Daily Current Affairs Quiz
17 July , 2026
National Affairs
1. Roadmap for Building India as a Leading Bioeconomy Powerhouse by 2035
Source: NITI Aayog
Context
NITI Aayog released the report “Roadmap for Building India as a Leading Bioeconomy Powerhouse by 2035”, proposing major policy reforms, a ₹50,000-crore BioEconomy Growth Fund, and six National BioMissions to make India one of the top three biotechnology nations by 2035.
What is the Bioeconomy?
The bioeconomy refers to economic activities based on the use of biological resources, biotechnology, and life sciences to produce products and services in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, food, energy, and the environment.
Vision
- Make India one of the Top 3 biotechnology powers by 2035.
- Build globally competitive biotechnology companies.
- Promote innovation, biomanufacturing, and employment.
Major Recommendations
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Recommendation | Establish a ₹50,000-crore BioEconomy Growth Fund for 2026–2035. |
| Primary Objective | Support biotechnology startups and industries by accelerating commercialization of innovations. |
| Key Purpose | Bridge the “Valley of Death”—the gap between laboratory research and commercial production. |
| Financial Support Mechanisms | Blended finance, Equity-risk funding, Viability Gap Funding (VGF), and Infrastructure support. |
| Priority Sectors | Biomanufacturing, Advanced therapeutics, Synthetic biology, Fermentation technologies, and Diagnostics. |
Six National BioMissions
| National BioMission | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| 1. GeneIndia | Affordable gene therapy and cell therapy for improved healthcare. |
| 2. AgriBio 2.0 | Develop climate-resilient gene-edited crops and promote biological inputs for sustainable agriculture. |
| 3. BioX Foundry | Commercialisation of synthetic biology innovations. |
| 4. One Health Grid | Integrated surveillance of infectious diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). |
| 5. Marine Biotechnology Mission | Promote seaweed cultivation and development of marine bio-products. |
| 6. BioPharmaNext | Promote biologics, biosimilars, and AI-enabled drug discovery. |
2. Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) III Norms
Source: Business Standard
Context
The Government of India has released the draft Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) III norms for passenger vehicles and invited public comments for 21 days. The new norms will apply from 1 April 2027.
What are CAFE Norms?
CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency) norms prescribe the average fuel efficiency (or CO₂ emission limits) that automobile manufacturers must achieve across all the passenger vehicles they sell.
Objective: Reduce fuel consumption, lower carbon emissions, and promote cleaner vehicle technologies.
Applicability
- Applicable from 1 April 2027
- Covers M1 category passenger vehicles
- Up to 8 passenger seats (excluding the driver’s seat)
- Applicable to both manufactured and imported vehicles sold in India.
Objectives of CAFE III
- Improve fuel efficiency
- Reduce CO₂ emissions
- Promote electric and hybrid vehicles
- Encourage renewable fuels (E20, ethanol, CNG, CBG)
- Support India’s climate commitments
- Reduce crude oil imports
- Provide long-term policy certainty to automobile manufacturers
3. PARIVARTAN Scheme
Source: BS
Context
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has approved the operational guidelines for the PARIVARTAN Scheme, aimed at replacing old, highly polluting trucks and buses in the National Capital Region (NCR) with cleaner vehicles.
What is PARIVARTAN?
- PARIVARTAN stands for:
- Programme for Accelerated Renewal and Incentivization of Vehicle Assets for Reducing Transport Air Pollution and Network Emissions
- It is a Central Government scheme to accelerate the replacement of old commercial vehicles with BS-VI compliant or electric vehicles (EVs).
- Ministry
- Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)
Objective
- Reduce air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR).
- Replace old, high-emission trucks and buses.
- Promote cleaner transport technologies.
- Improve urban air quality.
- Reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
4. India’s Tourism Growth and WTTC Report 2026
Source: Business Standard
Context
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in its Economic Impact Research (EIR) Report 2026, stated that India’s tourism sector has significant growth potential but requires visa reforms, better connectivity, and stronger international promotion to unlock its full potential.
About WTTC
- World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is a global body representing the travel and tourism sector.
- It publishes the Economic Impact Research (EIR) report annually to assess the sector’s contribution to GDP and employment.
