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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Reserve Bank of India Permits Differential Interest Rates on Bulk Deposits Linked to Liquidity Coverage Ratio Run-off Rates

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the Reserve Bank of India (Commercial Banks – Interest Rate on Deposits) Second Amendment Directions, 2026 to revise the framework for deposit interest rates of commercial banks.
• The revised RBI Directions, 2026 will come into effect from 1 October 2026, providing banks with greater flexibility in pricing bulk deposits while improving transparency in deposit interest rates.
• Under the new framework, banks can offer differential interest rates on Rupee Bulk Deposits and Non-Resident Rupee Bulk Deposits based on Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) run-off rates.
• The revised rules allow banks to price bulk deposits according to their liquidity risk and funding stability, helping them improve liquidity management.
• Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) requires banks to maintain adequate High-Quality Liquid Assets (HQLA) to withstand net cash outflows during liquidity stress periods.
• RBI maintained the principle of uniform pricing of deposits, directing banks that deposits of the same amount accepted on the same date must carry the same interest rate across all branches and customers.
• The uniform pricing rule aims to prevent discriminatory pricing practices and ensure fair treatment of depositors.
• Banks are required to publish applicable deposit interest rates, including bulk deposit rates, on their official websites in advance to enhance transparency.
• Under the new guidelines, bulk deposit interest rates must be displayed by banks every business day at 10:00 AM, with a maximum grace period until 10:10 AM.
• The revised framework will strengthen market discipline, improve transparency, support risk-based pricing, and enhance the overall efficiency of the banking system.
• The new RBI guidelines are expected to reduce asset-liability mismatches (ALM) and help banks manage their funding requirements more effectively.

National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited Revises CGSMFI 2.0 Guidelines to Enhance Utilisation of ₹20,000 Crore Credit Guarantee Scheme

• National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited. (NCGTC) revised the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Microfinance Institutions (CGSMFI 2.0) to improve the utilisation of its ₹20,000 crore government-backed credit guarantee scheme.
• The revised CGSMFI 2.0 guidelines aim to strengthen credit flow to Microfinance Institutions (MFIs), promote financial inclusion, and ensure better utilisation of the available credit guarantee cover.
• Under the revised framework, banks must allocate at least 15% of the scheme’s guarantee cover to small and medium-sized MFIs, replacing the earlier allocation of 5% for small MFIs and 10% for medium MFIs.
• The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Microfinance Institutions (CGSMFI 2.0) was launched on 20 March 2026 to support bank lending to NBFC-MFIs and other MFIs for on-lending to existing and new borrowers.
• The CGSMFI 2.0 scheme will remain operational until 31 August 2026 to support lending activities in the microfinance sector.
• Under the scheme, the lending limit remains unchanged at 20% of an MFI’s Assets Under Management (AUM), subject to category-wise maximum limits.
• The maximum lending limit under CGSMFI 2.0 is ₹100 crore for small MFIs, ₹200 crore for medium MFIs, and ₹1,000 crore for large MFIs.
• Small MFIs are classified as institutions having Assets Under Management (AUM) below ₹500 crore.
• Medium MFIs are classified as institutions having AUM between ₹500 crore and ₹2,000 crore.
• Large MFIs are classified as institutions having AUM above ₹2,000 crore.

Government Sets Up India Digital Payment Intelligence Corporation with Reserve Bank of India Support to Combat Digital Payment Frauds

• The Government of India, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has established the India Digital Payment Intelligence Corporation (IDPIC) to strengthen the prevention and detection of cyber financial frauds in the digital payments ecosystem.
• The IDPIC will function as a platform to share real-time fraud intelligence and alerts with banks and financial institutions for faster identification and prevention of fraudulent activities.
• The India Digital Payment Intelligence Corporation (IDPIC) will use advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Big Data Analytics to detect suspicious transactions and identify emerging fraud patterns.
• The use of AI, ML and Big Data Analytics by IDPIC will help financial institutions take timely preventive actions and improve the security of India’s digital payment ecosystem.
• The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) operates the National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC) to monitor cyberspace and identify potential cyber threats.
• The National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC) performs monitoring at the metadata level and enables real-time information sharing with regulators and other stakeholders.
• The Government has constituted the Inter-Regulatory Technical Group (IRTG) under the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) to address cybersecurity challenges requiring coordination among multiple financial regulators.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Inaugurates ‘Aayakar Sindhu’, New Income Tax Department Office Complex in Mumbai

• Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated “Aayakar Sindhu”, the new state-of-the-art office complex of the Income Tax Department at Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Aayakar Sindhu was dedicated to the service of the nation on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
• The name “Aayakar Sindhu” symbolises the role of the Income Tax Department, which collects tax revenues from taxpayers across India and channels them into the Consolidated Fund of India for nation-building and public welfare.
• Aayakar Sindhu is a modern 13-storey office complex with a built-up area of nearly 1 lakh square feet.
• The Aayakar Sindhu office complex has been constructed by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD).
• The new Income Tax office has been designed as a secure, technology-enabled and citizen-centric workplace to improve tax administration and taxpayer services.
• The facility includes secure record management systems, strong rooms for seized assets and records, Aayakar Seva Kendra, conference halls, training facilities, library, canteen, recreation area and guest house accommodation.
• The project aims to enhance administrative efficiency, strengthen taxpayer services, and support effective handling of assessment and investigation-related work of the Income Tax Department.
• The inauguration of Aayakar Sindhu reflects the Government’s commitment towards modernising public infrastructure, promoting transparent governance, and improving efficient service delivery.

