Daily Current Affairs - Week 29, 2026 (13 Jul 2026 - 19 Jul 2026)

• Australia repatriated three stolen antiquities including Chola-era artefacts to Tamil Nadu on 9-10 July 2026 under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty.
• New Delhi ranked 120th in the Global Liveability Index 2026 with a score of 48.1, released on 8 July 2026.
• India launched Awiqli, the world’s first once-weekly insulin, on 9 July 2026 for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients.
• India Post and TRAI signed an MoU to conduct India’s largest rural telecom survey covering 5.68 lakh villages.
• Delhi introduced the Pink Saheli Smart Card for free bus travel for women starting 1 August 2026, replacing paper tickets.
• A two-day National Conference on NextGen Administrative & e-Gov Reforms began in Shillong on 13 July 2026.
• The Central Vista redevelopment area in New Delhi has been officially named Kartavya Bhawan Complex from 12 July 2026.
• NABARD launched the Gramodyam programme on 13 July 2026 to develop rural entrepreneurship targeting 4,000 entrepreneurs across the country.
• Soumya Swaminathan was formally inducted as a Fellow of the Royal Society of London on 10 July 2026, becoming the second Indian woman scientist to receive this honour.
• The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports launched the next phase of Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat campaign on 13 July 2026 with various cultural competitions.
• Assam launched a statewide drug disposal drive on 12 July 2026 and destroyed narcotics worth over Rs 472 crore.
• Delhi government renamed Mahila Samriddhi Yojana as Delhi Lakshmi Yojana to provide ₹2,500 monthly assistance to eligible women.
• The PMFME scheme sanctioned loans to over 2 lakh micro units, leveraged ₹20,300 crore investment and generated nearly 11 lakh jobs.
• Laudankia Vine Snake was sighted in Udaipur’s Ubeshwar wildlife area after nearly 30 years.
• India launched its campaign for a non-permanent UNSC seat for 2028-29 with the SHANTI vision.
• DGFT has prohibited the import of goods made wholly or partly with forced labour by inserting Paragraph 2.20B in the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, effective after 30 days.
• All India Water Secretaries’ Conference was held in New Delhi focusing on water conservation, dam safety and other priority areas.
• IPC signed an MoU with UPPPC to strengthen quality standards, innovation, and regulatory excellence in Uttar Pradesh’s pharmaceutical and medical device sector.
• The Ministry of Power released draft CAFE-III norms for passenger vehicles targeting improved fuel efficiency from 2027-28 to 2031-32.
• Researchers discovered multiple new damselfly species in Kerala’s Western Ghats.
• The Union Cabinet approved the National Investment Policy for Urea-2026 to boost domestic urea production capacity.

• India, Australia and Canada launched the ACITI Partnership on 9 July 2026 focusing on AI, green energy and critical minerals.
• India and New Zealand elevated bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership with a Roadmap to 2030 and signed 10 agreements during PM Modi’s visit.
• India will host BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting in Hyderabad on July 15-16 under its 2026 BRICS Chairship.
• Scientists discovered a new colobus monkey species named Colobus congoensis in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

• Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is leading a business delegation to Spain, Belgium, and Finland from 13 to 17 July 2026 to boost trade and investment.
• NSE launched the Nifty500 Ahimsa Index on 10 July 2026 that excludes companies involved in activities harming animals.
• Dhruva Space raised ₹60 crore from Antariksh Venture Capital Fund to boost satellite manufacturing.
• The Ministry of Statistics released the trial Index of Services Production for April 2026 showing strong growth in 14 out of 19 services sub-sectors.
• Ladakh exported its first fresh apricot consignment of GI-tagged varieties to UAE under the 1,000 MT export initiative.
• Government of India revised the windfall tax on petroleum exports with new rates of ₹15.5/litre on diesel, ₹14.5/litre on ATF and ₹2.5/litre on petrol effective July 16, 2026 to ensure domestic fuel availability.

• Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame on 8 July 2026, becoming the 12th Indian cricketer to receive this honour.
• Delhi unveiled ‘Mayur’ peacock-inspired mascot for the Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships 2026 to be held from 27 July to 2 August.

• The Indian Air Force secured 3rd position for the fifth consecutive year in WDMMA 2026 Global Air Power Rankings, ahead of China’s PLAAF.
• INS Mahendragiri, the sixth and final Project 17A stealth frigate, was commissioned into the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet on 11 July 2026.
• Indian Navy will host multinational Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 at Kochi from July 20-23, 2026.

Jio Platforms appointed Pankaj Pawar as its new CEO succeeding Kiran Thomas ahead of its proposed ₹37,700 crore IPO.

