account offers benefits such as up to ₹35 lakh in complimentary insurance coverage, 5% cashback on selected debit card spending and domestic airport lounge access.
• Federal Bank launched Verto, a premium savings account designed for young professionals, entrepreneurs and salaried executives.
• Other benefits include locker rent concessions, outward remittance facilities and personalised spending insights.

SEBI Extends IPO Issue-Size Relaxation Until March 2027

• The extension runs until March 2027.
• An IPO is the process through which a company offers its shares to the public for the first time.

SEBI to Expand AIF Framework

• Minimum investment in an AIF: ₹1 crore, reduced to ₹25 lakh for employees and directors of the fund
• Minimum corpus: ₹20 crore, or ₹10 crore for an angel fund
• AIFs are regulated under the SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012
• SEBI will soon issue a circular expanding the framework for Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). The change is expected to raise the pool of accredited investors from 1 lakh to about 4 lakh.

LIC Launches Three New Insurance Plans

• New Cancer Cover provides financial benefits upon diagnosis of specified early- or major-stage cancer. The plans are scheduled to be available from 19 October 2026.
• Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) announced three plans: New Jeevan Dhara-II (Plan 892), Health Shield (Plan 907) and New Cancer Cover (Plan 908).
• New Jeevan Dhara-II provides guaranteed annuity rates for retirement income, while Health Shield offers fixed benefits for specified health risks.

Karur Vysya Bank Partners with Zurich Kotak General Insurance

• Zurich Kotak General Insurance is a joint venture in which Zurich Insurance Group holds 70% and Kotak Mahindra Bank holds 30%.
• Karur Vysya Bank (KVB) entered into a partnership with Zurich Kotak General Insurance to distribute general insurance products through its banking network.
• The arrangement can improve customer access to non-life insurance and generate commission-based income for the bank.

Karnataka Bank Launches Trade Konnect

• The platform aims to simplify foreign exchange services for businesses engaged in international trade and individuals making overseas remittances.
• Karnataka Bank launched Trade Konnect, a digital platform developed with Kyzer Software (India) Private Limited.
• It enables online submission of import, export and outward cross-border remittance requests without visiting a bank branch.

Ministry of Defence Signs ₹4,106 Crore Defence Contracts

• The Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth approximately ₹4,106 crore for a dedicated communication satellite for the Indian Air Force and Varunastra heavy-weight torpedoes for the Indian Navy.
• The GSAT-7C satellite contract worth ₹2,563 crore was awarded to New Space India Limited (NSIL).
• The Varunastra torpedo contract worth ₹1,543 crore was awarded to Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), supporting indigenous defence manufacturing.

SEBI Finalises Closing Auction Session Rules

• Most changes will take effect from 7 December 2026, while rules for transferring certain unexecuted orders into the Closing Auction Session will begin on 8 February 2027.
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) retained the volume-weighted average price (VWAP) of the final 30 minutes of regular trading to determine settlement prices for expiring stock and index derivatives.
• For index derivatives, settlement uses the VWAP of constituent securities during the final 30 minutes of cash-market trading. For expiring stock derivatives, it uses the underlying stock's VWAP across exchanges.

SEBI Introduces Common Advertisement Code for Celebrity Endorsements

• The rules are scheduled to take effect on 8 April 2027, while the deadline for revising IPO issue sizes has been extended to 31 March 2027, according to the supplied report.
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) notified a Common Advertisement Code (CAC) allowing regulated market intermediaries to use celebrities for brand-level promotion while restricting endorsements of specific financial products or services.

NovaFusion Capital Receives RBI Approval to Operate as an NBFC

• The company aims to reach ₹5,000 crore in assets under management within five years, focusing mainly on commercial electric vehicles.
• NovaFusion Capital, the lending subsidiary of Astranova Mobility, received approval from the Reserve Bank of India to operate as a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC).

ReNew Secures Long-Term Renewable Energy Financing

• The financing has a reported tenure of 10 years and is intended to provide stable funding for clean energy infrastructure.
• ReNew Energy Global secured a $100 million debt facility from Dutch development bank FMO for renewable energy projects under construction.

BIS Launches Silver Refinery Scheme

• The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) launched the Silver Refinery Scheme during the World Standards Day 2026 celebrations on 14 October 2026.
• The proposed hallmarking details include the BIS mark, the word SILVER, purity grades of 999.9, 999.5 or 999.0, the manufacturer's identification mark and a unique batch serial number.
• The scheme introduces a certification framework to establish the purity and authenticity of silver bullion and coins.

SEBI Revises Closing Auction Session Framework

• Order rules: During the final phase, only limit orders will be allowed; market orders cannot be modified or cancelled. The order-entry session will close randomly between 3:38 p.m. and 3:40 p.m.
• Regulator: Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) revised the Closing Auction Session (CAS) framework for the equity cash market in October 2026.
• Effective date: The revised framework is scheduled to take effect from 7 December 2026.
• New timing: The Closing Auction Session will run from 3:30 p.m. to 3:40 p.m., with three phases for reference-price calculation, order entry and final limit-order entry.

Finance Receives In-Principle Approval for MF Lite AMC

• Financial requirements: The supplied report states a minimum net worth of ₹35 crore, potentially reducible to ₹25 crore after five consecutive profitable years, subject to applicable regulatory conditions.
• Regulatory framework: The MF Lite framework was introduced by SEBI on 31 December 2024 to facilitate passive mutual fund businesses.
• Company: 1 Finance Private Limited received in-principle approval from SEBI to establish an Asset Management Company (AMC) under the Mutual Funds Lite (MF Lite) framework.
• Investment products: The proposed AMC will focus on passive investment products, mainly index funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

SBI Wins Global Finance's World's Best Consumer Bank 2026 Award

• Digital banking: SBI's YONO platform crossed 10 crore registered users, and the bank introduced artificial intelligence-powered customer services.
• Award: State Bank of India (SBI) won the World's Best Consumer Bank 2026 award for the second consecutive year and the Best Bank in India 2026 award.
• Award ceremony: The awards were presented alongside the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) Annual Meeting 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Canara HSBC Life Insurance Launches Global Wealth Plan

• Target customers: The plan is designed for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) seeking life insurance protection alongside market-linked global investment opportunities.
• Investment options: It offers exposure to global equities, precious metals such as gold and silver, and debt funds.

CARE Ratings Sells a Stake in CareEdge Global IFSC

• Buyers: State Bank of India and NSE IFSC (NSEIX) will each acquire a 9.9% stake.
• Transaction: CARE Ratings signed agreements to sell a 19.8% stake in its subsidiary, CareEdge Global International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) Limited.
• Ownership change: After completion, CARE Ratings will retain an 80.2% majority stake, and the subsidiary will no longer be wholly owned.
• Significance: The transaction brings two financial-market institutions into the ownership structure of CareEdge Global IFSC.

RBI Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Minutes

• Repo rate: The October 2026 Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting minutes reported a unanimous decision to raise the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.5%.
• Policy debate: The minutes highlighted differences among members over whether the Reserve Bank of India should signal further monetary tightening.
• Inflation concerns: Members discussed broadening inflationary pressures and the risk of second-round price rises, in which an initial price increase leads to further increases in wages and other prices.

Core Sector Data Points to a Coming Slowdown

• The Index of Eight Core Industries recorded 7.9% growth in September 2026, its highest growth in the series and the second consecutive month of acceleration.
• Key growth drivers included electricity (11.4%), coal (10.7%) and refinery products (10.3%).
• Exam point: The Eight Core Industries are coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement and electricity.

SEBI Eases Early Pay-In Rules for Share Delivery

• The revised framework is scheduled to take effect on 22 February 2027.
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has eased rules for Early Pay-In (EPI), which allows investors to deliver shares before the normal settlement date.
• Brokers and clearing corporations have four months to update their systems.

AU Small Finance Bank and Paytm Launch RuPay Credit Card

• It offers up to 12 complimentary family lounge visits annually on eligible round-trip flights booked through Paytm.
• Rewards include up to 2% on eligible Paytm UPI transactions and 5% on eligible Paytm Travel bookings and gold purchases.
• AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) partnered with Paytm to launch the Paytm AU SFB Credit Card, described in the supplied news as India's first RuPay credit card offering family airport lounge access.

Bank of Baroda Launches Festive Campaign

• Home loans start at 7.40% per annum, while car loans start at 7.85% per annum, according to the supplied news.
• The bob Green Wheels loan offers an additional interest concession for eligible electric vehicle buyers.
• Other offerings include loans for electric vehicle charging infrastructure and collateral-free financing for women entrepreneurs.
• Bank of Baroda (BoB) launched “bob Ke Sang Tyohaar Ki Umang – Shubh bhi, Labh bhi” to offer festive benefits on loans, savings products and debit card spending.

CBDT Introduces Form 173A for Tax Exemption Claims

• The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) introduced Form 173A, effective 19 October 2026, under the Income-tax (Seventh Amendment) Rules, 2026.
• The form applies to eligible Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), subject to prescribed conditions.
• Part A records investor details, while Part B covers securities, holdings, transactions, interest income and capital gains.

Net FDI Positive for Third Straight Month in August

• Gross inflows were 24% lower than July 2026, but around 68% higher than August 2025, as reported in the supplied news.
• India's net Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) remained positive for the third consecutive month in August 2026, with net inflows of $3.3 billion, according to the Reserve Bank of India's monthly Bulletin.
• Gross FDI inflows stood at $11.1 billion, while total outflows were $7.7 billion.

BSE and MMTC-PAMP Sign Agreement to Boost India's EGR Market

• EGRs are securities regulated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) that allow investors to hold gold electronically in demat accounts.
• The partnership aims to improve transparency, liquidity and investor participation and encourage gold trading through regulated markets.

RBI Revises Bank Leverage Ratio Framework

• Announcement: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the Commercial Banks – Prudential Norms on Capital Adequacy (Eleventh Amendment Directions), 2026.
• Effective Date: 1 April 2027. The changes align the framework with the 2017 Basel Committee on Banking Supervision standard under Basel III.
• Minimum Ratios: Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs): 4% Indian branches of Global Systemically Important Banks (G-SIBs): 3.5% plus the applicable buffer Other banks: 3.5%
• Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs): 4%

Initial Public Offering (IPO)

• Meaning: An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is the process through which an unlisted company offers its shares to the public for the first time and becomes eligible for listing on a stock exchange.
• Types: A Fresh Issue involves issuing new shares to raise funds for the company, while an Offer for Sale (OFS) allows existing shareholders to sell their shares.
• Importance: IPOs help companies raise capital for expansion, while investors get an opportunity to purchase shares and participate in the company's growth.

SBI Launches CyRIS Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence

• State Bank of India (SBI) launched CyRIS, a Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence, in Mumbai in October 2026 to strengthen cybersecurity and improve the financial sector's ability to respond to cyber threats.
• CyRIS operates through three pillars: THINK (policy, education and talent development), INNOVATE (research and security solutions), and DEFEND (threat detection, incident response and cyber defence).
• The initiative aims to strengthen threat intelligence, encourage cybersecurity innovation and improve the resilience of financial institutions.

SEBI and Bank of England Sign MoU

• On 28 October 2026, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Bank of England (BoE).
• Clearing corporations help complete trade settlements and reduce the risk of default between buyers and sellers.
• It provides a framework for cooperation relating to Central Counterparties (CCPs), allowing the Bank of England to rely on SEBI's regulatory and supervisory activities, subject to applicable laws.

Air India, SBI Card and Visa Partnership

• It is Air India's first co-branded credit card initiative since its privatisation and acquisition by the Tata Group in January 2022.
• The Maharaja Club was redesigned in 2024 and has added more than 5 million members, according to the supplied information.
• Air India, SBI Card and Visa partnered to develop a co-branded credit card for members of Air India's Maharaja Club loyalty programme.

Cyberattack on SEBI's SMARTs Portal

• SEBI placed its cybersecurity team on red alert following repeated attempts to breach its systems, including a code execution attack on the SMARTs portal on 26 October 2026.
• SMARTs stands for Securities Market Trainers. It is a platform used by eligible trainers to register with SEBI and conduct investor awareness programmes.

Status of Policing in India Report (SPIR) 2026

• 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.
• 27% received calls from fake bank officials seeking account details.
• I4C: Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, which coordinates India's cybercrime response.

The Ageing World and India's Narrowing Window

• 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.
• 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.

Fitch BMI Raises India's GDP Growth Forecast to 7.5%

• Business Monitor International (BMI), part of Fitch Solutions, raised India's GDP growth forecast for FY 2026–27 to 7.5%, from 6.8%.
• BMI lowered its FY 2027–28 growth forecast to 6.3%, citing concerns about household consumption, higher oil prices and possible El Niño-related disruptions.

ReNew Secures $100 Million from Dutch Development Bank FMO

• ReNew Energy Global secured a $100 million debt facility from the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank FMO to finance renewable energy projects under construction.
• The 10-year financing is intended to provide long-term capital for clean energy projects.
• The facility qualifies under the 2X Challenge, a global initiative that promotes women's economic participation through investment.

Female Labour Force Participation in the North-East and Union Territories

• The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2025 shows that female labour force participation has increased since 2019–20, but the improvement differs across States and Union Territories.
• Rural female labour force participation increased from 33% to 45.9%, while the urban rate rose from 23.3% to 27.7%.
• Arunachal Pradesh recorded the highest average annual percentage-point change in both rural (+8.28) and urban (+5.24) participation.
• Lakshadweep recorded negative changes in both rural (−2.34) and urban (−1.30) participation, highlighting regional differences in women's economic participation. Pasted text.txt

WTO Raises Global Merchandise Trade Growth Forecast for 2026

• Artificial intelligence-related investments increased by 67% year-on-year in the first half of 2026 and accounted for 47% of total merchandise trade growth, according to the report.
• The World Trade Organization (WTO) raised its forecast for global merchandise trade growth in calendar year 2026 to 3.9%, up from its earlier estimate of 1.9%.
• Global merchandise trade growth is projected at 4.1% in 2027, while services trade growth is forecast at 3.3% in 2026.
• The WTO projected global gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 2.6% in 2026 and 2.9% in 2027. Pasted text.txt

India's Reservoir Storage Status 2026

• National storage: India's 178 major reservoirs held 126.717 billion cubic metres (BCM), equal to 68.58% of their total usable capacity.
• Year-on-year decline: Storage was 24.53% lower than the corresponding period a year earlier and 16.44% below normal.
• Regional differences: The Pennar basin recorded a 72.32% deficit and the Cauvery basin a 60.50% deficit, while the Swarnarekha, Narmada and Mahanadi basins had above-normal storage.
• Released by: Central Water Commission (CWC), based on its Reservoir Storage Bulletin dated 15 October 2026.

Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), September 2026

• Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): India's overall LFPR rose to 55.5%, compared with 55.3% in September 2025.
• Female participation and employment: Female LFPR stood at 34.6%, while the overall Worker Population Ratio (WPR) increased to 52.7% from 52.4% in September 2025.
• Unemployment Rate (UR): The overall rate declined to 5.0%, from 5.2% a year earlier; the rural rate was 4.2% and the urban rate was 6.9%.
• Released by: National Statistical Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), through its 18th monthly bulletin.

World Health Summit 2026

• Major outcome: The World Health Organization (WHO) launched the Hub 2030 Strategy to help countries detect and assess emerging health threats within 24 hours.
• Participation: More than 4,000 people from over 130 countries and territories attended in person, with over 50,000 participating virtually.
• Held in: Berlin, Germany, from 11 to 13 October 2026, under the theme “From Crisis to Resilience: Innovating for Health”.
• Key announcements: The Government of Bangladesh and the European Investment Bank announced a €250 million women's health programme; the Gates Foundation and Wellcome Leap committed $100 million for stillbirth prevention.

US State Department Report on India’s Investment Climate

• The report noted that India permits 100% FDI in many sectors, while some sectors still require government approval.
• A US Department of State report assessed India's investment environment and highlighted issues related to foreign-investment restrictions and regulatory practices.
• These are claims and assessments of the US report, rather than an independent conclusion.

CAFE-III Norms for Passenger Vehicles

• The norms will apply from 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2032.

Green Energy Corridor Phase III Approved

• The Union Cabinet approved Green Energy Corridor Phase III with an outlay of over ₹1.86 lakh crore.
• 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).
• It aims to integrate up to 135 GW of renewable energy into the electricity grid by FY2032–33.

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.
• India-ASEAN trade reached US$128.38 billion in 2025–26.
• Discussions covered trade, investment, energy security, industrial clusters and regional economic cooperation.

HAL–SkyPulse ₹2,491 Crore Helicopter Programme

• The programme covers 30 HAL-manufactured helicopters, with 10 planned during 2027–29 and 20 from 2030 onwards.
• HAL and SkyPulse Solutions IFSC signed an MoU for a proposed ₹2,491 crore helicopter programme.
• 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.
• 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.

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.

Green Energy Corridor Phase-III Approved

• It will facilitate the evacuation of up to 135 GW of renewable energy.

India Energy Week 2027 to Be Held in Kolkata

• India Energy Week 2027 will be held in Kolkata from 28–31 January 2027.
• It will be the first India Energy Week hosted in eastern India.

Minimum Support Prices for Rabi Crops 2027–28

• Wheat MSP was increased by ₹25 to ₹2,610 per quintal.
• 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.

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.
• Total exports were nearly US$400 billion during the first five months of FY27, keeping India on track for strong annual exports.
• Growth is supported by domestic consumption, investment, bank credit, infrastructure activity and services.

Amended BharatNet Programme Expanded in Maharashtra

• 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.

India, Japan Launch Operational Manual for Joint Crediting Mechanism

• It operationalises cooperation under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement.
• The manual covers the complete project cycle, from project idea submission to credit issuance and authorisation.

Odisha Launches MICE Incentive Portal

• Eligible events can receive incentives of ₹1,000 per room per day, subject to specified conditions.
• Odisha launched India's first dedicated digital portal for MICE — Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions tourism.

India-Japan Joint Crediting Mechanism Operationalised

• The mechanism operates under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement.
• The manual covers the process from project proposal to carbon-credit issuance and authorisation.

Government Establishes FTA Utilisation Cell

• Objective: To help Indian businesses understand and use benefits under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), including preferential market access and tariff concessions.
• Established by: The Department of Commerce, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting Held in the United States

• Meeting: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal attended the G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Milwaukee, USA, from 30 September to 1 October 2026.
• India’s Position: India highlighted food security, farmers’ interests and international cooperation in trade.

Hical Technologies and Safran Aerosystems Sign Rafale Manufacturing MoU

• Agreement: Indian aerospace manufacturer Hical Technologies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with France-based Safran Aerosystems to explore a joint venture in India.
• Manufacturing Base: Hical’s aerospace facility in Devanahalli, near Bengaluru, Karnataka, is expected to support the partnership.

Fitch Unit Raises India’s FY2026–27 Growth Forecast to 7.5%

• BMI, a unit of Fitch Solutions, raised India’s economic growth forecast for FY2026–27 to 7.5%, from its earlier estimate of 6.8%.

Retail Inflation Rises to 5.5% in September

• India’s retail inflation increased to 5.5% in September, compared with 4.8% in the previous month.
• Inflation in food and beverages rose to 7.4%, up from 5.7% in the previous month.

India–EFTA Trade Agreement (TEPA) Comes into Force

• The India–European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) came into force on 1 October 2026, according to the provided news.
• EFTA consists of Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein; these countries are not members of the European Union.

Maharashtra Signs MoU for ₹70,000 Crore Green Data Centre Park

• The project aims to source 51% of its operational electricity from green energy and generate more than 7,000 jobs.
• The project is planned with a capacity of 750 megawatts (MW), with operations expected to begin in 2028.

