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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Unified Payments Interface Achieves Record Monthly High in July 2026 with 23.66 Billion Transactions Worth ₹29.88 Lakh Crore

• Unified Payments Interface (UPI) recorded its highest-ever monthly performance in July 2026, processing 23.66 billion transactions worth ₹29.88 lakh crore (US$ 313.47 billion), according to the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

Key Highlights :

• The UPI transaction volume increased by 4.1% and transaction value increased by 3.3% compared with June 2026.
• On a Year-on-Year (YoY) basis, UPI transaction volume surged by 22%, while transaction value increased by 19% in July 2026.
• During July 2026, UPI processed an average of 763 million transactions per day, with an average daily transaction value of ₹96,383 crore.
• UPI was launched on 11 April 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and has completed 10 years of operations.
• UPI has emerged as the world’s largest real-time payment system, accounting for nearly half of all global instant digital payment transactions.
• UPI has become the backbone of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), promoting financial inclusion, cashless transactions and digital commerce.
• The record UPI growth reflects strong adoption of digital payments across Tier-2, Tier-3 cities and rural regions of India.
• As of June 2026, PhonePe remained the leading UPI application by transaction volume, followed by Google Pay and Paytm.
• WhatsApp Pay surpassed CRED in terms of monthly UPI transaction volume as of June 2026.
• UPI provides instant, low-cost and interoperable digital payment services, strengthening India’s position as a global leader in digital payments.
• Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) transaction volume increased by 3% to 364 million transactions in July 2026, compared with 354 million in June 2026.
• The IMPS transaction value increased by over 5% to ₹7.12 trillion in July 2026 from ₹6.77 trillion in June 2026.
• Compared with July 2025, IMPS transaction volume declined by 24%, while transaction value increased by 13%.
• The average daily IMPS transaction value increased to ₹22,958 crore in July 2026 from ₹22,551 crore in June 2026.
• FASTag transactions declined by 4% to 347 million in July 2026 compared with 362 million in June 2026.
• The FASTag transaction value decreased slightly to ₹7,143 crore in July 2026 from ₹7,215 crore in June 2026.
• The average daily FASTag transaction volume declined to 11.21 million transactions, while the average daily transaction value decreased to ₹230 crore in July 2026.
• Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) transactions increased by 3% to 100 million in July 2026 from 97 million in June 2026.
• The AePS transaction value increased to ₹27,539 crore in July 2026 from ₹26,051 crore in June 2026.

Reserve Bank of India Grants Perpetual Authorised Dealer-II Licences to Niyo Forex and GlobalPay

• Niyo Forex (operated through Kanji Forex Pvt Ltd) and GlobalPay (WSFx Global Pay Limited) received perpetual and expanded perpetual Authorised Dealer Category-II (AD-II) licences respectively from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the updated Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) 2026 regulations.

Key Highlights :

• The AD Category-II licence allows fintech companies to conduct permitted foreign exchange and cross-border payment activities under RBI regulations.
• The RBI approval enables Niyo Forex to expand its forex operations, trade remittances and family maintenance remittances with long-term regulatory continuity.
• The perpetual AD-II licence allows Niyo Forex to continue its foreign exchange business without the need for frequent licence renewals.
• Under the enhanced authorisation, Niyo Forex can expand its branch network without requiring additional RBI approvals.
• GlobalPay (WSFx Global Pay Limited), a Bombay Stock Exchange Limited (BSE)-listed company, secured an expanded perpetual AD-II licence from RBI under FEMA 2026.
• The expanded licence enables GlobalPay to provide a wider range of foreign exchange services and cross-border payment solutions.
• Under the RBI approval, GlobalPay can undertake non-trade current account transactions, excluding gifts and donations.
• The licence permits inward and outward trade remittances up to ₹25 lakh.
• The expanded AD-II authorisation allows GlobalPay to appoint forex correspondent agencies to increase the reach of regulated foreign exchange services.
• The RBI licences will help both companies scale their international payments, remittance services and forex operations.
• The services will benefit customers including individuals, students, travellers, exporters, importers, corporates and financial institutions.
• The approvals strengthen the role of fintech companies in India’s regulated foreign exchange and digital cross-border payment ecosystem.

Bloomberg Delays Inclusion of Indian Government Bonds in Global Aggregate Index Under Fully Accessible Route

• Bloomberg Index Services Ltd (BISL) has again deferred the decision on including Indian Government Securities (G-Secs) under the Fully Accessible Route (FAR) in the Bloomberg Global Aggregate Index.
• BISL stated that recent Indian bond market reforms require more time to become firmly established in practice before index inclusion.
• India has introduced major reforms, including exemption from withholding tax and capital gains tax for eligible foreign investors to improve the attractiveness of the government bond market.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has expanded the Fully Accessible Route (FAR) to facilitate greater participation of foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) in Indian government securities.
• Bloomberg Index Services Ltd observed that India is gradually moving closer to meeting global standards for bond index inclusion.
• Bloomberg will continue discussions with regulators, custodians, investors and market participants before making a final decision on inclusion.
• Inclusion of Indian Government Securities in the Bloomberg Global Aggregate Index is expected to attract around $25 billion of foreign portfolio investment (FPI) into India’s government bond market over time.
• The inclusion of Indian G-Secs in global bond indices will help deepen India’s domestic bond market, increase foreign investment inflows, and improve global financial market integration.
• Fully Accessible Route (FAR) allows eligible foreign investors to invest in specified Government of India securities without any investment limits.