Flipkart Partners with PayU Finance to Introduce ‘Flipkart Pay Later’ Digital Credit Facility Across Its Platforms

• Flipkart Group has partnered with PayU Finance to launch “Flipkart Pay Later”, a checkout-embedded digital credit facility across Flipkart, Myntra, and Flipkart Minutes.
• The launch of Flipkart Pay Later strengthens Flipkart’s presence in the consumer lending ecosystem by providing flexible credit options to customers.
• PayU Finance, the Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) arm of PayU, is the first lending partner for the Flipkart Pay Later platform.
• Under the partnership, PayU Finance will act as the licensed lender, while Flipkart Finance will manage customer relationships, credit intelligence, and user experience.
• Flipkart Pay Later allows customers to defer payments up to 30 days, convert purchases into three instalments, or choose 3–12 month Equated Monthly Instalments (EMIs).
• The credit decisions under Flipkart Pay Later are based on Flipkart’s commerce intelligence, including transaction history, purchase behaviour, and platform usage patterns.
• PayU Finance’s underwriting and risk management expertise will be combined with Flipkart Finance’s commerce data to enable faster and more accurate credit decisions.
• The partnership aims to ensure responsible credit distribution by assessing customer exposure through multiple data sources and preventing over-leveraging.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Union Government Releases Additional Tax Devolution of ₹1,09,019 Crore to States (August 2026)

• The Union Government has released an additional instalment of tax devolution amounting to ₹1,09,019 crore to State Governments.
• This additional release is over and above the regular monthly tax devolution scheduled to be released on 10th August 2026.
• The move aims to strengthen the financial position of States and support them in accelerating capital expenditure and developmental activities.
• The funds were released as part of the Finance Commission-based tax devolution mechanism, under which a share of the net proceeds of Union taxes and duties is transferred to States.
• Uttar Pradesh received the highest share of tax devolution with ₹19,208 crore, followed by:
• Bihar – ₹10,845 crore
• Madhya Pradesh – ₹8,010 crore
• West Bengal – ₹7,866 crore
• Maharashtra – ₹7,022 crore
• Other major allocations include:
• Rajasthan – ₹6,460 crore
• Odisha – ₹4,819 crore
• Andhra Pradesh – ₹4,597 crore
• Karnataka – ₹4,504 crore
• Tamil Nadu – ₹4,466 crore
• Gujarat – ₹4,094 crore
• Among smaller States, allocations included:
• Goa – ₹398 crore
• Sikkim – ₹365 crore
• Mizoram – ₹615 crore
• Nagaland – ₹524 crore
• The additional tax transfer reflects the Government of India’s commitment towards cooperative federalism by ensuring timely financial support to States for infrastructure development, welfare programmes and economic growth.

Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 Comes into Force

• The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 has come into force after receiving the assent of President Droupadi Murmu.
• The Act was published in the Official Gazette on 30 July 2026 and became effective from the same date.
• The legislation was passed by the Maharashtra State Legislature during the Budget Session in March 2026 and was subsequently sent to the Governor and then to the President of India for assent.
• The Act provides for stringent legal action against illegal religious conversions carried out through unlawful means.
• Under the Act, prior notice must be given to the District Magistrate at least two months before any religious conversion takes place.
• The law authorises the converted person's parents, siblings, and other relatives to file complaints regarding alleged illegal religious conversions.
• Religious conversions carried out through:
• Force
• Fraud
• Inducement
• Misrepresentation
• Promise of marriage

are punishable with imprisonment of up to 7 years.

• Repeat offenders may face imprisonment of up to 10 years under the Act.
• With Maharashtra's enactment, similar anti-conversion laws are now in force in 12 States across India.

About Maharashtra:

• Chief Minister: Devendra Fadnavis
• Governor: Jishnu Dev Varma
• Capital: Mumbai
• National Parks: Tadoba National Park, Gugamal National Park, Chandoli National Park, Navegaon National Park, Sanjay Gandhi National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary, Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thane Creek Flamingo Wildlife Sanctuary

RECENT NEWS

• The Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY) is a state health insurance program in Maharashtra that provides cashless medical treatment and now covers all families in the state rather than just low-income households.

Government Approves 33 Projects under Urban Challenge Fund (UCF)

• The Government of India has approved or accorded in-principal approval to 33 projects under the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF), according to Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal.
• The Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) was operationalised on 15 April 2026 with the launch of its operational guidelines.
• The Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) provides Central assistance of ₹1 lakh crore during the mission period to support transformative urban infrastructure projects across India.
• State-wise approved/in-principle approved projects:
• Andhra Pradesh – 4
• Gujarat – 6
• Karnataka – 3
• Madhya Pradesh – 6
• Maharashtra – 3
• Odisha – 7
• Telangana – 3
• Meghalaya – 1
• Under the scheme, Central Government assistance is limited to 25% of the cost of bankable projects.
• At least 50% of the project cost must be mobilised through market-based sources, including:
• Municipal Bonds
• Bank Loans
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
• The remaining project cost will be borne by the State Government, Union Territory Administration, or Urban Local Body (ULB).
• All cities are eligible to participate under the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF), subject to the eligibility criteria and appraisal framework specified in the operational guidelines.
• The Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) supports urban infrastructure development under three verticals:
• Cities as Growth Hubs
• Creative Redevelopment of Cities
• Water and Sanitation

About Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs:

• Cabinet Minister: Manohar Lal Khattar
• Constituency: Karnal, Haryana
• Ministers of State (MoS): Tokhan Sahu

25 Years of Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) Celebrated; India Plans Upgraded Telescope at Hanle

• The 25th anniversary of the successful operation of the 2-metre Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) at Hanle, Ladakh was celebrated through a three-day conference, showcasing its history, engineering achievements, scientific contributions, and future roadmap.
• Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST), Prof. Umesh Waghmare, highlighted the need to strengthen Hanle’s astronomical infrastructure and support the 3.7-metre Upgraded Himalayan Chandra Telescope (UHCT) announced in the Union Budget 2026.
• The Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) is operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
• Since June 2001, the telescope has been operated remotely from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Hosakote Campus, Bengaluru, using a dedicated Indian National Satellite System (INSAT)-3B satellite link provided by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
• Hanle is one of the world's finest astronomical observation sites due to:
• More than 250 clear observing nights annually.
• Very low atmospheric water vapour (less than 2.5 mm).
• Highly transparent skies suitable for optical and near-infrared astronomy.
• Minimal light pollution and high altitude (4,517 metres above sea level).
• The HCT achieved its First Light on 26 September 2000 and was dedicated to the nation in August 2001. It is named after Nobel Laureate Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar.
• The telescope currently houses three major scientific instruments:
• Himalayan Faint Object Spectrograph and Camera (HFOSC).
• Ultra-violet to Thermal Infrared Spectrometer (uTIRSPEC).
• Hanle Echelle Spectrograph (HESP).
• Over the last 25 years, the HCT has contributed significantly to research in:
• Exoplanets, including participation in the discovery of TRAPPIST-1b.
• Comets, novae, supernovae, variable stars, and binary stars.
• Galaxies, quasars, nebulae, and active galactic nuclei.
• The Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) at Hanle also hosts:
• Gamma-ray Astronomy at TeV Energies (GROWTH-India) Telescope.
• Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Telescope.
• High Altitude Gamma Ray (HAGAR) Telescope.
• Several atmospheric and astronomical research facilities.
• The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, established recently, aims to preserve the region's naturally dark skies for future astronomical observations.
• As announced in the Union Budget 2026, India will establish:
• A 3.7-metre Upgraded Himalayan Chandra Telescope (UHCT).
• A 13.7-metre National Large Optical-Infrared Telescope (NLOT) at Hanle, led by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).

About Ladakh:

• Lieutenant Governor: Vinai Kumar Saxena
• Capital: Leh
• National Parks: Hemis National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary

RECENT NEWS

• The Ladakh administration on Monday (July 13, 2026) announced 17 new tehsils “to strengthen grassroots governance” in the Union Territory and said the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Act will be extended to all seven districts of the region.

Government Introduces e-Zero FIR System for Cyber Financial Fraud Cases

• The Government of India has introduced the e-Zero First Information Report (e-Zero FIR) system for cyber financial fraud cases across 18 States and Union Territories (UTs).
• Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar informed that more than 12,000 e-Zero FIRs have been registered under the new system.
• The facility has been launched through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) to enable faster registration of cyber financial fraud cases.
• Under the system, complaints involving a prescribed financial loss threshold, registered through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) or the 1930 Cyber Crime Helpline, will automatically generate an e-Zero FIR.
• The e-Zero FIR is immediately transferred to the concerned territorial Cyber Crime Police Station for further investigation.
• The complainant must visit the concerned police station within three days to convert the e-Zero FIR into a regular First Information Report (FIR).
• The initiative aims to reduce delays in registering cyber financial fraud cases, facilitate swift police action, and improve the recovery of defrauded funds.

About Ministry of Home Affairs:

• Cabinet Minister: Amit Shah
• Constituency: Gandhinagar, Gujarat
• Ministers of State (MoS): Nityanand Rai, Bandi Sanjay Kumar

India to Host Second BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group Meeting in Hyderabad

• The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Government of India, will host the Second Meeting of the BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) and the Second Meeting of the BRICS Expert Network on Asset Recovery in Hyderabad, Telangana, on 4–5 August 2026 under India's BRICS Presidency 2026.
• The meetings are being organised under the theme of India's BRICS Presidency 2026: "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability."
• The meeting will be inaugurated by Rachna Shah, Secretary, Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).
• The event will witness participation from BRICS member countries, along with senior policymakers, experts, practitioners and representatives of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies.
• The Hyderabad meeting follows the First BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) Meeting, which was held virtually on 2–3 June 2026.
• The discussions will focus on strengthening international cooperation in:
• Asset recovery.
• Combating cross-border corruption.
• Enhancing transparency and accountability in governance.
• A dedicated side event titled "Ethical Governance through Innovation and Tech-Driven Systems" will be organised on 5 August 2026.
• The side event will focus on technology-enabled governance, including:
• Digital public procurement.
• Citizen engagement.
• Transparency and accountability.
• Innovative approaches to strengthen integrity in public administration.
• The meeting will conclude India's engagements under the BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) during its BRICS Presidency 2026 and is expected to strengthen long-term cooperation among BRICS members in asset recovery, anti-corruption measures, technology-driven governance and institutional capacity building.