IMF Raises India’s FY2026–27 GDP Growth Forecast to 7%

• The World Bank and Reserve Bank of India had also projected India’s FY2026–27 growth at 7.1%, according to the article.
• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised India’s growth forecast for FY2026–27 to 7%, from 6.4% estimated in July.
• The IMF also raised its FY2027–28 growth forecast to 7%, from 6.7%.
• India’s GDP growth stood at 7.8% in FY2025–26.

Oman Replaces the United States as India’s Largest LNG Supplier

• India imported 2.17 million tonnes of LNG during the month, 14% less than in the previous comparison period.
• Oman became India’s largest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in September 2026, replacing the United States.

Wholesale Price Inflation Rises to 11.4% in September

• India's Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation rose to 11.4% in September, a 49-month high according to the longer historical series mentioned in the report.
• Inflation in food articles increased to 8.1%, compared with 5.7% in the previous month.
• Inflation in non-food primary articles stood at 10.3%.
• WPI measures changes in the prices of goods at the wholesale level, before they reach consumers.

India–China Trade: Exports Rise 40.7%, Trade Deficit Crosses $100 Billion

• During January–September 2026, India's exports to China increased 40.7% to $19.26 billion.
• Imports from China reached $125.19 billion, an increase of 23.3%.
• Total two-way trade reached $144.45 billion, growing by 25.4%.
• India's trade deficit with China reached $105.93 billion, meaning India imported substantially more from China than it exported.

UNCTAD Projects India's Growth at 7.3% in 2026

• The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) projected India's economic growth at 7.3% in 2026.
• Global growth is projected at 2.6%, down from 2.9% in 2025; developing economies are expected to grow by 4%.
• Global trade reached a record $35 trillion in 2025, while trade in goods and services is projected to grow by around 4% in 2026.
• The report highlights the growing importance of artificial intelligence products, semiconductors and advanced computing equipment in global trade.

Internet Shutdowns in India

• India's share of global internet shutdowns reportedly increased from 37% in 2016 to 63% in 2020, before declining to 21% in 2025.
• Protests accounted for 47% of shutdown cases in 2025, compared with 8% in 2021, according to the figures in the supplied article.
• Despite this decline, India ranked second globally in 2025, behind Myanmar and ahead of Pakistan.

India's Merchandise Exports Rise 23.04% in September 2026

• India's merchandise exports rose 23.04% year-on-year to $44.4 billion in September 2026, supported by petroleum products, electronic goods and chemicals.
• Electronic goods exports grew 70.44% to $5.3 billion, petroleum product exports rose 31.9% to $6.2 billion, and chemical exports increased 24.21% to $3 billion.
• Imports stood at $74.61 billion, while the merchandise trade deficit narrowed year-on-year to $30.21 billion, compared with $33 billion in September 2025.

India’s Unemployment Rate Remains at 5%

• India's unemployment rate remained at 5% in September 2026, unchanged from August, according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) bulletin of the National Statistics Office.
• The labour force participation rate declined slightly from 55.6% to 55.5%.
• Unemployment was higher in urban areas at 6.9% than in rural areas at 4.2%. Overall unemployment among women was 5.2%, compared with 4.9% among men.

India Launches Development Projects Worth ₹3,350 Crore in Ladakh

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated five development projects worth approximately ₹3,350 crore covering airport infrastructure and strategic road connectivity in Ladakh.

Five States to Get Permanent Seats in New GST Standing Committee

• The proposed committee will comprise 12 states: five large, four medium and three small states, with seven positions rotating every two years.
• Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have been announced as permanent members of a new Standing Committee under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework.

India–Mauritius Tax Treaty Introduces Principal Purpose Test

• Investments made before 1 April 2017 are exempt from the PPT, according to the supplied report; the change aims to strengthen tax compliance while protecting legitimate treaty benefits. Pasted text.txt
• The Central Government notified amendments to the India–Mauritius Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) on 13 October 2026.

NTPC Signs Agreement with Africa50 for Power Projects

• NTPC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power, signed a cooperation agreement with Africa50.
• The partnership aims to identify and develop commercially viable power projects across African countries.
• NTPC will contribute technical expertise in project assessment, engineering, construction and operations, while Africa50 will support project identification, government coordination and investment structuring.

India and Mauritius Amend Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement

• Exemption: According to the supplied report, investments made before 1 April 2017 are exempt from the PPT.
• Notification: The Central Government notified amendments to the India–Mauritius Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) on 13 October 2026.
• Objective: The amendment aims to reduce tax avoidance and strengthen compliance while preserving legitimate treaty benefits.

NTPC Partners with Africa50 for African Power Projects

• Objective: The partnership also explores cross-border electricity trading to improve regional power connectivity and electricity availability.
• Agreement: NTPC Limited signed a cooperation agreement with Africa50 to identify and develop commercially viable power projects across African countries.
• Africa50's role: It will support project identification, government coordination and investment structuring.

India Supports Indigenous Drone and Quantum-Secure Technologies

• Drone logistics: The YETI vehicle is designed for remote and high-altitude deliveries, with a reported payload capacity of 200 kilograms.

World Bank Group’s First Digital Strategy

• Launch: The World Bank Group launched its first comprehensive digital strategy at the Global Artificial Intelligence and Digital Summit 2026 in Seoul, South Korea.
• Digital divide: In 2025, more than 2 billion people worldwide remained offline. Internet usage was 23% in low-income countries, compared with 94% in high-income countries.
• Target: The strategy aims to benefit 1 billion people by 2030 through better internet connectivity, affordable digital access, digital services and skills, and improved artificial intelligence readiness.

India and New Zealand Sign MoC on Electronic Origin Data Exchange

• India and New Zealand signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) in October 2026 to exchange electronic data on the origin of goods traded between them.
• The arrangement supports customs coordination under the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which, according to the supplied news, came into force on 20 October 2026.

UN Biodiversity Summit to Review 2030 Goals

• Main objective: To review global progress towards biodiversity conservation targets for 2030 and assess the action needed to address the decline in biodiversity caused by human activities.
• Conference: Representatives from 196 countries, Indigenous peoples, local communities and other stakeholders gathered in Yerevan, Armenia, for the 17th United Nations biodiversity conference.
• Key concern: Habitat destruction, pollution, climate change and the overuse of natural resources threaten biodiversity and ecosystem stability.
• Significance: The conference provides an opportunity to strengthen international cooperation and accelerate implementation of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Nepal Becomes First Beneficiary of the Loss and Damage Fund

• Fund: The Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) was created in 2022 to help vulnerable developing countries deal with climate-related losses.
• Latest Development: In October 2026, the fund’s board provisionally set aside $20 million for Nepal following devastating flash floods in August.
• Importance: It is a major step towards meeting developing countries’ demand for financial support for climate-related damage. The supplied articles report different figures: $20 million and $21.6 million.
• Purpose: Supports recovery from climate disasters such as floods, cyclones and droughts, as well as slow-onset impacts such as sea-level rise and desertification.

India's Defence Exports to Europe

• India’s defence exports reportedly reached a record ₹38,424 crore, reflecting the growth of domestic defence manufacturing.
• Rising European demand for ammunition, linked to the ReArm Europe initiative, has created export opportunities for Indian manufacturers.

India Chem 2026 Highlights India's Chemical Industry Growth Targets

• Event: The 14th edition of India Chem 2026 was held from 22 to 24 October 2026 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, NESCO, Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Organisers: The Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, organised the event in partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
• Growth Targets: India aims to develop its chemical industry into a US$300 billion sector by 2030, US$1 trillion by 2040 and approximately US$1.6 trillion by 2047. The event also featured the India Chem Youth Innovation Challenge.

Jio Platforms IPO

• Development: The supplied material reports that Jio Platforms debuted on the BSE and NSE following an IPO worth ₹30,213 crore.
• Investor Response: The reported bids reached approximately ₹7.3 lakh crore, indicating strong demand for the offering.
• Capital Market: An IPO enables a company to raise money from public investors or allows existing shareholders to sell their holdings.

The Gendered Skill Gap in India's Workforce

• Women's share among apprentices under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) increased from 11.8% in 2018–19 to 32.4% in 2025–26, before reaching 29.5% of 1.35 million apprentices in 2026–27 so far.
• Women remain underrepresented in technical trades: their participation is reported at 6% among electricians and 2.6% among fitters, with zero participation reported in welding, diesel mechanics and lineman trades.
• After vocational training, the employment rate is reported at 83.3% for men compared with 51.4% for women. Rural women also have greater concentration in unpaid family work and lower representation in regular wage employment.
• Under NAPS-2, the government provides 25% of the minimum stipend, capped at ₹1,500 per month. The figures highlight the need to improve women's access to technical training, childcare and better-paying jobs.

Centre's Fiscal Deficit Reaches 42% of FY27 Target in H1

• India's fiscal deficit reached 42% of the FY27 Budget Estimate during April–September 2026, compared with nearly 37% in the corresponding period of the previous financial year.
• The fiscal deficit increased nearly 25% year-on-year to ₹7.14 lakh crore during the first half of FY2026–27.
• Government expenditure rose nearly 11% to ₹25.50 lakh crore, mainly due to higher revenue expenditure.
• Revenue expenditure increased 10% to ₹18.95 lakh crore, supported by higher subsidy spending. Slower tax collection and increased expenditure contributed to the higher fiscal deficit.

Dearness Allowance Increased to 63%

• The Union Government increased Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) by three percentage points, from 60% to 63%, with effect from 1 July 2026.
• DA is paid to government employees, while DR is paid to pensioners.
• It is a cost-of-living adjustment intended to protect the purchasing power of employees and pensioners against inflation.

Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 4.0

• Union Minister of State Prataprao Jadhav launched the fourth edition of the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign (TFYC 4.0) on 28 October 2026 in New Delhi.
• The campaign is organised by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and will run for 60 days.

Seva First Innovation Challenge 2026

• The Seva First Innovation Challenge (SFIC) was launched to encourage young people to develop solutions to community problems.
• 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.
• The issue concerns the balance between centralised software systems and the statutory role of Electoral Registration Officers (EROs).

International Day of the Deaf 2026

• Observed on 27 September 2026, the last Sunday of September.
• The World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) was established in 1951.

International Day for Universal Access to Information 2026

• 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.
• Observed on 28 September to promote the right to access information.

International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste 2026

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

World Habitat Day 2026

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

World Teachers’ Day 2026

• 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 Teachers’ Day is observed every year on 5 October.

World Cerebral Palsy Day 2026

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

Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve to Become New Cheetah Habitat

• The reserve covers about 2,339 sq km across Sagar, Damoh and Narsinghpur districts.
• Two cheetahs, Tholo and CCB-3, are being moved from Kuno National Park.
• It is Madhya Pradesh's 7th tiger reserve and India's 54th tiger reserve.

India Falls Short of Leprosy Control Targets

• New Cases: India reported 91,783 new leprosy cases, compared with the projected 65,000 — about 41.2% higher.
• Child Cases: The country recorded 3,832 child cases against a target of 2,000 — about 91.6% higher.
• Other Indicators: The Grade 2 Disability (G2D) rate was 1.34 per million, against a target of 1 per million. Only 148 districts achieved interrupted transmission, against a target of 300.

JOSH Teams Launched to Support TB Elimination

• Implementation: National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets and MY Bharat volunteers will conduct household-level outreach in 55 districts across 11 States and Union Territories.
• Launched by: The Union Health Ministry under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.
• Full Form: JOSH stands for Joint Squad for Health.
• Objective: To identify people with tuberculosis (TB) who have not been reached by the health system and connect them with testing and treatment.

UNICEF India Names Smriti Mandhana Celebrity Advocate

• UNICEF India appointed Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana as a celebrity advocate on 11 October 2026, marking the International Day of the Girl.

UNICEF India Names Smriti Mandhana Celebrity Advocate

• UNICEF India appointed cricketer Smriti Mandhana as a celebrity advocate on 11 October 2026, marking the International Day of the Girl.

UNDP and Generali Central Launch Insurance Innovation Challenge

• Up to three winners can receive grants of USD 40,000 each. The application deadline is 20 November 2026.

World Mental Health Day 2026

• The 2026 theme provided in the notes is “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”.
• The day was initiated in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, and the World Health Organization has led the global campaign since 2013.
• World Mental Health Day is observed annually on 10 October to raise awareness about mental health and encourage support for mental well-being.

National Human Rights Commission Celebrates 33rd Foundation Day

• The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) celebrated its 33rd Foundation Day on 12 October 2026, highlighting the need to strengthen human rights protection.
• The NHRC was established on 12 October 1993.

World Mental Health Day 2026

• The 2026 theme was “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.”
• World Mental Health Day is observed every year on 10 October to raise awareness about mental health and encourage access to mental healthcare.

Tele-MANAS: India’s Mental Health Helpline

• It was launched on 10 October 2022 under the National Tele Mental Health Programme of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• The helpline received nearly 48 lakh calls in four years, highlighting the need for accessible mental healthcare.
• The free, 24-hour helpline operates through 14416, providing mental health counselling, psychological support and referrals.

The Myth of “Unskilled” Labour in India

• Safe in India Foundation data cited in the article for the automotive sector in 2024 showed an average of 2.27 fingers lost per accident among the lower-paid “unskilled” category, compared with 1.54 among the “skilled” category.
• Uttar Pradesh announced an interim monthly wage increase to ₹13,690 for “unskilled” workers and ₹16,868 for “skilled” workers.
• A The Hindu article argues that classifying workers as “unskilled” can affect their wages, workplace safety and job security.

India's First Household Travel Survey

• The National Statistics Office conducted India's first all-India household travel survey between July 2025 and July 2026.
• Two-wheelers accounted for 43% of workers' travel, while public transport accounted for 15% and cars for 3%.
• Average commuting time was 25 minutes; average monthly spending on travel to a fixed workplace was ₹785. The survey also reported a gap in daily work trips between male workers (62%) and female workers (42%).
• The survey covered more than 14,000 villages and 10,000 urban blocks.

Bhagini Nivedita Scheme for Women’s Higher Education

• The scheme is scheduled for implementation from January 2027, according to the supplied report.
• Eligible beneficiaries will receive ₹50,000 over three years: ₹17,000 in the first year, ₹17,000 in the second year and ₹16,000 in the third year.
• The West Bengal Cabinet approved the Bhagini Nivedita Scheme to provide financial assistance to unmarried women pursuing higher education.

International Day of Rural Women 2026

• The supplied report gives the 2026 theme as “Rural Women Farmers Caring for Mother Nature.”
• In India, Mahila Kisan Diwas was observed on 15 October 2026 to recognise the role of women farmers.
• The International Day of Rural Women is observed every year on 15 October to recognise rural and indigenous women's contributions to agriculture, food security and rural development.

Global Handwashing Day 2026

• The supplied report gives the 2026 theme as “Be a Handwashing Hero.”
• Global Handwashing Day is observed annually on 15 October to promote handwashing with soap and water as a simple way to prevent infections.

Supreme Court Recognises Internet Access as a Fundamental Right

• The ruling referred to the 2020 Anuradha Bhasin v. Union of India judgment, which recognised constitutional protection for freedom of speech and expression through the Internet.
• The Supreme Court stated that the right to access and use the Internet is a fundamental right under Article 21 read with Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.
• The report highlights the responsibility of individuals who create or share objectionable content and intermediaries that fail to remove it. Pasted text.txt

Internet Access as a Fundamental Right for Children

• Constitutional provisions: The ruling relates to Article 19(1)(a), which protects freedom of speech and expression, and Article 21, which protects life and personal liberty.

Reema Nanavaty Receives Hillary Rodham Clinton Award

• Recipient: Reema Nanavaty, Director of the Self-Employed Women's Association (SEWA) of India, received the Hillary Rodham Clinton Award in October 2026.
• Previous honour: She received the Padma Shri in 2013 for social work.
• Awarding institution: The award was presented through the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security in Washington, D.C.
• Recognition: The award recognises her work in women's economic empowerment, livelihoods, peace and security.

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2026

• UN recognition: The United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/47/196 on 22 December 1992. The first UN-recognised observance took place in 1993.
• 2026–2028 theme: “United for Peace and Human Rights.”
• Origin: On 17 October 1987, more than 100,000 people gathered at Trocadéro Plaza in Paris to honour victims of poverty, hunger and violence.
• Date: Observed every year on 17 October by the United Nations (UN).

UNESCO Releases 2026 GEM Gender Report on Education Access

• Between 2000 and 2024, the share of countries with fewer than nine girls enrolled for every ten boys fell from 15% to 2% in primary education and from 18% to 5% in upper-secondary education.
• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) released its 2026 Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Gender Report, titled Gender Equity in Access to Education.
• The report examines school enrolment, completion rates and access to higher education, highlighting barriers such as poverty, child marriage and geographical disadvantages.
• In 2024, global gender parity had been achieved in pre-primary, primary and secondary enrolment, but inequalities remained in tertiary education and disadvantaged communities.

PM-DAKSH Yojana: Skill Development and Employment

• Reported Progress: The scheme had trained 1.87 lakh candidates, with 96,162 candidates securing placements, according to the October 2026 update in the supplied material.
• Training Focus: The scheme aims to improve employability through skill development and vocational training.

Urban Mobility India Conference and National Urban Conclave 2026

• Event: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, in collaboration with the Government of Odisha, organised the 19th Urban Mobility India Conference and the second National Urban Conclave in Bhubaneswar from 23 to 25 October 2026.
• Importance: The events focused on sustainable transport, urban planning, better city governance and improved service delivery towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

Ayushman Vay Vandana Initiative Completes Two Years

• Ayushman Vay Vandana (AVV) completed two years of implementation in October 2026. It provides healthcare coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, irrespective of their socio-economic status.
• Senior citizens aged 70 years and above who belong to families already covered under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) receive an additional top-up cover of up to ₹5 lakh per year, exclusively for themselves.
• Eligible senior citizens receive health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation.
• The initiative is implemented by the National Health Authority (NHA) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

UN Report: At Least 25 Women and Girls Killed Daily in Armed Conflicts

• More than 37,000 civilians were killed in armed conflicts in 2025, with women and girls accounting for 25% of the deaths.
• The 2026 UN Secretary-General’s Report on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) revealed that at least 25 women and girls were killed daily in armed conflicts worldwide during 2025.
• Around 170 million women and girls faced conflict and extreme poverty, surviving on less than USD 3 per day. Women also spent five times as many hours on unpaid care work as men in conflict-affected countries.
• The United Nations verified 9,788 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in 2025. Around 750 million women and girls lived within 50 km of active conflicts.

World Stroke Day – 29 October

• The day was established in 2004, and the first global observance took place on 29 October 2006.
• 2026 Theme: “Every M1nute Counts.”
• The World Stroke Organization (WSO) was formed in October 2006.
• World Stroke Day is observed annually on 29 October to raise awareness about stroke prevention, treatment and its impact.

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.

India Reaches Women’s Hockey Final

• India defeated South Korea 2–0 to reach the women's hockey final.
• India dominated possession but struggled to convert penalty corners during the early stages.

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.

Skytrax World Airline Awards 2026

• Singapore Airlines was named the World’s Best Airline in the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards.
• 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.

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 also became one of the youngest players to achieve major international chess milestones.

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

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

World Contraception Day 2026

• The 2026 theme was “No Barriers, Just Choices.”
• The first observance was held in 2007.
• World Contraception Day is observed on 26 September.

International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons

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

World Environmental Health Day 2026

• The 2026 theme was “Environmental Health: Standing with Science to Protect Communities.”
• Observed on 26 September every year.

Delhi Launches ‘Udyog Mitra’ Portal

• The portal initially integrates 50+ services from 15 departments, with plans for further expansion.

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.

Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma Crowned King of Tooro

• He was selected by a 21-member Babiito clan committee.
• Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma was crowned the 13th King (Omukama) of Tooro Kingdom, Uganda.

ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise 2026

• The 2nd ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) was held at Subic Bay, Philippines.

HSBC Global Entrepreneurial Wealth Report 2026

• The report found that around 74% of Indian entrepreneurs surveyed planned to relocate or secure overseas residency.
• Around 99% were adopting or planning to adopt AI in business.

Pranavi Urs Wins Historic Asian Games Golf Gold

• Pranavi Urs became the first Indian woman golfer to win an Asian Games gold medal.

Kumkum Mohod Wins Asian Games Recurve Gold

• 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.

CAG-BHASHINI Anuvaad Launched for Audit Documents

• BHASHINI, launched in 2022, supports multiple Indian and international languages for digital public services.

India Reaffirms Whale Conservation Commitment at IWC-70

• India protects cetaceans through the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, Marine Protected Areas and Project Dolphin.
• India participated in the 70th International Whaling Commission meeting (IWC-70) in Hobart, Australia, held from 28 September to 2 October 2026.

THE World University Rankings 2027

• 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.
• IISc Bengaluru was the highest-ranked Indian institution, placed 254th globally.

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.

Flying Wedge Defence–Keydef Partnership

• 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

• The first observance was held on 1 October 1991.
• 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.

International Coffee Day 2026

• 2026 marked the first official UNGA-recognised observance of International Coffee Day.
• 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.”

World Vegetarian Day 2026

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

NSO 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 National Statistics Office (NSO) released findings from India’s first National Household Travel Survey.
• The data helps understand urban mobility and transport patterns in India.

Five New Cheetah Cubs Born in Kuno

• 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.

Five Centres of Excellence for Classical Languages

• Assamese: Tezpur University; Bengali: Visva-Bharati.
• Marathi: Deccan College, Pune; Pali: Central University of Odisha; Prakrit: Central University of Gujarat.
• The Ministry of Education approved five Centres of Excellence (CoEs) for Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali and Prakrit.

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.

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.

Pondicherry University–NIT Nagaland Research Collaboration

• IISc Bengaluru will act as the hub, while Pondicherry University and NIT Nagaland will function as spoke institutions.
• Pondicherry University and NIT Nagaland signed an MoU under the ANRF-PAIR programme.
• NIT Nagaland became the first North-Eastern institution participating in this PAIR project.

HAL to Acquire Full Ownership of HATSOFF

• HAL signed an agreement to acquire the remaining 50% stake in HATSOFF Helicopter Training from CAE Canada.
• After completion, HATSOFF will become a 100% wholly owned subsidiary of HAL.

DRDO’s Kaveri Dry Engine Completes Trials

• 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

• It achieved a Quantum Bit Error Rate below 5% and generated secure keys at 230–260 bps.
• 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.

New Lizard Species Discovered in Peru

• It was found at an altitude of about 4,818 metres in the Arequipa region.
• 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

• 2026 marked Gandhi’s 157th birth anniversary.
• 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.

World Animal Day 2026

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

National Wildlife Week 2026

• National Wildlife Week developed from the National Wildlife Day first observed in 1955.
• 2026 Theme: “Connecting Habitats, Thriving Wildlife.”
• Observed in India from 2–8 October to promote wildlife conservation.

India Among Countries Interested in Hosting 2036 Olympics

• The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is expected to decide the host through its members in 2029.
• India is among seven countries that expressed interest in hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics.
• The IOC is also discussing potential hosting for 2040 and 2044.

HAL Delivers Its 2,000th Aero-Engine

• Around ₹5,000 crore of proposed investment will support the aerospace ecosystem.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) delivered its 2,000th aero-engine from its Koraput division in Odisha.
• 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

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

Three High Court Chief Justices Appointed as Supreme Court Judges

• The appointments were made under Article 124(2) of the Constitution.
• 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 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.

Max Verstappen Wins 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix

• Max Verstappen won the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix for Oracle Red Bull Racing.
• 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.

India Mobile Congress 2026

• The 2026 theme is “Scale Without Boundaries.”
• The 10th edition of India Mobile Congress (IMC) began at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.

Novak Djokovic Wins Seventh China Open Title

• The victory also gave him his 102nd Tour-level trophy.

Starlink Faces Delay in Launching Satellite Internet Services in India

• A Starlink official indicated that the service could potentially become operational in India by 2027.
• SpaceX's Starlink has received Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite (GMPCS) authorisation from the Department of Telecommunications.

India Develops Indigenous High-Altitude Platform for Surveillance

• The platform reached 21 km altitude and remained at around 20 km for more than 30 minutes.

DRDO Conducts Advanced High-Altitude Parachute Trial

• The jump was conducted from 16,000 ft, with deployment at 15,500 ft.

India–Korea Sign Sports Cooperation MoU

• The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Korean Sport and Olympic Committee (KSOC) signed an MoU during the Asian Games 2026.

Palle Rama Rao Passes Away at 89

• Professor Palle Rama Rao, noted metallurgist and Padma Awardee, passed away at the age of 89.
• He served as Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Chairman of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad.

Eva Marie Saint Passes Away at 102

• She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for On the Waterfront (1954).
• Oscar-winning American actress Eva Marie Saint passed away at the age of 102.
• She was one of the prominent surviving stars of Hollywood's Golden Age.

Henri Boris Kagan and Kenso Soai Win 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry

• Prize Money: The laureates will share 12 million Swedish kronor (SEK).

Mahesh Kakde Wins 2026 Ramanujan Prize for Mathematics

• Award Details: The prize has been awarded annually since 2005 to outstanding mathematicians under 45 from developing countries. It is jointly presented by the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), the International Mathematical Union (IMU) and India’s Department of Science and Technology (DST).

EyeROV Delivers India’s First Indigenous Military-Grade Underwater ROV

• Contract: The delivery is part of an order for five systems, following a ₹47 crore contract awarded in September 2025.
• Company: Kochi-based deep-tech startup EyeROV delivered two TROUT underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) systems to the Indian Navy on 7 October 2026.

Roshan Kumari, Padma Shri Kathak Dancer, Passes Away

• Award: She received the Padma Shri in 1984 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.
• Contribution: She founded Nritya Kala Kendra in Bandra, Mumbai, in 1971 to train students and promote Kathak.

Indian Air Force Day 2026

• 2026 Anniversary: The day marked the 94th anniversary of the IAF.
• Date: Observed annually on 8 October to mark the establishment of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 1932.
• 2026 Event: The parade and ceremonial flypast were held at Hindon Air Force Station, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.

World Post Day 2026

• Date: Observed annually on 9 October to mark the establishment of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1874.
• 2026 Theme: “World Post Day: One Postal Network, Infinite Possibilities.”
• History: The observance was adopted in 1969 by the UPU Congress in Tokyo as UPU Day and renamed World Post Day in 1984.

The JOSH Initiative

• TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan — India aims to end TB by 2025, five years ahead of the SDG 3.3 target of 2030
• Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana gives ₹1,000 per month (raised from ₹500) for nutrition during treatment; Ni-kshay Mitra allows citizens to adopt TB patients
• Khushi Avatar (e-Sangini) — a multilingual AI assistant answering queries and giving medication reminders in 12 Indian languages
• India has the world's highest TB burden, with about 26 per cent of global cases

Putul Sonowal Assures India’s First-Ever World Bowls Champion of Champions Medal

• Significance: Her achievement assured India’s first-ever medal at the tournament, according to the report.
• Achievement: Indian player Putul Sonowal, aged 43 and from Assam, secured a place in the men’s singles semi-finals at the World Bowls Champion of Champions in Barham, Australia.

Indian Navy to Commission ASW Shallow Water Craft Mangrol

• Commissioning: It is scheduled to be commissioned into the Indian Navy on 12 October 2026 at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai.
• Purpose: ASW shallow water craft are designed to help detect and counter enemy submarines in coastal and shallow waters.

‘Pandharpur Wari’ Documentary Wins National Honour at Asian Academy Creative Awards 2026

• Award: The recognition is part of the Asian Academy Creative Awards 2026.

MeitY Pavilion Showcases Digital India Initiatives at India Mobile Congress 2026

• Organiser: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) established a dedicated pavilion at India Mobile Congress 2026 in Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.

Indian Foreign Service Day 2026

• Ministry: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reaffirmed its commitment to serving the nation and advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat.
• Observed on: 9 October, to recognise the role of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in representing India abroad.

Territorial Army Raising Day 2026

• Occasion: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated members, veterans and families of the Territorial Army on its Raising Day.
• Motto: “Naagrik Bhi, Sainik Bhi”, meaning “Citizens as well as Soldiers.”

Mumbai to Host World Hindu Congress 2026

• Dates: The fourth World Hindu Congress is scheduled for 18–20 December 2026 in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Inaugural Address: Organisers announced that RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat would deliver the inaugural address.

3,000-Year-Old Writing System Possibly Found at Thelunganur

• Historical Significance: Thelunganur and Mangadu have been dated to 1600–1200 BCE. The discovery may provide clues about early writing and communication, but the signs have not been conclusively identified as a writing system.
• Important Facts: Around 16,000 graffiti-inscribed potsherds have been found across Tamil Nadu. Studies have reported similarities between some Tamil Nadu graffiti signs and Indus script signs, which remain undeciphered.

Putul Sonowal Assures India’s First-Ever World Bowls Champion of Champions Medal

• Significance: According to the report, she assured India’s first-ever medal at the tournament.

Udhayveer Sidhu Wins Gold at ISSF World Cup in Cairo

• Event: Men’s 10-metre air pistol at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup in Cairo, Egypt.
• Gold Medal: India’s Udhayveer Sidhu scored 240.6 points in the final.
• Other Medalists: Germany’s Christian Reitz won silver with 240.1 points, while Italy’s Paolo Monna took bronze with 219.8 points.

Scientists Report the First Working Nuclear Clocks

• Development: Scientists from Europe and China reported the first working nuclear clocks in two papers published in the journal Nature.

INS Mangrol: Third Indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft

• Commissioning: Scheduled for 12 October 2026 at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai.
• Purpose: Designed to detect and counter enemy submarines and underwater threats in shallow coastal waters.

Project Seabird: New Infrastructure at Karwar Naval Base

• Objective: To expand naval facilities for basing, repair, maintenance and logistics for warships and submarines.

Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel Shreyas Launched

• Vessel: Shreyas (Yard 3040) is a Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) launched at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, on 10 October 2026.
• Significance: The vessel’s launch advances India’s efforts to strengthen indigenous warship construction.

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026

• Host: The Indian Air Force (IAF) hosted the second edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti from 26 September to 12 October 2026.
• Venue: The Defence Minister addressed participants at Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan, on 10 October 2026.
• Participating Countries: Air forces from Australia, Bangladesh, France, Germany, Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates and the United States participated, alongside 32 observer nations.
• Objective: The exercise promotes joint training, interoperability, defence self-reliance and international cooperation.

Exercise INDRA 2026: INS Sahyadri Arrives in Russia

• Ship: Indian Navy’s INS Sahyadri arrived at Vladivostok, Russia, on 10 October 2026.
• Exercise Dates: The bilateral Exercise INDRA 2026 is scheduled for 13–18 October 2026.
• Objective: To improve operational coordination, professional exchanges and maritime interoperability.

Exercise KONKAN 2026: INS Trishul Arrives in the United Kingdom

• Objective: The exercise strengthens maritime cooperation, operational interoperability and mutual understanding between India and the United Kingdom.
• Exercise: It is scheduled to participate in Exercise KONKAN-26, the annual bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and Royal Navy.

Smriti Mandhana Named UNICEF India Celebrity Advocate

• Objective: The initiative aims to encourage girls’ participation in sports, leadership and decision-making and raise awareness of barriers affecting their rights.

Udhayveer Sidhu Wins Gold at ISSF World Cup in Cairo

• Achievement: Udhayveer Sidhu won the gold medal in the men’s 10-metre air pistol event at the ISSF World Cup in Cairo.
• Final Score: He scored 240.6 points, ahead of Germany’s Christian Reitz (240.1) and Italy’s Paolo Monna (219.8).

Indian Foreign Service Day 2026

• Ministry: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reaffirmed its commitment to serving India and advancing Viksit Bharat.
• Date: 9 October, observed to recognise the role of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS).

Territorial Army Raising Day 2026

• Occasion: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the personnel, veterans and families of the Territorial Army.
• Motto: “Naagrik Bhi, Sainik Bhi”, meaning “Citizens as well as Soldiers.”

‘Pandharpur Wari’ Documentary Wins National Honour

• Documentary: Pandharpur Wari – In the Footsteps of the Saints was named India’s national winner in the Best Branded Programme category at the Asian Academy Creative Awards 2026.

MeitY Pavilion Showcases Digital India Initiatives at India Mobile Congress 2026

• Organiser: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) established a pavilion at India Mobile Congress 2026 in Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.

Mumbai to Host World Hindu Congress 2026

• Dates: The fourth World Hindu Congress is scheduled for 18–20 December 2026 in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Inaugural Address: Organisers announced that RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat would deliver the inaugural address.

Henley Passport Index 2026

• Top-ranked passports: Singapore ranked first with access to 193 destinations. Japan, the United Arab Emirates and South Korea shared second place with access to 188 destinations.
• India’s rank: India ranked 84th, improving from 85th in October 2025, with visa-free access to 55 destinations.
• Lowest-ranked passports: Afghanistan ranked 106th with access to 22 destinations, while Pakistan ranked 103rd with access to 29 destinations.

World Food Day 2026

• Origin: World Food Day was instituted in 1979 at the 20th FAO Conference in Rome. The first observance took place in 1981 following United Nations recognition.
• 2026 theme: “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.”
• FAO establishment: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) was established on 16 October 1945.
• Date: Observed annually on 16 October to raise awareness about food security, nutrition and access to healthy food.

Asian Para Games 2026

• Edition and dates: The fifth edition is scheduled from 18 to 24 October 2026 in Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, Japan.
• Organising body: The Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) regulates the Games, which are recognised by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).

Police Commemoration Day 2026

• Historical significance: The day commemorates 10 police personnel killed by Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh, on 21 October 1959.
• First observance: The day was first observed on 21 October 1960 following a resolution adopted by the annual conference of state and Union Territory police chiefs.
• Date: Observed annually on 21 October to honour police personnel who died in the line of duty.
• 2026 event: Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi and flagged off a nationwide motorcycle rally themed “Fight Against Drugs.”

National Solidarity Day 2026

• Date: Observed annually on 20 October to honour Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
• First observance: National Solidarity Day was first observed on 20 October 1966.
• Establishment: The day was designated in 1966 by a committee constituted under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
• Historical background: The war began on 20 October 1962 and continued until 21 November 1962.

69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference

• Next edition: The 70th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference is scheduled to be hosted by Canada in 2027.
• Theme: “Strengthening International Law and Parliamentary Democracy in a Changing World Order: Commonwealth Leadership.”

Three New Sites Added to India’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List

• New additions: Karst-mud-volcano Complex of Baratang, Andaman Subduction Volcanoes and Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape.
• Locations: The first two sites are in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while Sirpur is in Chhattisgarh.
• Total tentative-list sites: The additions increased India’s total to 81 sites: 59 cultural, 19 natural and 3 mixed.
• Significance: The sites represent geological features, volcanic activity, biodiversity and India’s archaeological and cultural heritage.

MoES and AcSIR Sign MoU for PhD Programmes

• Agreement: The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in October 2026.
• Coverage: All 10 MoES research institutes were recognised as AcSIR Associated Research Institutes.

Ladakh’s First Government Medical College Approved

• Approval: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare approved the operationalisation of Ladakh’s first Government Medical College at Stipuk Pharka, Leh, from the 2027–28 academic year.
• Recruitment: Approval includes a phased recruitment process for 103 sanctioned regular posts.
• Training facilities: Two newly constructed buildings will serve as the academic block and students’ hostel, while the 200-bedded Sonam Norboo Memorial Hospital will support clinical training.

NHAI Launches Toll Plaza Feedback Feature on Rajmargyatra App

• Objective: The feature enables highway users to report service issues, helping NHAI identify gaps and improve toll plaza facilities.
• Annual Pass fee: The fee for eligible non-commercial private cars, jeeps and vans increased to ₹3,075 from 1 April 2026, with validity of one year or 200 toll crossings, whichever comes first.
• Launch: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) introduced the Toll Plaza Feedback feature in October 2026.

Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority Launches NPS Central

• Launch: The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) launched NPS Central on 1 October 2026, observed as NPS Diwas.
• Login: Subscribers can log in using their registered mobile number and date of birth, verified through a One-Time Password (OTP), instead of their Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN).

VORAN and W&S Innovation Sign MoU on Gyroplane Technology

• Products: The partnership covers the X2 advanced gyroplane and AAT Taifun.
• Agreement: Indian aviation startup VORAN Private Limited signed an MoU with Poland-based W&S Innovation – Aviation Artur Trendak in October 2026.

Embraer to Acquire 51% Stake in Novavayu Aerospace

• Agreement: Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer signed an agreement with Mahindra Defence Systems Limited to acquire a 51% controlling stake in Novavayu Aerospace Limited.
• Ownership: Following the proposed transaction, Embraer will hold 51% and Mahindra Defence Systems Limited will hold 49%.
• Purpose: The joint venture aims to promote Embraer’s C-390 Millennium aircraft for the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft programme.
• Significance: The partnership seeks to combine Embraer’s aerospace expertise with Mahindra’s industrial capabilities and support India’s military transport aviation requirements.

DRDO Develops Portable ELINT System

• Other development: DRDO also developed indigenous armour panels around 20% lighter than existing systems, designed to withstand 30 mm armour-piercing ammunition and meet the specified STANAG 4569 Level 6 protection standard.
• Purpose: The system is intended to detect, intercept and analyse signals emitted by enemy radars and other electronic systems.
• Technology: Antennas, receivers, digital signal processing and machine learning will help separate signals and identify radar signatures.

Three New Centipede Species Discovered in the Western Ghats

• Scientific publication: The findings were published in the International Journal of Tropical Insect Science. ZSI, established in 1916 and headquartered in Kolkata, studies and documents India’s animal diversity.
• Discovery: Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) Western Ghats Regional Centre and Malabar Christian College discovered three new species in Kerala and Karnataka.
• Research significance: The findings increased the number of known Rhysida species in India to 23.

Fifth Edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS 5.0)

• Cultural significance: Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently gifted a Russian translation of Thirukkural to Russian President Vladimir Putin during the BRICS Summit 2026.
• Launch: Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi launched the registration portal for the fifth edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam in October 2026.
• Objective: The programme aims to strengthen cultural and educational connections between Kashi (Varanasi) in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

SIMBEX-2026

• Edition and venue: The 33rd edition of the Singapore–India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) commenced in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, in October 2026.
• Objective: The exercise aims to improve maritime cooperation, tactical coordination and operational interoperability between the two navies, particularly in addressing shared security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage I Invoked in Delhi-NCR

• Background: GRAP was formally notified on 12 January 2017 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, following Supreme Court directions in M. C. Mehta v. Union of India.
• Trigger: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) after the Air Quality Index (AQI) entered the Poor category (201–300).
• Four stages: Stage I applies to Poor air quality (201–300), Stage II to Very Poor (301–400), Stage III to Severe (401–450), and Stage IV to Severe+ (above 450).

BHASHINI and IISc Develop Text-to-Speech Models for Sourashtra

• The four models use the Variational Inference with adversarial learning for end-to-end Text-to-Speech (VITS) architecture and generate speech at 22,050 hertz.
• The training corpus contains over 28 hours of recordings, with approximately 10,000 male and 11,400 female utterances.

25th SCO Council of Heads of Government Meeting

• India announced that it would host the first SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum by the end of 2026.
• The 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on 19–20 October 2026, under the chairmanship of Tajikistan's Prime Minister Qohir Rasulzoda.
• Outcomes included a Joint Communiqué, an action plan for multilateral trade and economic cooperation for 2026–2030, and approval of the organisation's 2027 budget.