• Department of Telecommunications’ Samriddh Gram Project won the WSIS Prize 2026 Global Winner title in Geneva on 9 July.
• All five Indian students won gold medals at the 56th International Physics Olympiad 2026, jointly ranking India World No. 1 with China.

• Legendary South Indian playback singer S Janaki passed away at the age of 88 at Apollo BGS Hospitals, Mysuru on 11 July 2026.
• Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani passed away at the age of 74 on 12 July 2026.
• Renowned Tamil writer Poomani passed away on 12 July 2026 at the age of 79.

• NASA astronaut Anil Menon will launch to the International Space Station on 14 July 2026 aboard Russia’s Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft.
• The Union Cabinet approved Semicon Mission 2.0 worth ₹1.27 lakh crore and Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme worth ₹62,500 crore.
• Scientists at CeNS Bengaluru developed a portable room-temperature ammonia sensor for industrial safety and environmental monitoring.

World Snake Day is being observed on July 16, 2026 to raise awareness about snakes’ ecological role and conservation needs.

• Vice-President released the book “The Voice of Justice: Justice Gavai Speaks” compiling speeches of former CJI Justice B.R. Gavai.
• The third edition of Bharat Tex 2026 textile exhibition is being held from 14-17 July 2026 at Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi in New Delhi, expecting over 1,30,000 visitors.

• Gujarat government launched Viksit Gujarat – Data Centre Policy 2026-29 on 9 July 2026 to position the state as a major hub for data centres and AI infrastructure.
• Geological Survey of India identified thorium deposits across 700 acres in Karnataka’s Chamarajanagar district on 9 July 2026.
• Andhra Pradesh launched the new phase of Mee Bhoomi-Mee Hakku programme on 9 July 2026 for distribution of digitally updated land passbooks.
• Jaisalmer Railway Station in Rajasthan has been redeveloped at a cost of Rs 140 crore under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme with Rajasthani architecture and modern facilities.
• Ahmedabad created a Guinness World Record by planting 361,000 saplings in one hour on 12 July 2026 using the Miyawaki method.
• West Bengal will observe 16 August as ‘Ayushman Diwas’ instead of ‘Khela Hobe Diwas’ to promote Ayushman Bharat health scheme.
• Bihar launched Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism Scheme offering subsidised helicopter services on select routes from July 18.
• Uttarakhand opened its first GI Products Gallery in Haldwani displaying over 30 GI-tagged products.
• Odisha Cabinet approved a new agricultural marketing law to replace the 1956 Act, introducing unified market, direct marketing and single trading licence.
• Tamil Nadu launched Nalam TN digital health portal for integrated government healthcare services along with new healthcare projects worth ₹139 crore.
• Karnataka announced India’s first government-driven Artificial Intelligence University in Bengaluru as part of its AI-native state vision.
• Uttar Pradesh launched Kaushal Setu and Kaushal Sarathi digital platforms on July 15, 2026 to enhance transparency in skill development training.

• The Union Cabinet approved NIPU-2026 on July 15 to boost domestic urea manufacturing.
• Aims to add 10 million tonnes capacity through 8-9 new natural gas-based plants.
• Offers 12-16% assured return on equity, transparent costing, and forex risk mitigation.
• Addresses India’s urea gap (production 30 MT vs demand 40 MT). Extends 2012 policy framework to promote self-reliance and reduce imports.

• Researchers discovered multiple new damselfly species in Kerala’s Western Ghats (2023-2026), including Lestes paloti, Euphaea wayanadensis, Melanoneura agasthyamalaica, Protosticta armageddonia, and Protosticta sanguinithorax.
• Discoveries reported from Silent Valley National Park and Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Odonata (dragonflies & damselflies) are key indicators of wetland and forest health.
• Identified using morphology, microscopy, and molecular methods. Adds to Kerala’s rich odonate diversity (191+ species).

• The Ministry of Power released draft Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) III norms on July 16, 2026, for M1 passenger vehicles (2027-28 to 2031-32).
• Targets: 3.996 L/100km (94.76 gCO₂/km) in 2027-28 to 3.3273 L/100km (78.90 gCO₂/km) in 2031-32.
• Effective from April 1, 2027. Includes credit trading, technology incentives (up to 9 gCO₂/km), and buyout options.
• Public consultation open till August 6, 2026. Recognizes ethanol & biofuels for compliance.