About Prime Minister's Office (PMO):

• Prime Minister: Narendra Modi
• Constituency: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
• Also in charge of: Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions; Department of Atomic Energy; Department of Space; All Important Policy Issues; All Portfolios not allocated to any Minister
• Ministers of State (MoS): Dr. Jitendra Singh

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Facilitates First Air Export of Karnataka’s Neelam and Totapuri Mangoes to Maldives

• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first-ever air shipment of Karnataka’s Neelam and Totapuri mangoes to the Maldives.
• The export shipment was flagged off on 30 July 2026, marking a significant milestone in promoting Karnataka’s late-season mango varieties in international markets.
• The initiative aims to strengthen India’s mango export basket and create new opportunities for premium Indian mango exports.
• The export consignment consisted of 1 metric tonne of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes sourced directly from farmers associated with Prakruthimaya Farmers Producer Company Ltd, KGF Taluk, Kolar district, Karnataka.
• The shipment was exported by Ahalya Devi Ventures, led by Ashwini A., a newly registered woman entrepreneur, highlighting the increasing participation of women-led enterprises in India’s agri-export ecosystem.
• The export initiative provided farmers with over 50% higher returns compared to conventional market channels through direct procurement, organised aggregation, and export market linkages.
• Neelam mango is known for its sweet and juicy pulp, rich aroma, and suitability for desserts, smoothies, and beverages.
• Totapuri mango is recognised for its distinctive shape, sweet-tangy flavour, and suitability for both fresh consumption and processing industries.
• The late-season varieties of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes, harvested from late June to the end of July, help extend India’s mango export season beyond the peak harvesting period.
• The initiative demonstrates the growing export potential of Karnataka’s horticulture sector and strengthens the role of Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) in connecting farmers with global markets.
• APEDA appreciated the collective efforts of exporters, Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), farmers, and stakeholders involved in making the export shipment successful.
• The export initiative supports sustainable income growth for farmers by improving access to international markets.
• The first air shipment of Karnataka mangoes to Maldives encourages greater participation of FPOs, FPCs, exporters, and agri-entrepreneurs in global agricultural trade.

About APEDA :

• APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) is a statutory body established in 1986 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
• The main objective of APEDA is to promote the export and development of agricultural and processed food products from India.

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Enables First-Ever Sea Export of Value-Added Flavoured Makhana from Bihar to Canada

• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first-ever sea shipment of value-added flavoured Makhana (Fox Nuts) from Bihar to Canada, marking a major milestone in India's agricultural exports.
• The inaugural export consignment consisted of 7 metric tonnes of flavoured Makhana, packed in two containers.
• The consignment was flagged off from Darbhanga, Bihar, on 29 July 2026 and exported to Canada through Mundra Port, Gujarat.
• The exported flavoured Makhana was processed and packaged by Nutrivin Agro Private Limited in accordance with international food safety and quality standards.
• APEDA provided technical and financial support for processing, packaging, and export of the value-added Makhana products.
• Bihar produces nearly 85–90% of the world's Makhana (Fox Nuts), making it the largest producer globally.
• Makhana (Fox Nuts) from Bihar has been identified under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative to promote exports and value addition.

About Canada :

• Prime Minister : Mark Carney
• Capital : Ottawa
• Currency : Canadian dollar

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Vice Admiral Manish Chadha Takes Over as Director General Naval Operations of Indian Navy

• Vice Admiral Manish Chadha, AVSM, VSM assumed charge as the Director General Naval Operations (DGNO) on 03 August 2026.
• Vice Admiral Manish Chadha was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 01 July 1991 and has served for over 35 years in the naval service.
• He is an alumnus of the 78th Course of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla.
• Vice Admiral Manish Chadha is a specialist in Communication and Electronic Warfare.
• He completed the 61st Defence Services Staff College Course, Wellington and the Higher Command Course at the National Defence University, Washington, USA.
• During his distinguished career, he held various command, operational, instructional and staff appointments both afloat and ashore.
• His major afloat commands include Coast Guard Interceptor Boat CGS-05 and Indian Naval Ships (INS) Veer, Kirpan and Mysore.
• Vice Admiral Manish Chadha also served as the Naval Attaché at the Embassy of India, Moscow.
• At Naval Headquarters, he contributed to important projects related to Very Low Frequency (VLF) and Satellite Communications.
• He also served as the Director of International Fleet Review 2016.
• After attaining Flag Rank, he held important positions including Flag Officer Commanding Gujarat Naval Area, Assistant Chief of Personnel (Administration and Civilian), Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra Naval Area, and Assistant Chief of Personnel (Human Resource Development).
• On promotion to the rank of Vice Admiral, he was appointed as the Commandant of Indian Naval Academy (INA), where he focused on shaping future naval leadership.
• Vice Admiral Manish Chadha was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) in 2017 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2025 for distinguished service.

Parliamentary Panel Recommends Appointment of Polar Ambassador to Boost India’s Arctic and Antarctic Engagement

• The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs recommended the appointment of a dedicated Polar Ambassador to strengthen India's engagement and diplomacy in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
• The Committee also urged the Government of India to seek full-fledged membership of the Arctic Council, as India currently holds observer status without decision-making powers.