Vummidi Ethiraj, Craftsman Behind the Sengol, Passes Away

• He helped craft the historic Sengol, a silver sceptre coated with gold, in 1947 for presentation to India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
• Renowned jeweller and craftsman Vummidi Ethiraj passed away at the age of 99 in Chennai in October 2026.
• On 28 May 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ceremonially installed the Sengol in India's new Parliament building.

Former Prasar Bharati Chairman Releases Book on Indian TV News

• It covers the growth of Doordarshan, satellite television, private news channels, 24-hour news and digital media.
• The book also discusses television coverage of major events, including the Emergency of 1975–1977, the Jayaprakash Narayan Movement and Operation Blue Star.
• Former Prasar Bharati Chairman Surya Prakash released Harsaran Bir Kaur Pandey's book, The Evolution of TV News in India: From Doordarshan to Digital Disruption – An Insider’s Account.

World Iodine Deficiency Day 2026 – 21 October

• Global efforts to prevent iodine deficiency gained momentum at the 1990 World Summit for Children, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF.
• World Iodine Deficiency Day, also known as Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day, is observed annually on 21 October.
• Iodine is essential for producing the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which regulate metabolism and development.

ACC Appoints Sunil Kumar as ONGC Chairman

• He is expected to assume charge on or after 7 December 2026, succeeding Arun Kumar Singh.
• Sunil Kumar joined ONGC in 1991 and has over three decades of experience in the oil and gas sector.
• He has contributed to the Vasistha and S1 deep-water project on India's east coast and has served as Executive Director and Asset Manager of ONGC's Mehsana Asset since January 2025.
• The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the appointment of Sunil Kumar, an Executive Director at Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), as its next Chairman for a three-year term.

Anca-Maria Verma Appointed IIMSAM Ambassador-at-Large for India

• Her five-year term runs from 20 October 2026 to 19 October 2031.

Dr L. Murugan Resigns as Minister of State and Rajya Sabha Member

• Murugan had served as Vice-Chairperson of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) from 2017 to 2020 and was a Rajya Sabha member from Madhya Pradesh.
• The President accepted his resignation from the Union Council of Ministers under Article 75(2) of the Constitution.
• According to the supplied news, a by-election for the vacant Rajya Sabha seat was scheduled for 12 November 2026.
• Dr Loganathan Murugan resigned as Minister of State in the Ministries of Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, and as a Rajya Sabha member.

SDAL Delivers Nagastra 2 Loitering Munition System to Indian Army

• Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) delivered its indigenous Nagastra 2 anti-tank loitering munition system to the Indian Army.
• The system has a reported range of 25 km in recover-and-reuse mode and 50 km in fire-and-forget mode.
• Its 4 kg tandem shaped-charge warhead is designed to penetrate up to 650 mm of Rolled Homogeneous Armour (RHA). It also incorporates features to improve resistance to electronic warfare.

Tom Skerritt, Veteran Hollywood Actor, Passes Away at 93

• He won the 1993 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role in Picket Fences.
• American actor Tom Skerritt reportedly passed away in October 2026 at the age of 93.
• He made his film debut in War Hunt (1962) and appeared in films including M*A*S*H (1970), Alien (1979) and Top Gun (1986).
• He also co-founded TheFilmSchool in Seattle to support aspiring filmmakers.

International Stuttering Awareness Day 2026 – 22 October

• The 2026 theme was “Shades of Stuttering – What’s Yours?”
• The day was first observed on 22 October 1998, following international efforts to raise awareness of stuttering.
• International Stuttering Awareness Day (ISAD) is observed every year on 22 October to promote understanding and inclusion of people who stutter.
• The sea-green ribbon, adopted in 2009, represents awareness, support and solidarity.

International Snow Leopard Day 2026 – 23 October

• The day originated from the Global Snow Leopard Conservation Forum held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, in 2013.
• The Bishkek Declaration was adopted by 12 snow leopard range countries in 2013, supporting a coordinated conservation effort.
• The United Nations General Assembly formally proclaimed 23 October as International Snow Leopard Day through Resolution A/RES/79/143 in December 2024.
• International Snow Leopard Day, also called World Snow Leopard Day, is observed on 23 October to promote snow leopard conservation and protection of mountain habitats.

Indo-Tibetan Border Police Raising Day 2026 – 24 October

• Its legal framework includes the ITBP Force Act, 1992, and the ITBP Rules, 1994.
• The force was established in 1962 to strengthen security along the India–Tibet border.
• The force operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs and is one of India's Central Armed Police Forces.
• The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) observes its Raising Day on 24 October every year.

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2026 – October

• It was launched in 2004 by the United States Department of Homeland Security and the National Cybersecurity Alliance.
• The National Cybersecurity Alliance's 2026 theme is “Don't Make It Easy for Them”, focusing on everyday habits that protect personal information and digital accounts.
• The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's 2026 theme is “Securing the Next 250”, linked to strengthening cybersecurity as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary.
• National Cybersecurity Awareness Month is observed every October to promote safe online behaviour and protect people and organisations from cyber threats.

International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2026 – 18–24 October

• The Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint was established in 2011 by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Health Organization (WHO); the first awareness week was observed in 2012.
• The 14th International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week was observed from 18 to 24 October 2026.
• The 2026 campaign theme was “From Detection to Prevention”.

Nihal Sarin and Koneru Humpy Win Gold at European Chess Club Cup

• Indian chess players Nihal Sarin and Koneru Humpy won individual gold medals at the European Chess Club Cup 2026.
• The tournament was held in Budva, Montenegro, from 17 to 23 October 2026.

Pankaj Advani Wins 29th World Billiards Title

• Indian cueist Pankaj Advani won his 29th career world title at the WBL World Billiards Championship on 23 October 2026.
• He defeated England's Robert Hall by 1,906–1,206.
• Advani's victory further strengthened his record as one of India's most successful cue-sports players.

Theoretical Physicist Ashoke Sen Wins Oskar Klein Medal

• Award: Ashoke Sen received the 2026 Oskar Klein Medal, becoming the first Indian to win the honour.
• Awarding Institutions: Stockholm University and the Nobel Committee for Physics of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.

Kashi Tamil Sangamam 5.0

• The fifth edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam will be held from 28 November to 12 December 2026.

National Urban Conclave 2026

• The conclave concluded in Bhubaneswar on 25 October 2026 after a two-day programme.
• It was organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in partnership with the Government of Odisha.

Shabari Naturals Wins G-Mark Global Design Award

• Shabari Naturals, a Maharashtra government initiative, received the G-Mark Global Design Award on 25 October 2026.
• The award highlights the potential of traditional art and local identity in modern product design.

Sitaram Raul Wins Wildlife Photography Award

• Indian photographer and fine artist Sitaram Raul won the Behaviour: Invertebrates category at the 2026 Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.
• The award recognises his wildlife photography, particularly his depiction of invertebrate behaviour.

Chef Damu Dies at 72

• K. Damodharan, popularly known as Chef Damu, died in Chennai on 25 October 2026, at the age of 72.
• He received the Padma Shri in 2025 for his contribution to culinary arts.

Yuki Bhambri Wins Almaty Open Doubles Title

• The final was held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, on 25 October 2026.
• Indian tennis player Yuki Bhambri and American partner Ryan Seggerman won the men’s doubles title at the ATP 250 Almaty Open.

Yamuna Rejuvenation Projects in Delhi

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched and laid foundation stones for Yamuna rejuvenation projects worth over ₹8,941 crore.

30th Financial Stability and Development Council Meeting

• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chaired the 30th Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) meeting in New Delhi.
• Its role includes supporting financial stability and coordination among financial-sector regulators.

‘Wings Over Ganga’ Air Show

• Spectators watched aerial displays along the Ganga, from Namo Ghat to Assi Ghat.
• According to the supplied report, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to attend the event and inaugurate a garment facility in Varanasi.

Exercise Keen Sword 27

• Participants: The United States and Japan launched Exercise Keen Sword 27, a joint military field-training exercise involving the Japan Self-Defense Forces and the United States Armed Forces.
• Location: The exercise is being conducted across the waters and islands of southwestern Japan.
• Frequency: Keen Sword is a biennial exercise, meaning it is held every two years.
• Objective: It aims to improve combat readiness, tactical coordination and interoperability across land, sea, air and other operational domains.

Defence Acquisition Council Clears Deals Worth ₹2.12 Lakh Crore

• Approval: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity for capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹2.12 lakh crore for the three armed services.
• Domestic Industry: Around 82% of the proposed acquisitions will be sourced from Indian industry.
• Army Equipment: The proposals include high-mobility vehicles, self-propelled tracked gun systems, light multi-role helicopters, very short-range air defence systems (VSHORADS), surveillance unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and long-range kamikaze drones.

Land Warfare Doctrine 2026 Released

• Released By: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh released the Indian Army's Land Warfare Doctrine 2026 during the Army Commanders' Conference in New Delhi.
• Key Changes: It replaces the December 2018 doctrine and incorporates advanced technologies, drones, artificial intelligence, precision warfare and multi-domain operations.
• Conference: The biannual Army Commanders' Conference was chaired by General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Army Staff, to review operational preparedness, capability development and military modernisation.

Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan

• Occasion: It marked the culmination of year-long celebrations commemorating 75 years of the Chinmaya Mission, founded by Swami Chinmayananda.
• Dates: The three-day event was held from 23 to 25 October 2026.
• Message: The Prime Minister called for social unity, resistance to divisive forces, self-reliance and efforts towards building a developed India by 2047.

Ashoke Sen Wins Oskar Klein Medal 2026

• Established: The medal was instituted in 1988 and is named after Swedish theoretical physicist Oskar Klein.
• Award: Indian theoretical physicist Ashoke Sen, a professor at the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences in Bengaluru, became the first Indian physicist to receive the Oskar Klein Medal.
• Awarding Institutions: The medal is awarded by Stockholm University and the Nobel Committee for Physics of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva Re-elected President of Brazil

• Results: Lula received 51.79% of the votes, while Flávio Bolsonaro secured 48.21%.
• Election: Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva won Brazil's 2026 presidential runoff election on 25 October 2026, defeating Flávio Bolsonaro.
• Oath-Taking: He is scheduled to be sworn in on 5 January 2027, according to the supplied material.
• Significance: According to the supplied material, Lula became the first president in Brazil's democratic era to be elected to four terms, although his terms are non-consecutive.

Asian Para Games 2026: India Finishes Fourth

• Event: The fifth Asian Para Games, officially known as Aichi–Nagoya 2026, were held in Japan from 18 to 24 October 2026.
• Next Edition: Doha, Qatar, will host the sixth Asian Para Games in 2030. The event promotes inclusion and sporting opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
• India's Performance: India finished fourth with 114 medals: 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze. A total of 168 Indian athletes competed across 11 sporting disciplines.
• Top Countries: China topped the medal table with 435 medals, followed by Japan with 186 and Uzbekistan with 145.

Bodhana Sivanandan Becomes Youngest Female International Master

• Achievement: Eleven-year-old British chess player of Indian origin Bodhana Sivanandan became the youngest female International Master (IM), at 11 years, seven months and 16 days.
• Venue: She achieved the feat at the European Club Cup in Budva, Montenegro, in October 2026.
• Record: She surpassed the previous record held by Judit Polgar, who achieved the relevant milestone at age 12 in 1988.
• Performance: She earned her third and final IM norm at the European Club Cup and crossed the required live rating threshold of 2,400.

Ahmedabad to Host Senior World Weightlifting Championships in 2029

• Background: The World Weightlifting Championships were first held in 1891. The first Women's World Weightlifting Championships took place in 1987.
• Announcement: The International Weightlifting Federation announced Ahmedabad, Gujarat, as the host of the 2029 Senior World Weightlifting Championships.
• Other Events: India is also scheduled to host the Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad in 2030, while Gandhinagar hosted the Asian Weightlifting Championships in 2026.
• Significance: It will be the first time India hosts the senior edition of the championship.

Chef Damu Passes Away at 72

• Academic Achievement: In 2004, he earned a PhD in Hotel Management and Catering Technology from the University of Madras.
• Guinness World Record: In December 2010, he cooked 617 dishes weighing 190 kilograms in 24 hours, 30 minutes and 12 seconds.
• Award: He received the Padma Shri in 2025 for his contributions to culinary arts.
• Person: Renowned Tamil chef K. Damodaran, popularly known as Chef Damu, passed away in Chennai at the age of 72.

Jogen Chowdhury Passes Away at 87

• Person: Indian painter and former Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Jogen Chowdhury passed away in Kolkata, West Bengal, at the age of 87.
• Political Role: He represented West Bengal in the Rajya Sabha as a member of the Trinamool Congress from 2014 to 2020.
• Career: He worked as an art teacher, designer at the Handloom Board, Keeper of Art at Rashtrapati Bhavan and professor at Kala Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University.
• Awards: His honours included the Kalidas Samman, Banga Bibhushan and Zainul Samman.

Book: Advantage India: Reshaping the Future for an Equitable World

• Released By: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan released the book in New Delhi in October 2026.
• Themes: The book discusses India's technological development, artificial intelligence, semiconductor independence, defence, space, Digital India, women, youth and India's international role towards 2047.

United Nations Disarmament Week 2026

• Dates: Observed from 24 to 30 October 2026 to raise awareness about disarmament and its role in international peace and security.
• Origin: The United Nations General Assembly called for Disarmament Week in 1978 through the Final Document of its special session on disarmament.
• Participation: In 1995, the General Assembly invited governments and non-governmental organisations to participate actively in the observance.
• Organiser: The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA).

Infantry Day 2026

• Historical Significance: It commemorates the landing of Indian Army troops at Srinagar Airfield on 27 October 1947.
• Date: Observed annually on 27 October by the Indian Army.
• Purpose: The day honours the contribution of the Infantry to India's national security and is also known as Shaurya Diwas.

Kufri Jamunia: Biofortified Purple Potato

• Release: It was officially released in 2024.

Himachal Pradesh Records 100% Survival of Cheer Pheasants

• Achievement: Himachal Pradesh recorded a 100% survival rate among reintroduced Cheer Pheasants in 2024–25, compared with 11.11% in 2019–20.
• Development: During Wildlife Week in October 2026, 12 captive-bred birds were released, according to the supplied material.

India Amends Vehicle Rules for E85 and E100 Flex-Fuel Vehicles

• Amendment: On 23 October 2026, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways amended the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
• Fuel Types: E85 contains up to 85% ethanol, while E100 refers to ethanol fuel.
• Objective: Flex-fuel vehicles are designed to operate on petrol and specified ethanol blends, helping expand the use of alternative fuels.

Sarvam Signs MoU for Armed Forces AI Projects

• Agreement: On 27 October 2026, Sarvam signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff under the Ministry of Defence.

Sarvam Signs MoU for Armed Forces AI Projects

• Agreement: Indian AI company Sarvam signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), Ministry of Defence.
• Objective: The agreement establishes an umbrella framework for artificial intelligence projects across the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force.

Cyclone Arnab

• Classification: A Very Severe Cyclonic Storm is a category in the IMD's classification of tropical cyclones, associated with sustained winds of approximately 118–166 km/h.

Ashoke Sen Wins the 2026 Oskar Klein Medal

• History: The medal was instituted in 1988 in honour of Swedish physicist Oskar Klein.
• Awarding Institutions: The award is associated with Stockholm University and the Nobel Committee for Physics of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.
• Achievement: Indian theoretical physicist Ashoke Sen became the first Indian physicist to receive the Oskar Klein Medal, according to the supplied material.

The K9 Vajra Self-Propelled Howitzer

• Development: The Ministry of Defence reportedly granted Acceptance of Necessity for procuring more than 300 additional K9 Vajra-T artillery systems, at an estimated cost exceeding ₹20,000 crore.
• Features: The K9 Vajra-T is a 155 mm, 52-calibre tracked self-propelled howitzer designed to provide mobile artillery fire support.
• Manufacturing: Larsen & Toubro (L&T) manufactures the system in India at its Armoured Systems Complex in Hazira, Gujarat, in technical collaboration with South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace.

Exercise GARUDA SHAKTI

• Objectives: The exercise aims to improve tactical coordination, military interoperability and mutual understanding.
• Participants: The 11th edition of the India–Indonesia joint special forces exercise, GARUDA SHAKTI, commenced in Banyuwangi, Indonesia, according to the supplied material.

Ballon d'Or 2026

• Men's Award: The supplied material reports that England striker Harry Kane won the men's Ballon d'Or, becoming the first Englishman to win it since Michael Owen in 2001.
• Women's Award: Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas reportedly won her third Women's Ballon d'Or after previous victories in 2021 and 2022.
• Other Awards: Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award, while Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona were named men's and women's Clubs of the Year, respectively. These reported 2026 results require independent verification.
• Kopa Trophy: Lamine Yamal reportedly won the men's Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year, while Vicky Lopez won the women's award.

Yonex French Open Badminton 2026

• Event: The Yonex French Open badminton tournament was held from 20 to 25 October 2026 at Arena Grand Paris in Tremblay-en-France, France.
• Prize Money: The supplied material reports a total prize pool of US$950,000.

European Chess Club Cup 2026

• Dates and Venue: The tournaments were held in Budva, Montenegro, from 17 to 23 October 2026.
• Indian Achievements: Indian Grandmasters Nihal Sarin and Koneru Humpy won individual gold medals at the European Chess Club Cup and European Women's Chess Club Cup, respectively.
• Team Winners: Bayegan Pendik Chess Sports Club of Turkey won the Open section, while Cercle d'Échecs de Monte-Carlo of Monaco won the Women's section.
• Participation: A reported record of 130 teams competed across both sections, comprising 108 Open teams and 22 Women's teams.

Book: The Story of Vande Mataram

• Release: Former Bihar and Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan unveiled the English translation of the book in New Delhi in October 2026.
• Original Author: The book was originally written in Malayalam by veteran Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Ranga Hari.

World Day for Audiovisual Heritage 2026

• 2026 Theme: “Your Window to the World.”
• Origin: UNESCO proclaimed the observance in 2005 through Resolution 33 C/Resolution 53.
• Significance: The date commemorates the recommendation adopted on 27 October 1980 for safeguarding and preserving moving images. UNESCO and the Coordinating Council of Audiovisual Archives Associations jointly support the observance.
• Date: Observed annually on 27 October to promote the preservation of audiovisual records, including films, recordings and other sound and visual materials.

Dyslexia Awareness Month 2026

• Dates: Observed from 1 to 31 October to raise awareness about dyslexia and the learning support needed by affected individuals.
• Dyslexia: It is a learning difference that can affect reading, spelling and the processing of written language. It is not a measure of a person's intelligence.
• World Dyslexia Day: The supplied material identifies 8 October as World Dyslexia Day.
• Objective: Awareness initiatives promote early identification, inclusive education and appropriate learning support.

Vigilance Awareness Week 2026

• Dates: Observed from 26 October to 1 November 2026 under the leadership of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).
• Significance: The week coincides with the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on 31 October, whose commitment to integrity is associated with the observance.

National Coastal Mission 2.0

• ContextThe 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.
• 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
• Blue carbon — carbon stored by mangroves, seagrass and salt marshes; the Indian Sundarbans stores about 24 million tonnes

Air Ayodhya Receives NOC under UDAN

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

The GOBARdhan Scheme

• ContextThe 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.
• Objective: Promote domestic CBG production, reduce LNG imports and biomass burning, and convert agricultural waste and cattle dung into green energy and bio-fertilisers.
• 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.

India's First Female Farmer Worker Conference

• 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
• ContextIndia'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.
• 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

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.

