Daily Current Affairs - Week 39, 2026 (21 Sep 2026 - 27 Sep 2026)
Generated by AllJobAlerts on 28 September 2026
Weekly Current Affairs
- MEA amended Passport Rules so ordinary passports for children below 15 are valid for five years or until age 18, whichever is earlier.
- Twin flower fields at Choglamsar and Stakna in Leh, claimed as world’s highest at 10,600 feet, inaugurated by LG Vinai Kumar Saxena.
- TCS launched Custom System-on-Chip design services targeting automotive OEMs and semiconductor players.
- NHAI launched OneTag FASTag portability service allowing users to switch banks without changing the physical tag.
- Takeda’s QDENGA became India’s first approved dengue vaccine for ages 4–60, with two doses three months apart and private-sector availability expected by mid-2027.
- India ranked first among 41 markets in the 2026 Global Business Climate Survey by the Swedish Chamber of Commerce.
- India co-sponsored the inaugural P4M Summit on 21 September 2026 on the sidelines of the 81st UNGA in New York.
- Starbucks signs MoU with Tamil Nadu for its first Global Capability Centre in Chennai, creating about 800 jobs.
- India’s first Telecom Manufacturing Zone planned at Gwalior with ₹5,500 crore investment and over 18,000 jobs.
- Home Minister Amit Shah to inaugurate the 3rd National ANTF Conference on 22 September 2026 in New Delhi.
- Ministry of Civil Aviation to sign MoUs with 22 states on 22 September 2026 for the next phase of RCS-UDAN.
- The 7th edition of National Formulary of India 2026 was launched on 21 September 2026 to promote rational medicine use.
- The government dissolved the Digital Communications Commission after nearly 37 years; it now functions under the Telecom Secretary.
- BIS certification is made mandatory for smartphone screen protectors under IS 19348:2025 from 1 April 2027.
- FSSAI on 23 September 2026 initiated penal action against Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, BigBasket, Flipkart India and Zepto for misleading claims, misbranding and sale of prohibited foods including Datura.
- Pi Lalrithangi, a former teacher turned strawberry farmer from Mizoram, has been named among FAO’s 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems.
- Delhi Cabinet approved the DURGA scheme to provide 1,300 pink electric autos to women and transgender persons.
- Bharat Taxi, India’s first cooperative ride-hailing service, was launched in five Uttar Pradesh cities on a zero-commission model.
- Maruti Suzuki commissioned its first green hydrogen electrolyser plant at Manesar using surplus solar energy.
Weekly Current Affairs
- 25th SCO trade ministers’ meeting held in Dushanbe discussing economic growth, trade barriers and connectivity.
- New living cat species Leopardus tilcayo identified in Bolivia’s Yungas cloud forest, first in over 100 years.
- The US announced a permanent security agreement with Denmark and Greenland giving lasting rights of access, military basing and overflights without transferring sovereignty.
- India-New Zealand FTA comes into effect from 20 October 2026, granting 100% duty-free access to Indian exports while protecting sensitive sectors.
- The BRICS Heads of Tax Authorities Meeting concluded in New Delhi under India’s chairship.
Weekly Current Affairs
- US drone firm Powerus signed a MoU with Pakistan Army for unmanned aerial systems and technology cooperation.
- Moody’s raised India’s GDP growth forecast to 7% for the current fiscal year.
- RBI issued Minimum Capital Requirements for Market Risk Directions 2026, effective from 1 April 2027, aligning with Basel III.
- PhonePe received in-principle UAE licences for Retail Payment Services and Stored Value Facilities.
- The Ministry of Defence signed ₹810.79 crore contract with BDL for 160 SAT-SAAW precision glide bombs for IAF.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Shooter Manu Bhaker and shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor named India’s flag bearers for Asian Games 2026 opening ceremony.
- 15-year-old Yugan Sakthivel won men’s trap gold at the ISSF Junior World Cup Shotgun 2026 in Italy, India’s first medal at the event.
- Savita Punia becomes the most-capped Indian women’s hockey player with over 321 international matches.
- England fast bowler Mark Wood announced retirement from international cricket on 22 September 2026 due to knee injuries.
- Shafali Verma set the highest run-scoring record in a calendar year in Women’s T20Is with 863 runs on 22 September 2026.
- India won bronze medals in both men’s and women’s skeet team events at the Asian Games 2026.
Weekly Current Affairs
- The 13th edition of India–Sri Lanka SLINEX-26 maritime exercise is underway in Visakhapatnam from 17–21 September 2026.
- Second edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 to be held at Jodhpur from 26 September to 12 October.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Warren Buffett resigned as Berkshire Hathaway chairman after over five decades, with son Howard appointed chairman and Greg Abel continuing as CEO.
