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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

YES BANK Introduces ‘YES vibez’ Savings Account for Gen Z Customers

• YES BANK launched ‘YES vibez’, a savings account designed specifically for Generation Z (Gen Z) customers aged 18–30 years.
• The account aims to combine digital banking, investment opportunities, spending rewards and lifestyle benefits to meet the financial preferences of young customers.
• The account offers cashback of up to ₹12,000 on debit card spending.
• Customers can earn rewards of up to ₹3,000 on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) merchant transactions.
• The account provides onboarding benefits worth up to ₹22,000.
• Customers can enjoy zero service charges, subject to maintaining the required Average Monthly Balance (AMB) of ₹25,000.
• The account offers a Demat and Trading Account through YES Securities with zero brokerage for the first year.
• Customers can choose from multiple debit card variants, including the YES BANK Reflection Debit Card, which allows personalisation of the card image.
• The YES BANK HealthFit Debit Card offers fitness and wellness benefits.
• Customers can access a Fixed Deposit (FD)-backed credit card, which is free for the first year, to help them build their credit history.

About YES BANK :

• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• MD & CEO : Vinay M. Tonse.

Finance Ministry Projects India’s Q2 FY27 Gross Domestic Product Growth at 7.35% in October Economic Review

• The Ministry of Finance (MoF) released the Monthly Economic Review for October 2026, projecting India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth at 7.35% for the second quarter (Q2: July–September) of FY 2026–27.
• The projected GDP growth rate of 7.35% is 45 basis points (bps) lower than the 8% growth recorded in the preceding quarter of FY27.
• The Q2 FY27 GDP estimate is based on the MoF’s Economic Division’s nowcasting model, which was introduced in the Economic Survey of FY26.
• The growth projection is supported by several economic indicators, including Gross GST collections, which increased by 15% year-on-year.
• E-way bill generation, which tracks the movement of goods, increased by 7%, while domestic automobile sales grew by approximately 25%.
• The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) recorded 8% year-on-year growth in August 2026, emerging as the strongest indicator supporting the GDP projection.
• In August 2026, the electricity and gas supply sector recorded growth of 12.3%, while the manufacturing sector expanded by 9%.
• The mining and quarrying sector registered a contraction of 5.6% during the same period.
• The Monthly Economic Review estimated that private capital expenditure (capex) from the project pipeline could reach ₹3.2 lakh crore in FY27, compared with ₹2.6 lakh crore in FY26.
• The report identified key growth risks, including higher crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions arising from the ongoing West Asia crisis and inflationary pressures.
• The Economic Division functions under the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance.
• The Economic Division focuses on economic policy research and advice and publishes the Annual Economic Survey and the Monthly Economic Review.
• The Economic Survey is presented in Parliament before the annual Union Budget.

India Post and UTI Mutual Fund Partner to Expand Doorstep Know Your Customer Verification Across India

• India Post, under the Department of Posts (DoP), Ministry of Communications, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UTI Mutual Fund to expand doorstep Know Your Customer (KYC) verification services across India.

Key Highlights :

• UTI Mutual Fund is one of India’s oldest and largest Asset Management Companies (AMCs).
• The MoU was signed in Mumbai, Maharashtra, by Adnan Ahmed, Chief General Manager, Parcel & CCS Directorate, Department of Posts, and Vetri Subramaniam, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), UTI AMC.
• The renewed MoU builds on the earlier KYC remediation initiative, which aimed to resolve pending KYC requirements and documentation gaps.
• Under the Pan-India KYC Verification Project, India Post will use its extensive postal network and last-mile connectivity to provide doorstep KYC verification to UTI Mutual Fund investors.
• The initiative will cover investors across India, particularly those living in remote, rural and underserved areas.
• The partnership aims to simplify the KYC verification process, improve investor services and make mutual fund services more accessible.
• The initiative is expected to encourage wider participation in mutual funds and ensure uninterrupted access to mutual fund investments.
• India Post is India's national postal system and operates under the Ministry of Communications.
• The modern postal system was formally established in 1854, with its roots dating back to 1766.
• The world's highest post office is located at Hikkim, Himachal Pradesh, at an altitude of approximately 4,400 metres above sea level.

Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank Partners with One Planet Partners to Launch Its First Private Equity Fund

• Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank (SuMiTB), a Japanese financial services group, entered into a strategic partnership with India-based One Planet Partners (OPP) by acquiring a minority stake in the company.
• The partnership aims to increase SuMiTB’s investments in India’s energy transition, mobility and manufacturing sectors.
• Under the partnership, SuMiTB will launch OPP’s maiden Private Equity (PE) fund, targeting a corpus of over ₹3,000 crore.
• The fund’s first close is planned by 2027.
• The proposed fund will focus on high-growth businesses across the energy transition, mobility and manufacturing sectors.
• The fund will provide scale-up capital ranging from ₹100 crore to ₹500 crore to enterprises with annual revenues between ₹200 crore and ₹2,000 crore.
• SuMiTB will also establish a dedicated Separately Managed Account (SMA), which will be managed by OPP to expand the bank’s investment presence in India.

About One Planet Partners (OPP) :

• Founded : 2024
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• OPP operates in the Private Equity (PE) and Venture Capital (VC) sectors.

Air India and SBI Card Join Hands to Launch Co-Branded Credit Card for Maharaja Club Members

• Air India, SBI Card (SBI Cards and Payment Services Limited) and Visa partnered to develop a new co-branded credit card offering travel and lifestyle benefits to members of Air India’s Maharaja Club loyalty programme.
• This marks Air India’s first co-branded credit card initiative since its privatisation and acquisition by the Tata Group in January 2022.
• The proposed credit card will offer travel and lifestyle benefits, allowing cardholders to earn Maharaja Points on everyday retail spending and travel transactions.
• Air India’s Maharaja Club loyalty programme was redesigned in 2024 and has added over 5 million members.
• Maharaja Club members can earn points on eligible flights across 104 destinations and 25 Star Alliance member airlines.
• Members can also earn Maharaja Points through partnerships with over 100 brands across hospitality, retail, lifestyle and financial services.
• The accumulated points can be redeemed for flights and upgrades on Air India, Air India Express and Star Alliance member airlines.