National Coastal Mission 2.0

• It has a total budget of ₹767 crore and will continue up to 2030–31.
• It covers 9 coastal States and 4 Union Territories.
• NCM 2.0 aims to strengthen conservation and sustainable management of India's coastal and marine ecosystems.

New Discovery Track Under PRIP Scheme

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

PMGSY-IV and PM-JANMAN Rural Roads Impact Assessment

• The study covers 10 States/UTs, 50 districts, 150 blocks, 250 roads and around 5,000 households.

PM-SETU Completes One Year

• It has an outlay of ₹60,000 crore for five years: ₹30,000 crore Centre, ₹20,000 crore States and ₹10,000 crore industry.
• In the first year, 850 ITIs were identified, including 172 Hub and 678 Spoke ITIs.
• It targets 1,000 Government ITIs — 200 Hub ITIs and 800 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.
• PMAY-G provides ₹1.20 lakh assistance in plain areas and ₹1.30 lakh in North-Eastern and hilly areas.
• A pilot project for 177 houses using 3D concrete printing was also launched.
• 3D printing can reduce construction time, labour requirements and costs.

Government Approves DRISHTI Project for Property Rights in Delhi

• The Government of India reportedly approved the ₹65 crore DRISHTI project to speed up property rights for residents of unauthorised colonies in Delhi under the PM-UDAY scheme.
• The project will use Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping to improve property surveys and ownership verification across all 13 Delhi districts.
• ₹52 crore will come through the Urban Development Fund and ₹13 crore from the Delhi government's Revenue Department.

Shipping Ministry Launches Credit Insurance for Shipbuilders

• The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reportedly launched two credit-risk insurance products for India’s shipbuilding industry on 13 October 2026.
• The products aim to address credit risks faced by shipbuilders.

National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) to Continue for Five Years

• The Union Cabinet approved the continuation of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) for five years, from FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31, with a reported allocation of ₹53,428 crore.
• The programme provides social assistance to eligible elderly people, widows, persons with disabilities and families facing the death of a primary breadwinner.
• According to the supplied report, the programme will be renamed Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana (PMSSY), with changes to the names of its pension and family-benefit sub-schemes.

Credit Risk Insurance Support for Shipbuilding

• The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways launched two credit risk insurance products on 13 October 2026 under the Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SbDS).
• The Shipbuilding Project Credit Risk Insurance Policy (SbPCP) covers specified credit and payment risks in export shipbuilding projects, while the Business Credit Shield Policy – Shipbuilders (BCSPS) covers domestic shipbuilding projects.

CCRAS SPARK 5.0 and Ayurshodh 2026

• The Chairperson of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) launched CCRAS SPARK 5.0 and CCRAS Ayurshodh 2026.
• Ayurshodh 2026 promotes scientific communication, original publications and innovative research.
• SPARK 5.0 provides short-term research opportunities to undergraduate Ayurveda students.

Mizoram Launches Four Digital Financial Management Initiatives

• The 100% DBT initiative aims to transfer payments under State schemes directly into beneficiaries' bank accounts. Pasted text.txt
• Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma launched four initiatives: Mizoram Integrated Works Accounts System (MIWAS), e-Sanction, e-Budget and 100% Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

CCRAS SPARK 5.0 and CCRAS Ayurshodh 2026

• Launched by: Prof. Maneesha Kothekar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM), in October 2026.
• CCRAS SPARK 5.0: Offers 300 studentships of ₹50,000 each to eligible third- and fourth-year Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) students for short-term research projects in 2026–27.
• CCRAS Ayurshodh 2026: Promotes quality research publications, research communication and innovation in Ayurveda through CCRAS-Prabodh 3MT, CCRAS-Prakash and CCRAS-Navonmesha.
• Ministry: Ministry of AYUSH; the initiatives are implemented by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS).

PM-DAKSH Yojana

• Launch: The Central Sector Scheme was launched in 2020–21. Indian citizens aged 18–45 years are eligible under the scheme.
• Reported Progress: In October 2026, the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment reported that 1.87 lakh candidates had received training and 96,162 had secured placements.
• Objective: The Pradhan Mantri Dakshata Aur Kushalata Sampanna Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana provides skill training to Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), De-notified Tribes (DNTs) and Safai Karamcharis, including waste pickers.

PM Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana (PM-VGSY) Approved

• The scheme targets the preparation of 2.55 lakh Gram Panchayat Development Plans through eGramSwaraj. Panchayati Raj is linked to the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, which added Part IX and the Eleventh Schedule containing 29 subjects.
• The Union Cabinet approved PM-VGSY with an outlay of ₹7,395.55 crore for 2026–27 to 2030–31. It aims to improve the planning and governance capacity of Gram Panchayats.
• The Centre will contribute ₹4,869.48 crore and the States ₹2,526.07 crore. It aims to train around 32 lakh representatives and functionaries across 2.55 lakh Gram Panchayats.
• The scheme upgrades the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, shifting from separate training for individual schemes to a more integrated approach to village development.

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.

AI Neolabs

• Meaning: AI Neolabs are independent, research-focused artificial intelligence laboratories established by leading AI researchers to develop advanced AI systems.
• Why in News: Increasing numbers of AI researchers are leaving major technology companies to establish independent research laboratories.

UIDAI Launches Five New Aadhaar Initiatives

• Aadhaar Day commemorates the issuance of the first Aadhaar number on 29 September 2010.
• 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.

DRDO–CSIR-CGCRI Indigenous Bulletproof Glass

• 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.

The Green Energy Corridor Phase-III Scheme

• ContextThe Union Cabinet approved the Green Energy Corridor Phase-III (GEC-III) scheme with an outlay of ₹1,86,405 crore.
• Total Outlay:₹1,86,405 crore ₹1,36,378 crore – Intra-State Transmission Systems ₹50,000 crore – 50 GWh BESS
• ₹1,36,378 crore – Intra-State Transmission Systems
• ₹50,000 crore – 50 GWh BESS

ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026)

• The second edition, after the inaugural edition hosted by Singapore in May 2023

The Sengol

• 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
• ContextThe 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.
• Historically presented at the coronation of monarchs, as an emblem of righteous rulership, judicial impartiality and adherence to dharma

CAG-BHASHINI Anuvaad

• BHASHINI — Bhasha Interface for India, launched 2022 under the National Language Translation Mission; an initiative of MeitY
• CAG — Article 148; appointed by the President; tenure six years or age 65
• While ensuring human oversight, security and data sovereignty
• BHASHINI supports 36 Indian text languages, 23 Indian voice languages, 35 international languages

2026 Nobel Prize in Physics: Neutrinos and the IceCube Observatory

• IceCube covers about 1 cubic kilometre of ice and contains more than 5,000 light sensors installed deep inside the Antarctic ice.
• 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.
• They are among the most abundant particles in the universe, after photons.
• Neutrinos therefore provide a new window into the universe.

India's Rising Supercomputing Ecosystem

• Launched in April 2015 with an outlay of ₹4,500 crore
• 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.
• 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 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

National Household Travel Survey (NHTS)

• 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
• The female work-travel gap connects to India's low female labour force participation of 41.7 per cent (PLFS 2023-24)
• 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.
• Covered 4.92 lakh households and over 20.34 lakh persons

Pneumonic Plague

• Incubation: 24 hours to 3 days
• Yersinia pestis is named after Alexandre Yersin, who identified it in Hong Kong, 1894
• The Haffkine Institute, Mumbai was founded after the 1896 plague; Waldemar Haffkine developed the first plague vaccine there
• India's last major outbreak was in Surat, 1994

India-Japan Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM)

• Built on a Memorandum of Cooperation signed 7 August 2025
• And Rules of Implementation adopted 8 June 2026
• Governed by Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement, which allows two countries to cooperate voluntarily and transfer emission reductions between them

2026 Nobel Prize in Literature: Anne Carson

• Autobiography of Red (1998): A novel in verse that reimagines the ancient Greek myth of Geryon.
• Eros the Bittersweet (1986): A work exploring love and desire through ancient Greek poetry.
• Nox (2010): An experimental book about the death of her elder brother, combining poetry, photographs and personal materials.
• 2026 Literature Nobel: Anne Carson (Canada) — poet, classicist, translator

SAREX-2026

• The Raksha Rajya Mantri inaugurated the Multinational Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-2026) off Paradip, Odisha — alongside the 24th National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board meeting.
• Lead agency: the Indian Coast Guard, the central coordinating authority for maritime search and rescue in India

Indo-French TRISHNA Satellite to Launch in 12–16 Months

• Partnership: It is a joint satellite mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and France’s National Centre for Space Studies (CNES).

India Records the World’s Largest Share of Demonstrations

• Number of Demonstrations: India recorded 18,074 demonstrations through September 2026, accounting for 17.5% of the global total.
• Trend: The number increased from 11,020 in 2017. India reportedly recorded the largest share globally for five consecutive years.
• Other Countries: Pakistan, Mexico and France were among the other countries in the top five, each accounting for approximately 4–5%.

2026 Nobel Prize in Economics

• The idea originates with John Maynard Keynes, whose work gained importance during the Great Depression (1929-1939). He argued that government intervention may be needed when private spending is too weak.
• Monetary policy — the central bank changes interest rates to influence borrowing, spending and inflation. Example: cutting rates to encourage investment

World Bank: India's Poverty Rate to Fall to 12.1% by 2028

• The World Bank's October 2026 Poverty and Equity Brief projects India's poverty rate at the $4.2-a-day threshold to fall from 14.2 per cent in 2026 to 12.1 per cent by 2028 — though the pace of reduction is expected to moderate.
• Poverty rate: Projected to decline from 14.2% in 2026 to 12.1% by 2028.
• Lower-middle-income poverty: Fell from 57.7% in 2011 to 16.1% in 2023, lifting an estimated 496 million people out of poverty.
• Extreme poverty: Declined from 27.1% in 2011 to 2.6% in 2023.

BIMSTEC Delhi Declaration 2026

• Founded in June 1997 as BIST-EC — Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand
• Established by the Bangkok Declaration, 1997
• Nepal and Bhutan joined in 2004, after which it took its present name
• Secretariat: Dhaka, Bangladesh, set up in 2014

PM GatiShakti Completes Five Years

• The PM GatiShakti National Master Plan completed five years on 13 October 2026. Around the same time, the Union Cabinet approved the Integrated Transport and Logistics Authority (ITLA), which will appraise infrastructure projects worth ₹500 crore or more.
• Launched on: 13 October 2021
• Launched by: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
• Nodal ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

Khajuraho's Javari Temple

• Part of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986
• Khajuraho Group of Monuments — UNESCO World Heritage Site, 1986
• Located in the Eastern Group of Temples, Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh
• Built 1075-1100 CE under the Chandela dynasty

Lakshadweep Declared 100% Literate Under ULLAS

• Full form: Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society
• Under ULLAS, a place is declared fully literate when it crosses 95 per cent literacy among the target population, not a literal 100 per cent.
• Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020
• Lakshadweep was declared a 100 per cent literate Union Territory by Administrator Praful Patel, under the ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram.

Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana

• This matches the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016
• The Union Cabinet has approved continuing the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) for five more years, from FY2026-27 to 2030-31, with an outlay of ₹53,428 crore. The scheme has been renamed Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana (PMSSY).
• It is 100 per cent centrally funded
• Earlier a person needed 80 per cent severe disability to qualify

PUFFINS Telescope Mission

• Full form: Polarimetry in the Ultraviolet to Find Features in INterStellar dust
• It will observe at least 70 distant stars, across stellar nurseries, reflection nebulae and the Magellanic Clouds
• Bengaluru-born astronomer Dr Ramya Anche has been selected as Principal Investigator of NASA's $20-million PUFFINS space telescope mission.
• It carries a 10-inch ultraviolet telescope

PM-SETU Scheme

• Launched: 4 October 2025
• The National Steering Committee of PM-SETU approved five Strategic Investment Plans worth ₹1,194.92 crore to modernise ITI clusters in Maharashtra, Odisha and Jammu & Kashmir.
• Outlay: ₹60,000 crore over five years
• Run by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

10 Years of the Kigali Amendment

• First proposed in 2009 by the Federated States of Micronesia and Mauritius
• India follows the India Cooling Action Plan (2019) — the first country to produce one
• The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol completed 10 years on 15 October 2026. It aims to cut hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and avoid up to 0.5°C of warming by 2100.
• Target: cut HFCs by over 80-85 per cent in three decades; avoid 0.3-0.5°C of warming by 2100

Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI)

• A special immigration status, introduced in 2005 under the Citizenship Act, 1955
• No political rights — under Section 7B of the Citizenship Act, 1955:
• OCI introduced in 2005, under the Citizenship Act, 1955
• The PIO card scheme was merged into OCI in 2015

National Strategic Trade Command Centre (NSTCC)

• Built for senior policymakers and regulators
• The Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry

KAUMARACON-2026

• The Vice-President of India inaugurated KAUMARACON-2026 at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, and launched several AYUSH digital initiatives.
• Organised by AIIA, New Delhi, under the Ministry of AYUSH

Three New Indian Sites on the UNESCO Tentative List

• Site 1: Karst-Mud-Volcano Complex of Baratang
• A list of sites a country intends to nominate for the World Heritage List in future years
• Combines limestone karst caves and active mud volcanoes
• The only Quaternary-period subduction volcanoes in the inner volcanic arc of the 5,000 km Burma-Andaman-Java subduction complex

UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2026

• India's emissions fell in 2025 — a break after years of rapid growth
• Paris Agreement, 2015: hold warming well below 2°C, pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5°C
• UNEP Emissions Gap Report, released October 2026
• 1.5°C without overshoot is no longer achievable; current policies point to about 2.8°C this century

Pumped Storage Hydropower in India

• The Ministry of Power and the Central Electricity Authority highlighted the growing role of Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs), as India crossed 300 GW of non-fossil capacity on the way to its 500 GW target by 2030.
• Two reservoirs are built at different heights
• When power is cheap or surplus — such as during peak solar hours at midday — water is pumped up to the higher reservoir
• When demand peaks in the evening, or renewables fall short, the water is released downhill through reversible pump-turbines to generate power

Emissions Gap Report 2026

• UNEP released the Emissions Gap Report 2026: The Point of Return. Its central warning is that the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C limit without overshoot is no longer possible.
• Required cuts from 2025: 18 per cent by 2030, 45 per cent by 2035, 69 per cent by 2040
• Current 2035 NDCs leave a gap of 16 GtCO₂e, delivering only 11-15 per cent
• India's NDC: 45 per cent cut in emissions intensity by 2030 over 2005; 50 per cent non-fossil power capacity by 2030; net zero by 2070

SUVIKALP: Mine Repurposing Tool

• The Coal Controller Organisation received the SKOCH Gold Award 2026 for its SUVIKALP Mine Repurposing Tool, which helps plan the reuse of closed coal mines.
• Developed by the Coal Controller Organisation, under the Ministry of Coal

eMudhra Certificates Blocked by Global Browsers

• Founded in 2008
• A CCA-licensed digital identity and security firm under the IT Act, 2000
• Holds nearly 38 per cent of India's digital signature certificate market
• Digital identity and verification: Help businesses verify customers and manage secure access.

Khajuraho's Medieval Temples

• They reflected the rulers' authority, religious devotion and artistic ambition
• UNESCO World Heritage Site, 1986
• Built mainly between 950 and 1050 CE
• Built 950-1050 CE by the Chandela dynasty

Shamonda Virus

• First isolated in cattle in Nigeria, 1965
• WOAH — World Organisation for Animal Health, founded 1924, headquartered at Paris
• Shamonda virus — first human infection and death confirmed by the WHO, in Lyon, France; patient was immunocompromised
• Other Culicoides-borne diseases: bluetongue and African horse sickness

Sakharov Prize 2026

• The European Parliament announced the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its officials as the collective winners of the 2026 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, on 22 October 2026.
• 2026 Sakharov Prize awarded collectively to the International Criminal Court and its officials
• The prize was established in 1988, named after Andrei Sakharov
• Andrei Sakharov won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1975

President Murmu Releases ₹200 Commemorative Coin for Mata Hasi Devi Ji

• President Droupadi Murmu released a ₹200 commemorative coin in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, to mark the 200th birth anniversary of Mata Sahib Hasi Devi Ji.
• The coin was issued by the Ministry of Finance to commemorate the occasion.

World Development Report 2026

• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology launched the World Bank Group's World Development Report 2026. The event was organised under the IndiaAI Mission with the World Bank. The report was first released globally in August 2026.
• AI in healthcare: According to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, AI-based initiatives increased tuberculosis (TB) detection by 35%.
• Navachetana — Andhra Pradesh: An AI-enabled early screening initiative for children aged 0–6 years to identify possible developmental delays.
• Three-step approach to AI: The report recommends adoption, adaptation and advancement. Developing countries should first use existing AI tools, modify them according to local needs and gradually build their own AI capabilities.

SAMHiTA Project: India-Sri Lanka Manuscript Digitisation

• Launched at Gangaramaya Temple, Colombo, Sri Lanka's first partner institution; MoU signed July 2026
• Gyan Bharatam Mission was announced in Budget 2025-26 to survey and digitise over 1 crore manuscripts
• India's own manuscript body is the National Mission for Manuscripts, set up in 2003 under the Ministry of Culture. India holds an estimated 10 million manuscripts — the largest collection in the world
• 100 manuscripts to be digitised by November 2026

Integrated Atmospheric Chemistry and Aerosol Toxicity Analysis Laboratory (AATAL)

• Links with AIRWISE, giving 400-metre resolution forecasts for 72 hours, plus four-day prediction
• Located at the IITM Delhi branch
• Tracks VOCs, SO₂, NOₓ, ozone, plus PM2.5, ultrafine particles and toxic metals
• Under the Ministry of Earth Sciences

Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority Bill, 2026

• The President of India gave assent to the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) Bill, 2026. It had been passed unanimously by the Nagaland Legislative Assembly.
• Enacted in consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs
• FNTA Bill, 2026 — passed unanimously by the Nagaland Legislative Assembly; Presidential assent granted
• Based on the tripartite MoA of 5 February 2026 between the Centre, Nagaland Government and ENPO

Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme (CMPS)

• The Cabinet approved the ₹10,000 crore Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme (CMPS). It was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the February Budget. The scheme will run till 2039-40.
• Indian traders have faced high freight costs since 2023
• Raise annual domestic capacity about ten-fold, to 750,000 TEUs
• Position India as a global export hub for quality shipping containers

WJP Rule of Law Index 2026

• The 2026 edition covers 143 countries, accounting for about 95 per cent of the world's population
• The World Justice Project released the Rule of Law Index 2026. India ranked 88th out of 143 countries, with a score of 0.48 — down from 86th in 2025.
• Constraints on government powers

RELIEF Initiative

• Launched on 19 March 2026, under the Export Promotion Mission
• e.g. Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz are the two chokepoints affecting this route. About 12 per cent of global trade passes through the Red Sea
• The Department of Commerce extended the operational window under Component II of the RELIEF initiative until 31 March 2027.
• Full form: Resilience and Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation

World Bank Poverty and Equity Brief 2026

• OPHI MPI: 53.8 per cent (2005-06) → 16.4 per cent (2019-21); World Bank MPI 15.5 per cent (2022-23)
• $4.20 a day line: 57.7 per cent (2011) → 16.1 per cent (2023); 496 million lifted out
• The same report found about 80 per cent of Indians still below the upper-middle-income line of $8.30 a day
• World Bank Poverty and Equity Brief, October 2026

AI INSPIRED Programme and IN-SPACe

• Grants of up to ₹1 crore each
• IN-SPACe selected six private space tech entities for seed-fund grants of up to ₹1 crore each, under its AI INSPIRED initiative.
• Headquartered at Bopal, Ahmedabad
• A seed-fund scheme for private space technology companies

India's Cloud Ecosystem

• This includes data storage, servers, databases, networking and software
• Instead of buying and running physical servers, an organisation rents capacity as it needs it

GSLV-F18 Launches NVS-03 Navigation Satellite

• Coverage: the Indian landmass, plus a region extending about 1,500 km beyond India's boundary

Chola-Era Nataraja and Sivagami Idols Found in Nagapattinam

• Great Living Chola Temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1987, extended 2004) — the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, the temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram
• They are estimated to date to the 12th century AD, in the Chola period.