- American Luke J. Lindberg has been appointed the next Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme, succeeding Cindy McCain.
- Jayanti Prasad was given additional charge as IBBI Chairperson from 13 September 2026.
- Former Justice R.C. Chavan resigned from Maharashtra’s Uniform Civil Code committee on 19 September 2026.
- Rajat Sharma unanimously re-elected president of News Broadcasters and Digital Association for 2026-27.
- Bangladesh appoints Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam as new High Commissioner to India.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Booker Prize 2026 shortlist of six novels announced; winner to be declared on 9 November in London.
- Mirabai Chanu won silver in women’s 49 kg weightlifting at Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games with 198 kg total.
- Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre received ET Healthcare Award for Excellence in Clinical Services – Mental Health & Wellness.
- Music director Shantanu Moitra will receive the National Lata Mangeshkar Award 2026 from the Madhya Pradesh government on 28 September in Indore with a ₹5 lakh tax-free prize.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan passed away at 56 after battling cancer.
- Theatre personality and Soorya Festival founder Soorya Krishnamoorthy passed away in Thiruvananthapuram.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Astronomers confirmed Elias 2-24 b as the youngest known planet, less than one million years old.
- ISRO and ESA extended their cooperative agreement till 8 January 2032, focusing on exploration, space weather and sustainable space.
- NASA has selected the PRIMA far-infrared mission for Phase B development with a targeted 2033 launch.
Weekly Current Affairs
- International Day of Peace 2026 is observed on 21 September with the theme “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.”
- World Rhino Day 2026 observed on 22 September with the theme “Keep the Five Alive”.
- India observes 11th Ayurveda Day on 23 September 2026 with the theme “Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow”.
- World Maritime Day 2026 is observed on 24 September with the theme “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence,” focusing on maritime safety, regulation and sustainability.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Tamil Nadu will launch a scheme giving 1-gram 22-carat gold rings to newborns in government hospitals from 22 June 2026.
- Karnataka approved Tulu as an additional administrative language in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts along with new tourism and marine biotechnology policies.
- Andhra Pradesh Police launched Centralised Drone Monitoring Portal and SafeStay AP app for better surveillance and crime prevention.
- Assam sets 1 January 2027 deadline for all government offices to become fully paperless using the e-Office system.
Bharat Taxi Launched in Five Uttar Pradesh Cities
- Bharat Taxi, India’s first cooperative ride-hailing service, launched on 23 September 2026 in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Kanpur and Prayagraj.
- Flagged off by CM Yogi Adityanath; addressed by MoS Cooperation Murlidhar Mohol.
- Operated by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited on “Driver is the Owner” principle.
- Zero commission; earnings credited directly; drivers (Saarthis) hold ownership stakes.
- Around 40,000 Saarthis registered in the five cities; nationally over 10 lakh since February 2026 launch.
- Daily rides ≈20,000; ~40 lakh passengers; more than ₹100 crore credited to drivers.
Delhi Cabinet Approves DURGA Scheme for Women & Transgender E-Autos
- The Delhi Cabinet, chaired by CM Rekha Gupta, approved the DURGA (Driving Upliftment and Rozgar for Women/Transgender Green E-Auto) scheme on 23 September 2026.
- First phase: 1,300 pink electric autos — 1,170 for women (max 90 per district) and 130 for transgender persons (max 10 per district).
- Beneficiaries will own and drive the vehicles; applications via dedicated online portal.
- Eligibility (women): age 20–40, Delhi resident, valid voter ID, LMV licence, PSV badge, ≤3 children, family income ≤₹5 lakh (FY 2025-26), no family-owned transport vehicle.
- Three-year lock-in period; DMRC has prepared EV charging at 70 metro stations.
Maruti Suzuki Commissions First Green Hydrogen Plant
- Maruti Suzuki India commissioned its first Green Hydrogen (GH₂) electrolyser plant at Manesar, Haryana on 24 September 2026.
- 300 kW pilot project producing green hydrogen via electrolysis using surplus solar energy from the facility.
- Hydrogen is blended with natural gas and used as process fuel in manufacturing operations.
- Part of the company’s broader clean-energy strategy that includes solar power, biogas and battery storage.
Mizoram’s Lalrithangi Named Among FAO 100 Women Heroes
- Pi Lalrithangi (also referred as Pi Mari-i), a former teacher turned farmer from Sangau, Lawngtlai district, Mizoram, selected among FAO’s 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems.
- Honour linked to UN’s International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026.
- She is one of two Indian women chosen; notified by FAO on 21 September 2026.
- Started strawberry farming in 2024 with 1,000 plants; now cultivates over 10,000 plants plus avocado and banana on two hectares.