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

NITI Aayog Releases Report “Reimagining Care: Strategies for Empowering Caregivers in Viksit Bharat@2047”

• NITI Aayog released the report titled “Reimagining Care: Strategies for Empowering Caregivers in Viksit Bharat@2047” at NITI Aayog, New Delhi.
• The report presents a comprehensive roadmap for developing an organised, professional, accessible and future-ready caregiving ecosystem in India.
• The report recognises caregiving as a skilled, dignified and valued profession and places caregivers at the centre of the care ecosystem. It focuses on improving:
• Quality of care services
• Professional recognition of caregivers
• Workforce welfare
• Institutional support
• Affordable and reliable care access for families and communities
• The report highlights the growing need to create a large pool of trained caregivers to meet the present and future demand for care services in India. It also identifies opportunities for Indian caregiver professionals in the global caregiving sector.
• The report was released by Ashok Kumar Lahiri, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog, in the presence of:
• Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, Member, NITI Aayog
• Nidhi Chhibber, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), NITI Aayog
• Senior officials from NITI Aayog.
• The launch event was attended by representatives from various organisations, including:
• Department of Social Justice and Empowerment
• Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
• Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
• Ministry of External Affairs
• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
• International organisations such as United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Resident Coordinator (UNRC), World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB) and International Labour Organization (ILO).
• Ashok Kumar Lahiri highlighted that the increasing global demand for caregivers provides India with an opportunity to become a global leader in skilled caregiving services. He stated that strengthening caregiving can:
• Generate employment opportunities
• Provide social security and recognition to caregivers
• Create economic value
• Enhance India’s cultural and knowledge-based soft power
• Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, Member, NITI Aayog, stated that “Seva and Samvedana” have always been central to India’s civilisational values. He emphasised that a strong caregiving ecosystem will:
• Promote social inclusion
• Empower communities
• Create quality employment opportunities
• Support the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047
• The report was prepared by the Social Justice and Empowerment Division of NITI Aayog based on:
• Stakeholder consultations
• International benchmarking
• Surveys
• Field visits
• The report identifies caregiving as an important pillar of India’s social and economic transformation and highlights its role in achieving inclusive and sustainable development under the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

About NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India)

• Established: 1 January 2015
• Replaced: Planning Commission
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Chairperson: Prime Minister of India
• Vice-Chairperson: Ashok Kumar Lahiri
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Anurag Jain

RECENT NEWS

• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will chair the 11th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog on June 11, 2026, at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, New Delhi.  In line with the Prime Minister's vision of 'Team India' for a Viksit Bharat, this year's theme, 'Inclusive Human Development for Viksit Bharat @2047', focuses on the well-being and development of every Indian, regardless of age, region, gender, or socio-economic background.

Central Government Releases ₹747.17 Crore Assistance to Uttar Pradesh Under PCR Act and SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act Scheme

• The Central Government is implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Strengthening of Machinery for Enforcement of the Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, 1955 and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
• Under the scheme, Central Assistance is provided to States and Union Territories for strengthening enforcement mechanisms, ensuring effective implementation of the Acts and providing relief to victims of atrocities.
• Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, provided the details in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha to Prof. Manoj Kumar Jha.
• The Government informed that a total Central Assistance of ₹747.17 crore was released to Uttar Pradesh during the period 2019-20 to 2025-26 under the scheme.
• During this period, 1,43,543 victims of atrocities belonging to Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) were provided relief assistance in Uttar Pradesh.
• Year-wise Central Assistance released to Uttar Pradesh:
• 2019-20: ₹141.36 crore released, benefiting 23,866 victims.
• 2020-21: ₹113.03 crore released, benefiting 23,592 victims.
• 2021-22: ₹126.72 crore released, benefiting 20,278 victims.
• 2022-23: ₹91.54 crore released, benefiting 23,828 victims.
• 2023-24: ₹97.95 crore released, benefiting 19,240 victims.
• 2024-25: ₹89.49 crore released, benefiting 20,074 victims.
• 2025-26: ₹87.08 crore released, benefiting 12,665 victims.
• According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, cases registered against Scheduled Castes under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act in Uttar Pradesh increased from 11,829 cases in 2019 to 14,642 cases in 2024.
• The conviction rate for SC-related atrocity cases in Uttar Pradesh remained significantly higher than the national average during 2019-2024:
• Uttar Pradesh conviction rate: 66.1% (2019), 70.3% (2020), 76.3% (2021), 80.2% (2022), 70.0% (2023), and 73.3% (2024).
• National average conviction rate: 32.1% (2019), 42.5% (2020), 36.0% (2021), 34.1% (2022), 32.4% (2023), and 33.9% (2024).
• Regarding cases registered against Scheduled Tribes under the Act in Uttar Pradesh, the data showed:
• 2019: 36 cases
• 2020: 3 cases
• 2021: 4 cases
• 2022: 5 cases
• 2023: 6 cases
• 2024: 8 cases
• The conviction rate for Scheduled Tribe-related cases in Uttar Pradesh was:
• 100% in 2019 and 2020
• No convictions were reported during 2021 to 2024.
• The Ministry clarified that while Central Assistance is released by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the responsibility for implementation of the scheme and distribution of relief to victims lies with the respective State Governments and Union Territory administrations.
• The Ministry also stated that it does not maintain centrally the data regarding the actual compensation amount paid to victims from the Central Assistance released to States and Union Territories.

About National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)

• Established: 1986
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
• Publishes the annual Crime in India Report.

Ministry of Tourism Launches ‘As Seen on Netflix’ Section on Incredible India Portal to Promote Cultural Tourism

• Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, launched the ‘As Seen on Netflix’ section on the Incredible India portal, developed through collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and Netflix India.
• The initiative aims to help audiences across the world discover the real locations, cultural traditions and authentic experiences showcased in Netflix India films and series, thereby promoting India’s cultural heritage, tourism potential and creative economy.
• The launch was held at the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), New Delhi, during a special event commemorating 10 years of Netflix in India.
• Netflix Co-Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ted Sarandos participated in a fireside conversation with Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on the role of storytelling in promoting India’s cultural heritage, tourism and creative industries.
• The partnership between the Ministry of Tourism and Netflix India will support the promotion of:
• Cultural tourism
• Indian destinations
• Local traditions and heritage
• Creative talent and storytelling ecosystem
• The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision of using storytelling as a tool to preserve, promote and celebrate India’s civilisational heritage while strengthening the country’s global cultural presence.
• Over the past decade, Netflix has collaborated with Indian creators to showcase stories inspired by India’s diverse cultures, landscapes, communities and traditions to audiences worldwide.