Anup Kumar Saha Appointed Kotak Mahindra Bank MD & CEO

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

Mahesh Muralidhar Pai Appointed South Indian Bank MD & CEO

• Mahesh Muralidhar Pai became MD & CEO of South Indian Bank from 1 October 2026.

Lavanya R. Mundayur Appointed NIACL CMD

• She will serve until 31 May 2029, subject to the applicable terms of appointment.

Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri Appointed Morocco PM

• She became the first woman Prime Minister of Morocco.

CCI Approves BNP Paribas Cardif–IndiaFirst Life Deal

• 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.
• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved BNP Paribas Cardif's proposal to acquire a 26% stake in IndiaFirst Life Insurance.

World Rabies Day – 28 September

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

World Rivers Day – 27 September

• The first World Rivers Day was observed in 2005.
• 2026: 27 September.

World Heart Day – 29 September

• The first World Heart Day was observed in 2000.
• 2026 theme: “Don’t Miss a Beat.”

International Translation Day – 30 September

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

World Cotton Day 2026

• The 2026 theme was “Cotton for Good: Building Prosperity Through Trade, Transformation and Partnership.”
• The United Nations officially recognised 7 October as World Cotton Day in 2021.
• World Cotton Day is observed on 7 October to highlight cotton's role in trade, economic growth and poverty reduction.
• The Cotton Four (C-4) countries — Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mali — proposed the observance.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026

• The 2026 theme was “Every story is unique, every journey matters.”

World Space Week 2026

• The 2026 theme was “Rocket Revolution.”
• The United Nations declared 4–10 October as World Space Week through UNGA Resolution 54/68 (1999).
• World Space Week is observed from 4–10 October every year.

International Day of the Girl Child – 11 October

• The first observance took place on 11 October 2012. UNICEF India named cricketer Smriti Mandhana as its Celebrity Advocate for 2026, according to the supplied report.
• 2026 theme: “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights!”
• The United Nations General Assembly established the day through Resolution A/RES/66/170 in 2011.
• Observed annually on 11 October to promote girls' rights, empowerment and well-being.

World Arthritis Day – 12 October

• It was established in 1996 by Arthritis and Rheumatism International.
• 2025–26 theme stated in the supplied material: “Achieve Your Dreams.”
• Observed annually on 12 October to raise awareness about rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases.

World Savings Day 2026 – 31 October

• The first World Savings Day was observed on 31 October 1924 during the first International Thrift Congress in Milan, Italy.
• 2026 Theme: “AI Advises, Human Decides.”
• World Savings Day (WSD), also known as World Thrift Day, is observed annually on 31 October to promote saving habits and financial security.

World Cities Day 2026 – 31 October

• The United Nations General Assembly designated the day through Resolution 68/239 (2013). The first global observance took place in 2014.
• 2026 Theme: “Regenerating the City: Adequate Housing for All.”
• Fuzhou, China, is hosting the 2026 global observance, focusing on neighbourhood renewal and sustainable urban development.
• World Cities Day (WCD) is observed annually on 31 October to promote international cooperation on urbanisation and sustainable urban development.

ICAR–FCI MoU on Alternative Fumigation Technologies

• 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.

ICMR Establishes High-Altitude Health Research Centre in Himachal Pradesh

• Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda laid the foundation stone for the Indian Council of Medical Research's first High Altitude Medicine and Public Health Research Centre at Keylong, Himachal Pradesh.

IBM Partners with MeitY Startup Hub

• IBM and the MeitY Startup Hub signed a memorandum of understanding to support India's deep-tech startup ecosystem.
• The partnership focuses on enterprise artificial intelligence, hybrid cloud and quantum computing, helping startups develop and commercialise technology solutions.

India Strengthens Maritime Capabilities Through INS Samarthak

• The Indian Navy commissioned INS Samarthak, the first of two indigenously built multi-purpose vessels constructed by Larsen & Toubro.
• It will support the testing and evaluation of indigenous sensors and weapons, strengthening India's naval research and maritime capabilities.

India Participates in IBSAMAR IX 2026

• The exercise was conducted from 12 to 22 October 2026 to improve interoperability and cooperation among the three navies.
• IBSAMAR is a biennial trilateral naval exercise conducted under the India-Brazil-South Africa framework since 2008.

Indian Army Receives 450 Nagastra-1R Loitering Munitions

• The indigenous system is designed for surveillance and precision strikes and reportedly contains more than 80% indigenous components.
• Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) delivered 450 Nagastra-1R loitering munitions to the Indian Army.

India Approves Accession to the Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement

• India had participated as a Cooperating Non-Contracting Party since 2022; full membership will provide greater participation in fisheries-related decision-making.
• The move aims to strengthen international fisheries cooperation, scientific research, sustainable fishing and livelihood opportunities for fishers.
• The Government of India approved accession to the Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement (SIOFA) through the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

India Approves Currency Swap Facility Rollover for Maldives

• Background: The arrangement was signed between the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Maldives Monetary Authority in October 2024; the first drawdown was extended on 23 April 2026.
• Amount: The Government of India approved the rollover of a ₹3,000 crore currency swap facility to the Maldives in October 2026.
• Framework: The facility operates under the SAARC Currency Swap Arrangement Framework and the bilateral framework for 2024–2027.
• Significance: It supports the Maldives' short-term liquidity needs and financial stability and reflects India's Neighbourhood First Policy and MAHASAGAR vision.

India–Myanmar Quick Impact Projects under Mekong-Ganga Cooperation

• Agreement: India and Myanmar signed five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for Quick Impact Projects worth US$247,502.47 for financial year 2026–27.

India–UK Science and Innovation Cooperation

• Research cooperation: The two countries have jointly invested over £450 million since 2008, supporting more than 290 projects and 1,665 scientific publications, according to the supplied report.
• Meeting: The 8th India–UK Science and Innovation Council Meeting was held in New Delhi in October 2026.
• New initiatives: The UK–India Technology Translation Partnership and InnoXchange Programme aim to support technology commercialisation and connections among start-ups and incubators.

Technology Development Board Supports Indigenous Technologies

• Financial support: The report gives a combined research, development and innovation (RDI) support figure of ₹301 crore for drone logistics and quantum-secure technologies.
• Organisation: The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology, signed agreements with ideaForge and QNu Labs in October 2026.
• ideaForge project: The YETI autonomous aerial logistics vehicle is designed to carry a 200-kilogram payload, cover 200 kilometres and operate at altitudes up to 6,500 metres.

Rising Child Leprosy Cases Challenge India's 2027 Goal

• India's data covers April 2025 to March 2026, though presented in the WHO's 2025 table
• ContextIndia 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 three together account for 78.3 per cent of all new cases globally
• The National Figures (2025-26)

Coal Mine Near Ramappa Temple Raises Heritage Concerns

• Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021 — India's 39th at the time
• Built in 1213 CE under the Kakatiya ruler Ganapati Deva, by his general Recharla Rudra

Samudra Manthan Mission

• ContextDetails 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.
• Outlay ₹84,084 crore till FY2030-31
• Add over 600 MMTOE of recoverable reserves
• Raise domestic production to 80 MMTOE annually

Haryana's IoT-Based Waste Management for Pilgrimage Sites

• 500-metre clean zone — no open waste collection points permitted within a 500-metre buffer, covering approach roads, parking areas and vendor zones

RoDTEP Scheme Extended to 31 December 2026

• Came into effect on 1 January 2021, replacing the WTO-disputed Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS)
• ContextThe Department of Commerce extended the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme up to 31 December 2026.
• Eliminate cost disabilities for domestic producers
• A WTO-compliant export promotion and tax neutrality scheme

Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2026

• 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.
• 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.
• It has helped researchers study memory, pain, emotions, thirst, hunger, reward, attention and social behaviour.

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)

• Established 1889 in Paris
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• 183 Member Parliaments and 15 Associate Members

The Ramappa Temple

• Construction took roughly 40 years
• Kakatiyas ruled from Warangal, 12th–14th centuries; Rani Rudrama Devi was among India's few women rulers
• Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2021 — India's 39th — as "Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana"
• Built 1213 CE; UNESCO listed July 2021; India's 39th World Heritage Site

3D-Printed Rural Houses under PMAY-G

• ContextAndhra Pradesh will launch India's first national-level pilot to construct rural houses using 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) under PMAY-Gramin.
• Replacing traditional brick-and-mortar masonry by depositing high-performance cementitious mixtures layer by layer, using robotic gantry or arm printers
• Digital modelling — a 3D plan created using Building Information Modelling (BIM), sliced into precise numerical computer paths

2026 Chemistry Nobel: Mirror-Image Molecules

• The 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Henri Kagan (France) and Kenso Soai (Japan) for showing how homochirality — nature's preference for one mirror-image form of a molecule — can be created in the laboratory.
• The two forms are called enantiomers
• The amino acids in proteins and the sugars in DNA occur in only one form
• The mirror versions exist but life rarely uses them

The Integrated Transport and Logistics Authority (ITLA)

• PM GatiShakti (2021) and the National Logistics Policy (2022) improved coordination
• Rolling plan: A plan revised and extended regularly, so it always looks a fixed number of years ahead
• Silo: A department working in isolation, without sharing information or coordinating with others
• SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle): A separate legal entity created for one defined purpose — a company, not a body created by an Act of Parliament

GSMA Report: 12% in India Scammed in a Year

• India Consumer Scam Report 2026, by GSMA; 12 per cent of Indians scammed in a year against 8 per cent in ASEAN-6
• Compare with SPIR 2026: cybercrime cases rose 17.9 per cent to 1,01,928 in 2024; 13 per cent of citizens were victims; only 49 per cent filed a police complaint
• Financial fraud complaints in India totalled ₹55,050 crore between 2021 and 2025
• A survey by GSMA, a global body representing the mobile industry, found that 12 per cent of respondents in India reported being scammed in the last 12 months — against 8 per cent in the ASEAN-6 countries. The findings appear in the India Consumer Scam Report 2026.

Desert National Park

• Gazetted in 1980 to arrest desertification
• DNP — 3,162 sq km; Jaisalmer and Barmer, Rajasthan; gazetted 1980; on India's UNESCO Tentative List
• A hyper-arid zone receiving under 100 mm annual rainfall
• Rainfall under 100 mm; breeding centres at Sam and Ramdevra

Annual Survey of Industries 2024–25

• Total emoluments increased by 12.08% during 2024–25.
• 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.
• MoSPI released the ASI 2024–25, covering India’s registered manufacturing sector.

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

• Brings together 128 member countries, including ministers, heads of forest services, senior officials and partner organisations
• Reported forest and tree cover of 82.74 million hectares — 25.17 per cent of geographical area
• That is 10 per cent of the world's total land area
• India's forest and tree cover: 82.74 mn ha, 25.17 per cent of geographical area

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.

Herugavialis cairensis: Gharial Relative Found in Egypt

• Middle Eocene Epoch, about 45 million years ago, during a global greenhouse climate phase
• Originally classified in 1927 as Tomistoma cairense
• Advanced 3D cranial modelling revealed unique internal skeletal features, warranting an entirely new genus
• In warm, shallow coastal waters and lagoons of the ancient Neo-Tethys Sea, which once covered northern Egypt and the Mediterranean basin

India Launches First High-Altitude Snow Leopard Safari in Ladakh

• Launch: Ladakh launched India’s first high-altitude snow leopard safari with six safari vehicles.
• Snow Leopard Population: Ladakh reportedly hosts 477 of India’s estimated 718 snow leopards, accounting for about two-thirds of the national population.

MoSPI Releases Strategy for Environmental Economic Accounts 2026–2030

• Priority Areas: Forests, water, land, soil, minerals, carbon stocks, biodiversity, pollination services and environment-related economic activities.
• Released by: The Social Statistics Division of the National Statistics Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

Agriculture Minister Inaugurates Facilities at ICAR-IIAB, Ranchi

• Foundation laid for a new Guest House — the project is worth ₹119 crore
• Brought together about 1,500 farmers from Ranchi, Khunti, Gumla and Ramgarh districts
• Birsa Munda — the tribal freedom fighter and leader of the Ulgulan rebellion; 15 November, his birth anniversary, is Janjatiya Gaurav Divas
• Jaipal Singh Munda — hockey captain of India's 1928 Olympic gold team and a member of the Constituent Assembly, who argued for tribal rights

National Strategy for Additive Manufacturing (NSAM) 2.0

• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is rolling out NSAM 2.0, building on the first strategy launched in 2022.
• Key Steps: The process involves 3D design using Computer-Aided Design (CAD), converting the design into a digital file, slicing it into layers, depositing or fusing materials, and post-processing.
• Additive manufacturing is a process of creating objects layer by layer using 3D model data. Unlike subtractive manufacturing, which removes material, it adds material to build the object.

PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana Completes One Year

• Approved by the Union Cabinet on 16 July 2025, for six years
• Covers 100 Aspirational Agricultural Districts
• The PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) completed one year on 11 October 2026 — a scheme for focused agricultural development across 100 Aspirational Agricultural Districts.
• Formally launched by the Prime Minister on 11 October 2025

Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve

• India has 18 biosphere reserves, of which 12 are in the UNESCO network; Nilgiri (1986) was the first
• UNESCO World Heritage Site 1988, extended 2005; MAB listed 2004
• It has two core zones: Nanda Devi National Park Valley of Flowers National Park
• Valley of Flowers National Park

Madhya Pradesh Begins Wild Buffalo Reintroduction After a Century

• Eight wild water buffaloes were released into a 17-hectare enclosure in the Supkhar range of Kanha Tiger Reserve on 11 October 2026.

National Steel Policy 2047

• Raw Material Challenge: Raw materials account for around 65–70% of steelmaking costs. India is largely self-sufficient in iron ore but imports nearly 92% of its coking coal requirement.
• The government released the draft National Steel Policy 2047 to increase India’s steel production capacity, improve competitiveness and reduce import dependence.
• Crude Steel Capacity: Target of 604 million tonnes by 2047.
• Other Targets: Finished steel demand of 505 million tonnes, per capita steel consumption of 302 kg and steel exports of 45 million tonnes by 2047.

10th National Convention of Agrivision 2026

• The 10th National Convention of Agrivision 2026 was held in New Delhi on 13-14 October. The theme running through it was India's shift from production-centric agriculture to market-oriented agri-food value chains.
• It brings together students, scientists, policymakers, entrepreneurs and farmers
• The focus areas are innovation, agricultural education, entrepreneurship and farmer-centric development
• Strengthen collaboration among agricultural stakeholders

Soybean Varieties NRC 268 and NRC 270

• Meant to raise farm productivity, seed quality and returns for oilseed growers
• NRC 270 is bold-seeded — larger grains, higher seed weight, better market value

Jeypore Ground Gecko

• A nocturnal lizard, about 3.6 inches long

Indian Army Launches Bharat Rice for Defence Forces

• The National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) will procure and supply rice in 10 kg and 30 kg bags during Financial Year 2026–27.
• The Army signed a five-year, extendable Memorandum of Understanding with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to use its infrastructure, equipment and trained manpower during operational contingencies.

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

• ContextThe 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.

RBI Raises Daily CRR Maintenance Requirement

• Banking system liquidity surplus: It was around ₹3.88 lakh crore on 8 October 2026.
• CRR rate remains unchanged at 3%: Banks must continue to maintain 3% of their Net Demand and Time Liabilities (NDTL) as cash reserves with the RBI.
• Daily maintenance rises from 90% to 99%: Banks must now maintain at least 99% of their prescribed CRR on every day of the reporting fortnight, compared with 90% earlier.
• Suppose a bank has an NDTL of ₹1,000 crore.

UNCTAD Trade and Development Report 2026

• UNCTAD's Trade and Development Report 2026 found that India's share of global greenfield investments during 2020-25 was 5.7 per cent — more than double China's share in the same period.
• India 5.7 per cent of global greenfield investment (2020-25); Malaysia 4.0, Indonesia 3.8, China 2.8
• UNCTAD Trade and Development Report 2026
• UNCTAD — established 1964, headquartered at Geneva; also publishes the World Investment Report, the Technology and Innovation Report and the Digital Economy Report

Ayush Services Sector Report 2026

• The Ministry of Ayush released findings from the Ayush Services Sector Report 2026 on Ayurveda Day 2026 — showing that women form 43 per cent of India's Ayush services workforce.
• Sector size: US$36.92 billion (FY2024-25); CAGR 16.91 per cent; projected US$216-318 billion by 2047
• Ayush Services Sector Report 2026 — by RIS, released on Ayurveda Day 2026
• The Ministry of Ayush was created in 2014, upgraded from the Department of AYUSH (2003)

World Development Report 2026

• AI Talent Drain: India lost a net 200 elite AI researchers and inventors (2011–2024) despite having around 50,460 AI professionals in 2025.
• Job Displacement: Just over 4% of Indian jobs face immediate automation risks, versus over one-third in advanced economies. Entry-level BPO job postings in South Asia fell by around 20%.
• Public Perception: 18.8% of Indians, compared with 50.5% of Americans, expressed concern about AI.
• The World Bank Group's World Development Report 2026: The Promise of Artificial Intelligence was launched in New Delhi by the Union Minister for Electronics and IT, jointly hosted by MeitY's IndiaAI Mission.

2026 Nobel Peace Prize

• Founded her own law firm in 1967
• Earned a doctorate from Harvard University in 1988
• 2026 Nobels: Medicine — optogenetics; Physics — neutrino detection at IceCube; Chemistry — asymmetric catalysis; Literature — Anne Carson
• The 2026 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Navi Pillay, a judge and human rights lawyer, at a time the committee said international law faces "tremendous pressure" and its institutions are "under attack."

Indian Army Launches Bharat Rice for Troops

• The Indian Army launched Bharat Rice for defence personnel in New Delhi on 12 October 2026.
• The launch was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
• The initiative focuses on providing affordable rice to defence personnel.

Sunil Bharti Mittal Receives France’s Highest Civilian Honour

• French President Emmanuel Macron named Sunil Bharti Mittal a Chevalier (Knight) of the National Order of the Legion of Honour on 12 October 2026.

Udhayveer Sidhu Wins Cairo 10m Air Pistol Gold

• The event took place on 11 October 2026.
• Indian shooter Udhayveer Sidhu won gold in the men's 10-metre air pistol event at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup in Cairo, Egypt.

Aditya Mehta Wins Gold at Commonwealth Cue Sports Championships

• Aditya Mehta won the men's snooker gold medal at the Commonwealth Cue Sports Championships 2026 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
• He defeated fellow Indian player Dhvaj Haria by 3–0 in the final.

M.R. Raghava Varier Named 2026 M.G.S. Narayanan Memorial Awardee

• Historian M.R. Raghava Varier was selected for the 2026 Prof. M.G.S. Narayanan Memorial Award.
• The award was jointly instituted by the Kerala History Congress and the Calicut Heritage Forum.

Putul Sonowal Wins Bronze at World Bowls Championship 2026

• Putul Sonowal from Assam won India’s first-ever bronze medal at the World Bowls Champion of Champions 2026.
• Lawn bowls is a precision sport in which players roll biased balls towards a smaller target ball called the jack.

CERVAVAC Receives WHO Prequalification

• It was developed by the Serum Institute of India and is designed to protect against HPV types 16 and 18, which are associated with cervical cancer, and types 6 and 11, which cause most genital warts.