• Scientists identified a new colobus monkey species, Colobus congoensis (locally “Likweli”), in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Features: Black fur, pinkish-orange lips, white anal patch; genetically distinct from Colobus satanas.
• Habitat: Small range (~1,700 sq km) between Lomami and Lilo rivers in Lomami National Park, Congo Basin.
• Recommended as Endangered by IUCN due to limited range and threats.
• Fifth new African monkey species in 75 years; discovery published in PLOS One on July 15, 2026.

• Government of India modified Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED), popularly known as windfall tax on petroleum product exports.
• New rates: Diesel - ₹15.5/litre (up from ₹8.5); ATF - ₹14.5/litre (up from ₹7.5); Petrol - ₹2.5/litre (down from ₹4).
• Aim: Ensure domestic fuel availability, curb excessive exports amid West Asia tensions and high global oil prices.
• Rates valid until next fortnightly review. No change in domestic excise duty on petrol & diesel.
• Objectives: Prevent windfall profits for exporters and maintain energy security.

• Indian Navy will host multinational Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 at Southern Naval Command, Kochi, from July 20-23, 2026.
• Conducted with Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) under CTF-154.
• Training includes Maritime Law, Domain Awareness, Counter-Narcotics, Force Protection, Damage Control, Boarding, and Uncrewed Systems.
• Aims to enhance interoperability, capacity building, and best practices among 40+ nations.
• Highlights Indian Navy’s training expertise and Kochi’s role as a maritime training hub.

• Scientists at CeNS, Bengaluru (DST) developed a portable, wearable, room-temperature ammonia sensor on July 14, 2026.
• Detects ammonia as low as 319 ppb using VOx/VS2 heterostructure.
• Flexible versions fabricated on polymer, paper, and textile substrates for smart bands and e-textiles.
• Features high selectivity, stability (>10 weeks), and zone-based alerts (safe/warning/danger).
• Published in ACS Sensors; useful for industrial safety and environmental monitoring.

• The Union Cabinet approved Semicon Mission 2.0 (₹1.27 lakh crore) and Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (₹62,500 crore) on July 15, 2026.
• Semicon 2.0 extends to 12 years, covers chip design, fabs, advanced packaging, R&D, and talent development. Aims for ₹4 lakh crore investment.
• Mobile scheme (FY26-27 to FY30-31) offers 2.25-5% incentives + additional for domestic sourcing & R&D. Expected to generate ₹39 lakh crore production and 60,000 jobs.

• World Snake Day is celebrated annually on July 16. In 2026, it falls on Thursday, July 16.
• Objective: Raise awareness about snakes’ ecological importance, conservation needs, and dispel myths.
• Snakes control rodent populations, maintain food chains, and indicate healthy biodiversity.
• India hosts ~300 snake species (venomous, non-venomous, arboreal, aquatic, etc.), protected under Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Initiated in 2009; promotes educational programs, habitat protection, and conservation efforts by wildlife organizations and zoos.

• On July 15, 2026, Uttar Pradesh launched two digital platforms — Kaushal Setu and Kaushal Sarathi — in Lucknow during World Youth Skills Day celebrations.
• Kaushal Setu: Online, paperless portal for registration and empanelment of training partners under UPSDM.
• Kaushal Sarathi: Provides district-wise information on training centres, courses, and partners via digital maps.
• MoUs signed with private firms for training in robotics, AI, and textiles.
• Enhances transparency and accessibility in skill development.

• Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) signed an MoU with Uttar Pradesh Promote Pharma Council (UPPPC) on 14 July 2026 at YEIDA MedTech Investors Meet.
• The partnership aims to boost the pharmaceutical and medical device ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh.
• Key focus areas include quality standards, regulatory compliance, pharmacovigilance, and materiovigilance.
• Joint initiatives will cover training programmes, workshops, research, and industry-academia collaboration.
• Special support for MSMEs through digital adverse event reporting tools.
• The MoU will enhance patient safety and position Uttar Pradesh as a leading healthcare hub.

• Held on 13-14 July 2026 in New Delhi under the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
• Chaired by Union Minister C.R. Patil with participation of ~200 officials from States/UTs.
• Discussed eight priority areas including water conservation, dam safety, irrigation reforms, groundwater management and Catch the Rain 2026.
• Three documents released: City-level Action Plan for Varanasi treated water reuse, O&M Manual for recharge structures.
• Target: Comprehensive Dam Safety Evaluation for all specified dams by Dec 2026.