Key Highlights of the Report
| Parameter | 2025 | 2026 | 2036 (Projected) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contribution to GDP | — | 6.7% of GDP | 7.0% of GDP |
| Tourism Sector CAGR (2026–2036) | — | 6.3% | Faster than India’s economy (5.7% CAGR) |
| Employment Supported | 46.2 million (10.8%) | 48.1 million (11.1%) | 63.5 million (13.0%) |
| Comparison with 2019 | — | — | 2019: 39.9 million jobs (9.9%) |
| International Visitor Spending | ₹2.9 lakh crore | ₹3.3 lakh crore | 15.3% increase over 2025 |
Top Source Countries for Foreign Tourists (2025)
| Country | Share |
|---|---|
| United States | 11% |
| Bangladesh | 10% |
| United Kingdom | 7% |
| Japan | 4% |
| Malaysia | 4% |
| Rest of the World | 64% |
5. Indian Grey Hornbill
Source: The Hindu
Context
The Indian Grey Hornbill has returned to Gir Forest, Gujarat, after more than 60 years, following a successful reintroduction programme by the Gujarat Forest Department.
About Indian Grey Hornbill
- Scientific Name: Ocyceros birostris
- Family: Bucerotidae (Hornbill family)
- Medium-sized, tree-dwelling (arboreal) bird.
- One of the most common hornbill species found in the Indian subcontinent.
Distribution
- Endemic to the Indian subcontinent.
- Found in:
- India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh
- IUCN Status
- Least Concern (LC)
6. Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS)
Source: PIB
Context
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS) with an outlay of ₹62,500 crore to strengthen India’s mobile manufacturing ecosystem and promote indigenous brands.
About MPMS
- Launched by: Government of India
- Approved by: Union Cabinet
- Outlay: ₹62,500 crore
- Duration: FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31 (5 years)
Objectives
- Increase mobile phone manufacturing in India.
- Promote domestic value addition.
- Encourage local sourcing of components.
- Develop Indian mobile brands.
- Boost research, design, and innovation.
- Reduce import dependence and strengthen supply chains.
Agriculture
1. Producer-Controlled Cooperatives: Giving Farmers the Reins
Source: Business Standard
Context
Economist Nitin Desai says that Indian agriculture should be led by farmers’ cooperatives instead of government bureaucracy. He cites the success of the Amul model and suggests using the same approach for Agrivoltaics (Agri-PV) under the PM-KUSUM scheme.
Why is this issue important?
- India spends huge money on subsidies for paddy and wheat, but these crops have grown slowly.
- At the same time, sectors like milk, fruits, and vegetables, which are mainly managed by farmers themselves, have grown much faster.
Growth in Agriculture (FY2012–FY2024)
- Paddy & Wheat → 27%
- Fruits & Vegetables → 52%
- Milk → 85%
Lesson:
- Producer-led sectors performed much better than subsidy-driven sectors.
- Milk is now more valuable than cereals.
- Government Support
- Fertiliser + Food Subsidy → ₹4 trillion
- More than 80 crore people receive free food grains under PMGKAY.
The Amul Model
What is Amul?
- Started in 1946 at Anand, Gujarat.
- Full form: Anand Milk Union Limited (AMUL).
- Founded by Tribhuvandas Patel.
- Led by Dr. Verghese Kurien, known as the Father of the White Revolution.
Why is Amul successful?
- Farmers own the cooperative.
- Farmers manage the cooperative.
- Profits go directly to farmers.
- No middlemen.
National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)
- Established in 1965.
- Founded by Dr. Verghese Kurien.
- Supported by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri.
Objective
- Promote dairy cooperatives across India.
Operation Flood
- Started in 1970.
- Also called the White Revolution.
- Helped India become the world’s largest milk producer.
What is Agrivoltaics (Agri-PV)?
Agrivoltaics means growing crops and generating solar power on the same land.
- Solar panels are installed above crops.
- Crops grow below the panels.
- Farmers earn from both farming and electricity.
Benefits of Agri-PV
- Higher farmer income.
- Better use of land.
- Saves irrigation water.
- Produces clean energy.
- Helps fight climate change.
PM-KUSUM Scheme
- Full Form
- Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan
- Launched: 2019
- Ministry: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
Components
- Component A: Grid-connected solar plants.
- Component B: Standalone solar pumps.
- Component C: Solarisation of existing pumps.
- Also supports Agrivoltaics (Agri-PV).
Why are Cooperatives Needed?
- Average farm size in India is only 1.08 hectares.
- Small farmers cannot afford expensive Agri-PV projects individually.
Cooperatives help by:
- Combining land.