About Air India : 

• Established : 1932 by J. R. D. Tata as Tata Airlines.
• Air India was nationalised in 1953 and was later reacquired by the Tata Group.
• Air India is currently owned by the Tata Group and is headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana.

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Government Constitutes High-Level Committee on Banking for Viksit Bharat 2047

• The Government of India has constituted a High-Level Committee on Banking for Viksit Bharat to review the Indian banking sector and recommend structural, institutional, regulatory and legislative reforms.
• The committee aims to make India's banking sector globally competitive, financially inclusive and resilient, supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
• The committee was announced by Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her Union Budget 2026–27 speech.

Key Highlights

• Composition of the Committee:
• Chairman: Suresh N. Patel, former Central Vigilance Commissioner.
• Member: Shirish Chandra Murmu, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
• Member: Padmaja Chunduru, former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO), Indian Bank.
• Member: N. S. Vishwanathan, former Deputy Governor, RBI.
• Member Secretary: Joint Secretary (Banking), Department of Financial Services.
• The committee will have a tenure of six months.
• Terms of Reference of the Committee:
• Assess existing banking practices and prudential norms, identify global best practices and adapt them to the Indian banking system. It will also prepare a roadmap for developing globally competitive banks.
• Review the regulatory and legal frameworks governing banks, including Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and Cooperative Banks, and recommend reforms to improve efficiency and ease of banking.
• Assess the long-term capital requirements of banks, Development Financial Institutions (DFIs) and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and recommend funding sources and enabling mechanisms to support credit growth.
• Examine differences in the cost of capital for businesses and suggest policy measures to encourage private investment and sustainable economic growth.
• Prepare a roadmap for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation in banking, with safeguards against cyber risks. It will also recommend strategies for talent acquisition and capacity building to develop a future-ready banking workforce.
• Review the Priority Sector Lending (PSL) framework and the Lead Bank Scheme to assess their relevance, effectiveness and coordination in promoting inclusive, balanced and data-driven credit delivery in line with changing economic priorities and financial inclusion goals.
• Examine and make recommendations on any other matter referred to the committee by the Government of India.

Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav Launches Fourth Edition of Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 4.0

• Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav launched the fourth edition of the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign (TFYC) 4.0 in New Delhi.

Key Highlights

• The 60-day nationwide campaign, organised by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, aims to:
• Prevent the initiation of tobacco use among young people.
• Encourage tobacco users to quit.
• Strengthen the enforcement of tobacco control laws.
• Promote tobacco-free environments across the country.
• The campaign seeks to protect young people from tobacco use so that they can contribute effectively to the nation's development. The Minister emphasised that youth health and well-being are essential to India's vision of becoming a developed nation.
• Under the previous three editions of the campaign, more than 5.8 lakh educational institutions and 73,000 villages were declared tobacco-free.
• The Minister highlighted that the harmful effects of tobacco are not restricted to users, as people exposed to tobacco smoke and other forms of tobacco use are also affected. He also noted that a large number of cancer cases in India are linked to tobacco consumption.
• He called for the campaign to evolve beyond a government programme into a mass movement, driven by the active participation and leadership of young people.

About Ministry of Health and Family Welfare:

• Cabinet Minister: J. P. Nadda
• Constituency: Gujarat (Rajya Sabha)
• Ministers of State (MoS): Prataprao Jadhav
• Ministers of State (MoS): Anupriya Patel

Ministry of Textiles Reopens Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Textiles Applications from 1 November to 31 December 2026

• The Ministry of Textiles will reopen the application portal for the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles under Round 4, from 1 November to 31 December 2026, to accept fresh applications.
• The scheme aims to promote the manufacturing of Man-Made Fibre (MMF) apparel, MMF fabrics and technical textiles, enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities, attract investment, generate employment and strengthen India's position in global textile value chains.

Key Highlights

• To encourage wider participation, the Ministry has introduced the following modifications to the scheme:
• Reduction in minimum turnover criterion: Under Part 2 of the scheme, the minimum turnover requirement has been reduced from ₹200 crore to ₹100 crore, enabling greater participation by Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and mid-sized manufacturing units.
• Extension of scheme tenure: The scheme tenure has been extended up to Financial Year 2033–34 exclusively for applicants approved under Round 4. This provides them with a longer investment and operational period to establish and expand their manufacturing capacities.
• Migration of existing participants: Companies participating in Rounds 1, 2 and 3, under any part of the scheme, are eligible to migrate to Round 4 if they have neither claimed nor received any incentive so far. Migration is subject to withdrawal of their existing applications under the respective earlier rounds.
• The online application portal, https://pli.texmin.gov.in, will remain open from 1 November to 31 December 2026.
• Eligible companies have been encouraged to submit applications within the stipulated period in accordance with the applicable scheme guidelines.

About Ministry of Textiles:

• Cabinet Minister: Giriraj Singh
• Constituency: Begusarai, Bihar
• Ministers of State (MoS): Pabitra Margherita

12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum Adopts Joint Declaration Reaffirming UN Principles and Counter-Terrorism Commitments

• The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, concluded with the adoption of a Joint Declaration, reaffirming the commitment of member nations to the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter, including sovereign equality, mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs and the peaceful settlement of international disputes.
• The declaration reflected India's strategic priorities under its BRICS Chairship, while reaffirming the consensus reached in the New Delhi Declaration (NDD).