• On 13 July 2026, DGFT issued a notification prohibiting import of goods manufactured wholly or partly using forced labour.
• Inserted as Paragraph 2.20B in Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 – India’s first such specific restriction.
• Definition aligns with ILO Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29).
• DGFT is empowered to inquire into allegations and recommend bans based on evidence.
• Rules effective 30 days after Official Gazette publication. Approved by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

• On 14 July 2026, Ladakh dispatched its first fresh apricot consignment to UAE under 1,000 MT export initiative.
• Covers GI-tagged Raktsey Karpo and Halman varieties.
• Partnership between Ladakh administration and Lulu Retail via MoU.
• Cargo flight from Delhi; APEDA and Ministry of Food Processing Industries involved.
• Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra reviewed the arrangements. Target much higher than previous years’ 1,500 kg exports.

• MoSPI released a trial ISP for April 2026 on 14 July 2026, covering 19 formal services sub-sectors (≈60% of formal services economy).
• Base year: 2024-25. Complements Index of Industrial Production (IIP).
• 14 of 19 sub-sectors showed double-digit YoY growth. Top growth: Accommodation & food services (37.2%), Retail trade (30.8%), Administrative services (28.7%), Real estate (27.7%).
• Air transport declined 13.9%, railways 0.4%.
• Monthly indices to be released on 29th of every month. Technical Advisory Committee formed in May 2025.

• Delhi unveiled ‘Mayur’ (peacock-inspired) as official mascot on 14 July 2026 for the 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships.
• Event to be held at Thyagaraj Stadium, Delhi from 27 July to 2 August 2026.
• Jointly organised by Delhi Government and Table Tennis Federation of India.
• Expected participation from over 35 countries (references mention ~25 Commonwealth nations).
• The mascot symbolises energy, hospitality and unity.

• Third edition of Bharat Tex 2026 held from 14-17 July 2026 at Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan) and Yashobhoomi in New Delhi.
• Organised by Bharat Tex Trade Federation with Ministry of Textiles support.
• Spans over 1.6 million sq ft, features 20,000+ products, expects 7,000+ buyers and 130,000 visitors from 20+ countries.
• Includes 4,000+ B2B meetings, 100+ B2G interactions, 30+ MoUs and 100+ knowledge sessions.
• Focus: sustainability, circular economy, Industry 5.0, technical textiles. Eight states participated as sponsors.

• On 14 July 2026, Karnataka announced India’s first government-driven Artificial Intelligence University in Bengaluru.
• Announced during Google I/O Connect India 2026, to be linked with an AI Hub for startups and researchers.
• Will offer programmes in AI, Machine Learning, Robotics, Data Science.
• Part of Karnataka’s AI-native State vision covering governance, healthcare, education and agriculture.
• The state also plans two green data centres (Hoskote & near Mangaluru). Bengaluru hosts over 17,000 startups.

• On 14 July 2026, Tamil Nadu CM launched Nalam TN integrated digital platform in Chennai for government healthcare services.
• Single interface for patients, hospitals and institutions; includes a monitored contribution system for government hospitals.
• Complements NalamAI WhatsApp chatbot for appointments.
• Along with the portal, ₹139 crore healthcare projects inaugurated and appointment orders issued to 751 Assistant Medical Officers & 1,393 Health Inspectors.

• On 14 July 2026, Odisha Cabinet approved a new agricultural marketing law to repeal the Odisha Agricultural Produce Markets (OAPM) Act, 1956.
• Key features: State as single unified market, removal of geographical restrictions, direct marketing, e-trading, electronic auctions.
• Single-point market fee levy and single trading licence introduced.
• Warehouses, cold storages, silos to be declared market sub-yards.
• Aligns with Centre’s 2017 Model APLM Act for better farmer access and private investment.

• India launched its official campaign on July 13, 2026, for a non-permanent UN Security Council seat for 2028-29 term.
• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar unveiled the campaign and SHANTI vision at UN Headquarters.
• SHANTI: Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust and Integrity.
• India to contest Asia-Pacific seat against Tajikistan in June 2027 elections.
• Focus areas: peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, maritime security, AI, and Global South representation.
• India has served eight terms previously, including 2021-22.

• Laudankia Vine Snake (Ahaetulla laudankia) photographed in Ubeshwar wildlife area, Udaipur on July 12, 2026.
• First recorded sighting in Udaipur region in nearly 30 years.
• Species described in 2019, endemic to India, mildly venomous rear-fanged vine snake.
• Features: chestnut-brown body with black speckles, 80 cm–1.5 m long, diurnal and arboreal.
• Habitat: dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and hill slopes.
• Photographed by Rohit Dwivedi with guidance from Sharad Agrawal and Deepal Kalra.

• Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, launched in June 2020 under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
• By July 11, 2026, sanctioned loans to over 2 lakh micro units.
• Leveraged investments of ₹20,300+ crore and generated nearly 11 lakh jobs.
• 90% beneficiaries are first-generation entrepreneurs; 44% are women.
• Over 4.18 lakh SHG members received seed capital; 1.76 lakh trained (77% women).
• Extended till September 2026; 80 Common Incubation Centres approved.