Exercise INDRA-2026

• Indian Naval Ship INS Sahyadri arrived in Vladivostok, Russia, to participate in the India–Russia naval exercise INDRA-2026 from 13 to 18 October 2026.
• It aims to improve operational coordination, tactical interoperability and mutual understanding between the two navies.

Indian Army and Food Corporation of India Sign MoU

• The Indian Army and the Food Corporation of India (FCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding in New Delhi.

Indian Army Launches Bharat Rice for Troops

• The Indian Army launched Bharat Rice for defence personnel in New Delhi on 12 October 2026.
• The launch was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
• The initiative focuses on providing affordable rice to defence personnel.

Sunil Bharti Mittal Receives France’s Highest Civilian Honour

• French President Emmanuel Macron named Sunil Bharti Mittal a Chevalier (Knight) of the National Order of the Legion of Honour on 12 October 2026.

Udhayveer Sidhu Wins Cairo 10m Air Pistol Gold

• The competition took place on 11 October 2026.
• Indian shooter Udhayveer Sidhu won gold in the men’s 10-metre air pistol event at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup in Cairo, Egypt.

Aditya Mehta Wins Commonwealth Cue Sports Championships Gold

• Aditya Mehta won the men’s snooker gold medal at the Commonwealth Cue Sports Championships 2026 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
• He defeated fellow Indian player Dhvaj Haria 3–0 in the final.

M.R. Raghava Varier Named 2026 M.G.S. Narayanan Memorial Awardee

• Historian M.R. Raghava Varier was selected for the 2026 Prof. M.G.S. Narayanan Memorial Award.
• The award was jointly instituted by the Kerala History Congress and the Calicut Heritage Forum.

Chhattisgarh Signs MoU with Singapore’s ITE Education Services

• The state also received investment proposals worth ₹43,600 crore and an invitation for a proposed ₹350 crore agro-processing and export hub.
• The agreement was signed during Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s visit to Singapore for the Singapore–India Network for Growth Forum 2026.

MoSPI Signs MoU with Pahle India Foundation

• The National Statistics Office under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation signed an MoU with Pahle India Foundation on 8 October 2026.
• Pahle India Foundation is a New Delhi-based organisation established in 2013.

NCRTC and IGNCA Partner to Promote Culture at Namo Bharat Stations

• The partnership aims to bring cultural programmes into public transport spaces and reach a wider audience.

UGC Grants Letter of Intent to University of Colorado Denver

• The proposed campus is expected to welcome its first batch in August 2027.
• Planned academic fields include business, computing, engineering and analytics, in line with the internationalisation goals of the National Education Policy 2020.
• The University Grants Commission granted a Letter of Intent to the University of Colorado Denver to establish a degree-granting campus in Hyderabad, Telangana.

The ePlane Company Partners with Noida International Airport

• The ePlane Company signed an MoU with Noida International Airport on 8 October 2026 to develop infrastructure and operating procedures for electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
• The partnership will focus on vertiports, charging stations, safety procedures and airspace integration.

Canadian Poet Anne Carson Wins 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature

• The Swedish Academy awarded the 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature to Canadian poet and essayist Anne Carson.
• She will receive a prize of 12 million Swedish kronor.

Navi Pillay Named 2026 Nobel Peace Prize Winner

• South African jurist of Indian origin Navanethem “Navi” Pillay was named the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize winner.
• The Nobel Peace Prize is traditionally presented in Oslo, Norway, on 10 December.

National Postal Week 2026

• National Postal Week 2026 is observed from 9 to 15 October by the Department of Posts under the Ministry of Communications.
• World Post Day is observed on 9 October to mark the establishment of the Universal Postal Union in 1874.

Exercise KONKAN-2026

• Indian Navy guided-missile stealth frigate INS Trishul arrived at Plymouth, United Kingdom, to participate in the bilateral naval exercise KONKAN-2026.

Newly Appointed Governors and Respective States

Union Minister Launches Multilingual DST and Science and Technology Websites

• On 9 October 2026, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched redeveloped websites for the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Ministry of Science and Technology.
• The websites support 22 Indian languages through BHASHINI integration.

Indian Embassy in Indonesia Launches AI Avatar Dewi

• The Indian Embassy in Jakarta launched an artificial intelligence avatar named Dewi in October 2026.

Sentinel-3C Sends First Earth Images

• Europe’s Copernicus Sentinel-3C satellite was launched on 15 September 2026 aboard a Vega-C rocket from French Guiana.
• The Sentinel-3 mission supports Earth observation and environmental monitoring.
• The satellite subsequently returned its first images of Earth.

L. Murugan Resigns as Union Minister and Rajya Sabha Member

• L. Murugan resigned as Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs and relinquished his Rajya Sabha membership on 13 October 2026.

Google Launches Gemini 4 Argon AI Model

• Google reportedly launched Gemini 4 Argon globally on 13 October 2026.

IBM and MeitY Partner to Support Deep-Tech Startups

• IBM and MeitY Startup Hub, an initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, signed an MoU on 13 October 2026.
• The partnership aims to support India’s deep-technology startups.
• Deep technology refers to innovations based on advanced scientific research and engineering, such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors and robotics.

HAL, National Culture Fund and ASI Sign Heritage Conservation Agreement

• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the National Culture Fund (NCF) and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) signed a heritage conservation agreement on 13 October 2026.

Prof. Achyuta Samanta Elected First President of Indian UniSport Federation

• The federation was established in 2026 with the approval of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
• Prof. Achyuta Samanta, founder of KIIT and KISS, was elected the first president of the Indian UniSport Federation (IUSF) in October 2026.
• It aims to provide a common platform for universities across India.

GRSE Launches INS Shreyas for the Indian Navy

• Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) launched INS Shreyas, the third of four Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels, in Kolkata, West Bengal.
• The vessel is approximately 113 metres long, with a displacement of 3,000 tonnes and a maximum speed of 23 knots.

Max Verstappen Wins Singapore Grand Prix 2026

• Dutch-Belgian racing driver Max Verstappen won the 2026 Singapore Grand Prix on 11 October 2026.

Prasar Bharati and In-Dot Sports Launch Kisan Cricket League

• Its inaugural season is scheduled for February 2027, featuring seven teams and 140 cricketers.
• Matches and related programmes are planned for broadcast through Waves OTT, Doordarshan and Akashvani.

Guruvayur Dorai, Padma Shri-Awarded Mridangam Maestro, Passes Away

• He also received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1996 and the Kalaimamani award in 1990.
• He received the Padma Shri in 2025 for his contribution to Indian classical music.
• Renowned Carnatic percussionist Guruvayur Dorai passed away in Chennai at the age of 91.

World Egg Day 2026

• The 2026 theme was “Protein that Powers and Protects.”
• World Egg Day was observed on 9 October 2026, the second Friday of October.

World Day Against the Death Penalty 2026

• The first observance took place on 10 October 2003.
• The 2026 theme was “Stories for Life.”
• The day is observed annually on 10 October to raise awareness about capital punishment and promote its abolition.

World Migratory Bird Day 2026

• In 2026, the observance dates were 9 May and 10 October.

10th India Mobile Congress 2026

• The event covered 5G and 6G, artificial intelligence networks, semiconductors, cybersecurity, quantum communication and electronics manufacturing. It also announced Viksit Tech 47, a platform to identify and promote Indian technology brands.
• The 10th India Mobile Congress was held at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, from 7 to 10 October 2026.
• It was organised by the Department of Telecommunications and the Cellular Operators Association of India.

3rd International Bharat 6G Symposium 2026

• A report on progress towards the New Delhi Declaration on 6G principles and nine working-group white papers were released.
• Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia inaugurated the symposium at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, from 7 to 9 October 2026.
• It was organised by the Bharat 6G Alliance to support India's next-generation communication technology ambitions.
• The Alliance exchanged MoUs with five organisations, including the GSMA and one6G Association.

Indian Navy Commissions INS Mangrol

• The vessel has more than 80% indigenous content, according to the supplied report.
• The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mangrol (P82) in Mumbai in October 2026.

Exercise Cambrian Patrol 2026

• The Indian Army's Assam Regiment won a Gold Medal at Exercise Cambrian Patrol 2026 in Wales, United Kingdom.
• It was established in 1959 and is organised annually by the British Army in the challenging terrain of Wales.
• The exercise is often called the “Olympics of Military Patrolling” and tests soldiers' endurance, leadership, tactical decision-making and survival skills.

Hornbill Festival 2026

• Nagaland will host the 27th Hornbill Festival from 1 to 10 December 2026 at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama.
• The festival began in December 2000 and promotes cultural preservation, inter-tribal interaction and tourism.

Ambaji Mohanthal Receives GI Tag

• It is registered under Class 30, which covers food products such as sweets and confectionery.

Indian Coast Guard Inducts Indigenous ALH MK-III Helicopter

• The Indian Coast Guard inducted the indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) MK-III, designated CG 875, at Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, on 13 October 2026.

Dr. A. V. S. Raju Passes Away at 89

• He was also known for writing more than 25,000 poems and received an honorary Doctor of Letters degree in 2008.
• Dr. Alluri Venkata Satyanarayana Raju, founder and Chairman Emeritus of Nagarjuna Construction Company, passed away in Hyderabad on 13 October 2026, aged 89.
• He received the Padma Shri in 2010 for his contributions to trade and industry, particularly infrastructure, construction and housing.

International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2026

• The supplied report gives the 2026 theme as “Resilience Starts at Home.”
• The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is observed annually on 13 October to promote awareness and action to prevent disasters and reduce their impacts.
• The day supports the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, which promotes disaster preparedness and resilience.

World Standards Day 2026

• The 2026 theme given in the supplied material is “Shared vision for a better world: Spotlight on SDG 7—Affordable and Clean Energy.”
• World Standards Day is observed annually on 14 October to highlight the importance of international standards in improving safety, quality and compatibility.

India Attends East Asia Summit Energy Ministers’ Meeting

• Union Minister of State Shripad Yesso Naik attended the 20th East Asia Summit Energy Ministers’ Meeting in Manila, Philippines, in October 2026.

India Participates in the 7th CICA Summit

• India reiterated its support for inclusive and consensus-based multilateral cooperation at the 7th Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan.
• The summit focused on regional cooperation, mutual trust and peace in Asia.

Rajnath Singh to Represent India at SCO Heads of Government Meeting

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to represent India at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on 19–20 October 2026.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to participate virtually, according to the supplied report.

India’s Clean Hydrogen Progress

• The development is relevant to India's energy transition and efforts to diversify its energy sources.

INS Samarthak Commissioned into the Indian Navy

• INS Samarthak is an indigenously built multi-purpose vessel constructed by Larsen & Toubro.
• It was commissioned at Karwar, Karnataka, and is the first of two such vessels being built by the company.
• Its key role is to support testing and evaluation of indigenous naval sensors and weapons.

Nagastra-1R Loitering Munition

• Nagastra-1R is an indigenous, man-portable loitering munition designed for surveillance and precision strikes.
• The system reportedly has an operational endurance of up to 60 minutes and carries a high-explosive fragmentation warhead.

Cheruvayal Raman Receives Recognition for Rice Conservation

• His work earned him the Padma Shri in 2023 and the National Plant Genome Saviour Award in 2016.
• He preserved more than 45 traditional varieties and promoted chemical-free farming and agricultural biodiversity.

Census (Amendment) Rules, 2026

• The Ministry of Home Affairs notified the Census (Amendment) Rules, 2026, expanding the categories of people eligible for appointment as Census enumerators.
• The amendment changes Rule 3 of the Census Rules, 1990, under the framework of the Census Act, 1948.
• Eligible personnel now include private-sector employees and teachers, according to the supplied report.
• The objective is to increase field staff availability, reduce the workload on government schoolteachers and support India's upcoming digital Census. Pasted text.txt

India’s Ramsar Site Count Reaches 103

• Uttar Pradesh's Ramsar site count increased to 14, placing it second among Indian States after Tamil Nadu, according to the supplied report. Pasted text.txt
• India’s Ramsar site count reached 103 following the addition of Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh.

India–UK Strengthen Science and Innovation Cooperation

• The two countries have jointly invested over GBP 450 million since 2008 through UK Research and Innovation and Indian partnerships, supporting more than 290 projects and 1,665 scientific publications. Pasted text.txt
• India and the United Kingdom held the 8th India–UK Science and Innovation Council Meeting in New Delhi in October 2026.
• New initiatives included the UK–India Technology Translation Partnership and the InnoXchange Programme to support technology commercialisation and connections among start-ups and incubators.

T. M. Balakrishnan Nair Elected Chair of UNESCO’s Indian Ocean Panel

• He has over 30 years of experience in operational oceanography, marine science and real-time ocean observation systems.
• The election took place during the body's second Intergovernmental Session in Bali, Indonesia, from 12 to 14 October 2026.

Punam Raut Announces Retirement from International Cricket

• Indian women's cricket batter Punam Raut announced her retirement from all forms of international cricket in October 2026.
• Her international career spanned 2009–2021 and included four Test matches, 73 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 35 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).
• She scored 86 runs in the 2017 Women's ODI World Cup final against England and was part of India's campaign in three ODI World Cups. Pasted text.txt
• She scored 2,299 runs in ODIs, including three centuries and 15 half-centuries.

World Students’ Day 2026

• The year 2026 marks his 95th birth anniversary.
• World Students’ Day is observed annually on 15 October to mark the birth anniversary of Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam.
• His contributions included the Satellite Launch Vehicle-III, the Agni and Prithvi missile programmes, and the Technology Vision 2020 initiative. Pasted text.txt

Special Summary Revision of Electoral Rolls

• Section 21(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, provide the relevant legal framework. Pasted text.txt
• Article 324 of the Constitution gives the Election Commission supervisory powers over electoral rolls and elections.
• The Election Commission announced the schedule for the Special Summary Revision (SSR) of electoral rolls across 17 States and Union Territories, with 1 January 2027 as the qualifying date.
• The exercise updates voter lists by enrolling new voters, recording address changes and removing entries of deceased or duplicate voters.

INS Samarthak Commissioned into the Indian Navy

• The vessel is 107 metres long and serves as an auxiliary platform rather than a frontline warship.
• The Indian Navy commissioned INS Samarthak, the first indigenously designed Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) of its class.
• The vessel was built by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Shipyard at its Warship Design Centre and shipbuilding facility in Kattupalli. Pasted text.txt

Bengaluru Scientists Study Solar Eruptions Using Aditya-L1 and Proba-3

• Scientists from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics and international collaborators studied coronal mass ejections (CMEs) using data from India's Aditya-L1 and Europe's Proba-3 missions.
• They combined observations from the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) aboard Aditya-L1 and the ASPIICS instrument aboard Proba-3.
• The study demonstrates the value of combining observations from different space missions to understand solar activity.

World Students' Day 2026

• 2026 milestone: The year marked his 95th birth anniversary.
• Date: World Students' Day is observed on 15 October, marking the birth anniversary of Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam.
• Key initiatives: His contributions included the Satellite Launch Vehicle-III, Agni and Prithvi missile programmes, and Technology Vision 2020.

International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage 2026

• UNESCO decision: The day was proclaimed in November 2023 through Resolution 42 C/34, with the first observance held in 2024.
• Date: Observed on 17 October; 2026 marked its third observance.
• Convention: It commemorates the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, which entered into force in 2006.

World Trauma Day 2026

• Origin: The day was first observed in New Delhi in 2011, according to the supplied report.
• Date: Observed on 17 October to raise awareness about trauma, injury prevention, emergency response and rehabilitation.
• Objective: It promotes timely medical care and preventive measures to reduce injury-related deaths and long-term disabilities.
• Related observances: It falls within Bone and Joint Action Week, observed from 12 to 20 October.

World Menopause Day 2026

• 2026 theme: “Chronic Pain At Midlife”.
• Date: Observed annually on 18 October.
• Significance: It encourages better understanding of midlife health concerns and appropriate healthcare support.

World Osteoporosis Day 2026

• 2026 theme: “Build, Protect, Strengthen Your Bones for Life”.
• Origin: The day was launched in 1996 by the United Kingdom's National Osteoporosis Society, with support from the European Commission.
• Date: Observed on 20 October.

KAUMARACON 2026 and AIIA Foundation Day

• Event: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated KAUMARACON 2026, the third international conference on Kaumarabhritya (Ayurvedic paediatrics), held from 15 to 17 October at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi.
• Foundation Day: AIIA celebrated its 10th Foundation Day on 17 October 2026, signed MoUs with Rashtriya Ayurved Vidyapeeth and Arogya Bharati, and released academic publications and educational resources.
• Theme: “Shaping the Future of Child Health: Global Perspectives, Research Innovations, and Clinical Frontiers in Kaumarabhritya.”

Sirpur Archaeological Site Moves Closer to UNESCO World Heritage Status

• Historical importance: Its archaeological remains date from the 5th to the 12th century CE and represent Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions within a unified urban landscape.
• Location: Sirpur is situated on the eastern bank of the Mahanadi River in Mahasamund district, Chhattisgarh.

Japan's Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) Mission

• Mission targets: The spacecraft will study Phobos and conduct flybys of Deimos, the two moons of Mars.
• Sample return: It aims to collect at least 10 grams of surface material from Phobos and return it to Earth in 2031.
• Scientific objective: The mission seeks to understand how Mars's moons formed and gain insights into the early evolution of the Solar System.
• Space agency: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is leading the robotic sample-return mission, with participation from NASA, the European Space Agency, France's CNES and Germany's DLR.

Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2024 and 2025

• Established: The award was instituted in 2006 in memory of Ustad Bismillah Khan, the renowned shehnai maestro and Bharat Ratna recipient.
• Award ceremony: The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism conferred the awards for 2024 and 2025 on 106 young performing artists in New Delhi.
• Purpose: It recognises promising young performers and encourages the continuation of India's music, dance, theatre and other performing arts traditions.
• Administered by: The Sangeet Natak Akademi, an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Culture.

India's Ramsar Site Count Reaches 103

• State ranking: According to the supplied report, Uttar Pradesh has 14 Ramsar sites, the second-highest number among Indian States after Tamil Nadu.

Census (Amendment) Rules, 2026

• Ministry: The Ministry of Home Affairs notified amendments to the Census Rules, 1990.
• Legal framework: The rules operate under the Census Act, 1948.
• Objective: The changes aim to increase field staff availability, reduce the workload on government schoolteachers and support the upcoming digital Census.
• Key change: The amendments expand the categories of people eligible for appointment as Census enumerators, including private-sector employees and teachers, as stated in the supplied report.

INS Samarthak Commissioned into the Indian Navy

• Vessel: INS Samarthak is the first indigenously designed Multi-Purpose Vessel of its class.
• Dimensions: The vessel is 107 metres long and is designed for auxiliary and support roles.
• Shipbuilder: It was built by Larsen & Toubro at its shipbuilding facility in Kattupalli, Tamil Nadu.

India–UK Genomics Centre of Excellence

• Initiative: The BRIC-CDFD–Oxford Nanopore Technologies India Genomics Centre of Excellence was inaugurated during the 8th India–UK Science and Innovation Council Meeting.
• Other initiatives: The UK–India Technology Translation Partnership and InnoXchange Programme support technology commercialisation and innovation.
• Significance: The partnership strengthens scientific research, technology development and collaboration between India and the United Kingdom.

T. M. Balakrishnan Nair Elected Chair of UNESCO's Indian Ocean Panel

• Expertise: He has over 30 years of experience in operational oceanography and marine science.
• Election venue: Bali, Indonesia, during the body's second Intergovernmental Session in October 2026.

Subhas Chandra Lal Das Appointed Part-Time Chairperson of FSIB

• Appointment: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved Subhas Chandra Lal Das, a retired 1992-batch Indian Administrative Service officer, as part-time Chairperson of the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB).
• Tenure: Three years.
• Additional appointments: Six part-time members were appointed, covering banking and financial institutions as well as public-sector insurance.
• Role of FSIB: It recommends candidates for senior leadership positions in public-sector banks and financial institutions and public-sector insurance companies.