Key Highlights

• United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reform received explicit support, with reference to Paragraph 13 of the New Delhi Declaration. The declaration called for reforms to make global governance more representative and ensure greater representation of the Global South in international decision-making.
• The declaration incorporated India's position on national security through strong counter-terrorism commitments, building on Paragraph 40 of the New Delhi Declaration. It:
• Condemned cross-border terrorism, terror financing and the provision of safe havens to terrorists.
• Called for zero tolerance towards terrorism and an end to double standards in counter-terrorism efforts.
• The Joint Declaration also supported India's developmental and climate-related priorities, including:
• Expansion of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) repositories.
• Ethical governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Adherence to the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC).
• Unanimous support for India's BRICS Chairship.
• Delivering the valedictory address, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stated that global challenges could be addressed through sustained dialogue, peace and collective action rather than conflict.
• At the conclusion of the forum, he congratulated China, which will assume the BRICS Chairship in 2027, and expressed confidence that cooperation among member nations would continue under its leadership.
• The forum concluded with a call for Parliaments worldwide to act as strong voices for peace, international cooperation and shared prosperity.

Employees’ State Insurance Corporation Extends New Amnesty Scheme 2025 Until 31 December 2026

• The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has extended its New Amnesty Scheme 2025 until 31 December 2026, providing employers and insured persons additional time to settle pending legal disputes.
• The Ministry of Labour and Employment announced the three-month extension following a review of representations received from various stakeholders.
• The scheme was initially operational from 1 October 2025 to 30 September 2026 and will continue under the existing terms and conditions.

Key Highlights

• The New Amnesty Scheme 2025 is a one-time dispute resolution initiative aimed at reducing the backlog of court cases and promoting compliance under the erstwhile Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Act.
• The scheme enables employers to resolve eligible disputes with ESIC through out-of-court settlements, subject to the prescribed conditions.
• Key settlement provisions under the scheme include:
• Ad hoc assessments: Employers can settle such assessments by paying the actual contributions and applicable interest, without paying damages.
• Dues already paid: Cases in which employers have already paid their dues can be withdrawn by paying 10% of the disputed damages.
• Non-submission of records or delayed payments: Cases filed by ESIC on these grounds can be withdrawn with the court’s permission, provided the required compliance has subsequently been completed.
• Court cases filed on or before 31 March 2025 are eligible for resolution under the scheme.
• The Ministry has urged eligible employers and insured persons to utilise the extended period before the scheme closes on 31 December 2026.
• The initiative aims to facilitate dispute resolution, encourage voluntary compliance, reduce litigation and improve the ease of doing business, while safeguarding the rights of ESIC beneficiaries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Launches Development Projects Worth Over ₹14,000 Crore in Banaskantha, Gujarat

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated and dedicated development projects worth over ₹14,000 crore to the nation in Banaskantha, Gujarat.
• The initiatives covered women, children, farmers and livestock rearers, along with agriculture, dairy, infrastructure and connectivity.

Key Highlights

• The Prime Minister also released a fresh instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), transferring over ₹18,000 crore to the bank accounts of approximately 10 crore farmers across India.
• Modi stated that the Union Government had increased the national agricultural budget by more than five times compared with 2013–14.
• He highlighted that over ₹1,000 crore had been transferred to the accounts of more than 50 lakh farmers in Gujarat, including nearly ₹50 crore for lakhs of farming families in Banaskantha.
• He cited five major government interventions that have collectively delivered or saved more than ₹50 lakh crore for farmers:
• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi: Nearly ₹4.5 lakh crore transferred directly to small farmers' bank accounts. Small farmers account for more than 85% of India's farming community.
• Fertiliser subsidy: Approximately ₹16 lakh crore spent to protect farmers from the sharp rise in global fertiliser prices amid international uncertainty.
• Minimum Support Price (MSP): Wheat and paddy farmers received more than ₹24 lakh crore through MSP procurement over the preceding 12 years.
• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Farmers received over ₹2 lakh crore in crop insurance compensation over the preceding 10–12 years.
• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM): Nearly 12 lakh solar pumps were distributed, generating additional electricity and helping farmers avoid purchasing more than 80 crore litres of diesel.
• The Prime Minister highlighted the role of the Soil Health Card Scheme in modernising agriculture and helping farmers identify the appropriate type and quantity of fertilisers required for their fields. More than 26 crore Soil Health Cards have been issued to farmers.
• A newly constructed research centre in Banaskantha will support the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, which promotes the conservation and scientific breeding of indigenous livestock. It will focus on improving the quality of indigenous cow breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal and Kankrej, and buffalo breeds such as Mehsana, Murrah and Jaffarabadi. It is the country's first such facility dedicated to the Kankrej breed.
• The Prime Minister highlighted the use of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and other modern breeding technologies to help livestock farmers reproduce superior characteristics such as higher milk yield, better health and lower maintenance requirements in future generations of animals.
• Average daily milk yield per cow or buffalo has increased from less than 5 litres in 2013–14 to nearly 8 litres at present, according to the Prime Minister. He also stated that India is the world's largest milk producer and has the fastest growth in milk productivity.
• Two bio-CNG plants were among the projects for which foundation stones were laid. With support from institutions such as Banas Dairy, the facilities aim to utilise cattle dung and agricultural residue to produce biogas, bio-compressed natural gas (bio-CNG) and organic fertilisers.
• The Prime Minister also highlighted developments in fisheries and cooperative activities. India's seafood exports have more than doubled, according to his remarks.
• Beekeeping and honey production were highlighted as additional sources of income for farmers. Honey production has doubled over the preceding 12 years, with women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs) contributing to the growth of the Madhu Kranti initiative. India has become the world's second-largest exporter of natural honey.
• Recalling his public service journey, Modi stated that he completed 25 years as the head of a government on 7 October 2026, having first taken oath as Gujarat Chief Minister on 7 October 2001. He expressed gratitude to the people of Gujarat for their guidance and support throughout his public service.
• Under the ongoing cluster development programme for fruit and vegetable cultivators, 12 clusters were approved for crops including tomato, potato, chilli, grapes, banana, onion, orange, pomegranate and cocoa. Farmers are receiving subsidies for establishing new orchards and rejuvenating existing ones. Two clusters in North Gujarat are expected to benefit potato farmers in Banaskantha and Sabarkantha.
• Major railway and transport initiatives included the flagging off of two new train services:
• Ahmedabad–Varanasi Sabarmati Express
• Mehsana–Becharaji–Sabarmati Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train
• Foundation stones were laid for Ahmedabad Metro projects connecting GIFT City and the airport. The Ahmedabad–Mehsana Highway is also set to be expanded from four lanes to eight lanes.
• More than 4,000 modern Anganwadis were inaugurated across Gujarat. The facilities are expected to benefit approximately 4 lakh children and pregnant women.
• He highlighted the difference between international and domestic fertiliser prices, stating that a bag of urea costing around ₹3,000 internationally was being made available to Indian farmers for less than ₹300, while a bag of Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP) costing more than ₹5,000 internationally was being supplied for ₹1,350 in India.
• The Prime Minister called for national unity and encouraged citizens, particularly young people, to participate in the Run for Unity on 31 October 2026, observed as National Unity Day in memory of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
• The annual Unity Festival at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, was scheduled to be held on 31 October 2026. The celebrations were to include parades by police and security forces and tableaus, reaffirming the message of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.