- Earned more than ₹10 lakh in 2025 and also produces strawberry wine.
- Postgraduate in Sociology (IGNOU); left teaching for farming after learning via online videos and peer guidance.
BRICS Heads of Tax Authorities Meeting Held in New Delhi
- The BRICS Heads of Tax Authorities Meeting concluded India’s Chairship of the BRICS tax cooperation track in New Delhi on 23 September 2026.
- Participating countries: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, South Africa and UAE.
- Inaugurated by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman; focus areas during India’s chairship were technology, administration and people.
- Two India-led Working Groups formally established: International Taxation & Transfer Pricing, and Revenue Statistics.
- BRICS Tax Cross-Learning Lab launched as a peer-learning platform.
India Wins Bronze in Men’s & Women’s Skeet Team Events
- India secured bronze medals in both men’s and women’s skeet team events at the Asian Games 2026 on 23 September 2026.
- The men's team (Anantjeet Singh Naruka, Mairaj Ahmad Khan, Bhavtegh Singh Gill) scored 346 points and defeated Kazakhstan in a shoot-off.
- The women's team (Parinaaz Dhaliwal, Raiza Dhillon, Maheshwari Chauhan) scored 331 hits; this was India’s first-ever Asian Games medal in the women’s team skeet event.
- By 23 September, India’s shooting contingent had won seven medals (four silver, three bronze).
Shantanu Moitra to Receive National Lata Mangeshkar Award 2026
- Music director Shantanu Moitra will be honoured with the National Lata Mangeshkar Award 2026 by the Madhya Pradesh government.
- The award, carrying a tax-free cash prize of ₹5 lakh and a citation, will be presented on 28 September 2026 in Indore.
- Ceremony to be held at Lata Mangeshkar Auditorium during a two-day event marking her birth anniversary.
- The event starts 27 September with the musical programme “Amar Lata Hamari Lata…”, followed by an award function and performance by Sachet-Parampara.
- Programmes are free and open to the public.
Actor Mushtaq Khan Passes Away at 56
- Veteran character actor Mushtaq Khan died on 24 September 2026 at Nanavati Hospital, Mumbai, aged 56.
- He had been hospitalized for about 15 days after battling cancer (initially lung cancer, later reports mentioned relapse and liver involvement).
- Known for supporting and comic roles in Hindi films including Welcome, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, Hera Pheri, Jodi No. 1, Gadar 2, Badhaai Do and Stree 2.
- Also worked in television.
Theatre Personality Soorya Krishnamoorthy Dies
- Soorya Krishnamoorthy, theatre director, cultural organiser and former ISRO scientist, died on 23 September 2026 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
- Founded the Soorya Festival in 1977, recognised by Limca Book of Records as Asia’s longest-running cultural festival with participation from over 30 countries.
- Worked with ISRO for more than two decades as a scientist-engineer and was associated with A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
- Later served as director of Kerala State Film Development Corporation (three terms) and chairman of Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi.
NASA Selects PRIMA for Phase B Development
- NASA selected PRIMA (PRobe far-Infrared Mission for Astrophysics) to enter Phase B (preliminary design and technology development) on 23 September 2026.
- First mission in the new Probe Explorers class under the Explorers Program.
- Features a 1.8-metre (5.9-foot) telescope; targeted launch in 2033 with a five-year mission life.
- Project cost capped at $1.2 billion (excluding launch and non-project costs); managed by JPL.
- Will observe in the far-infrared band, bridging JWST and radio telescopes like ALMA.
- Science goals include planet formation, galaxy and black-hole growth, dust/element accumulation, and water delivery to Earth.
FSSAI takes action against Amazon, Swiggy, BigBasket, Flipkart & Zepto for food safety violations
- On 23 September 2026, FSSAI initiated penal action against Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, BigBasket, Flipkart India and Zepto.
- Alleged violations include misleading claims, misbranding, non-compliant product information and online sale of prohibited/poisonous foods.
- Happilo Premium Date Bites – Zesty Orange was flagged across all five platforms.
- Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket also faced action over Milky Mist cream, curd and Greek yoghurt.
- Amazon Seller Services, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket were pulled up for listing Datura (Dhatura) fruits and seeds.
MoD Contracts BDL for 160 SAT-SAAW
- On 23 September 2026 the Ministry of Defence signed a ₹810.79 crore contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited for 160 Satellite Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons (SAT-SAAW) for the Indian Air Force under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category.
- The air-to-ground precision glide bomb, designed by DRDO, can be launched from Jaguar, Hawk and Su-30 MKI and neutralises airfields from long stand-off range.
- Indigenous content is approximately 60 %, including key sub-systems.
- Deliveries are scheduled for 2027-28 and 2028-29, enhancing IAF operational capability and Aatmanirbharta.