About Netflix

• Founded: 1997
• Headquarters: California, United States

About Ministry of Tourism:

• Cabinet Minister: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
• Constituency: Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• Ministers of State (MoS): Suresh Gopi

27th Governing Body Meeting of Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) Held; Ministry of Ayush Launches Major Research & Digital Initiatives

• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, chaired the 27th Governing Body Meeting of the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) in New Delhi.
• The meeting reviewed the Council’s achievements, approved key strategic initiatives and launched major research infrastructure and digital platforms to strengthen evidence-based Ayurveda.
• During the meeting, the Minister virtually inaugurated the Animal House at CCRAS–Regional Ayurveda Research Institute (RARI), Pune, the Staff Quarters Complex at RARI, Ranikhet, and performed the Bhoomi Poojan for a 50-bedded Ayurveda Hospital at RARI, Nagpur, aimed at strengthening Ayurveda research and healthcare infrastructure.
• The Minister launched CCRAS-PARAMPARA, a flagship initiative for the systematic documentation, evaluation and scientific validation of India's Local Health Traditions (LHTs), ethnomedical practices and traditional veterinary knowledge. The initiative aims to preserve and scientifically validate India's rich traditional healthcare knowledge.
• CCRAS National Research Recognitions Portal was launched, comprising:
• CCRAS PRAKASA
• CCRAS NAVONMESA
• CCRAS PRABODH 3MT (Three-Minute Thesis)

The fully digital platform has been developed to recognise excellence in postgraduate Ayurveda research, innovation and scientific communication.

• The Minister also launched Ayur-dict, the first Android application developed by CCRAS, integrating multiple Ayurveda dictionaries into a single searchable digital platform, making Ayurvedic terminology more accessible to researchers, students and practitioners.
• Addressing the Governing Body, Prataprao Jadhav stated that Ayurveda has entered a transformative phase where scientific validation, innovation, digital technology and global outreach must complement India's traditional knowledge systems. He emphasized the vision of "Heal by Ayurveda, Heal in India and Make in India" to position Ayurveda as a globally accepted healthcare system.
• Director General of CCRAS, Prof. (Vaidya) Rabinarayan Acharya, presented the Council's achievements and future roadmap, stating that CCRAS will continue integrating classical Ayurvedic knowledge with modern science, digital innovation and quality research to enhance Ayurveda's global acceptance.
• The Governing Body appreciated CCRAS's progress and reaffirmed the Ministry of Ayush's commitment to strengthening research, innovation, institutional capacity and global outreach, further establishing Ayurveda as an evidence-based healthcare system.

About Ministry of AYUSH:

• Minister of State (Independent Charge): Prataprao Jadhav
• Constituency: Buldhana, Maharashtra

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) Approves ₹8,970.20 Crore Guwahati–Tezpur 4-Lane Access-Controlled Corridor in Assam

• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of the 135.871 km, 4-lane access-controlled Guwahati–Tezpur Corridor on National Highway-15 (NH-15) in Assam.
• The project will be developed under the Built-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Toll Mode at a total capital cost of ₹8,970.20 crore under the National Highways (Original) [NH(O)] programme.
• The project includes the construction of a 4.9 km Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on the Tezpur Bypass, which has been planned in coordination with the Indian Air Force (IAF).
• The corridor will also decongest the existing National Highway-27 (NH-27) (East-West Corridor) located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River, improving both civilian and strategic connectivity.
• To reduce traffic congestion in urban and densely populated areas, the project will construct five major bypasses covering 58.7 km at Baihata Chariali, Sipajhar, Kharupetia, Dekiajuli and Tezpur, enabling smoother movement of passenger and freight traffic.
• The corridor will be equipped with world-class infrastructure, including 15 Major Bridges, 30 Minor Bridges, 19 Flyovers, 46 Underpasses, one Elephant Underpass on the Tezpur Bypass, and about 210 km of service roads.
• As the highway is access-controlled, these structures will ensure safe cross-movement of vehicles, pedestrians and wildlife while improving overall traffic management.
• The project is expected to double the average travel speed and reduce travel time by nearly 50%, while also improving road safety, fuel efficiency and vehicle operating costs.
• It will facilitate faster transportation of goods and passengers, thereby boosting regional mobility and socio-economic development in the North-Eastern region.
• The Guwahati–Tezpur Corridor will significantly strengthen connectivity between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh and improve access to important economic, social, tourism and logistics hubs.
• It will connect 8 PM Gati Shakti Economic Nodes (Industrial Parks), 2 Aspirational Districts (Darrang and Udalguri), 3 major tourist destinations (Maa Kamakhya Temple, Kaziranga National Park and Orang National Park), and 7 logistics nodes comprising 3 major railway stations, 2 airports and 2 inland waterway terminals.
• The project is expected to support industrial growth, tourism, trade, logistics efficiency and regional economic integration while enhancing strategic connectivity in the North-Eastern region under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.

About Assam:

• Chief Minister: Himanta Biswa Sharma
• Governor: Lakshman Prasad Acharya
• Capital: Dispur
• National Parks: Kaziranga, Manas, Nameri, Orang, Dibru-Saikhowa, Dihing Patkai, Raimona National Parks
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Pobitora, Hollongapar Gibbon, Chakrasila, Sonai Rupai, Amchang Wildlife Sanctuaries

RECENT NEWS

• The Assam Legislative Assembly has passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026 and became the first state in Northeast India and third state in the country to adopt the UCC legislation.