About Gujarat:

• Chief Minister: Bhupendra Patel
• Governor: Acharya Dev Vrat
• Capital: Gandhinagar
• National Parks: Gir, Blackbuck, Gulf of Kutch (Marine), Vansda National Parks
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Nal Sarovar Bird, Wild Ass, Kutch Desert, Barda, Purna Wildlife Sanctuaries

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

United Nations Report Reveals 25 Women and Girls Killed Daily in Global Armed Conflicts

• The United Nations (UN) released the 2026 UN Secretary-General’s Report on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), highlighting the increasing impact of armed conflicts on women and girls worldwide.
• According to the report, at least 25 women and girls were killed every day in armed conflicts worldwide during 2025.
• More than 37,000 civilians were killed in armed conflicts in 2025, with women and girls accounting for 25% (one in four) of the deaths.
• The share of women and girls among civilian deaths in armed conflicts doubled compared with 2021.
• Around 750 million women and girls lived within 50 kilometres of active conflict zones in 2025, which was 40 million more than in 2024.
• The UN verified 9,788 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in 2025, nearly four times the 2022 figure.
• In Haiti, reported cases of conflict-related sexual violence increased by 163%.
• Around 170 million women and girls faced conflict and extreme poverty, surviving on less than US$3 per day.
• Women in conflict-affected countries spent five times as many hours on unpaid care work as men.
• The report also highlighted rising conflict-related sexual violence, increasing poverty and the limited participation of women in global peace negotiations.
• On 31 October 2000, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) adopted Resolution 1325, establishing the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda.
• The WPS Agenda aims to promote women’s participation in conflict prevention, peace negotiations and post-conflict reconstruction.
• The UN Secretary-General publishes an annual WPS report to review progress in implementing UNSC Resolution 1325.

Key Highlights of Liechtenstein’s Hereditary Prince Alois’s State Visit to India (25–28 October 2026)

• Hereditary Prince Alois, the Acting Head of State of the Principality of Liechtenstein, undertook a four-day state visit to India from 25 to 28 October 2026 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• This was Prince Alois’s second visit to India in 2026, following his participation in the AI Impact Summit held in February 2026.
• He was accompanied by his spouse, Hereditary Princess Sophie, along with a high-level official and business delegation comprising prominent industry leaders.
• President Droupadi Murmu accorded a ceremonial reception to Hereditary Prince Alois and Princess Sophie at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Prince Alois at Hyderabad House, New Delhi.
• The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in trade and investment, science, technology, innovation and people-to-people exchanges.
• During the visit, Prince Alois also met Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, to discuss economic engagement and investment opportunities under the India–European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA).
• The visit coincided with the first anniversary of the operationalisation of the India–EFTA TEPA, which entered into force on 1 October 2025.
• Under the agreement, the four EFTA member states — Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein — pledged to facilitate USD 100 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India over 15 years.
• The India–EFTA TEPA also aims to facilitate the creation of 1 million direct jobs in India.

About Liechtenstein :

• Prime Minister : Brigitte Haas
• Capital : Vaduz
• Currency : Swiss franc

India and Mexico Begin Preferential Trade Agreement Talks to Boost Bilateral Commerce

• India and Mexico formally launched negotiations for a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) by signing the Terms of Reference (ToR).
• The agreement aims to expand bilateral trade, create business opportunities, strengthen investment flows and promote resilient and diversified supply chains.
• The Terms of Reference (ToR) were signed during the visit of Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), to Mexico City, Mexico.
• The ToR established the framework, scope, negotiating modalities and roadmap for the proposed India–Mexico PTA.
• Key negotiating areas include market access for goods, rules of origin, customs procedures, trade facilitation and dispute settlement.
• Other negotiating areas include Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures, Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) and trade remedies.
• The priority sectors for cooperation include automobiles, chemicals, electronics, pharmaceuticals, agri-food, energy, critical minerals, medical devices and advanced manufacturing.
• The proposed PTA aims to leverage the economic complementarities between India and Mexico and strengthen bilateral economic cooperation.