About Arctic Council :

• The Arctic Council was established in 1996 through the Ottawa Declaration.
• The Arctic Council is an intergovernmental forum that promotes cooperation, sustainable development, environmental protection, and scientific collaboration in the Arctic region.
• The Arctic Council is not a treaty-based international organisation and functions through consensus, reflecting the peaceful and cooperative nature of the Arctic.
• The eight member countries of the Arctic Council are Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Russia, and the United States.
• The Arctic Council has six Permanent Participant (PP) groups representing the indigenous peoples of the Arctic.
• Observer status in the Arctic Council is open to non-Arctic countries, intergovernmental organisations, inter-parliamentary organisations, and regional and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
• India is one of the 13 observer countries of the Arctic Council, along with France, Germany, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom, China, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Italy, and Switzerland.
• As an observer country, India can participate in Arctic Council meetings, but does not have decision-making powers.
• Observer countries cannot make financial contributions to the Arctic Council or independently undertake research in the Arctic region.
• The chairmanship of the Arctic Council rotates among the eight member countries.
• Traditionally, the Foreign Minister of the country holding the chairmanship serves as the Chair of the Arctic Council.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Chief of Defence Staff General N.S. Raja Subramani Delivers Keynote Address at 4th Tri-Services Future Warfare Course

• The Fourth Edition of the Tri-Services Future Warfare Course commenced on 03 August 2026 at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
• The inaugural session of the Tri-Services Future Warfare Course was addressed by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General N.S. Raja Subramani, who delivered the keynote address.
• The CDS General N.S. Raja Subramani highlighted the changing character of warfare and the increasing impact of emerging technologies on modern military operations.
• The course focuses on developing the ability to anticipate future security challenges and enhance the capability to respond effectively across multiple operational domains.
• The CDS emphasised the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cyber Capabilities, Autonomous Systems, Information Warfare, Space Technologies, and Data-Driven Decision-Making in future conflicts.
• The Future Warfare Course aims to strengthen jointness, integration and collaboration among the Indian Armed Forces, industry, academia and research community.
• The course is conducted by the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) to prepare military officers for future warfare challenges.
• The four-week Tri-Services Future Warfare Course brings together officers from the Army, Navy and Air Force along with representatives from government, industry, academia and strategic institutions.
• Participants of the course will discuss key areas including geopolitics, emerging technologies, cognitive warfare, cyber warfare, multi-domain operations, scenario-building and technology-enabled warfare.

National Cadet Corps Conducts Cyclothon 2026 to Mark 79th Anniversary of India’s Independence

• National Cadet Corps (NCC) organised Cyclothon 2026 on 02 August 2026 in New Delhi to commemorate 79 years of India’s Independence.
• The NCC Cyclothon 2026 aimed to promote fitness, environmental responsibility, sustainable living, patriotism, discipline, unity and national service among the youth.
• The Cyclothon 2026 was flagged off by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Mansukh Mandaviya in the presence of Minister of State for Defence Shri Sanjay Seth and Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh.
• Renowned personalities including Boxer M C Mary Kom and Tennis player Leander Paes attended the NCC Cyclothon 2026 event.
• Director General NCC Lieutenant General Virendra Vats led a group of 79 NCC cadets in a symbolic 79-kilometre cycling ride marking 79 years of India’s Independence.
• The Cyclothon started from Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi and concluded at the same venue after covering important landmarks of the National Capital.
• The event was organised under the theme “Clean India, Green India, Fit India” to encourage healthy lifestyles, environmental conservation and sustainable transportation.
• NCC Cyclothon 2026 supported national initiatives such as TB Mukt Bharat, Swachh Bharat, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam and Har Ghar Tiranga.
• The initiative promoted cycling as an eco-friendly mode of transport to reduce carbon emissions and encourage environmental protection.
• The Cyclothon served as a platform to create awareness about physical fitness, environmental stewardship, road safety and responsible citizenship.
• The event encouraged youth to become ambassadors of positive social change by adopting values of discipline, teamwork, resilience and community service.
• NCC Cyclothon 2026 contributed towards the vision of building a stronger, healthier and greener India through youth participation and national service.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science Celebrates 150 Years as India’s First Indigenous Scientific Research Institution

• Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026 as India’s first national institution dedicated to scientific research by Indians.
• IACS was established on 29 July 1876 in Kolkata, West Bengal, by Mahendralal Sircar during the period of the Bengal Renaissance.
• The main objective behind the establishment of IACS was to promote scientific self-reliance and encourage Indians to conduct original scientific research instead of only learning Western science.
• IACS became the first indigenous institution in colonial India devoted exclusively to scientific research and public scientific education.
• The establishment of IACS in 1876 marked the beginning of a movement for indigenous scientific development and knowledge creation in India.
• Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) played an important role in strengthening scientific excellence, innovation, and research culture in India.
• The foundation of IACS was closely associated with the Bengal Renaissance, a major period of intellectual, cultural, educational, and social awakening in India.
• The Bengal Renaissance contributed significantly to the growth of modern Indian philosophy, literature, education, social reform, and science.
• IACS promoted the idea that Indians should not only acquire Western scientific knowledge but also actively contribute to new scientific discoveries and research.