Union Cabinet Approves GOBARdhan – National Circular Bioenergy Scheme with ₹23,731 Crore Outlay to Boost Compressed Biogas (CBG) Production

• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, approved the GOBARdhan (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan) – National Circular Bioenergy Scheme with a total outlay of ₹23,731 crore.
• The scheme will be implemented from Financial Year (FY) 2026–27 to FY 2035–36 under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG).
• The scheme aims to convert agricultural residue, cattle dung, press mud, municipal organic waste and other biomass resources into Compressed Biogas (CBG), organic manure and clean energy.
• It aims to increase domestic Compressed Biogas (CBG) production nearly ten-fold, making CBG a major component of India's future energy mix.
• The scheme seeks to strengthen energy security, reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, promote scientific waste management, and generate additional income for farmers and rural entrepreneurs.
• GOBARdhan integrates the entire Compressed Biogas (CBG) value chain by providing:
• Assured CBG offtake
• Stable administered pricing
• Capital assistance
• Pipeline infrastructure support
• Credit guarantee support
• CBG Ecosystem Challenge Fund
• City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities will procure CBG under the CBG Blending Obligation (CBO), with blending targets of:
• 3% in FY 2026–27
• 4% in FY 2027–28
• 5% from FY 2028–29 onwards
• The Government introduced a stable administered price of ₹2,110 per Metric Million British Thermal Unit (MMBTU) with a minimum 10-year pricing framework to ensure revenue certainty for producers.
• Eligible greenfield CBG projects will receive capital assistance of up to ₹2 crore per Ton Per Day (TPD) of installed CBG capacity, while eligible brownfield expansion projects will also receive support.
• A dedicated Credit Guarantee Mechanism will facilitate institutional finance for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), cooperatives, women entrepreneurs and first-time developers.
• The CBG Ecosystem Challenge Fund will support feedstock mapping, technology adoption, district-level planning, organic manure value addition, capacity building and awareness programmes.
• The scheme builds upon earlier initiatives such as:
• Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT)
• Market Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme
• Biomass Aggregation Machinery (BAM) Scheme
• Development of Pipeline Infrastructure (DPI) Scheme
• National Bioenergy Programme
• More than 200 Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants have already been commissioned under these initiatives.

Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Deploys National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) to Gujarat and Rajasthan to Contain Chandipura Virus Disease (CHPV) Outbreak

• The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) deployed a National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) to Gujarat and Rajasthan to strengthen the response to the ongoing Chandipura Virus Disease (CHPV) outbreak.
• The deployment is supported by continuous surveillance under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) coordinated by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in collaboration with State Surveillance Units.
• The NCDC Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) has also been activated to support outbreak response activities.
• The multidisciplinary NJORT comprises experts from:
• National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
• Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
• Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD)
• The team will assist the State Governments in:
• Outbreak investigation
• Epidemiological assessment
• Clinical management
• Laboratory coordination
• Vector surveillance
• Implementation of public health measures
• Scientific investigations are being carried out by several premier institutions, including:
• ICMR–National Institute of Epidemiology (ICMR-NIE), Chennai
• ICMR–National Institute of Vector Control Research (ICMR-NIVCR), Puducherry
• ICMR–National Institute of Virology (ICMR-NIV), Pune
• ICMR–National Institute for Pre-Clinical Research (ICMR-NIPCR), Hyderabad
• Indian Council of Agricultural Research–National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Bengaluru
• The investigations aim to study:
• Transmission dynamics
• Clinical spectrum of the disease
• Epidemiology
• Virus evolution
• Potential treatment approaches
• Active surveillance has been intensified among patients with:
• Acute Febrile Illness (AFI)
• Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES)
• Community-based serosurveys are being conducted to estimate asymptomatic infections and assess the extent of virus transmission.
• Scientists are investigating the role of different vectors in disease transmission:
• Sandflies (known vector)
• Mosquitoes
• Ticks
• Mites
• Animal surveillance has also been expanded by testing blood samples from cattle, buffaloes, and goats, along with milk samples, to identify possible animal reservoirs.
• Whole-genome sequencing of virus samples is being conducted at the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), Gandhinagar to study genetic variations in the virus.
• The current investigations build upon findings from the 2024 Chandipura virus outbreak in Gujarat, during which no specific vector could be conclusively identified.
• The investigations are supported by India's Hospital-based Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) Surveillance Network, covering 15 tertiary care hospitals across the country.
• The Centre is adopting a "One Health" approach, integrating human, animal, and vector surveillance for better understanding and containment of the outbreak.

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

About Rajasthan:

• Chief Minister: Bhajan Lal Sharma
• Governor: Haribhau Bagade
• Capital: Jaipur
• National Parks: Ranthambore National Park, Sariska National Park, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Desert National Park, Mukundra Hills National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary, Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary, Todgarh-Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Jawahar Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary, Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhensrodgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Phulwari Wildlife Sanctuary

RECENT NEWS

• The Pithora painting of Gujarat, an ancient wall painting practice of the Rathwa tribe of Gujarat, has received a GI tag, representing a landmark achievement in the conservation of India’s unique tribal art.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

12th BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting Commences in Hyderabad to Strengthen Global Workforce Cooperation

• The 12th BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting (LEMM) commenced in Hyderabad under India’s BRICS Chairship 2026.
• The meeting was held under India’s BRICS Chairship theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability (BRICS)”.
• The meeting was chaired by Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, along with Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje.
• The high-level meeting brought together Labour and Employment Ministers and senior officials from BRICS member countries to discuss global labour challenges and workers’ welfare.
• The key focus areas of the meeting included social security, women’s workforce participation, skill development, digital technologies and welfare of gig and platform workers.
• Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced the adoption of a progressive declaration aimed at strengthening BRICS as an effective platform for inclusive, resilient and people-centric employment systems.
• The ministers reached consensus on BRICS CONNECT, an initiative proposed by India to create a collaborative platform for knowledge sharing and cooperation among BRICS countries.
• BRICS CONNECT aims to enhance cooperation in the areas of labour policies, employment practices and workforce development among member nations.

Global Biofuel Alliance Chooses 15 Early-Career Scientists for Advancing Sustainable Biofuel Research

• The Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) selected 15 early-career researchers from leading universities and research institutions worldwide for the inaugural Global Biofuel Champion Fellowship (GBCF).