PhonePe Receives UAE Payment Licences
- On 22 September 2026 the Central Bank of the UAE granted PhonePe in-principle approval for Retail Payment Services and Card Schemes (RPSCS) and Stored Value Facilities (SVF).
- This marks PhonePe’s first international expansion step; final clearances are still required before commercial launch.
- The company plans to partner with regional banks, licensed providers and local tech vendors and to support UAE domestic rails Aani and Jaywan.
Bangladesh Appoints New High Commissioner to India
- Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam will replace Riaz Hamidullah as High Commissioner to India.
- Siam previously served as ambassador to Washington; Hamidullah moved to Geneva as permanent representative to the UN.
- The change comes amid talks on a possible November visit to India by Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
- India had earlier invited Rahman to the BRICS Summit in New Delhi (12–13 September).
Rajat Sharma Re-elected NBDA President
- India TV chairman and editor-in-chief Rajat Sharma was unanimously re-elected president of the News Broadcasters and Digital Association (NBDA) for 2026-27 on 23 September 2026.
- NBDA represents 29 leading news broadcasters operating 130 channels and digital platforms.
- Jayant Mammen Mathew (MM TV) joined the Board of Directors at the 19th AGM.
- Rachna Burman (Times Group) and Kshipra Jatana (Network18) were named permanent directors.
Booker Prize 2026 Shortlist Announced
- Six novels shortlisted from 163 English-language submissions published Oct 2025–Sep 2026 in UK/Ireland.
- Contenders: M. John Harrison (The End of Everything), Marlon James (The Disappearers), Luke Kennard (Black Bag), Rebecca Perry (May We Feed the King), Elizabeth Strout (The Things We Never Say), Douglas Stuart (John of John).
- James and Stuart are previous winners; Perry is a first-time nominee.
- Winner to be declared 9 November 2026 in London.
- Judging panel chaired by historian Mary Beard, with Raymond Antrobus, Jarvis Cocker, Rebecca Liu and Patricia Lockwood.
Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre Wins ET Healthcare Award
- On 11 September 2026 in New Delhi, Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre received the “Excellence in Clinical Services – Mental Health & Wellness” award (National category) at the ET Healthcare Awards 2026.
- The centre has more than 18 years’ experience and runs over 17 addiction-recovery and psychiatric rehabilitation facilities across India.
- The care model uses full-time psychiatrists and daily reviews rather than fixed staff-to-bed ratios, adjusting staffing to case severity.
Mirabai Chanu Wins Asian Games Silver
- At the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, Mirabai Chanu claimed silver in the women’s 49 kg weightlifting with a total of 198 kg (87 kg snatch + 111 kg clean & jerk).
- Gold went to North Korea’s Ri Song Gum; bronze to Indonesia’s Wijayana Luluk Diani Tri (191 kg).
- This is India’s first Asian Games weightlifting medal since Karnam Malleswari’s silver in 1998.
- Chanu, 32, previously finished ninth (2014) and fourth (2023) and missed 2018 through injury.
Andhra Pradesh Police Launches Two Tech Portals
- On 22 September 2026, DGP Harish Kumar Gupta and Guntur SP Vakul Jindal rolled out the Centralised Drone Monitoring Portal (CDMP) and SafeStay AP app.
- CDMP gives authorised officers a single live feed of all police drones statewide, with AI analytics, role-based access and real-time situational awareness.
- SafeStay AP supplies occupancy data for hotels and paying-guest accommodations to aid crime prevention and rapid response.
- Both tools were developed with support from KL University students and tech professionals.
Assam Sets 1 January 2027 Deadline for Paperless Offices
- The Assam Chief Minister’s office announced that every government office must shift to a fully paperless e-Office system by 1 January 2027.
- The NIC-designed platform already operates in all 58 Assam Secretariat departments and is expanding to directorates and district offices.
- Features include electronic receipt, digital file creation and movement, e-noting, digital signatures, status tracking and archiving.
- The move aims to make administration more transparent, efficient and citizen-friendly.
7th National Formulary of India Launched
- 7th edition of National Formulary of India (NFI) 2026 launched on 21 September 2026.
- Unveiled by Anupriya Patel at Dr Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
- Published by Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission under Ministry of Health.
- Promotes rational and safe use of medicines.
- Launched during 6th National Pharmacovigilance Week (17-23 September 2026).
- Theme: “Promoting Rational Use of Medicines through Pharmacovigilance”.
- Previous edition released in October 2021.
BIS Certification Mandatory for Screen Protectors
- BIS certification made mandatory for smartphone screen protectors under IS 19348:2025.
- Applies from 1 April 2027 to manufacturers and importers.
- Notification issued by MeitY on 21 September 2026.