About Mexico :

• President : Claudia Sheinbaum
• Capital : Mexico City
• Currency : Mexican peso

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak 2026 Awarded to 490 Personnel Across India

• The Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak 2026 has been awarded to 490 personnel from various States, Union Territories (UTs), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Central Police Organisations (CPOs).
• The medal recognises excellence in professional work, promotes high professional standards and boosts the morale of police and other eligible personnel.
• The award was initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah.

Key Highlights

• The medal was instituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) through a notification dated 1 February 2024.
• It is conferred on members of:
• Police Forces and Security Organisations.
• Intelligence Wings, Intelligence Branches and Special Branches of States and Union Territories.
• Central Police Organisations (CPOs) and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
• National Security Guard (NSG) and Assam Rifles.
• Central, State and Union Territory Forensic Science organisations, including serving government scientists working in forensic science.
• The medal recognises meritorious contributions in the following areas:
• Excellence in Operations.
• Outstanding service in Investigation.
• Exceptional performance.
• Daring and dedicated intelligence service.
• Meritorious work by serving government scientists in Forensic Science.
• The awardees are announced annually on 31 October, the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
• The list of awardees is published on the official website of the Ministry of Home Affairs – https://www.mha.gov.in.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia Named as the Next Vice Chief of the Air Staff

• Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia has been appointed as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) with effect from 1 November 2026.
• He is currently serving as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Eastern Air Command.
• He will succeed Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, who will take over as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) on 31 October 2026.
• Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and was commissioned into the Fighter Stream of the IAF on 11 June 1988.
• He is qualified to fly various aircraft, including the MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, Jaguar and Su-30 MKI.
• During his career spanning nearly four decades, he has held several important command and staff appointments.
• He commanded a frontline fighter squadron, the Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) and served as the Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station Bareilly.
• He headed the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI) of the Indian Air Force.
• He served as the Defence Attaché at the Indian Embassies in Japan and South Korea and as the Senior Air Staff Officer of Eastern Air Command.
• He completed the Advanced Command and Staff Course in the United Kingdom and the National Defence College (NDC) course in Bangladesh.
• He holds three postgraduate degrees in Defence and Strategic Studies.
• He received the Vayu Sena Medal (VM) in 2008 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2018 in recognition of his distinguished service.

Vijay Sankar Named Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry President-Elect for the 2026–27 Term

• The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) appointed Vijay Sankar, Chairman of The Sanmar Group, as its President-Elect for 2026–27.
• The appointment was announced following a decision taken at FICCI’s National Executive Committee Meeting (NECM) held in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Vijay Sankar currently serves as Senior Vice-President of FICCI and will succeed Anant Goenka as FICCI President.
• He will formally assume office after FICCI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Convention, scheduled for 18–19 November 2026 in New Delhi.
• His appointment marks the return of a Tamil Nadu-based industrialist to FICCI’s presidency after more than two decades.
• C. Muthiah was the previous Tamil Nadu-based industrialist to serve as FICCI President during 2002–03.
• Vijay Sankar also serves as Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Chemplast Sanmar Limited.
• He is an Independent Director on the boards of TVS Motor Company Limited and Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T).
• He also serves as Denmark’s Honorary Consul General in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• Vijay Sankar is a Chartered Accountant and holds an MBA from Northwestern University’s JL Kellogg Graduate School of Management, USA.
• FICCI was founded in 1927 and is one of India’s oldest and largest industry associations.
• The Sanmar Group, headquartered in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, is a global industrial conglomerate with interests in chemicals, speciality chemicals, engineering, steel foundries and shipping.
• The Sanmar Group has manufacturing facilities in Tamil Nadu and Karaikal, Puducherry.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

IG Defence and MSA Global Partner to Strengthen India–Oman Defence Collaboration

• Indian defence technology start-up IG Defence signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Oman-based MSA Global LLC to explore the co-development and localisation of advanced defence systems for Oman and the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
• The MoU was exchanged during the 2nd India–Oman Defence Industry Seminar held in Muscat, Oman.
• The MoU was signed by Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IG Defence, and Colonel M. S. Atwal (Retd.), Chairman of MSA Global.
• The seminar was facilitated by the Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence, in association with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
• Prashant Pise, Ambassador of India to Oman, was among the dignitaries present at the event.
• The proposed collaboration focuses on three indigenous defence platforms developed by IG Defence:
• KAL: A long-range attack Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) with a range of 1,000 km.
• BAJ: An Unmanned Aerial Interceptor designed for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) operations.
• JWALA: A micro-missile system designed for counter-drone operations.
• IG Defence also showcased GRID, an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered Battle Management System, during the seminar.
• IG Defence specialises in the design, development and deployment of advanced unmanned aerial systems, short-range missile systems and counter-unmanned solutions.
• The partnership aims to combine India’s indigenous defence engineering capabilities with Oman’s industrial ecosystem to promote local manufacturing and address evolving defence requirements.
• The collaboration will explore opportunities in technology transfer, manufacturing localisation, indigenous defence technology development and defence exports.

Defence Research and Development Organisation Leads Semiconductor and Next-Generation Chip Session, Showcasing Indigenous Technologies at Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2026

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) participated in the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from 27 to 29 October 2026.
• The theme of ESTIC 2026 was “Creative Minds, Catalysing Science, Empowering Society.”
• The conclave was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and jointly organised by 12 ministries and departments under the guidance of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.
• The event showcased cutting-edge research, deep-tech breakthroughs and scientific innovations through discussions involving Nobel Laureates, global experts, policymakers and emerging leaders.