Skyroot Aerospace Partners with Reflect Orbital

• Launch vehicles: The planned launches will use Skyroot's Vikram rocket family, with Vikram-1 and the under-development Vikram-1U identified in the supplied report.
• Technology: Reflect Orbital plans to use satellites fitted with large mirrors to redirect sunlight towards selected locations after sunset.

Pakistan Test-Fires Extended-Range Fatah-II Missile

• Announcement: Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations reported a test of the extended-range variant of the Fatah-II surface-to-surface missile in October 2026.
• Reported range: Approximately 400 kilometres, according to the supplied report.
• Background: The Fatah missile programme began with Fatah-I in August 2021, followed by Fatah-II in December 2023.

Punam Raut Retires from International Cricket

• Announcement: Indian women's cricket batter Punam Raut announced her retirement from international cricket in October 2026.
• Career: Her international career spanned 2009–2021 and included four Test matches, 73 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 35 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).
• Notable performance: She scored 86 runs in the 2017 Women's ODI World Cup final against England.
• ODI record: She scored 2,299 runs, including three centuries and 15 half-centuries.

Devanesan Chokkalingam, Known as Deva, Passes Away

• Profile: Veteran Tamil film composer Devanesan Chokkalingam, popularly known as Deva or “Thenisai Thendral”, died at the age of 75 in Chennai in October 2026.
• Career: He worked across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam cinema, composing songs and background scores for more than 400 films, according to the supplied report.
• Awards: His honours included the Kalaimamani Award and Tamil Nadu State Film Awards for Best Music Director.

Fisheries Scientist B. Madhusoodana Kurup Passes Away

• Profile: B. Madhusoodana Kurup, founding Vice-Chancellor of Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), passed away at the age of 71 in Kochi in October 2026.
• Contributions: He discovered eight freshwater fish species in the Western Ghats, guided 22 doctoral scholars and published more than 250 research papers.
• Research: He contributed to fisheries science, aquatic biodiversity, aquaculture and fisheries education.
• Leadership: He also served at Cochin University of Science and Technology and Shri Venkateshwara University.

CJI Surya Kant Inaugurates Ladakh High Court Bench

• Inauguration: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant inaugurated the Ladakh Bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh at Melongthang, Leh, in October 2026.

Solar Eruptions Studied Using Aditya-L1 and Proba-3

• Missions: The research combined observations from India's Aditya-L1 mission and Europe's Proba-3 mission.
• Research: Scientists from Bengaluru and international collaborators studied coronal mass ejections (CMEs), large eruptions of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun.
• Instruments: The study used the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) aboard Aditya-L1 and the ASPIICS instrument aboard Proba-3.
• Significance: Combining observations from the two missions helps scientists study solar eruptions and understand their mass, density and energy.

Ministry of Culture Signs MoU with France's National Library

• On 26 October 2026, the Ministry of Culture signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) to preserve and digitise India's manuscript and documentary heritage.
• The partnership brings together the Gyan Bharatam Mission, National Archives of India, National Library in Kolkata and BnF to identify and digitise Indian-origin manuscripts held in France.
• The Gyan Bharatam Mission focuses on identifying, documenting, conserving, digitising, translating, researching and sharing India's manuscript heritage.

PM-DAKSH Yojana

• PM-DAKSH, launched in 2020–21, provides skill development training to eligible people from Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, Economically Weaker Sections, De-Notified Tribes and Safai Karamcharis, including waste pickers.
• The scheme targets beneficiaries aged 18–45 years and aims to improve their employability through skill training.
• The supplied figures report 1.87 lakh people trained and 96,162 placed. These figures and the reported expenditure should be checked against official records before exam use.

Exercise Garuda Shakti 2026

• The 11th edition of the India–Indonesia joint Special Forces exercise began at Banyuwangi, Indonesia, on 27 October 2026 and is scheduled to continue until 6 November 2026.
• The exercise aims to improve interoperability, coordination and mutual understanding between the Special Forces of both countries.

Sanjay Singhal Gets Additional Charge as ITBP DG

• The Ministry of Home Affairs assigned Sanjay Singhal, Director General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), additional charge as Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), effective 31 October 2026.
• Singhal is a 1993-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre.
• He is scheduled to take over from Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor, who is due to retire on 31 October 2026.

Air Marshal Vikram Gaur Appointed DMA Additional Secretary

• Air Marshal Vikram Gaur was appointed Additional Secretary in the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) under the Ministry of Defence.
• Before the appointment, he served as Joint Secretary (Air and Staff Duties) in the DMA from October 2024.
• According to the supplied material, he is the first Indian Air Force officer to hold this position.

World Day for Audiovisual Heritage

• UNESCO proclaimed the observance in 2005.
• The supplied 2026 theme is “Your Window to the World.”
• World Day for Audiovisual Heritage is observed on 27 October to raise awareness about preserving films, recordings and other audiovisual materials.

International Animation Day 2026

• The Association Internationale du Film d’Animation (ASIFA) established the observance in 2002.
• The 2026 poster was created by Japanese animator Yoriko Mizushiri, according to the supplied material.
• International Animation Day is observed on 28 October to commemorate Émile Reynaud's public screening of projected animated images in Paris on 28 October 1892.

International Day of Care and Support 2026

• The day was proclaimed through UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/77/317 on 24 July 2023, and the first observance took place on 29 October 2023.
• The supplied theme for 2026 is “Building Sustainable Care and Support Systems through Decent Work.”
• The United Nations observes the International Day of Care and Support on 29 October to highlight the importance of care work, gender equality and strong care systems.

World Boxing U19 Championships 2026

• India's other medal winners were Megha Sheokand (silver, women's 80 kg), Harshika (bronze, women's 65 kg) and Prachi Tokas (bronze, women's 80+ kg).
• The championships were held in Budva, Montenegro, from 16 to 27 October 2026. India won four medals: one gold, one silver and two bronze.
• Aditya won gold in the men's 55 kg category after defeating Russia's Islam Magomedov 4–1 in the final.

European Chess Club Cup 2026

• The European Chess Club Cup was held in Budva, Montenegro, from 17 to 23 October 2026, with 130 teams participating.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda Dies

• He served as Prime Minister from September 2007 to September 2008 and resigned amid political deadlock and declining public approval.
• Before becoming Prime Minister, he served as Chief Cabinet Secretary from 2000 to 2004.
• Yasuo Fukuda, former Prime Minister of Japan, died in Tokyo at the age of 90, according to the supplied material.
• His foreign policy placed importance on relations with Asian neighbours, particularly China.

12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum

• The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum was held in New Delhi from 26 to 27 October 2026 under the theme “Fostering Parliaments for People-Centric Development.”
• Other BRICS engagements included the BRICS Theatre Festival, BRICS Business Forum and the second BRICS Finance Ministers' and Central Bank Governors' meeting.

UAE's First-Class Order of Zayed II

• The honour recognised his bravery in protecting 174 passengers during an in-flight cockpit assault aboard a Flydubai flight.
• Indian commercial pilot Captain Smit Machchhar received the UAE's prestigious First-Class Order of Zayed II.

BRICS Business and Financial Cooperation

• India hosted the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi under its 2026 BRICS presidency theme: “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”
• The second BRICS Finance Ministers' and Central Bank Governors' (FMCBG) Meeting was co-chaired by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra and DEA Secretary Anuradha Thakur.
• RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra and Dilma Rousseff, President of the New Development Bank, inaugurated the BNKP, a centralised digital platform.

DPIIT Announces 6th National Startup Awards

• The awards aim to recognise innovation and entrepreneurship and encourage startup participation from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
• Startups will be recognised across 20 sectoral categories and three special categories. Winners in eligible startup categories will receive a cash prize of ₹25 lakh.
• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) launched the sixth edition of the National Startup Awards (NSA 6.0) under the Startup India initiative.
• The special categories include Women-Led Startup of the Year, North-East Startup Excellence and Student Innovator/Aspiring Entrepreneur Award.

The UAE's First-Class Order of Zayed II

• Captain Smit Machchhar received the honour for protecting passengers during an in-flight cockpit assault.
• The award is a national civilian decoration of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

LA28 Announces Official Slogan for 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games

• The Los Angeles 2028 Organising Committee announced “Stars Align” as the official slogan for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
• Los Angeles will host the Summer Olympics for the third time, after 1932 and 1984. It will host the Paralympic Games for the first time.
• The Olympic Games are scheduled for 14–30 July 2028, while the Paralympic Games will take place from 15–27 August 2028.

Three-Time Asian Para Games Gold Medallist Neeraj Yadav Dies

• He competed in the F55 category and won gold in men's javelin throw at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Para Games with an Asian record of 29.84 metres.
• At the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Para Games, he won gold medals in men's discus throw and javelin throw.
• Indian para-athlete Neeraj Yadav, a three-time Asian Para Games gold medallist, passed away at the age of 42.

World Stroke Day 2026

• The day was first observed on 29 October 2006 under the initiative of the World Stroke Organization (WSO).
• The supplied theme for 2026 is “Every M1nute Counts.”
• The 18th World Stroke Congress 2026 was held in Seoul, South Korea, from 21 to 23 October.
• World Stroke Day is observed every year on 29 October to raise awareness about stroke prevention, early recognition of symptoms and timely treatment.

FICCI Appoints Vijay Sankar as President-Elect for 2026–27

• In October 2026, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) appointed Vijay Sankar as its President-Elect for 2026–27.
• He will succeed Anant Goenka as FICCI President after the Annual General Meeting and Annual Convention scheduled for 18–19 November 2026 in New Delhi.
• He also serves as Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Chemplast Sanmar Limited and as an Independent Director on the boards of TVS Motor Company and Larsen & Toubro.

India Discovers New Microscopic Land Snail Species in Maharashtra

• Researchers from the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation discovered a new microscopic land snail species named Dicharax tilariensis in the Tilari region of Kolhapur district, Maharashtra.
• Specimens were collected near Swapnavel Point, close to Tilarinagar, at an elevation of 700–800 metres above sea level.

New Mollisia Fungus Discovered in the Sikkim Himalaya

• Microbiologists discovered a new fungal species named Mollisia sokpayensia in the Sikkim Himalaya in October 2026.
• The discovery adds a new species to the known fungal diversity of the Himalayan region.

Digital Bharat Nidhi Signs Tamil Nadu BharatNet Agreement

• On 30 October 2026, Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), the Tamil Nadu Government and Tamil Nadu FibreNet Corporation (TANFINET) signed an agreement to expand digital connectivity in Tamil Nadu.

India to Host ICAR–CGIAR Science and Partnership Week 2027

• India will host the ICAR–CGIAR Science and Partnership Week in New Delhi from 12 to 17 April 2027.

India–Brazil Partnership Expands in Defence, Aerospace and Space

• On 31 October 2026, India and Brazil highlighted expanding cooperation in defence, aerospace and space.
• The update was shared by Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Rudrendra Tandon.

Buddha’s Piprahwa Relics to Be Displayed in Arunachal Pradesh

• The sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha will be displayed for public veneration in Arunachal Pradesh from 31 October to 21 November 2026.

Rahul Dravid and Saina Nehwal Nominated to 2030 Commonwealth Games Board

• Both sportspersons will be associated with the board responsible for the organisation of the 2030 Games.
• Former Indian cricket captain Rahul Dravid and Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal were nominated to the Organising Company Board for the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
• The nominations were announced on 30 October 2026.

Oscar-Nominated Actress Barbara Barrie Passes Away at 95

• She won the Best Actress award at the 1964 Cannes Film Festival for One Potato, Two Potato.
• She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Evelyn Stohler in Breaking Away (1979).
• She also received three Emmy nominations and a Tony Award nomination for her performance in Company (1970).
• American actress Barbara Barrie passed away at the age of 95 in Manhattan, New York City, in October 2026.

Czech Deputy Prime Minister Inaugurates Aerospace Production Line in Karnataka

• Five Memoranda of Understanding were signed with Czech partners.
• The partnership aims to strengthen India–Czech cooperation in aerospace and related technologies.

Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford Win the 2026 Economics Prize

• American economists Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford received the 2026 Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel.
• The award ceremony is held annually on 10 December in Stockholm, Sweden.
• They will share the prize money of 12 million Swedish kronor.

Israel to Honour Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar

• The award recognises civilians who risk their lives to save others.
• Six passengers who helped prevent the incident were also named as recipients.
• Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced that Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar would receive the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism.
• According to the supplied report, the award recognises his actions in preventing a potential aircraft disaster.

Sunil Bharti Mittal Receives France's Legion of Honour

• French President Emmanuel Macron named Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, a Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour in October 2026.
• Mittal received the Padma Bhushan in 2007 for contributions to trade and industry.
• He also serves as co-chairman of satellite communications company Eutelsat, according to the supplied report.

Sports Ministry Forms Committee to Revive Hockey India League

• The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports formed a seven-member committee to review the Hockey India League's governance, financial model and structure.
• The league was relaunched in 2024 after a seven-year break.
• The committee includes representatives of the Sports Ministry, Hockey India and league franchises.
• The committee is expected to recommend measures to address financial challenges and franchise uncertainty.

Putul Sonowal Wins India's First-Ever Medal at World Bowls Champion of Champions

• Indian lawn bowls player Putul Sonowal from Assam won bronze in the men's singles category in October 2026.
• The tournament took place in Barham, Australia, from 6 to 10 October.
• Lawn bowls is a precision sport in which players roll biased bowls towards a target ball called the jack.

State of the World's Forests 2026

• The FAO released the State of the World's Forests (SOFO) 2026. The report says the world needs to restore 470 million more hectares by 2030 to meet existing pledges. India ranks first in the world in forest area actively under restoration.
• It draws on the Global Forest Resources Assessment 2025 and country reports under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
• India ranks first globally in active forest restoration under FRA 2025.
• Forest area: 4.14 billion hectares, covering 32% of global land.

Kerala Launches India's First Ecosystem Red List Assessment

• Funded by the Kerala State Biodiversity Board
• Duration: one year, covering all 14 districts of Kerala

India Joins the Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement

• India is the world's second-largest fish producer and second-largest aquaculture producer; production reached 198 lakh tonnes in 2024-25
• Headquarters: Saint-Denis, Réunion Island (France)
• Headquarters: Saint-Denis, Réunion Island (France)
• India approved accession to SIOFA in October 2026, becoming a Contracting Party

WINDS Weather Network

• Run by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
• India's WINDS project — a network of automatic rain gauges and weather stations to support crop insurance — is more than a year behind schedule. Over 96 per cent of planned sensors are still not installed.
• A nationwide network of weather sensors to supply hyper-local weather data
• Implemented by States through private partners

PM-SETU Scheme to Upgrade 9 Government ITIs

• The project will upgrade 9 Government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Surat and Visakhapatnam clusters, with an approved investment of ₹440 crore.
• Five ITIs in Surat will receive ₹240 crore, while four ITIs in Visakhapatnam will receive ₹200 crore.
• Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) will manage the clusters, with AM/NS India holding a 51% stake.
• The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) signed a Shareholders’ Agreement with ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India and the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat.

India Reaches 103 Ramsar Sites

• India’s Ramsar site count reached 103 following the inclusion of Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh, according to the supplied report.
• Wetland conservation supports biodiversity, water management and flood control.

Aditya-L1

• Aditya-L1 — India's first solar mission, launched 2 September 2023 by PSLV-C57
• It was placed in a halo orbit around Lagrange Point 1 (L1) in January 2024
• L1 lies about 1.5 million km from Earth, towards the Sun. A satellite there can watch the Sun continuously, without eclipses
• Aditya-L1 carries seven payloads — four observe the Sun directly, three study particles and fields at L1

The World Bank's October 2026: Poverty and Equity Brief

• Projected to fall further — 14.2 per cent (2026) to 12.1 per cent (2028)
• Below $4.20 a day: 57.7 per cent (2011) → 16.1 per cent (2023); 496 million lifted out
• Agriculture 43 per cent of employment; manufacturing 12.1 per cent (PLFS 2025)
• FLFPR: 40 per cent overall (2025), up from 33.9 per cent (2022); urban only 27.7 per cent

IMF Report on AI and Employment in Asia 2026

• The World Bank WDR 2026 found just over 4 per cent of Indian jobs face immediate automation risk, against over one-third in advanced economies
• Labour demand in AI-exposed occupations fell nearly 10 per cent since November 2022, but has stabilised
• India's employment structure (PLFS 2025): agriculture 43 per cent, manufacturing 12.1 per cent
• The IMF's October 2026 Regional Economic Outlook: Asia and Pacific found that demand for workers in AI-exposed occupations across Asia has fallen by nearly 10 per cent since November 2022.

Global Hunger Index 2026

• Global score: 17.6 (2018) → 18.1 (2026); worse in 32 countries; 57 countries off track for 2030
• India's programmes: NFSA, 2013 covering about 80 crore people, PMGKAY, Poshan Abhiyaan, PM POSHAN (mid-day meal) and Saksham Anganwadi
• Title of the 2026 report: "No Security Without Food Security"
• 100 is the worst

Advanced Emergency Braking Systems (AEBS)

• Proposal: The Ministry of Road Transport proposed making Advanced Emergency Braking Systems (AEBS) mandatory for new passenger car models from 1 October 2030. Existing production models would need to comply by 1 October 2032.
• How It Works: The system monitors the road ahead, warns the driver of a possible collision and can automatically apply the brakes if the driver does not respond in time.
• Key Term: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) refers to vehicle technologies that help drivers avoid crashes and improve road safety.

NVS-03 Navigation Satellite

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is scheduled to launch NVS-03 on 30 October 2026, using a GSLV Mk II rocket from Sriharikota.
• NVS-03 is part of the second-generation Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) satellite series.
• Purpose: To replace ageing first-generation navigation satellites and improve India’s independent satellite-navigation services.
• Organisations Involved: ISRO operates NavIC; the Space Applications Centre (SAC) develops navigation payloads, while the U. R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) builds satellite platforms.

Ghostly Eyeless Freshwater Snail Discovered in China

• Scientists discovered a new cave-dwelling freshwater snail named Erhaia dijiang in Yunnan Province, China, at an altitude of 2,062 metres.

Astronomers Detect Magnetic Threads Above the Sun

• Astronomers detected fine, thread-like magnetic structures in the Sun’s chromosphere, the layer of its atmosphere above the visible surface.
• Importance: The discovery can help scientists better understand the Sun’s magnetic field and the physical processes occurring in its atmosphere.

United Nations Day – 24 October

• 2026 marked the 81st anniversary of the United Nations.
• Observed annually on 24 October to mark the date the United Nations Charter came into force in 1945.
• In 1947, the United Nations General Assembly designated 24 October as United Nations Day.

World Development Information Day – 24 October

• The United Nations General Assembly established the observance in 1972.
• The date is linked to the adoption of the International Development Strategy for the Second United Nations Development Decade in 1970.
• Observed annually on 24 October to raise awareness about global development challenges.

Global Media and Information Literacy Week – 24–31 October

• The initiative was launched in 2012 under the leadership of UNESCO and partner organisations.
• 2026 Theme: “We All Play a Part – Media and Information Literacy for the People.”
• Observed from 24 to 31 October to promote media literacy, critical thinking and responsible digital engagement.

World Polio Day – 24 October

• 2026 Theme: “One day, one focus, Ending polio for good.”
• India’s last reported case of wild poliovirus was recorded in Howrah, West Bengal, on 13 January 2011.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) certified its South-East Asia Region, including India, as polio-free on 27 March 2014. India continues vaccination and disease surveillance to prevent the return of polio.
• Observed annually on 24 October to raise awareness about polio and support global eradication efforts.