- Transition period till 31 March 2027.
- Standard covers glass quality, strength, optical clarity, adhesives, coatings and privacy films.
- Aims to ensure quality and safety of
Digital Communications Commission Dissolved
- The Government dissolved the Digital Communications Commission after nearly 37 years.
- Cabinet approved on 16 September 2026; resolution dated 19 September 2026.
- Originally Telecom Commission (April 1989); renamed DCC in October 2018.
- The last meeting was held on 3 September 2026.
- Final decisions included five-year satellite spectrum assignment and 5% SUC.
- Functions now handled directly by Telecom Secretary and higher authorities.
- Aimed at removing duplication in decision-making.
RBI Market Risk Capital Directions 2026
- RBI issued Minimum Capital Requirements for Market Risk Directions, 2026.
- Aligns with revised Basel III standards using Simplified Standardised Approach.
- Effective from 1 April 2027; transition scalars from April 2024.
- Draft released 17 February 2023.
- Key changes: trading book linked to HFT, revised NOP/forex rules, updated interest-rate risk tables.
- Revised treatment for debt mutual funds, ETFs and credit-derivative hedges (including TRS).
Mark Wood Retires from International Cricket
- England fast bowler Mark Wood (36) announced retirement on 22 September 2026.
- 11-year career ended due to recurring knee injuries.
- Played 146 matches: 38 Tests (119 wickets), 70 ODIs (80), 38 T20Is (54).
- Total 253 international wickets.
- Member of 2019 ODI World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup winning squads.
- Last match: first Ashes Test, November 2025.
- Will continue for Durham and franchise leagues.
Shafali Verma Sets WT20I Calendar-Year Record
- Shafali Verma became the highest run-scorer in a calendar year in Women’s T20Is on 22 September 2026.
- Scored 863 runs in 24 matches, surpassing Laura Wolvaardt’s 824.
- Achieved during India’s Asian Games 2026 gold-medal win over Sri Lanka.
- Record includes one century and seven fifties; highest score 100*.
- Strike rate of 165.52 in the final (29-ball 48).
Justice R.C. Chavan Resigns from Maharashtra UCC Panel
- Former Justice R.C. Chavan resigned from Maharashtra’s seven-member Uniform Civil Code committee on 19 September 2026.
- The committee formed in July 2026 under retired SC Justice Ranjana Desai.
- Aimed at drafting the state UCC framework (Article 44).
- Chavan cited differences over functioning and participation of an outside officer.
- Resigned after a second online meeting to enable quick replacement.
ISRO-ESA Cooperation Extended
- ISRO and ESA extended Cooperative Agreement till 8 January 2032.
- Formalised on 10 September 2026 in Paris by Dr V. Narayanan and Josef Aschbacher.
- Original agreement in force since January 2002.
- Focus areas: human & robotic exploration, space weather, sustainable outer space.
- Continued cooperation in Earth observation, navigation and space science.
- Earth observation pact signed March 2026; human exploration joint statement in 2025.
11th Ayurveda Day 2026
- India observes 11th Ayurveda Day on 23 September 2026.
- Theme: “Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow”.
- Over 5,000-year-old system rooted in Rigveda; “Ayu” means life, “Veda” means science.
- Nodal ministry: Ministry of Ayush; major scheme National Ayush Mission.
- 12,260 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs functional (target 12,500).
- 593 Ayurveda colleges; ₹4,408 crore allocated in Union Budget 2026-27.
- Integrated into eSanjeevani, health insurance and WHO ICD-11.
World Maritime Day 2026
- World Maritime Day is observed on 24 September 2026 to highlight the importance of maritime transport in the global economy.
- The 2026–27 theme is “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence.”
- The theme focuses on implementing international maritime regulations and conventions effectively.
- The IMO framework covers safety, security, environmental protection and efficient shipping.
- Key areas include technical assistance, training, capacity building, enforcement and innovation.
- Maritime shipping carries over 80% of global trade, making it vital for international commerce.
- The day also promotes sustainable maritime development, maritime technology, port infrastructure and environmental protection.
3rd National ANTF Conference
- Home Minister Amit Shah to inaugurate 3rd National Conference of ANTF Heads on 22 September 2026, New Delhi.
- Organised by NCB; theme “United Resolve, Shared Responsibility”.
- Covers all 36 States/UTs; aligns with Vision Document on Narcotics Control 2026-29.
- Four pillars: Enforcement, Precursors & Synthetic Drugs, Demand & Harm Reduction, Capacity Building.
- Shah to launch TVCs, NCB website, and lay foundation for NCB Zone Complexes in Lucknow & Dehradun.
Gwalior Telecom Manufacturing Zone
- India’s first Telecom Manufacturing Zone planned at Gwalior (SADA + IT Park).
