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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

India’s Financial Intelligence Unit–India Earns Best Egmont Case Award 2026 Runner-Up Recognition for Cyber Fraud Investigation

• Financial Intelligence Unit–India (FIU-IND) secured the Runner-up position at the Best Egmont Case Award (BECA) 2026 during the Egmont Group Plenary held in Baku, Azerbaijan.
• The achievement came under the leadership of Shri Amit Mohan Govil, Director, FIU-IND.
• The Best Egmont Case Award (BECA) is one of the highest honours of the Egmont Group, recognising excellence in financial intelligence, international cooperation, and efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
• FIU-IND’s case was selected as one of only two finalist cases from 182 member jurisdictions of the Egmont Group, before being declared the Runner-up.
• The investigation originated from intelligence shared by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) regarding a large-scale cyber fraud.
• FIU-IND uncovered a sophisticated money laundering network involving approximately ₹868 crore in cyber fraud proceeds, over 5,000 mule bank accounts, and cross-border cryptocurrency transactions.
• The investigation demonstrated effective international cooperation through the Egmont Secure Web (ESW) by exchanging financial intelligence with multiple Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) worldwide.
• The cross-border intelligence sharing helped trace cryptocurrency transactions and identify the global money laundering trail.
• Based on FIU-IND’s Operational Analysis Report, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) initiated enforcement action under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
• The ED conducted searches at 13 locations, seized ₹47 lakh in cash and cryptocurrency (USDT) worth approximately ₹13.6 crore, attached assets worth ₹8.67 crore, and filed two Prosecution Complaints under the PMLA, 2002.
• The recognition highlights India’s growing leadership in financial intelligence and strengthens FIU-IND’s role in enhancing the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework through advanced operational analysis, domestic coordination, and international intelligence sharing.

National Stock Exchange Introduces India’s First Animal-Friendly Stock Market Index – Nifty500 Ahimsa

• NSE Indices Limited, the index services subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), launched the Nifty500 Ahimsa Index.
• The Nifty500 Ahimsa Index is a thematic index that tracks companies from the Nifty 500 universe whose business practices follow the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence).
• The index excludes companies involved in activities that harm animals, enabling values-based and ethical investing.
• The index was developed in collaboration with the Ahimsagain Foundation using the Ahimsa Investment Movement (AIM) Framework.
• Under the AIM Framework, companies are classified into Green, Orange, and Red bands based on the impact of their products, services, and business practices on animals.
• Only Green-band companies are eligible for inclusion, while Orange and Red-band companies are excluded from the index.
• The index provides diversified sectoral representation by selecting eligible companies from the Nifty 500, while promoting responsible and sustainable business practices.
• The base date of the Nifty500 Ahimsa Index is 1 April 2016, and the base value is 1000.
• The index uses free-float market capitalisation for assigning stock weights.
• Free-float market capitalisation refers to the market value of shares available for public trading, excluding promoter holdings and locked-in shares.
• The Nifty500 Ahimsa Index will be reconstituted semi-annually, meaning its constituents will be reviewed and updated twice a year.
• The index is expected to serve as a benchmark for asset managers and facilitate the launch of passive investment products such as Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), Index Funds, and structured investment solutions.
• The launch strengthens NSE’s thematic and ESG-linked offerings, providing investors with an opportunity to align portfolios with ethical investment principles while maintaining exposure to India’s broad equity market.
• The index is expected to attract domestic and global investors seeking values-based screening and responsible investment strategies.

World Bank Approves $890 Million to Expand India’s Rooftop Solar Programme and Green Jobs

• The World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved an $890 million financing package for India’s national rooftop solar programme on 9–10 July 2026.
• The funding supports PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, India’s flagship residential rooftop solar scheme for rural and urban households.
• The scheme aims to install rooftop solar systems in 10 million households across India, promoting clean energy generation and grid-connected electricity supply.

Key Highlights :

• The financing package includes an $820 million loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), a $60 million concessional loan from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF), and a $10 million grant from the IBRD’s Livable Planet Fund.
• The programme is expected to mobilise an additional $4.2 billion in private financing through commercial loans for residential rooftop solar installations.
• The initiative is projected to create around 7 million jobs across the renewable energy manufacturing, installation, and services value chain.
• The financing aims to reduce financial barriers for households and strengthen the capacity of Distribution Companies (DISCOMs), banks, and solar equipment vendors.
• DISCOMs (Distribution Companies) are key entities responsible for electricity distribution and consumer services in India.
• Rooftop solar systems generate electricity at the point of consumption, helping reduce household electricity bills and improving energy security.
• The scheme also promotes domestic manufacturing of rooftop solar equipment, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat
• India has committed to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070.
• India has also set a target to increase the share of non-fossil-fuel-based energy resources to 60% of its electricity mix by 2035.
• The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) is one of the five institutions of the World Bank Group.
• The Clean Technology Fund (CTF) is a multilateral climate finance mechanism operating under the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) Framework.