• Delhi government renamed Mahila Samriddhi Yojana to Delhi Lakshmi Yojana.
• The scheme will provide ₹2,500 monthly financial assistance to eligible women via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
• Expected launch around Raksha Bandhan 2026 under CM Rekha Gupta.
• Aims to empower women from economically weaker sections and improve household financial security.
• Eligibility criteria, registration process, and documents to be notified soon.
• Payment will be directly credited to beneficiaries’ bank accounts for transparency.

• India will host BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting in Hyderabad on July 15-16, 2026.
• Focus areas: labour market formalisation, skilling, social protection, women’s workforce participation, and employability.
• Part of India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”.
• Second Employment Working Group Meeting was held in Thiruvananthapuram in May 2026.
• Aims to strengthen cooperation among BRICS nations on employment and social security policies.

• Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space raised ₹60 crore from Antariksh Venture Capital Fund on July 13, 2026.
• First investment from India’s sovereign space-tech fund (₹1,600 crore corpus) managed by SIDBI Venture Capital.
• Part of pre-Series B round (total ₹275 crore).
• Dhruva Space provides satellite platforms, space infrastructure, and mission services.
• Funds will support satellite manufacturing and technology development.
• The company has an order book exceeding ₹500 crore.

• Jio Platforms Ltd. appointed Pankaj Pawar as its new CEO, succeeding Kiran Thomas.
• Pawar, 53, took charge on March 24, 2026; Thomas resigned on March 23, 2026.
• Pawar is Managing Director of Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd. with 30+ years of experience in telecom and digital services.
• The change was disclosed in the Draft Red Herring Prospectus filed with SEBI for Jio’s proposed ₹37,700 crore IPO.
• If successful, it will be India’s biggest IPO to date.
• Key leaders post-IPO: Mukesh Ambani (Chairman), Akash Ambani (MD), Pankaj Pawar (CEO).

• Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan released the book “The Voice of Justice: Justice Gavai Speaks” at Uprashtrapati Bhavan on July 14, 2026.
• The book, edited by Prof. (Dr.) S. Sivakumar and published by Thomson Reuters with C.L.E.A., compiles speeches, lectures, and reflections of former CJI Justice B.R. Gavai.
• VP described the book as an important constitutional document offering insights on constitutionalism, rule of law, social justice, and democratic governance.
• He emphasised that the Constitution is a living document balancing continuity with change, rights with duties.
• Strong institutions and justice are sustained by integrity, constitutional discipline, and public trust.
• Constitutional governance must remain responsive to citizens’ aspirations.

• Uttarakhand inaugurated its first Geographical Indications (GI) Products Gallery at Forest Training Academy, Haldwani on July 13, 2026.
• Displays over 30 GI-tagged products, including agricultural produce and handicrafts.
• Items: Bedu, Ramnagar litchi, Ramgarh peach, Munsiyari rajma, Aipan art, Tamta copperware, etc.
• GI tags certify products linked to specific geographical origin and traditional qualities.
• Objective: promote awareness, connect artisans with markets, and preserve traditional knowledge.
• Uttarakhand has secured more than 30 GI tags.

• Bihar launched Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme on July 12, 2026, in Patna.
• Joint initiative of Tourism and Civil Aviation departments offering subsidised helicopter and air services.
• Government subsidy up to ₹15,422 per ticket; online booking started July 13, operations from July 18.
• Initial routes: Patna to Valmikinagar, Maa Mundeshwari Temple (Kaimur), and Rajgir.
• Fares: Joy ride ₹2,100; Rajgir ₹4,000; Valmikinagar ₹5,000; Kaimur ₹6,000.
• Services on weekends initially.

• Assam launched a statewide drug disposal drive on 12 July 2026 at 14th Assam Police Battalion ground, Daulasal, Nalbari, destroying narcotics worth ₹472.51 crore.
• Methods included crushing with a road roller followed by controlled burning in the state’s first narcotics incinerator. The process will continue for 10 days.
• Destroyed items: 60 kg heroin, 38,000 kg ganja, 39 kg morphine, and 4.97 lakh psychotropic tablets under NDPS Act, 1985.
• Assam Police registered over 3,300 NDPS cases and seized drugs worth ₹3,227 crore in the last five years.