Key Highlights :

• The Global Biofuel Champion Fellowship (GBCF) is a flagship capacity-building initiative of GBA aimed at promoting biofuel research, innovation, knowledge exchange and international collaboration.
• Each selected fellow will receive a research grant of US$15,000 and will work with the Global Biofuels Alliance for two years to advance sustainable biofuel solutions.
• The inaugural cohort of Global Biofuel Champion Fellows was inducted on 30 June 2026 at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
• The selected fellows will also serve as GBA Ambassadors for two years, promoting global cooperation in the field of sustainable biofuels.
• The fellows were selected through a three-stage international evaluation process from applications received from 32 countries.
• The fellowship focuses on research areas including biofuels, sustainable energy systems, transport decarbonisation and circular economy.
• The programme aims to connect academic research with policy and industry to convert scientific innovations into scalable bio-energy solutions.
• The inaugural GBCF cohort includes two Indian researchers — Ruchi Agrawal from The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and Abhisek Sahoo from Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi).
• The selected researchers represent global institutions including the University of Michigan, University of Manchester, Monash University, Polytechnique Montréal, University of Sheffield, Imperial College London and IIT Madras.

About Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) :

• The Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) is an international coalition launched during the G20 Summit held in New Delhi in September 2023.
• The GBA consists of 34 member countries and 14 international organisations working to accelerate the adoption of sustainable biofuels.
• The alliance promotes policy cooperation, technology exchange, capacity building and international partnerships in the biofuel sector.
• The main objectives of GBA are to strengthen global energy security, support decarbonisation and promote sustainable economic development through wider use of biofuels.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Prasanta Mahapatra Takes Over as Executive Director of Securities and Exchange Board of India

• Prasanta Mahapatra has assumed charge as an Executive Director (ED) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
• As an Executive Director of SEBI, Prasanta Mahapatra will oversee the Corporation Finance Investigation Department (CFID) and the Recovery and Refund Department (RRD).
• Prasanta Mahapatra joined SEBI in April 1999 and has more than 27 years of experience in securities market regulation and supervision.
• Before being elevated as Executive Director, Mahapatra served as Chief General Manager (CGM) at SEBI.
• During his career at SEBI, Prasanta Mahapatra worked in several key departments including the Market Regulation Department, Investigation Department, Enquiries and Adjudication Department, Market Intermediaries Regulation and Supervision Department, Corporation Finance Department, and Investment Management Department.
• Mahapatra also served at SEBI’s Eastern Regional Office (ERO), Kolkata, West Bengal, gaining experience in regional market regulation activities.

About SEBI :

• Established : 12 April 1988 as an executive body and was given statutory powers on 30 January 1992 through the SEBI Act, 1992
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Chairman : Tuhin Kanta Pandey
• SEBI is the regulatory body for securities and commodity markets in India under the ownership of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), GoI.

Air Marshal Tejpal Singh Takes Charge as Deputy Chief of the Air Staff of Indian Air Force

• Air Marshal Tejpal Singh AVSM VM assumed charge as the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff (DCAS) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on 01 August 2026.
• On assuming the new appointment, Air Marshal Tejpal Singh laid a wreath at the National War Memorial and paid tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in service of the nation.
• Air Marshal Tejpal Singh was commissioned into the Indian Air Force as a Fighter Pilot on 16 June 1990.
• He has more than 3500 hours of flying experience during his distinguished career in the IAF.
• Air Marshal Tejpal Singh is a Cat A Qualified Flying Instructor and an Experimental Test Pilot.
• He has held several important operational, command and staff appointments in the Indian Air Force.
• In recognition of his outstanding service, he was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (VM) in January 2011.
• He was honoured with the prestigious Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in January 2021 by the President of India.
• Air Marshal Tejpal Singh succeeded Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti SYSM AVSM VM as the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff.
• Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti superannuated on 31 July 2026 after completing 39 years of distinguished service to the nation.

Bandhan Bank Chief Financial Officer Rajeev Mantri Resigns from Executive Position

• Bandhan Bank announced that Rajeev Mantri, Executive President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), has submitted his resignation from the bank.
• Rajeev Mantri’s resignation will be effective from 29 June 2026, citing career growth opportunities as the reason for leaving.
• His last working day at Bandhan Bank will be 25 September 2026.
• Rajeev Mantri joined Bandhan Bank as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in February 2024.
• The bank has not yet announced a successor for the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

About Bandhan Bank :

• Founded : 23 August 2015
• Headquarters : Kolkata, West Bengal, India
• MD & CEO : Partha Pratim Sengupta

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ENVIRONMENT

Kerala Researchers Discover New Seahorse Species ‘Hippocampus amandavincentae’

• Researchers from the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) identified a new seahorse species, Hippocampus amandavincentae, resolving a 150-year-old taxonomic confusion surrounding the thorny seahorse (Hippocampus histrix).
• The research findings were published in the journal Zootaxa, based on specimens collected from Tuticorin Fisheries Harbour, Tamil Nadu, and marine surveys off Anchuthengu, Kerala.
• The study proved that the historically recognised Hippocampus histrix is not a single species, but actually comprises three distinct species, correcting decades of misidentification in museum collections and biodiversity databases.
• The research also confirmed that Hippocampus jayakari, earlier considered a variant of Hippocampus histrix, is a separate valid species.
• The newly identified species, Hippocampus amandavincentae, was named after internationally renowned marine biologist Amanda Vincent in recognition of her outstanding contributions to marine conservation and seahorse research.
• Lead author Shalu Kannan collected the new species from fish bycatch at Tuticorin Fisheries Harbour, which played a key role in the scientific discovery.
• The species was also photographed alive during the Ecomarine Project survey at a depth of around 15 metres on the rocky reefs off Anchuthengu, Kerala.
• The discovery represents the fifth recorded seahorse species from the Kerala coast, significantly enriching India’s marine biodiversity records.
• The research was conducted by KUFOS, with Vice-Chancellor Biju Kumar highlighting the importance of the discovery for marine taxonomy and biodiversity.
• The correction of the 150-year-old taxonomic error will improve the accuracy of biodiversity databases, museum collections, ecological studies, and conservation planning.
• Hippocampus histrix was previously believed to be widely distributed from the Red Sea and East Africa across the Indian Ocean to the western Pacific, but the study revealed that this distribution actually represents three different species.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Indian Council of Agricultural Research Creates First Fully Annotated Telomere-to-Telomere Genome Map of Pigeonpea Variety ‘Asha’ in India

• Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) developed India’s first fully annotated Telomere-to-Telomere (T2T) reference genome of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan Millsp.) variety ‘Asha’.
• The T2T reference genome of pigeonpea has been approved as a global reference genome to accelerate the development of climate-resilient, high-yielding and nutritionally enriched pigeonpea varieties.
• The breakthrough supports the Government of India’s Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses (2025–26 to 2030–31), which aims to achieve around 35 million tonnes of pulse production by 2030–31.