Key Highlights :

• DRDO was one of the key organisers and led the thematic session on “Semiconductors and Next-Generation Chips.”
• The session was chaired by Dr B. K. Das, Distinguished Scientist and Director General of Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS), DRDO.
• The panel discussion was moderated by Dr B. K. Das, with Dr Sheena Rani, Distinguished Scientist and Director General of Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems and Cyber Systems, among the panellists.
• The discussions covered semiconductor technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI) System-on-Chips (SoCs), intelligence at the silicon edge and the evolving microprocessor landscape.
• The session highlighted DRDO’s role in supporting industries and start-ups to develop advanced solutions, accelerate next-generation chip design and strengthen indigenous core technologies.
• The DRDO Outreach Stall showcased indigenous technologies, research programmes and achievements of the Ministry of Defence.
• Major technologies displayed included advanced communication systems, quantum technology prototypes, extreme-cold-weather clothing, PRABALA female full-body protector, passive and powered exoskeletons, portable hybrid energy management systems, high-power pulse laser diodes and scramjet engine technology.
• At the thematic exhibition on Semiconductors and Next-Generation Chips, DRDO showcased two major semiconductor technologies: Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) and Infrared Focal Plane Arrays (IRFPAs).
• Both MMICs and IRFPAs were developed by DRDO’s Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), Delhi.
• Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) and Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based MMICs, along with Multi-Chip Modules (MCMs), are used in strategic missions and serve as essential components of advanced radar systems and Electronic Warfare (EW) applications.
• Infrared Focal Plane Arrays (IRFPAs) act as sensing elements or the “eyes” of tactical missiles, enabling target detection and tracking during the terminal phase through Imaging Infrared (IIR) seekers.
• The displayed infrared technologies included Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR), Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) and Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR).
• Other important DRDO exhibits included scramjet engine technology, neuromorphic accelerators, Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs), Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) and laser proximity sensors.
• Semiconductor technology is considered a critical enabler of national sovereignty, economic strength and digital security and supports the visions of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
• India's semiconductor self-reliance requires capabilities in chip design, fabrication, testing, industrial-scale production and resilient supply chains.
• India aims to become a globally competitive and technologically self-reliant semiconductor powerhouse by 2047, with leadership in selected next-generation chip technologies.
• The country's semiconductor vision includes developing a sustainable semiconductor ecosystem, generating high-value employment opportunities and delivering inclusive societal benefits.
• India's strategic defence laboratories and specialised semiconductor foundries have developed expertise in Gallium Arsenide (GaAs), Gallium Nitride (GaN), Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) and mature silicon process technologies.
• Important Indian semiconductor institutions mentioned include Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), Gallium Arsenide Enabling Technology Centre (GAETEC), Semiconductor Technology and Applied Research Centre (STARC) and Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL).

Cabinet Committee on Security Approves ₹40,000 Crore Project to Build Eight Next-Generation Corvettes for the Indian Navy

• The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a project worth over ₹40,000 crore to build 8 Next-Generation Corvettes (NGCs) for the Indian Navy (IN).
• The 8 NGCs will be constructed by two state-owned shipbuilders: Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE), Kolkata, West Bengal, and Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), Goa.
• GRSE will construct 5 corvettes, while GSL will construct the remaining 3 corvettes.
• The NGCs will be built using a new in-house design developed by the Indian Navy, incorporating advanced shipbuilding technologies.
• Each warship will have an approximate displacement of 2,000 tonnes and a top speed of around 30 knots.
• The project is expected to achieve over 70% indigenous content, supporting domestic shipbuilding, employment generation and India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
• The construction contracts are expected to be signed within the next few days.
• The first Next-Generation Corvette is expected to be delivered by 2030.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

Competition Commission of India Approves Aditya Birla Renewables’ Acquisition of 100% Stake in Solenergy Power Private Limited

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of 100% share capital of Solenergy Power Private Limited by Aditya Birla Renewables Limited.
• Aditya Birla Renewables Limited is the acquirer, Solenergy Power Private Limited is the target company, and Shell Overseas Investment BV is the seller.
• The acquisition involves the transfer of 100% ownership of Solenergy Power Private Limited to Aditya Birla Renewables Limited.
• Aditya Birla Renewables Limited is engaged in renewable power generation through solar and wind energy and captive Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) activities.
• Solenergy Power Private Limited is primarily a holding company registered in Mauritius.
• Solenergy Power’s presence in India is through subordinate holding entities and companies involved in solar and wind power generation.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ENVIRONMENT

New Species of Microscopic Land Snail Found in Maharashtra’s Tilari Region

• Researchers from the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation discovered a new species of microscopic land snail named Dicharax tilariensis in the Tilari region of Kolhapur district, Maharashtra.
• Dicharax tilariensis is currently known only from the Tilari region, making it endemic to the area.
• The research paper was published in the Journal of Conchology, published by the Conchological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
• The newly identified snail inhabits microhabitats containing forest litter, decaying organic matter and moist soil in the semi-evergreen forests of Tilari.
• The species name Dicharax tilariensis is derived from the Tilari region, its only known habitat.
• The specimens were collected near Swapnavel Point, close to Tilarinagar, in Kolhapur district, Maharashtra.
• The collection site was located at an elevation of 700–800 metres above sea level.
• Researchers compared the snail’s characteristics with other species belonging to the Dicharax genus found across the Western Ghats and southern India.
• Its distinctive shell pattern, shell arrangement and prominent internal structure of the operculum helped researchers establish it as a separate species.
• The operculum is the lid-like structure that closes the opening of a snail’s shell.
• The research team comprised Amrut Bhosale, Tejas Thackeray and Akshay Khandekar of the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation.
• Dicharax tilariensis is the second Dicharax species endemic to the northern Western Ghats.