• The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports launched the next phase of the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat campaign via Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) on 13 July 2026.
• It features district-level competitions in five categories: Dance, Music, Reel & Short Film, Nukkad Natak, and Slam Poetry.
• Youth aged 15-29 years can participate in Hindi, English, or regional languages. Registrations opened on 13 July.
• District competitions: 24-27 July; State rounds: 30 July-6 August; National finale on 12-13 August in New Delhi during the National Youth Summit.

• Soumya Swaminathan was formally inducted as a Fellow of the Royal Society of London (FRS) on 10 July 2026 (elected in May 2026).
• She is the second Indian woman scientist to receive this honour after Prof. Gagandeep Kang (2019).
• The Royal Society, founded in 1660, is one of the world’s oldest scientific academies.
• Swaminathan is noted for work in paediatric tuberculosis, vaccine development, immunisation policy, and global public health.
• She served as WHO Chief Scientist and is currently Chairperson of the M S Swaminathan Research Foundation.
• She and M.S. Swaminathan form the first Indian father-daughter duo as Fellows of the Royal Society.

• NABARD launched Gramodyam, a rural entrepreneurship development programme, on 13 July 2026 on its 45th Foundation Day.
• The three-year pilot targets around 4,000 rural entrepreneurs across all States and Union Territories using a digital-first hybrid model.
• It is a collaboration between NABARD and the National Skill Development Corporation (under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship).
• The Institute for Industrial Development handles execution.
• Participants receive psychometric assessments, counselling, entrepreneurship training, industry-specific skills, mentoring, and enterprise setup support.
• The initiative aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047 goals.

• From 12 July 2026, the Central Vista redevelopment area in New Delhi was officially referred to as the Kartavya Bhawan Complex or Kartavya Bhawan Area.
• The precinct includes government buildings, Kartavya Marg, and future structures in the Central Vista zone.
• Central Vista is the administrative axis between Rashtrapati Bhavan and India Gate.
• The Common Central Secretariat project under this redevelopment will have 10 buildings; three are already completed as Kartavya Bhawans.
• The first Kartavya Bhavan was inaugurated in August 2025 and will be fully operational by September 2026.
• This follows earlier renamings like Rajpath to Kartavya Path (2022) and PMO complex to Seva Teerth (2025).

• NSE Indices Limited launched the Nifty 500 Ahimsa Index on 10 July 2026.
• The index tracks companies from the Nifty 500 universe that follow Ahimsa (non-violence) principles and excludes firms involved in activities harming animals.
• Base date: 1 April 2016; Base value: 1000. It uses free-float market capitalisation for weighting.
• Developed with Ahimsagain Foundation using Green-Orange-Red banding; Orange and Red band companies are excluded.
• The thematic index will be reconstituted semi-annually and serve as a benchmark for ETFs and index funds.
• It promotes values-based investing focused on animal welfare.

• Renowned Tamil writer Poomani (Pulithurai Manickavasagam) died on 12 July 2026 at the age of 79 due to age-related issues.
• He was known for novels and short stories depicting rural life, farmers, labourers, and marginalised communities in Tamil Nadu.
• He received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2014 for his novel Agnyaadi.
• His novel Vekkai was adapted into the 2019 film Asuran starring Dhanush, directed by Vetrimaaran.
• Poomani also directed the film Karuvelam Pookkal for NFDC.
• His last rites were scheduled for 13 July 2026 in Kovilpatti.

• West Bengal will observe 16 August as ‘Ayushman Diwas’ instead of ‘Khela Hobe Diwas’, announced by CM Suvendu Adhikari.
• The change promotes awareness about Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), focusing on health insurance for vulnerable families.
• It coincides with the completion of 100 days of the newly elected BJP-led government in the state.
• Awareness campaigns, outreach programmes, and events will be organised to educate citizens on eligibility, benefits, and cashless treatment under the scheme.

• Ahmedabad set a Guinness World Record on 12 July 2026 by planting 361,000 saplings in one hour at Bhadaj using the Miyawaki method across 76,000 sq m.
• Over 25,000 volunteers participated in the drive organised by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, featuring 35 indigenous species.
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel were present.
• This surpassed Assam’s previous record of 331,929 trees planted in one hour in 2023.
• The initiative supports larger goals: planting 1.25 crore trees in Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency and 50 lakh in AMC area.

• Jaisalmer Railway Station in Rajasthan was redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and completed in July 2026 at a cost of around Rs 140 crore.
• The station blends traditional Rajasthani architecture using yellow sandstone with modern facilities.
• Key features include lifts, escalators, upgraded waiting halls, better sanitation, parking, foot overbridge, and cloakroom.
• Accessibility enhancements comprise ramps and specially designed toilets for persons with disabilities.
• It incorporates digital passenger information systems, modern lighting, and clear signboards while preserving local heritage.
• Jaisalmer is one of 15 redeveloped stations in Rajasthan under the scheme.