CSIR–Central Road Research Institute Launches Indigenous Network Survey Vehicle to Enhance Urban Road Assessment in Delhi NCR

• CSIR–Central Road Research Institute (CSIR–CRRI), New Delhi flagged off the newly procured Indigenous Network Survey Vehicle (NSV) to advance sustainable urban road infrastructure and improve road asset management.
• The flag-off ceremony was conducted by Ch. Ravi Sekhar, Director, CSIR–CRRI, marked the beginning of field surveys under the project “Implementation of the Standard Framework for Paving and Greening of Urban Roads in Delhi NCR.”
• The newly inducted Network Survey Vehicle (NSV) will conduct scientific, accurate and data-driven assessment of urban roads across Delhi NCR to support sustainable infrastructure planning.
• The CSIR–CRRI initiative aims to develop smarter and sustainable road infrastructure by using advanced technologies for road condition assessment, pavement planning and maintenance improvement.
• The project “Implementation of the Standard Framework for Paving and Greening of Urban Roads in Delhi NCR” is being implemented by CSIR–CRRI in collaboration with the Public Works Department (PWD), Government of NCT of Delhi under a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA).
• The project follows the framework of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to improve urban road infrastructure and reduce dust pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR).
• The initiative will be implemented with collaboration between CSIR–CRRI and SPA New Delhi and covers four major work packages including space standards and road cross-sections, road dust mitigation through greening, Road Asset Management Systems (RAMS), and innovative road construction technologies.
• The Indigenous Network Survey Vehicle (NSV) is equipped with advanced technologies such as high-speed laser profiling, UHD imaging systems, GPS/GNSS positioning, automated pavement distress mapping and AI-enabled data analytics.
• The NSV enables rapid, non-contact assessment of pavement condition, road roughness, surface distress, drainage systems, shoulders and roadside assets while minimizing traffic disruption.
• The data generated through NSV surveys will help in scientific prioritization of maintenance works, standardized pavement design, improved drainage planning, enhanced road safety and effective road condition monitoring.

Recent News :

• In July 2026, CSIR–Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) commenced its Platinum Jubilee Celebrations from 16 July 2026 to 16 July 2027, marking 75 years of scientific excellence in road infrastructure research.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ENVIRONMENT

New Freshwater Catfish Species ‘Pseudolaguvia khairii’ Identified in Odisha’s Budhabalanga River

• A new freshwater catfish species, Pseudolaguvia khairii, was discovered in the Budhabalanga River in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha.
• The newly discovered species has been named Pseudolaguvia khairii in honour of Khairi, the iconic Royal Bengal tigress of the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), Odisha.
• The discovery of Pseudolaguvia khairii has been published in the internationally renowned taxonomic journal Zootaxa.
• Pseudolaguvia khairii belongs to the order Siluriformes, the scientific order that includes all catfish species.
• Pseudolaguvia is a genus of small hillstream catfishes found in fast-flowing rivers across India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar.
• Pseudolaguvia khairii is a small-sized freshwater catfish, measuring only a few centimetres in length, and is distinguished by a unique fleshy protuberance at the base of its dorsal fin.
• The discovery highlights the rich and lesser-known biodiversity of India’s freshwater ecosystems and underscores the importance of conserving both aquatic species and iconic wildlife.
• Khairi was an orphaned Royal Bengal tiger cub rescued from the forests of the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in the 1970s.
• Khairi was raised by Saroj Raj Choudhury and his wife Nihar Nalini Swain, becoming one of India’s most famous captive tigers and a symbol of wildlife conservation in Odisha.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India and Bhutan Approve 12 New Development Projects under 13th Five-Year Plan

• India and Bhutan reviewed the progress of their development partnership under Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–29) during the 5th India–Bhutan Development Cooperation Talks held in Thimphu, Bhutan.
• The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri of India and Foreign Secretary Pema Lektup Dorji of Bhutan during Vikram Misri's visit to Bhutan on 30–31 July 2026.
• Both countries approved 12 new Project Tied Assistance (PTA) projects worth ₹332 crore (US$ 34.41 million).
• With the approval of the new projects, the total number of Project Tied Assistance (PTA) projects under Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–29) has increased to 82, with a cumulative outlay of ₹6,860 crore (US$ 710.95 million).
• The newly approved projects cover sectors including:
• Infrastructure
• Healthcare
• Agriculture
• Urban development
• Disaster management
• The two sides reviewed cooperation in:
• Development partnership
• Energy
• Trade and investment
• Connectivity
• Regional issues
• The meeting also reviewed the implementation of India's ₹10,000 crore (US$ 1.04 billion) support package for Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–29).
• India released the following financial assistance to Bhutan:
• ₹1,250 crore under the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP).
• ₹735.20 crore for High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs).
• ₹200 crore as Programme Grant.
• During the visit, both Foreign Secretaries:
• Virtually inaugurated the Thimphu Ecological Park and Olakha Park.
• Handed over 45 electric vehicles under the "Accelerate e-Mobility Uptake in Bhutan" project.
• India and Bhutan exchanged an Umbrella Line of Credit Agreement between the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank) to operationalise a ₹4,000 crore (US$ 414.55 million) concessional Line of Credit for energy projects.
• Both sides also exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi and the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan to strengthen cooperation in:
• Medical research
• Medical education
• Training
• India and Bhutan reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their longstanding development partnership and agreed to hold the next India–Bhutan Development Cooperation Talks in New Delhi.

Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and Geological Survey of India (GSI) Sign MoU to Strengthen Geoscience, Mineral Exploration and Disaster Management

• The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) signed an Umbrella Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) to strengthen collaboration in geoscience, mineral exploration and disaster management through advanced next-generation technologies.
• The MoU was signed at Electronics Niketan, New Delhi, by E. Magesh, Director General, Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), and Pradeep Singh, Additional Director General, Geological Survey of India (GSI), in the presence of S. Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
• The collaboration aims to combine High-Performance Computing (HPC) capabilities of the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) with the geological expertise of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) to address complex subsurface exploration challenges.
• The partnership will utilise Artificial Intelligence (AI) and High-Performance Computing (HPC) for:
• Processing large geophysical datasets.
• Developing high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) subsurface mapping.
• Predictive modelling for mineral exploration.
• Converting decades of unstructured geological records into a domain-specific Large Language Model (LLM).
• The collaboration will also support disaster risk reduction through:
• Slope-scale landslide monitoring using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR).
• Development of early warning systems.
• Studies on Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
• The initiative aims to accelerate the exploration of critical minerals and Rare Earth Elements (REEs), contributing to India's economic security, supply chain resilience and technological self-reliance.

About Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC)

• Established: 1988
• Parent Ministry: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
• Headquarters: Pune, Maharashtra

About Geological Survey of India (GSI)

• Established: 1851
• Parent Ministry: Ministry of Mines
• Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

India Finishes Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2026 Glasgow Campaign with 39 Medals; Ranks Fourth Overall

• India concluded its campaign at the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2026 held in Glasgow, Scotland with a total of 39 medals, including:
  • 13 Gold medals
  • 17 Silver medals
  • 9 Bronze medals
• India secured the 4th position in the overall medal standings despite competing in a reduced sporting programme, which excluded several medal-rich sports such as wrestling, badminton, table tennis, hockey and shooting.
• The Indian contingent comprised 122 athletes, who participated across:
  • 8 able-bodied sports
  • 5 integrated para sports

The Games were held from 23 July to 2 August 2026.

• Final Medal Standings (Top Countries):
  • Australia – 171 medals (1st)
  • England – 110 medals (2nd)
  • Canada – 62 medals (3rd)
  • India – 39 medals (4th)
• India and host Scotland both won 39 medals, but India secured the 4th position due to a higher number of silver medals.
• Sport-wise Medal Contribution of India:
  • Boxing – 10 medals
  • Athletics – 10 medals
  • Weightlifting – 8 medals
  • Para Athletics – 6 medals
  • Judo – 4 medals
  • Para Powerlifting – 1 medal
• Boxing became India's most successful discipline at CWG 2026, contributing 10 medals, including a record 7 gold medals, which was the highest gold medal tally by any country in boxing at a single Commonwealth Games.
• Indian Boxing Gold Medallists:
  • Preeti Pawar – Women’s 54 kg
  • Jaismine Lamboria – Women’s 57 kg
  • Sakshi Chaudhary – Women’s 51 kg
  • Priya Ghanghas – Women’s 60 kg
  • Arundhati Choudhary – Women’s 70 kg
  • Sachin Siwach – Men’s 60 kg
  • Ankush Panghal – Men’s 80 kg
• Boxing medal winners also included:
  • Lovlina Borgohain – Silver (Women’s 75 kg)
  • Jadumani Singh – Silver (Men’s 55 kg)
  • Narender Berwal – Silver (Men’s +90 kg)
• Weightlifting contributed 8 medals to India’s tally:
  • Mirabai Chanu won India’s first gold medal of CWG 2026 in the Women’s 48 kg weightlifting event.
  • Silver medal winners:
    • Rishikanta Singh
    • Muthupandi Raja
    • Gyaneshwari Yadav
    • Valluri Ajaya Babu
    • Harjinder Kaur
    • Lovepreet Singh
  • Bronze medal winner:
    • Bindyarani Devi
  • Athletics produced 10 medals comprising 5 silver and 5 bronze medals.
  • Gulveer Singh created history by becoming the first Indian track and field athlete to win two individual medals at a single Commonwealth Games:
    • Silver – Men’s 10,000 metres
    • Bronze – Men’s 5,000 metres
  • Other Indian Athletics medallists:
    • Neeraj Chopra – Silver (Men’s Javelin Throw)
    • Murali Sreeshankar – Silver (Men’s Long Jump)
    • Sarvesh Kushare – Silver (Men’s High Jump)
    • Praveen Chithravel – Silver (Men’s Triple Jump)
    • Tejaswin Shankar – Bronze (Decathlon)
    • Yash Vir Singh – Bronze (Javelin Throw)
    • Selva Prabhu – Bronze (Triple Jump)
    • Seema Kaliramna – Bronze (Discus Throw)
    • Gulveer Singh – Bronze (Men’s 5,000 metres)
  • India’s para athletes delivered their best-ever Commonwealth Games performance, winning 7 medals:
    • 3 Gold
    • 2 Silver
    • 2 Bronze
  • Para Athletics contributed 6 medals and ended India’s 20-year wait for a para athletics podium at the Commonwealth Games.
  • Para Athletics Gold Medallists:
    • Dilip Gavit – Men’s 100m T47
    • Sharmila Dhankar – Women’s Shot Put F57
    • Soman Rana – Men’s Shot Put F57
  • Other para medal winners:
    • Mohammed Basil – Silver (Men’s 100m T47)
    • Shubham Juyal – Silver (Shot Put F57)
    • Shilpa K. Shyla – Bronze (Shot Put F57)
  • Jhandu Kumar won a bronze medal in Para Powerlifting, becoming India’s first medallist of CWG 2026.
  • Judo created history for India:
    • Asmita Dey became the first Indian Commonwealth Games champion in Judo by winning gold.
    • Harsh Singh won another gold medal in Judo.
    • Yamini Mourya secured silver.
    • Unnati Sharma won bronze.
  • With the completion of the Glasgow edition of CWG 2026, India’s overall Commonwealth Games medal tally increased to 603 medals from 19 appearances.
  • India became the fourth-most successful nation in Commonwealth Games history, behind:
    • Australia
    • England
    • Canada