Two New Flowering Plant Species Identified in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang District

• Researchers from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) and Madras Christian College (MCC), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, discovered two new flowering plant species, Ophiorrhiza shidiensis and Ophiorrhiza pemae, in the Vijoynagar region of Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh.
• Both newly discovered species belong to the Rubiaceae family, commonly known as the coffee family.
• The findings were published on 23 October 2026 in the scientific journal Taiwania.
• Ophiorrhiza shidiensis was named after Shidi, the traditional name for Gandhigram used by the Lisu (Yobin) community of Arunachal Pradesh.
• Ophiorrhiza shidiensis is an erect, perennial herb that grows up to 1 metre in height.
• Ophiorrhiza pemae was named in honour of Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, recognising his contributions to the state’s development and scientific activities.
• Ophiorrhiza pemae is a small perennial herb that grows approximately 25–40 centimetres tall.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Rahul Dravid and Saina Nehwal Nominated to Proposed Organising Committee for 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad

• Former Indian cricket captain Rahul Dravid and Olympic medal-winning badminton player Saina Nehwal have been nominated by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports as athlete representatives in the proposed Organising Committee (OC) for the 2030 Commonwealth Games (CWG) in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
• The proposed Organising Committee is expected to have 12–15 members and be headed by Harsh Sanghavi, Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat, who also holds the sports portfolio.

Key Highlights

• The committee is expected to include:
• Representatives of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), which is scheduled to hold its elections in December 2026.
• Lieutenant General Harpal Singh, representing the Commonwealth Games Association of India.
• Jinal Mehta, Chairman of Gujarat Titans and head of Torrent Pharmaceuticals, and Ananya Birla, associated with the consortium that owns Royal Challengers Bengaluru, as private-sector representatives.
• A representative of Commonwealth Sport, the governing body of the Commonwealth Games.
• Saina Nehwal won the bronze medal in badminton at the 2012 London Olympics. After retiring from professional badminton, she joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
• Rahul Dravid, after retiring from international cricket, worked as a coach and guided the Indian men's cricket team to victory in the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup.
• The Organising Committee was expected to be established following Ahmedabad's successful bid to host the Games in November 2025. It will function as a not-for-profit company, following the organisational model adopted for the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games.
• This model was also recommended by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) after the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
• The proposed Organising Committee will have a Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), along with other representatives.
• The Ahmedabad Commonwealth Games are expected to be held in October 2030.
• India plans to include 15–17 sports disciplines in the Ahmedabad Games. In comparison, the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games featured only 10 disciplines, excluding sports such as hockey, wrestling and cricket.
• The operational expenditure for the Ahmedabad Games is estimated at ₹3,000–₹5,000 crore.
• The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has committed a grant-in-aid of ₹2,000 crore, which will be released based on requests from the Gujarat Government.
• The 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games is often regarded as one of the most successful editions in terms of organisation and public participation.
• The 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, headed by then IOA chief Suresh Kalmadi, was registered as a society and faced criticism over the organisation of the Games and corruption allegations.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Oscar-Nominated American Actress Barbara Barrie Passed away at 95

• American actress Barbara Barrie, known for her Oscar-nominated performance, passed away at the age of 95 in Manhattan, New York City,United States of America (USA).

About Barbara Barrie :

• She was born as Barbara Ann Berman on 23 May 1931 in Chicago, Illinois, USA.
• She made her Broadway debut in The Wooden Dish (1955) and her film debut in Giant (1956).
• She won the Best Actress Award at the 1964 Cannes Film Festival for her performance in One Potato, Two Potato, which explored interracial marriage and racial prejudice.
• She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 1980 Oscars for portraying Evelyn Stohler in Breaking Away (1979).
• She played Elizabeth Miller in Barney Miller and Helen Keane in Suddenly Susan (1996–2000).
• She received three Emmy Award nominations during her television career.
• She received a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for originating the role of Sarah in Stephen Sondheim’s Company (1970).
• Her performance in The Killdeer earned her an Obie Award and a Drama Desk Award in 1974.
• Her final screen credit was in the 2025 romantic comedy Things Like This.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Stroke Day 2026 – 29 October – “Every M1nute Counts”

• World Stroke Day is observed annually on 29 October to raise awareness about stroke prevention, early identification, treatment and rehabilitation.
• The official theme for World Stroke Day 2026, announced by the World Stroke Organization (WSO), is “Every M1nute Counts”, accompanied by the campaign call #ActFAST.
• A stroke, also known as a brain attack, occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is suddenly interrupted due to a blocked or ruptured blood vessel. It can cause temporary or permanent brain damage, resulting in death or long-term disability.
• Common warning signs of a stroke include:
• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg.
• Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking and understanding speech.
• Dizziness, loss of balance or difficulty walking.
• Stroke prevention measures include:
• Avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• Engaging in regular physical activity.
• Following a balanced diet and limiting sodium, meat and sweets.
• Undergoing regular health check-ups.
• Early recognition and timely medical attention are important because prompt treatment can help reduce the risk of severe complications and long-term disability.

National Unity Day 2026 – 31 October – “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat”

• National Unity Day, also known as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, is observed annually on 31 October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar  Vallabhbhai Patel, who was born on 31 October 1875.
• The theme for National Unity Day 2026 and the accompanying Bharat Parv celebrations in Gujarat is “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat”, highlighting national integration, solidarity and unity in diversity.
• National Unity Day was first celebrated in 2014, following its introduction by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to honour Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's contribution to India's national integration.
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a significant role in integrating the princely states into the Indian Union after independence. He served as India's first Deputy Prime Minister and first Union Home Minister.
• The Statue of Unity, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 31 October 2018. Located in Kevadia (Ekta Nagar), Gujarat, it is the world's tallest statue.

Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 – 26 October to 1 November

• Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 is being observed across India from 26 October to 1 November 2026 under the leadership of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).
• The theme for 2026 is “Probity for Prosperity” (सत्यनिष्ठा से समृद्धि).
• The observance began on 26 October 2026, when public servants took the Integrity Pledge across government departments, public sector enterprises and banks.
• Central Vigilance Commission (CVC):
• It is India’s apex vigilance institution for central government organisations.
• It was established in 1964 through an executive resolution and received statutory status under the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003.
• The Act provides for one Central Vigilance Commissioner and up to two Vigilance Commissioners.
• The President of India appoints the Central Vigilance Commissioner and Vigilance Commissioners on the recommendation of a committee comprising the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.
• The CVC exercises superintendence over the vigilance administration of central government ministries, departments and specified public sector organisations.
• President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended their greetings on 26 October 2026.
• A three-month preventive vigilance campaign is being conducted from 17 August to 16 November 2026. Its focus areas include:
• Disposal of pending complaints and cases.
• Capacity building.
• Digital initiatives.
• Contract management.
• Participating organisations are conducting workshops, awareness programmes, debates, quizzes and digital campaigns to promote vigilance and integrity.
• Employees and their family members are being encouraged to take the e-Integrity Pledge, available on the CVC website.
• Awareness Gram Sabhas are being organised in rural and semi-urban areas to spread awareness about combating corruption and accessing public grievance redressal mechanisms.
• Participating organisations must submit reports on their Vigilance Awareness Week activities to the CVC by 30 November 2026.

United Nations Disarmament Week 2026 – 24 to 30 October

• United Nations (UN) Disarmament Week 2026 is observed from 24 to 30 October to promote awareness and understanding of disarmament issues and highlight their importance in maintaining international peace and security.
• The observance begins on 24 October, which marks the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.
• In 1978, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) called for the observance of Disarmament Week in the Final Document of its special session on disarmament through Resolution A/RES/S-10/2.
• On 12 December 1995, the UNGA adopted Resolution 50/72 B, inviting governments and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to participate actively in Disarmament Week to improve public understanding of disarmament issues.
• The annual observance is organised by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA).

Daily CA One- Liner: November 1 & 2

• The Government of India has constituted a High-Level Committee on Banking for Viksit Bharat to review the Indian banking sector and recommend structural, institutional, regulatory and legislative reforms
• Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav launched the fourth edition of the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign (TFYC) 4.0 in New Delhi
• The Ministry of Textiles will reopen the application portal for the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles under Round 4, from 1 November to 31 December 2026, to accept fresh applications
• The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, concluded with the adoption of a Joint Declaration, reaffirming the commitment of member nations to the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter, including sovereign equality, mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs and the peaceful settlement of international disputes
• The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has extended its New Amnesty Scheme 2025 until 31 December 2026, providing employers and insured persons additional time to settle pending legal disputes
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated and dedicated development projects worth over ₹14,000 crore to the nation in Banaskantha, Gujarat
• The Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak 2026 has been awarded to 490 personnel from various States, Union Territories (UTs), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Central Police Organisations
• Former Indian cricket captain Rahul Dravid and Olympic medal-winning badminton player Saina Nehwal have been nominated by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports as athlete representatives in the proposed Organising Committee (OC) for the 2030 Commonwealth Games (CWG) in Ahmedabad, Gujarat
• World Stroke Day is observed annually on 29 October to raise awareness about stroke prevention, early identification, treatment and rehabilitation
• National Unity Day, also known as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, is observed annually on 31 October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who was born on 31 October 1875
• Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 is being observed across India from 26 October to 1 November 2026 under the leadership of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).
• United Nations (UN) Disarmament Week 2026 is observed from 24 to 30 October to promote awareness and understanding of disarmament issues and highlight their importance in maintaining international peace and security.
• YES BANK launched ‘YES vibez’, a savings account designed specifically for Generation Z (Gen Z) customers aged 18–30 years.
• The Ministry of Finance (MoF) released the Monthly Economic Review for October 2026, projecting India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth at 7.35% for the second quarter (Q2: July–September) of FY 2026–27.
• India Post, under the Department of Posts (DoP), Ministry of Communications, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UTI Mutual Fund to expand doorstep Know Your Customer (KYC) verification services across India.
• Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank (SuMiTB), a Japanese financial services group, entered into a strategic partnership with India-based One Planet Partners (OPP) by acquiring a minority stake in the company.
• Air India, SBI Card (SBI Cards and Payment Services Limited) and Visa partnered to develop a new co-branded credit card offering travel and lifestyle benefits to members of Air India’s Maharaja Club loyalty programme.
• The United Nations (UN) released the 2026 UN Secretary-General’s Report on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), highlighting the increasing impact of armed conflicts on women and girls worldwide.
• Hereditary Prince Alois, the Acting Head of State of the Principality of Liechtenstein, undertook a four-day state visit to India from 25 to 28 October 2026 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• India and Mexico formally launched negotiations for a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) by signing the Terms of Reference (ToR).
• Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia has been appointed as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) with effect from 1 November 2026.
• The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) appointed Vijay Sankar, Chairman of The Sanmar Group, as its President-Elect for 2026–27.
• Indian defence technology start-up IG Defence signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Oman-based MSA Global LLC to explore the co-development and localisation of advanced defence systems for Oman and the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) participated in the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from 27 to 29 October 2026.
• The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a project worth over ₹40,000 crore to build 8 Next-Generation Corvettes (NGCs) for the Indian Navy (IN).
• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of 100% share capital of Solenergy Power Private Limited by Aditya Birla Renewables Limited.
• Researchers from the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation discovered a new species of microscopic land snail named Dicharax tilariensis in the Tilari region of Kolhapur district, Maharashtra.
• Researchers from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) and Madras Christian College (MCC), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, discovered two new flowering plant species, Ophiorrhiza shidiensis and Ophiorrhiza pemae, in the Vijoynagar region of Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh.
• American actress Barbara Barrie, known for her Oscar-nominated performance, passed away at the age of 95 in Manhattan, New York City,United States of America (USA).