Key Highlights :

• Pigeonpea, also known as ‘Arhar’ or ‘Tur’, is one of India’s most important pulse crops and a major source of dietary protein, contributing to food and nutritional security.
• The ICAR–National Institute for Plant Biotechnology (ICAR-NIPB), New Delhi, played a key role in developing the pigeonpea genome resource.
• In 2011, ICAR-NIPB published the world’s first draft genome of a pulse crop, pigeonpea variety ‘Asha’, which was also the first crop genome sequenced entirely in India.
• An improved draft genome version of pigeonpea was released in 2017, and the latest achievement represents its complete Telomere-to-Telomere (T2T) genome sequence.
• The newly developed pigeonpea T2T genome sequence contains 65 million DNA base pairs assembled into 92 contigs.
• The genome provides a complete representation of all 11 chromosomes of pigeonpea, including 11 centromeres and 22 telomeres, ensuring chromosome-level completeness.
• The genome assembly has been designated as NIPB_CcT2T_4 and was deposited in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database on 20 April 2026.
• Genome annotation identified 36,557 genes producing 48,008 messenger RNA (mRNA) sequences, highlighting the accuracy of the reference genome.
• Transcriptome mapping recorded more than 9% read alignment, confirming the high accuracy and completeness of the genome assembly.
• The T2T reference genome will support advanced gene analysis, pangenome studies, molecular breeding and genome-editing technologies for pigeonpea improvement.
• The genome resource will help scientists identify genes associated with important agronomic and nutritional traits of pigeonpea.
• The achievement will accelerate the development of high-yielding, climate-resilient and nutrient-rich pulse varieties to strengthen India’s pulse production programme.
• The ICAR-developed genome resource will benefit scientists, breeders and farmers by improving productivity and supporting farmer livelihoods.
• The breakthrough will contribute to India’s goals of self-sufficiency in pulses, reducing import dependence and enhancing food security.
• The Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses (2025–26 to 2030–31) was launched by the Government of India to increase pulse production through improved seeds, area expansion, technology adoption, assured procurement and post-harvest infrastructure development.
• ICAR supports pulse development through high-yielding and pest-resistant varieties, breeder seed production, multi-location trials, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and farmer technology dissemination.

About Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare :

• Cabinet Minister : Shivraj Singh Chouhan
• Minister of State : Bhagirath Choudhary, Ram Nath Thakur

Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad and Crimson Energy Introduce ‘ANUGYAN’, India’s First Industry-Academia Nuclear Technology Training Initiative

• Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT Hyderabad), Telangana, in collaboration with Crimson Energy Experts India Private Limited (CEEPL), launched ‘ANUGYAN’ – Nuclear Technology Orientation Programme (NTOP), India’s first industry–academia programme in nuclear technology.
• The ANUGYAN Nuclear Training Programme was launched to bridge the talent gap and create a skilled workforce for India’s expanding nuclear energy sector.
• The three-month residential programme aims to support India’s target of increasing nuclear power capacity from around 8 GW to 100 GW by 2047.
• The programme focuses on developing nuclear professionals, engineers and industry experts required for future civil nuclear energy projects.
• ANUGYAN NTOP is open to engineering graduates, working professionals, PSU executives, EPC contractors and industrial equipment manufacturers.
• The curriculum covers important areas of nuclear engineering, including reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, radiation shielding, nuclear safety and engineering design.
• The programme provides training on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which are considered an emerging technology in the future of nuclear energy.
• The course includes knowledge of Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) regulatory compliance, quality assurance and nuclear industry standards.
• The programme combines academic learning with industry exposure to provide practical knowledge and real-world experience in nuclear technology.
• Participants will receive expert guidance from Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) institutions and professionals from leading nuclear organisations.
• The training includes simulator-based practical sessions conducted by experts from organisations such as Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and Nuclear Energy Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
• The inaugural batch includes fresh engineering graduates, industry professionals and public sector executives from across India.
• After successful completion, participants will receive a joint certificate from IIT Hyderabad and Crimson Energy Experts.

Jupiter Wagons Joins Hands with Lucchini RS to Establish India’s First Integrated Private Railwheel Manufacturing Facility

• Jupiter Wagons Limited (JWL) partnered with Italy-based Lucchini RS Holding S.p.A. and SIMEST (Italian Society for Enterprises Abroad) S.p.A. to establish India’s first fully integrated private-sector railwheel manufacturing platform.
• The railwheel manufacturing platform will be developed through Jupiter Tatravagonka Railwheel Factory Private Limited (JTRWF).
• Under the partnership, Lucchini RS and SIMEST will acquire a combined 25% stake in JTRWF.
• The total investment by Lucchini RS (15% stake) and SIMEST (10% stake) amounts to EUR 28 million (approximately ₹307 crore).
• The project aims to create a fully integrated railwheel manufacturing ecosystem covering raw material processing, forging, metallurgy, wheel manufacturing and final assembly.
• The integrated platform will combine JTRWF’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar facility with the upcoming greenfield plant in Odisha.
• Lucchini RS will provide advanced railwheel technology, engineering expertise and industrial support for technology transfer, product development and market expansion.
• The partnership will strengthen India’s domestic rail manufacturing capability and support the growth of the private-sector railway equipment ecosystem.
• The project is supported by the Government of Italy under the Sistema Italia framework.
• SIMEST will participate as an investor, while CDP (Cassa Depositi e Prestiti) will provide financial and advisory support for the project.

About Jupiter Wagons Limited (JWL) :

• Jupiter Wagons Limited (JWL) is a railway manufacturing company established in 1979.
• JWL headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal.