- Sharing investment.
- Getting bank loans easily.
- Sharing profits.
- Managing projects efficiently.
2. ICAR Foundation Day 2026
Source: Business Standard
Context
At the 98th Foundation Day of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan urged scientists to develop non-GM (Genetically Modified) solutions to improve the productivity of pulses and oilseeds. He also emphasized crop diversification and climate-smart agriculture to achieve India’s agricultural goals by 2047.
Key Highlights
Focus on Non-GM Solutions
- Scientists were asked to develop high-yielding non-GMO varieties of pulses and oilseeds.
- The Minister questioned why countries without GM seeds achieve better productivity while India still depends on imports.
- The approval of GM Mustard (DMH-11) remains pending due to legal and policy issues.
- The Minister observed that farmers shift from pulses to rice and wheat after getting irrigation because cereals provide higher yields.
- The Minister emphasized reducing dependence on imported fertilizers and developing indigenous solutions.
- ICAR has prepared contingency plans for regions vulnerable to El Niño and other climate risks.
About ICAR
- Established: 1929
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
- India’s apex organization for agricultural education, research, and extension.
3. National Investment Policy for Urea (NIPU) 2026
Source: TH
Context
The Union Cabinet has approved the National Investment Policy for Urea (NIPU) 2026 to establish 8–9 new gas-based urea plants with a production capacity of 10 million tonnes (MT). The policy aims to reduce India’s dependence on imported urea and strengthen fertilizer security.
Why is the Policy Needed?
- India consumes around 40 million tonnes (MT) of urea annually.
- Domestic production is about 30 MT, while nearly 10 MT (25%) is imported.
- Global events such as the West Asia conflict and disruption in the Strait of Hormuz caused urea prices to rise by 40–50%, highlighting India’s import dependence.
Key Features of NIPU 2026
- Establish 8–9 new gas-based urea plants.
- Add 10 million tonnes of annual production capacity.
- Improve transparency by separating fixed and variable costs.
- Introduce a 12–16% Return on Equity (RoE) band.
- Reduce foreign exchange risk by converting fixed costs into Indian Rupees after four years.
Why is the Policy Important?
- Reduces dependence on imported urea.
- Improves fertilizer availability during global supply disruptions.
- Supports India’s food security.
- Encourages domestic fertilizer manufacturing.
- Soil Health Concerns
- Recommended N:P:K nutrient ratio:
- 4 : 2 : 1
- Current ratio in India:
- 9.8 : 3 : 1
4. Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Act, 2026
Source: Indian Express
Context
Maharashtra has become the first Indian state to enact the Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Act, 2026, providing legal recognition and protection to women farmers. The Act was introduced during the UN-observed International Year of the Woman Farmer to promote inclusive and sustainable agriculture.
What is the Act?
- A landmark law that legally recognizes women as farmers.
- Ensures women can access government agricultural benefits even without owning agricultural land.
- Aims to reduce gender inequality in agriculture by improving access to land-related benefits, credit, insurance, training, and welfare schemes.
Why is the Act Needed?
- Most agricultural land is owned by men.
- Many women work in farming but are not legally recognized as farmers.
- Lack of legal recognition limits access to:
- Government schemes
- Institutional credit
- Crop insurance
- Agricultural extension services
- Subsidies and welfare benefits
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Broad Definition of Woman Farmer | Recognizes women engaged in crop cultivation, animal husbandry, poultry farming, fisheries, agro-forestry, vermiculture, mushroom cultivation, and primary agricultural processing as farmers. |
| Eligibility | Recognition is available to land owners, tenants, and agricultural labourers. |
| Woman Farmer Certificate (WFC) | Eligible women can obtain a Woman Farmer Certificate (WFC) as official proof of farming occupation. |
| Issuing Authority | Issued through the Gram Sabha or Nagar Panchayat. |
| Benefit of WFC | Eliminates the requirement of land ownership for accessing government welfare and agricultural schemes. |
| Digital Registry | Establishes a centralized digital database of certified women farmers for improved scheme delivery. |
| Women Farmers Empowerment Fund | A State-level dedicated fund to support women farmers’ welfare, livelihoods, skill development, and empowerment. |
Facts To Remember
1. PM to Flag Off India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off India’s first hydrogen-powered train from Jind Railway Station, Haryana. The train is equipped with advanced multi-layer safety systems capable of detecting hydrogen leaks, heat, flames, and smoke, marking a major milestone in India’s clean and sustainable railway transportation.