- Investment ₹5,500 crore; >18,000 jobs.
- First phase: 170 acres; 24-25 manufacturers.
- MoU signed July 2026; 24 companies applied after roadshows.
- Common Testing Lab ₹500 crore.
- MP incentives on land, power, employment, green growth.
- Enhanced connectivity via Agra-Gwalior corridor, rail and airport.
Modified UDAN Scheme MoUs
- Ministry of Civil Aviation to sign MoUs with 22 states on 22 September 2026 for next phase of RCS-UDAN.
- Launches Challenge Mode and new Routes Bidding Round.
- Modified scheme (2026-27 to 2035-36): ₹28,840 crore outlay; 120 new destinations; 4 crore passengers.
- Viability gap funding extended to 5 years.
- Targets 100 new airports from unserved airstrips and 200 modern helipads.
P4M Summit 2026
- India co-sponsored inaugural Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity (P4M) Summit on 21 September 2026, sidelines of 81st UNGA, New York.
- Represented by EAM S. Jaishankar.
- Initial co-sponsors: Australia, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, EU, India, Kenya.
- Calls for more effective, representative and inclusive multilateralism; reaffirms UN Charter and international law.
- Jaishankar stressed “reformed multilateralism” amid geopolitical tensions.
Starbucks GCC in Chennai
- Starbucks signs MoU with Tamil Nadu government for its first Global Capability Centre in India at Chennai.
- Expected to create ~800 high-value tech jobs in the first phase.
- Signed in presence of CM C. Joseph Vijay via Guidance Tamil Nadu.
- Will support global operations (software, finance, product development) independently of Tata Starbucks retail JV.
- Chosen for skilled talent pool, low attrition, infrastructure and state incentives.
India–New Zealand FTA
- Comes into effect 20 October 2026 after ratification.
- Signed 27 April 2026 by Piyush Goyal and Todd McClay.
- New Zealand offers 100% duty-free access to Indian exports from day one (textiles, leather, gems, engineering, processed foods).
- India protects sensitive sectors: dairy, livestock, sugar, edible oils.
- NZ products (apples, kiwi, Manuka honey) under TRQ/MIP/seasonal controls.
- NZ pledges USD 20 billion investment.
- Mobility: 5,000 skilled visas, 1,000 working-holiday visas, post-study work for STEM/doctoral scholars.
Savita Punia – Most-Capped Indian Women’s Hockey Player
- Goalkeeper Savita Punia became the most-capped Indian women’s hockey player with 321+ international matches.
- Broke Vandana Katariya’s 320-cap record during India vs Indonesia Pool B match at Asian Games 2026 (Aichi-Nagoya).
- Equalled record earlier vs Uzbekistan (19-0 win).
- Senior debut 2009; three Olympics, two Asian Games.
- Hockey India awarded ₹10 lakh; praised by President Dilip Tirkey.
Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026
- Second edition of IAF’s premier multinational air exercise at Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
- Scheduled 26 September – 12 October 2026.
- Focus: joint aerial operations, tactical training, interoperability.
- First held in 2024.
- Enables exchange of operational practices and complex mission training with friendly air forces.
Jayanti Prasad – IBBI Chairperson
- Whole-Time Member Jayanti Prasad given additional charge as IBBI Chairperson from 13 September 2026.
- Succeeds Ravi Mital who retired earlier in September.
- Charge continues till 20 November 2026 (end of his tenure) or till new Chairperson joins.
- IBBI regulates insolvency professionals, agencies and information utilities under IBC 2016.
- Ensures continuity in the insolvency resolution ecosystem.
World Rhino Day 2026
- Observed on 22 September 2026.
- Theme: “Keep the Five Alive”.
- Aims to protect five surviving rhino species against poaching, illegal trade and habitat loss.
- Global population estimated at ~26,700 (IRF 2026 report).
- Species: White & Black (Africa); Greater One-Horned (India-Nepal); Javan & Sumatran (Indonesia).
- First announced by WWF-South Africa in 2010; international from 2011.
India’s First Approved Dengue Vaccine: QDENGA
- Takeda’s QDENGA (TAK-003), a live attenuated tetravalent vaccine, received CDSCO marketing authorisation in July 2026 for ages 4–60.
- It protects against all four dengue serotypes (DENV-1 to 4) and requires two doses three months apart; no pre-vaccination dengue test needed.
- WHO prequalified it in 2024; availability in India’s private sector expected by mid-2027 via Dr Reddy’s Laboratories.
- India’s indigenous DengiAll remains in large-scale trials and is not yet approved.
- Price and public-programme inclusion not yet disclosed; doctors will decide individual eligibility.