• Two-day conference on 13–14 July 2026 in Shillong, organised by DARPG with Meghalaya Government.
• Inaugurated by Dr. Jitendra Singh and CM Conrad Sangma; over 300 delegates expected.
• Sessions on PM Awards, e-Governance Awards, Meghalaya best practices, and North East initiatives.
• Focus: digital governance, citizen-centric services, cyber security, and innovative reforms.

• From 1 August 2026, women in Delhi must use the Pink Saheli Smart Card for free DTC and DIMTS bus travel.
• Replaces paper-based pink tickets; cards must be tapped on boarding.
• 50 registration centres set up; awareness campaigns underway.
• Objectives: digitize scheme, reduce paper use, increase transparency, prevent misuse, and modernize public transport.

• The Department of Posts and TRAI signed MoU for India’s largest rural telecom survey covering 5.68 lakh villages.
• Assesses performance of Airtel, Jio, Vi, and BSNL on coverage, quality, and service gaps.
• Uses Gramin Dak Sevaks and mobile apps for data collection in remote areas.
• Aims to bridge connectivity gaps, support evidence-based policy, and strengthen Digital India mission.

• India and New Zealand launched Strategic Partnership and Roadmap to 2030 during PM Modi’s visit.
• 10 Agreements/MoUs signed covering defence, maritime security, hydrography, logistics, counter-terrorism, disaster management, animal husbandry, tourism, sports, culture, and heritage.
• Key announcements: double bilateral trade to NZ$7 billion by 2030, Maritime Security Dialogue, Kiwifruit Action Plan, Centres of Excellence, and scientific MoUs.
• Focus areas include trade, agriculture, education, and global cooperation.

• Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal visits Spain (13 July), Belgium (14-15), and Finland (16-17 July 2026) with an Indian business delegation.
• Aims to boost trade, investment, and technology ties ahead of India-EU FTA.
• Key engagements: business roundtables, TTC Ministerial Meeting, Port of Antwerp visit, and meetings with Nokia, VTT, etc.
• Focus sectors: clean energy, advanced manufacturing, digital tech, gems & jewellery.

• INS Mahendragiri (F38), sixth and final Project 17A stealth frigate, commissioned on 11 July 2026 at Visakhapatnam by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
• Built by Mazagon Dock with 75% indigenous content; designed by Warship Design Bureau.
• Features advanced stealth, automation, multi-role capabilities for anti-air, anti-surface, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare.
• Enhances blue-water operations and Aatmanirbhar Bharat in naval shipbuilding.

• IAF secured 3rd position for the fifth consecutive year, ahead of China’s PLAAF.
• Ranking based on True Value Rating (TVR) evaluating fleet size, modernization, readiness, logistics, and operational capabilities beyond numbers.
• WDMMA assessed 129 air forces, 103 countries, and over 48,000 aircraft; USAF tops with max TVR of 242.9.
• IAF’s strengths: balanced fleet (1,716 aircraft including 542 fighters, 498 helicopters), modernization, and domestic aerospace growth under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

• All five Indian students won Gold Medals at IPhO 2026 in Bucaramanga, Colombia.
• India jointly ranked World No. 1 with China, Kazakhstan, Russia, South Korea, and Taiwan among 381 students from 87 countries.
• Winners: Kanishk Jain, Riddhesh Bendale, Rishit Garg, Shresth Suraiya, Svarit Joshi.
• Achievement credited to Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE-TIFR) Olympiad programme.

• Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, former Emir of Qatar (1995–2013), died on 12 July 2026 at the age of 74.
• Widely credited with transforming Qatar into a global economic powerhouse through massive development of North Field gas reserves and LNG exports.
• Key achievements: Founded Al Jazeera (1996), established Qatar Investment Authority, and successfully bid for 2022 FIFA World Cup.
• Qatar has announced national mourning, flag lowering, closure of government offices, and public prayers.
• His rule modernized the nation through infrastructure, education, and global investments.

• Legendary South Indian playback singer S Janaki, known as the Nightingale of South India, passed away at the age of 88.
• She breathed her last at Apollo BGS Hospitals, Mysuru on 11 July 2026 at 7:30 PM.
• Admitted on 11 July at 12:49 PM in critical condition due to age-related ailments, she was shifted to ICU.
• She suffered multiple cardiac arrests during treatment despite intensive care and CPR efforts by the medical team.