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Legendary Mountaineer Nirmal Purja Passed Away After Record-Breaking Climbing Career

• Renowned Nepali-British mountaineer Nirmal Purja passed away in an avalanche on Broad Peak in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, Pakistan.

About Nirmal Purja :

• Nirmal Purja was born on 25 July 1983 in Myagdi, Gandaki Province, Nepal.
• In 2003, he joined the Brigade of Gurkhas, beginning a distinguished military career before becoming a professional mountaineer.
• In 2009, he became the first Gurkha to be inducted into the Royal Navy's Special Boat Service (SBS) and served as a cold-weather warfare specialist.
• In 2018, Nirmal Purja resigned from military service to pursue high-altitude mountaineering full-time.
• In 2019, he completed Project Possible 14/7 by climbing all 14 eight-thousanders (mountains above 8,000 metres) in 6 months and 6 days using bottled oxygen, breaking the previous world record by more than seven years.
• Nirmal Purja became the first person to summit Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu within 48 hours, creating a historic mountaineering record.
• In 2021, he achieved the first winter ascent of K2 (Karakoram Range) along with Nepali climbers, reaching the summit without supplemental oxygen, marking one of the greatest achievements in mountaineering history.
• In recognition of his outstanding achievements, Nirmal Purja was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2018.
• He also received an Honorary Degree from Loughborough University, United Kingdom (UK) in 2023.

 Daily CA One- Liner: August 5

• The Union Government has released an additional instalment of tax devolution amounting to ₹1,09,019 crore to State Governments
• The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 has come into force after receiving the assent of President Droupadi Murmu
• The Government of India has approved or accorded in-principal approval to 33 projects under the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF), according to Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal
• The 25th anniversary of the successful operation of the 2-metre Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) at Hanle, Ladakh was celebrated through a three-day conference, showcasing its history, engineering achievements, scientific contributions, and future roadmap
• The Government of India has introduced the e-Zero First Information Report (e-Zero FIR) system for cyber financial fraud cases across 18 States and Union Territories
• The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Government of India, will host the Second Meeting of the BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) and the Second Meeting of the BRICS Expert Network on Asset Recovery in Hyderabad, Telangana, on 4–5 August 2026 under India's BRICS Presidency 2026
• India and Bhutan reviewed the progress of their development partnership under Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–29) during the 5th India–Bhutan Development Cooperation Talks held in Thimphu, Bhutan
• The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) signed an Umbrella Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) to strengthen collaboration in geoscience, mineral exploration and disaster management through advanced next-generation technologies
• India concluded its campaign at the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2026 held in Glasgow, Scotland with a total of 39 medals, including:
  • 13 Gold medals
  • 17 Silver medals
  • 9 Bronze medals
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the Reserve Bank of India (Commercial Banks – Interest Rate on Deposits) Second Amendment Directions, 2026 to revise the framework for deposit interest rates of commercial banks.
• National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited. (NCGTC) revised the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Microfinance Institutions (CGSMFI 2.0) to improve the utilisation of its ₹20,000 crore government-backed credit guarantee scheme.
• The Government of India, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has established the India Digital Payment Intelligence Corporation (IDPIC) to strengthen the prevention and detection of cyber financial frauds in the digital payments ecosystem.
• Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated “Aayakar Sindhu”, the new state-of-the-art office complex of the Income Tax Department at Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Flipkart Group has partnered with PayU Finance to launch “Flipkart Pay Later”, a checkout-embedded digital credit facility across Flipkart, Myntra, and Flipkart Minutes.
• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first-ever air shipment of Karnataka’s Neelam and Totapuri mangoes to the Maldives.
• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first-ever sea shipment of value-added flavoured Makhana (Fox Nuts) from Bihar to Canada, marking a major milestone in India's agricultural exports.
• Vice Admiral Manish Chadha, AVSM, VSM assumed charge as the Director General Naval Operations (DGNO) on 03 August 2026.
• The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs recommended the appointment of a dedicated Polar Ambassador to strengthen India's engagement and diplomacy in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
• The Fourth Edition of the Tri-Services Future Warfare Course commenced on 03 August 2026 at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
• National Cadet Corps (NCC) organised Cyclothon 2026 on 02 August 2026 in New Delhi to commemorate 79 years of India’s Independence.
• Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026 as India’s first national institution dedicated to scientific research by Indians.
• CSIR–Central Road Research Institute (CSIR–CRRI), New Delhi flagged off the newly procured Indigenous Network Survey Vehicle (NSV) to advance sustainable urban road infrastructure and improve road asset management.
• A new freshwater catfish species, Pseudolaguvia khairii, was discovered in the Budhabalanga River in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha.
• Renowned Nepali-British mountaineer Nirmal Purja passed away in an avalanche on Broad Peak in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, Pakistan.