US–Denmark–Greenland Security Agreement
- US President Donald Trump announced a permanent security deal with Denmark and Greenland on 18 September 2026.
- Gives the United States lasting rights of access, military basing and overflights in Greenland.
- Aims to strengthen US presence in the strategically vital Arctic and prevent non-NATO countries from establishing bases.
- Does not transfer sovereignty of Greenland to the United States.
- Builds on existing US facilities such as Pituffik Space Base; full text of the agreement not yet publicly released.
Indian Shooter Yugan Sakthivel Wins Gold at ISSF Junior World Cup
- 15-year-old Yugan Sakthivel Muthukumaar won men’s trap gold at the ISSF Junior World Cup Shotgun 2026 in Porpetto, Italy (18 September).
- He hit 27/30 targets in the final, finishing one target ahead of Italy’s Francesco Tanfoglio.
- Qualified sixth with 114/125 and advanced via shoot-off; India’s first medal at the Porpetto event.
- Sabeera Haris finished sixth in women’s trap (9/15 in final after qualifying sixth).
- No Indian medals in junior skeet; India topped the earlier Cairo Junior World Cup with 16 medals.
India–Sri Lanka SLINEX-26 Maritime Exercise
- The 13th edition of SLINEX is underway in Visakhapatnam from 17–21 September 2026 under Eastern Naval Command.
- Participating ships: INS Kavaratti & INS Jyoti (India); SLNS Sindurala (Sri Lanka).
- Harbour Phase includes professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, yoga, games and cultural activities.
- Sea Phase focuses on operational coordination and interoperability.
- Exercise, started in 2005, strengthens maritime cooperation and aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR initiative.
Luke J. Lindberg Named New WFP Executive Director
- The UN World Food Programme appointed 37-year-old American Luke J. Lindberg as next Executive Director.
- He succeeds Cindy McCain (April 2023–May 2026), who resigned for health reasons; Carl Skau is acting director meantime.
- Lindberg is currently USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs; previously led South Dakota Trade and held roles at US Export-Import Bank.
- Takes charge amid severe funding constraints while WFP assists over 100 million people in 83 countries facing acute food insecurity.
Warren Buffett Steps Down as Berkshire Hathaway Chairman
- Warren Buffett, 96, resigned as chairman of Berkshire Hathaway after over five decades, becoming chairman emeritus while remaining a board member.
- His son Howard Buffett has been appointed chairman under the long-standing succession plan.
- Greg Abel, who became CEO in early 2026, continues to handle day-to-day management.
- Buffett has led the company since 1970 (linked since 1965), transforming it into a major investment conglomerate that exceeded $1 trillion valuation in 2024.
International Day of Peace 2026
- Observed on 21 September with the theme “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.”
- Emphasises everyday citizens as “architects of peace” through dialogue, cooperation and local actions.
- The UN General Assembly declared the day in 1981; a 2001 resolution made 21 September a day of non-violence and ceasefire.
- Traditional observance includes ringing of the Peace Bell at UN Headquarters in New York.
Karnataka Makes Tulu Additional Administrative Language
- Karnataka Cabinet (18 September 2026) approved Tulu as second additional administrative language in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts.
- Also cleared tourism policy for coastal & Malnad areas (treating tourism as infrastructure, greenfield incentives) and Karnataka Marine Biotechnology Policy 2026-31.
- Plan to upgrade a college into Fisheries, Marine and Blue Economy University (seats from 60 to 200).
- Proposal to rename Dakshina Kannada district as Mangaluru; public feedback to be sought for one month.
Tamil Nadu’s One-Gram Gold Ring Scheme for Newborns
- CM C. Joseph Vijay will launch “Thaimaaman Thanga Mothiram Thittam” on 28 September 2026 at Usilampatti Government Hospital, Madurai.
- Eligible newborns in government hospitals receive a 1-gram, 22-carat gold ring with a unique serial number.
- Scheme applies retrospectively from 22 June 2026 (CM’s birthday); first batch of 1.28 lakh rings ready.
- Annual allocation: ₹755.83 crore for ~4.41 lakh rings; covers babies of permanent Tamil Nadu residents registered in state pregnancy-monitoring system.
- Inspired by traditional “Thaimaaman” (maternal uncle) gift custom.
India Tops 2026 Global Business Climate Survey
- India ranked first among 41 markets in the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in India’s 2026 Global Business Climate Survey for business climate.
- Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted India’s strong performance amid global uncertainty.
- Asia-Pacific (especially India and Vietnam) showed highest optimism; India, Philippines and Poland led growth expectations.
- 44% of Swedish firms plan higher investments in 2026; India and Philippines remain top APAC investment destinations.
Moody’s Raises India’s GDP Growth Forecast to 7%
- Moody’s revised India’s GDP growth forecast upward to 7% for the current fiscal year from 6%.