Air India and Azerbaijan Airlines Partner to Boost India–Azerbaijan Air Connectivity

• Air India and Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), a part of AZCON Holding, entered into a codeshare partnership to enhance air connectivity between India and Azerbaijan and strengthen business, tourism and cultural relations between both countries.
• The codeshare agreement was signed by Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), Air India, and Jamil Manizade, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), Azerbaijan Airlines.
• Under the partnership, Air India will place its ‘AI’ designator code on Azerbaijan Airlines’ daily flights operating between Delhi–Baku and Mumbai–Baku routes.
• The agreement enables passengers to book Azerbaijan Airlines-operated flights through Air India tickets with an Air India flight number, providing greater travel convenience.
• The partnership allows seamless journeys through a single itinerary, including coordinated connections between Air India and Azerbaijan Airlines networks.
• Through this codeshare arrangement, Baku becomes a new destination for Air India customers, expanding Air India’s international connectivity without operating its own aircraft on the route.
• The agreement builds upon the existing interline partnership between Air India and Azerbaijan Airlines, allowing passengers to combine flights of both airlines in a single travel itinerary.
• For example, passengers can travel from Bangkok to Delhi through Air India and continue onward to Baku through Azerbaijan Airlines under one integrated booking.
• The partnership covers daily Azerbaijan Airlines flights between Delhi–Baku and Mumbai–Baku, improving connectivity between the two nations.

About Air India :

• Air India is one of India’s leading global airlines, established in 1932 by J.R.D. Tata and headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana.
• Air India has been owned by Tata Sons since 2022 and has expanded its global network through 26 codeshare partnerships.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

Pawan Hans Limited (PHL) Signs MoU with Norway’s Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS) to Explore Electric Seaplane Technologies

• Pawan Hans Limited (PHL), a Government of India enterprise under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, signed a Non-Binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS), Norway to explore collaboration in next-generation sustainable aviation technologies, with a special focus on electric seaplane solutions.
• The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Samir Kumar Sinha. The agreement was signed by Sunil Kumar Nagdawne, Chairman & Managing Director (CMD), Pawan Hans Limited, and Eric François Lithun, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS).
• The proposed collaboration aims to establish a framework for cooperation in:
• Electric seaplane technologies
• Skill development and capacity building
• Technical knowledge sharing and workshops
• Feasibility studies for future seaplane operations and manufacturing.
• The initiative supports the Government of India’s vision of promoting regional connectivity, green aviation, innovation-driven growth, island connectivity and emerging aviation technologies, while encouraging sustainable modes of air transport.
• Speaking on the occasion, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu stated that India’s vision extends beyond operating seaplanes to manufacturing them domestically under the "Make in India" initiative. He highlighted that the Union Budget 2026-27 proposed:
• Incentives for indigenous seaplane manufacturing, and
• A Seaplane Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme to support commercial seaplane operations.
• The Minister also noted that the Government has taken several initiatives over the past two years to promote seaplane services, including the launch of Seaplane Operations Guidelines, simplification of the regulatory framework and demonstration flights to encourage stakeholder participation.
• Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS), headquartered in Bergen, Norway, is developing next-generation electric seaplane technology and is supported by funding from the Government of Norway for its research and development programme.
• The MoU is exploratory and non-binding, involving no financial commitment, procurement obligation, investment commitment or exclusive arrangement. Any future collaboration will be undertaken through separate agreements after obtaining approvals from the competent authorities.
• The partnership reflects Pawan Hans Limited’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence and international collaboration for strengthening India’s evolving aviation ecosystem and supporting sustainable air mobility.

About Pawan Hans Limited (PHL)

• Established: 1985
• Parent Ministry: Ministry of Civil Aviation
• Headquarters: New Delhi

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND INDEX

Google Tops Randstad Employer Brand Research (REBR) 2026 as India’s Most Attractive Employer Brand; Tata Group and Amazon Rank Second and Third

• Google has been ranked as India’s Most Attractive Employer Brand in the Randstad Employer Brand Research (REBR) 2026.
• Tata Group secured the 2nd position, while Amazon ranked 3rd in the annual employer brand rankings.
• The Randstad Employer Brand Research (REBR) 2026 was conducted by Randstad India.
• The study surveyed nearly 3,500 respondents across India and formed part of a global survey covering more than 1.75 lakh respondents across 34 markets.
• Top 10 Most Attractive Employer Brands in India (REBR) 2026:
1. Google
2. Tata Group
3. Amazon
4. Samsung India
5. Infosys
6. Reliance Industries Limited (RIL)
7. ITC Limited
8. Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)
9. Mahindra & Mahindra Limited (M&M)
10. Dell Technologies
• The report highlighted that employees now evaluate employers based on a combination of:

• Career growth opportunities
• Workplace culture
• Flexible work arrangements
• Employee well-being
• Compensation and benefits

• Nearly 50% of employees indicated that they are likely to switch jobs within the next six months, reflecting high workforce mobility in India.
• Major reasons for changing jobs:

• Work-life balance – 49%
• Limited career growth – 42%
• Low compensation – 41%

• Millennials were the most likely to leave organisations due to limited career advancement (43%), followed by Generation Z (42%) and Generation X (39%).
• The report described the emergence of the "Balanced Employer", where organisations are expected to provide:

• Meaningful work
• Career progression
• Inclusive workplace
• Employee well-being
• Flexible work arrangements
• Competitive compensation

• Key factors contributing to job security:

• Performance recognition and career continuity – 47%
• Reliable salary and benefits – 47%
• Transparent communication by employers – 46%

• Digital talent trends:

• 55% of digital professionals cited career growth opportunities as the primary reason for changing jobs.
• Digital professionals prioritise competitive salaries over work-life balance.