2. T. Srinivasa Kumar Appointed Secretary of Ministry of Earth Sciences
The Government of India appointed T. Srinivasa Kumar as the Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) for a two-year tenure. An eminent ocean scientist, he played a key role in developing India’s Tsunami Early Warning System and has extensive expertise in satellite oceanography, coastal hazard mitigation, and disaster management.
3. MoFPI Launches Short-Term Skill Training Programme
The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), in collaboration with NIFTEM Thanjavur, launched a pilot Short-Term Skill Training Programme (STSTP) for Assistant Baking Technician (NSQF Level-3) at ITC–ICML, Trichy. The programme aims to enhance employability in the food processing sector through industry-integrated training and assured employment opportunities.
4. UN Releases First Scientific Report on Artificial Intelligence
The United Nations (UN) released its first scientific assessment report on Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlighting that AI development is advancing faster than global governance. The report calls for stronger international regulatory frameworks to ensure safe, responsible, and equitable AI development worldwide.
5. Delhivery Financial Services Receives RBI Approval for Type-II NBFC Licence
Delhivery Financial Services Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Delhivery Limited, received the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) approval for a Type-II NBFC-Non Deposit Taking (NBFC-ND) licence. The approval will enable the company to offer financial products such as credit, insurance, payment solutions, and fuel cards to strengthen its logistics ecosystem.
6. TCS Expands AI-Driven Partnership with ABB
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) signed a multi-million, multi-year agreement with ABB to modernise its global network operations using Artificial Intelligence (AI). The partnership aims to create a standardised, secure, AI-powered digital infrastructure through an integrated Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) model.
7. Brand Finance India 100 Report 2026 Released
Brand Finance released the India 100 Report 2026, valuing India’s top 100 brands at USD 252.8 billion, a 7% increase over the previous year. Tata Group retained its position as India’s most valuable brand, while Adani Group emerged as the fastest entrant into the country’s top 10 most valuable brands.
8. Serhii Koretskyi Appointed Prime Minister of Ukraine
Ukraine’s Parliament appointed Serhii Koretskyi, former CEO of Naftogaz of Ukraine, as the country’s new Prime Minister. He was nominated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to strengthen governance, energy security, and critical infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict.
9. Kerala Startup HEX20 Launches Second Satellite ‘KOYO’
Kerala-based space startup HEX20 successfully launched its second satellite, KOYO (Kinetic Optical Yaw Observer), aboard SpaceX Transporter-17. The satellite will serve as a multi-payload technology demonstration platform for validating advanced space technologies and international payloads.
10. ATREE Discovers Two New Rare Bee Species in Arunachal Pradesh
Researchers from ATREE discovered two new rare solitary bee species—Elaphropoda triangulata and Habropoda adi—in Siang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh. The discovery highlights the exceptional biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas and underscores the importance of conserving these fragile ecosystems.
11. MYAS Grants Conditional Recognition to Judo Federation of India
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) granted conditional recognition to the Judo Federation of India (JFI), enabling it to resume administration of the sport, conduct national championships, and facilitate India’s participation in international competitions.
12. Vice-President Releases Book ‘The Voice of Justice: Justice Gavai Speaks’
Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan released the book ‘The Voice of Justice: Justice Gavai Speaks’, which compiles speeches delivered by Justice B. R. Gavai. The publication aims to provide valuable insights into constitutional law, judicial reasoning, and the functioning of India’s legal system.
13. World Youth Skills Day Observed on 15 July
The United Nations observed World Youth Skills Day on 15 July with the theme “Skills for a Shared Future.” The day highlights the importance of equipping young people with technical and vocational skills to enhance employment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.
14. Tamil Nadu Launches ‘Nalam TN’ AI-Powered Healthcare Platform
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay launched ‘Nalam TN’, an AI-powered WhatsApp chatbot that enables online outpatient (OP) registration and appointment booking at government hospitals. The initiative aims to improve healthcare accessibility and reduce waiting time for patients.
15. Madhya Pradesh Secures USD 2 Billion Semiconductor Investment
Spain-based Submer Group announced an investment of USD 2 billion in Madhya Pradesh’s semiconductor sector. The investment will establish wafer fabrication, assembly, testing, and packaging (ATMP) facilities, supporting India’s Semiconductor Mission and boosting domestic chip manufacturing.