Australia returned three stolen antiquities to India on 9-10 July 2026. The artefacts include an 11th-century Chola-era bronze trident of Goddess Bhadrakali, an 11th-12th century granite Nandi idol from Sri Kasiviswanathaswamy Temple in Kollumangudi, and a 12th-century basalt Karthikeya sculpture from Naganatha Swamy Temple in Thanjavur. The repatriation occurred under the India-Australia Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty after investigation by Tamil Nadu’s Idol Wing CID. A provenance review confirmed illegal removal. India also committed to returning an Australian First Nations ancestor’s remains.

India introduced Awiqli, the world’s first once-weekly basal insulin containing insulin icodec, on 9 July 2026. Marketed by Novo Nordisk, it is approved for adults with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The FlexTouch pen device reduces injections from 365 to 52 per year. Priced at Rs 2,611 for a 700-unit pack (30-40% cheaper per unit than daily insulin), it offers better glycaemic control. India is the seventh country to launch the drug.

New Delhi ranked 120th out of 173 cities in the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index 2026, released on 8 July 2026, with a score of 48.1. The city performed better in education (66.7) and infrastructure (58.9), but scored lower in healthcare (41.7) and culture & environment (35.4). Among Indian cities, Mumbai ranked 121st, Chennai 123rd, and Bengaluru 127th. Copenhagen, Denmark retained the top spot. The index evaluates stability, healthcare, culture & environment, education, and infrastructure.

India, Australia, and Canada launched the Australia–Canada–India Technology and Innovation Partnership (ACITI) on 9 July 2026. The trilateral framework focuses on artificial intelligence, green energy technologies, critical minerals, resilient supply chains, and net-zero emissions. Announced after the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, ACITI leverages complementary strengths — Canada’s AI research, India’s digital scale, and Australia’s resources. On the same day, India and Australia advanced their nuclear cooperation for uranium exports.

On 8 July 2026, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly was inducted into the prestigious ICC Hall of Fame, becoming the 12th Indian cricketer to receive this honour. Known as 'Dada', Ganguly transformed Indian cricket with his aggressive leadership and fearless approach. He captained India to the 2003 World Cup final, secured memorable overseas Test wins, and nurtured talents like Dhoni, Sehwag, and Harbhajan. Ganguly played 113 Tests and 308 ODIs. He joins legends including Tendulkar, Dravid, Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, and Kumble in the elite group.

The Department of Telecommunications’ Samriddh Gram Integrated Phygital Services Project won the Global Winner title in the WSIS Prizes 2026 under the Enabling Environment category on 9 July in Geneva. The initiative creates Samriddhi Kendras using BharatNet broadband for one-stop rural services including telemedicine, education, skill development, e-governance, and financial inclusion. It combines physical hubs with digital connectivity to serve multiple villages. The project was recognised by the International Telecommunication Union for advancing digital inclusion in rural India.

NASA astronaut Anil Menon is set to launch to the International Space Station on 14 July 2026 aboard Russia’s Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft from Baikonur Cosmodrome at 10:47 a.m. EDT. He will join Expedition 74 with cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina for an eight-month mission, returning in April 2027. Menon will research astronaut vein structure, blood flow in microgravity, produce intravenous fluids from ISS water, and grow semiconductor crystals. Selected in 2021, he completed training in 2024.

Andhra Pradesh launched the latest phase of the Mee Bhoomi-Mee Hakku programme on 9 July 2026 in Banaganapalle, Nandyal district. The initiative distributes digitally updated Pattadar Passbooks with QR codes and state emblems to farmers in resurveyed villages. Resurvey has been completed in 6,887 villages, with plans to cover 9,833 villages and distribute 72.70 lakh passbooks by March 2027. The move aims to provide error-free, tamper-proof land records and strengthen land administration.

The Gujarat government unveiled the Viksit Gujarat – Data Centre Policy 2026-29 on 9 July 2026 in Gandhinagar to position the state as a leading hub for hyperscale data centres, AI infrastructure, and cloud services. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the policy, which offers attractive fiscal incentives like capital subsidies, power tariff support, SGST reimbursement, and stamp duty exemptions. With 69 GW power capacity (47 GW renewable), Dholera SIR, GIFT City, and strong connectivity, Gujarat aims to bridge India’s data centre gap and attract global investments.

On 9 July 2026, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) identified thorium-bearing mineral deposits across 700 acres in Gundlupet taluk, Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka, with 20 acres marked as a core mining area. Thorium (atomic number 90), mainly found in monazite sands, is a potential nuclear fuel convertible to uranium-233. India holds significant thorium resources, primarily in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha coastal belts. This discovery supports India’s advanced nuclear energy programme and follows earlier surveys in the region.