• Hybrid work trends:

• 42% of employees work in a hybrid work model.
• Around 60% of employees work remotely at least part of the time.
• Remote work adoption:
• Generation Z – 63%
• Millennials – 62%
• Generation X – 51%

About Google

• Founded: 1998
• Headquarters: California, United States
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Sundar Pichai

About Tata Group

• Established: 1868
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Founder: Jamsetji Tata
• Chairman: Natarajan Chandrasekaran

About Amazon

• Founded: 1994
• Founder: Jeff Bezos
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Andy Jassy

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Padma Shri Awardee and Former Governor Dr. Dnyandeo Yashwantrao Patil Passed Away at 90

• Dr.Dnyandeo Yashwantrao (D. Y.) Patil, former Governor of Tripura and Bihar, renowned educationist, popularly known as “Dada” and “Shikshanmaharshi”, passed away at the age of 90 in Kasba Bawda, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, due to age-related health complications.
• The Government of India (GoI) conferred the Padma Shri (4th highest civilian award) on D. Y. Patil in 1991 for his outstanding contributions to education and social service.
• Born on 22 October 1935, D. Y. Patil was widely regarded as a pioneer of private higher education in Maharashtra and made remarkable contributions to education and healthcare through institution building.
• He founded the Y. Patil Group in 1983, which expanded into a network of over 182 educational institutions, 7 universities, and premier healthcare systems across India.
• He served as the Governor of Tripura from 27 November 2009 to 21 March 2013.
• He served as the Governor of Bihar from 22 March 2013 to 26 November 2014.
• During his tenure as Governor of Bihar, he also held additional charge as the Governor of West Bengal.
• Before becoming Governor, he served as the Mayor of Kolhapur from 1957 to 1962.
• He was elected as a Congress MLA from 1967 to 1978, while continuing to focus on education reform and social service.

Renowned Bengaluru Civic Activist N.S. Ramakanth Passed Away at 88

• Senior civic activist N.S. Ramakanth passed away at the age of 88 due to age-related ailments.
• N.S. Ramakanth was a renowned sustainable solid waste management (SWM) activist who worked for over three decades for improving waste management practices in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• He was known for his practical, hands-on and action-oriented approach towards environmental conservation and civic issues.
• Almitra Patel, a pioneer of sustainable solid waste management in Bengaluru, described Ramakanth as a committed environmental activist.
• He was born and brought up in Bengaluru, Karnataka and completed his education at National College, Bengaluru.
• He later studied Mining Engineering in Benaras (Varanasi).
• Ramakanth worked in various countries for nearly two decades and had a long professional association with a German firm in Liberia.
• He took early retirement and returned to Bengaluru in 1988 to contribute towards social and environmental causes.

Daily CA One- Liner: August 7

• NITI Aayog released the report titled “Reimagining Care: Strategies for Empowering Caregivers in Viksit Bharat@2047” at NITI Aayog, New Delhi
• The Central Government is implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Strengthening of Machinery for Enforcement of the Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, 1955 and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989
• Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, launched the ‘As Seen on Netflix’ section on the Incredible India portal, developed through collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and Netflix India
• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, chaired the 27th Governing Body Meeting of the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) in New Delhi
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of the 871 km, 4-lane access-controlled Guwahati–Tezpur Corridor on National Highway-15 (NH-15) in Assam
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, approved the GOBARdhan (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan) – National Circular Bioenergy Scheme with a total outlay of ₹23,731 crore
• The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) deployed a National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) to Gujarat and Rajasthan to strengthen the response to the ongoing Chandipura Virus Disease (CHPV) outbreak
• Pawan Hans Limited (PHL), a Government of India enterprise under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, signed a Non-Binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS), Norway to explore collaboration in next-generation sustainable aviation technologies, with a special focus on electric seaplane solutions
• Google has been ranked as India’s Most Attractive Employer Brand in the Randstad Employer Brand Research (REBR) 2026.
• Unified Payments Interface (UPI) recorded its highest-ever monthly performance in July 2026, processing 66 billion transactions worth ₹29.88 lakh crore (US$ 313.47 billion), according to the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
• Niyo Forex (operated through Kanji Forex Pvt Ltd) and GlobalPay (WSFx Global Pay Limited) received perpetual and expanded perpetual Authorised Dealer Category-II (AD-II) licences respectively from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the updated Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) 2026 regulations.
• Bloomberg Index Services Ltd (BISL) has again deferred the decision on including Indian Government Securities (G-Secs) under the Fully Accessible Route (FAR) in the Bloomberg Global Aggregate Index.
• The 12th BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting (LEMM) commenced in Hyderabad under India’s BRICS Chairship 2026.
• The Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) selected 15 early-career researchers from leading universities and research institutions worldwide for the inaugural Global Biofuel Champion Fellowship (GBCF).
• Prasanta Mahapatra has assumed charge as an Executive Director (ED) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
• Air Marshal Tejpal Singh AVSM VM assumed charge as the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff (DCAS) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on 01 August 2026.
• Bandhan Bank announced that Rajeev Mantri, Executive President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), has submitted his resignation from the bank.
• Researchers from the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) identified a new seahorse species, Hippocampus amandavincentae, resolving a 150-year-old taxonomic confusion surrounding the thorny seahorse (Hippocampus histrix).
• Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) developed India’s first fully annotated Telomere-to-Telomere (T2T) reference genome of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan Millsp.) variety ‘Asha’.
• Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT Hyderabad), Telangana, in collaboration with Crimson Energy Experts India Private Limited (CEEPL), launched ‘ANUGYAN’ – Nuclear Technology Orientation Programme (NTOP), India’s first industry–academia programme in nuclear technology.
• Jupiter Wagons Limited (JWL) partnered with Italy-based Lucchini RS Holding S.p.A. and SIMEST (Italian Society for Enterprises Abroad) S.p.A. to establish India’s first fully integrated private-sector railwheel manufacturing platform.
• Air India and Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), a part of AZCON Holding, entered into a codeshare partnership to enhance air connectivity between India and Azerbaijan and strengthen business, tourism and cultural relations between both countries.
• Dr.Dnyandeo Yashwantrao (D. Y.) Patil, former Governor of Tripura and Bihar, renowned educationist, popularly known as “Dada” and “Shikshanmaharshi”, passed away at the age of 90 in Kasba Bawda, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, due to age-related health complications.
• Senior civic activist N.S. Ramakanth passed away at the age of 88 due to age-related ailments.