- Attributed to economic resilience despite West Asia shock and global uncertainties.
- India is expected to grow faster than other G20 economies and similarly rated emerging markets.
- Supported by 7.8% growth in Q1 FY24 driven by investments and production.
- Risks include elevated energy prices, El Niño-related food inflation and possible fiscal pressures.
US Firm Powerus Signs MoU with Pakistan Army
- US drone company Powerus signed a MoU with the Pakistan Army on 17 September 2026.
- Includes initial order for unmanned aerial systems and discussions on technology production and joint relationship.
- A delegation led by co-founder Brett Velicovich met COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir on 16 September in Rawalpindi.
- Covers defence procurement, production and long-term capacity building.
- Powerus expects to merge with Aureus Greenway Holdings in October 2026.
Youngest Known Planet Elias 2-24 b Confirmed
- Astronomers confirmed Elias 2-24 b as the youngest known planet (age less than 1 million years) on 17 September 2026.
- Orbits star Elias 2-24, about 450 light-years away; still embedded in its protoplanetary disk.
- Jupiter-mass gas giant located in a gap within the disk and actively accreting material.
- Confirmed using data from Keck Observatory, ALMA and Very Large Telescope.
- Led by Andrea Bernardi; first inferred from disk gap in 2017.
Child Passport Validity Rules Amended
- MEA amended Passports Rules, 1980 via notification in Gazette of India on 17 September 2026.
- Ordinary passports for children below 15 years are now valid for five years or until the child turns 18, whichever is earlier.
- Applies only to 36-page ordinary passports issued to eligible minors.
- Example: Passport issued at age 14 expires at 18, not after a full five years.
- Aims to clarify validity linked to age and duration for parents and guardians.
Highest Flower Fields Inaugurated in Ladakh
- Twin flower fields at Choglamsar and Stakna in Leh district inaugurated on 17 September by LG Vinai Kumar Saxena.
- Located at 10,600 feet; claimed as India’s and world’s highest flower fields.
- Cover 40 acres with over 25 lakh plants (24 lakh Lilium, 1 lakh Gladiolus).
- Aimed at promoting commercial floriculture as livelihood for local farmers via SHGs and cooperatives.
- Choglamsar field developed in two months; open to the public from 18 September.
NHAI Launches OneTag FASTag Portability
- NHAI launched OneTag service on Rajmargyatra app on 17 September 2026.
- Allows FASTag users to switch issuing banks without changing the physical sticker.
- Unveiled by Nitin Gadkari at Global Fintech Fest 2026 in Mumbai.
- Process: Check eligibility, verify via OTP, select new bank, complete KYC; old wallet closed and balance refunded.
- Serves over 130 million FASTag users for better portability and choice.
TCS Launches Custom SoC Design Services
- Tata Consultancy Services launched Custom System-on-Chip (SoC) Design Services on 17 September 2026.
- Targets automotive OEMs and semiconductor ecosystem players.
- Covers semiconductor engineering, VLSI design, hardware-software co-design and system validation.
- Supports software-defined vehicles needing centralised computing and custom silicon.
- SoCs integrate multiple functions for ADAS, infotainment, connectivity and vehicle control.
New Cat Species Leopardus tilcayo Identified in Bolivia
- Newly described living feline species Leopardus tilcayo formally announced on 17 September 2026.
- First new living cat species identified in over 100 years; locally called “tilcayo”.
- Found in Bolivia’s Yungas cloud forest, belongs to genus Leopardus (tiger cats).
- Small cat: ~46 cm long, weighs 1.4–2 kg; light brown fur with irregular rosettes.
- Genetic analysis confirms separate lineage diverging ~1.4 million years ago; published in Current Biology.
SCO Trade Ministers Meet in Dushanbe
- 25th Meeting of SCO Ministers responsible for foreign economic and trade activities held on 17 September 2026 in Dushanbe.
- Chaired by Tajikistan’s Minister Abdurahmon Abdurahmonzoda.
- Discussed economic growth, trade barriers, connectivity and sustainable development.
- Approved regulations on Creative Economy Working Group and Action Plan 2026–2030.
- India represented by Additional Secretary Yashvir Singh; next meeting in Uzbekistan in 2027.
India Names Flag Bearers for Asian Games 2026
- Shooter Manu Bhaker and shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor named India’s flag bearers for the opening ceremony.
- Announcement made on 18 September; ceremony in Nagoya on Saturday.
- Bhaker is a double Olympic medallist from Paris; first Indian to win two medals in one Olympics.
- Toor is a two-time Asian Games gold medallist in shot put.
- Decision shared by chef-de-mission Sahdev Yadav and Athletics Federation of India.