About World Bank:

• The World Bank is an international financial institution that provides loans and grants to the governments of low and middle-income countries for the purpose of pursuing capital projects.
• The World Bank consists of 5 institutions: The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), The International Development Association (IDA), The International Finance Corporation (IFC), The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID).
• Founded Year: 1944
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States
• President: Ajay Banga
• Members:189 countries

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Union Ministry of Education Releases All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) Reports 2022–23 and 2023–24

• The Union Ministry of Education released the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) Reports for 2022–23 and 2023–24, highlighting record growth in higher education enrolment, Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), women's participation, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, and enrolment of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
• The All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) is the Government of India's annual web-based survey that collects data from universities, colleges, and standalone higher education institutions on student enrolment, faculty, infrastructure, academic programmes, examination results, and institutional facilities.
• Total enrolment in higher education reached an all-time high of 4.5 crore students in 2023–24, registering a 31.5% increase from 3.42 crore in 2014–15.
• The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education increased to 30.0 in 2023–24, compared to 29.5 in 2022–23 and 23.7 in 2014–15, reflecting improved access to higher education among the 18–23 years age group.
• Female enrolment rose to 2.24 crore in 2023–24, up from 2.18 crore in 2022–23 and 1.57 crore in 2014–15, recording an increase of 42.2% since 2014–15. The female Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) stood at 31.2, higher than the national average.
• The Gender Parity Index (GPI) reached 1.08 in 2023–24 and has remained above 1 for the past seven years, indicating that female enrolment exceeds male enrolment in higher education.
• Enrolment among Scheduled Castes (SCs) increased to 69.72 lakh, Scheduled Tribes (STs) to 28.83 lakh, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) to 1.80 crore in 2023–24, reflecting significant growth since 2014–15 and improved access to higher education for socially disadvantaged groups.
• Enrolment in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) courses crossed the one crore mark for the first time, reaching 1.02 crore in 2023–24, compared to 91.5 lakh in 2014–15. Women accounted for 44% of total STEM enrolment, up from 38.4% in 2014–15.
• The total faculty strength increased to 17.32 lakh in 2023–24, including 7.78 lakh female faculty members, compared to 5.69 lakh female faculty in 2014–15, contributing to improved teaching capacity and student support.
• The All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) serves as the primary source of official higher education statistics in India and supports policy formulation, resource allocation, and implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

India Launches Letter of Authorisation (LoA) Regime for Sustainable High-Seas Fishing to Boost Blue Economy

• Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar launched the new Letter of Authorisation (LoA) regime to promote sustainable high-seas fishing, enhance the income of fishing communities, and strengthen India's Blue Economy.
• The Letter of Authorisation (LoA) is a regulatory mechanism that authorises Indian fishing vessels to undertake fishing operations in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the high seas through a simplified and transparent approval process.
• The initiative aims to promote sustainable deep-sea fishing, increase access to high-value marine species, reduce pressure on overexploited coastal fisheries, and improve the utilisation of marine resources.
• India has a coastline of over 11,000 kilometres and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of nearly 2.4 million square kilometres (24 lakh sq. km.), but most fishing activities are currently confined within 40–50 nautical miles from the coast.
• The new regime is expected to strengthen Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs) and fishing cooperatives, generate employment opportunities, increase seafood exports, and expand India's presence in the global seafood market.
• India is the second-largest fish producer in the world, contributing around 8% of global fish production. The fisheries sector supports the livelihoods of nearly 30 million fishermen and fish farmers, while seafood exports were valued at around ₹73,000 crore during the previous financial year.
• Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh stated that the Government of India has invested over ₹39,000 crore in the fisheries sector through various schemes, resulting in higher fish production, improved infrastructure, and increased value addition.
• During the event, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched the Odisha Deep Sea Fishing Mission (2026–2036) with an allocation of ₹2,295.45 crore over ten years to develop deep-sea fishing infrastructure, modern fish markets, aquaparks, value-addition facilities, and export-oriented fisheries.

About Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying:

• Cabinet Minister: Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh)
• Constituency: Munger, Bihar
• Ministers of State (MoS): Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, George Kurian

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

Department of Telecommunications (DoT) Wins World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prize 2026 for Samriddh Gram Initiative

• The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, won the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prize 2026 for its flagship Samriddh Gram: Integrated Phygital Service Delivery Model, enabled by the BharatNet initiative.
• The award was presented during the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Forum 2026 held in Geneva, Switzerland, under Action Line C6 – Enabling Environment.
• Samriddh Gram is a rural digital transformation initiative built on the BharatNet broadband network to convert digital connectivity into socio-economic opportunities by establishing Samriddhi Kendras in villages across India.
• Samriddhi Kendras function as integrated "phygital" service centres, combining digital platforms with assisted physical services to improve access to government services, financial inclusion, healthcare, education, skill development, and agricultural support, especially for citizens with limited digital literacy.
• The initiative was recognised for demonstrating how telecommunication infrastructure, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), and community participation can improve public service delivery and promote inclusive rural development.
• BharatNet, one of the world's largest rural broadband connectivity projects, has made more than 2.17 lakh Gram Panchayats service-ready, providing high-speed broadband connectivity across rural India and enabling the effective functioning of Samriddhi Kendras.
• The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes, led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), recognise innovative Information and Communication Technology (ICT) projects that contribute to sustainable development.
• More than 2.2 million votes were cast globally during the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes 2026. Among 18 award categories, only two Indian projects were selected as Champion Projects, with Samriddh Gram emerging as the Global Winner in Action Line C6 – Enabling Environment.

About Department of Telecommunications (DoT)

• Ministry: Ministry of Communications
• Union Minister for Communications: Jyotiraditya M. Scindia
• Headquarters: New Delhi

About International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

• Established: 1865
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• Specialized Agency of: United Nations (UN)
• Director-General: Doreen Bogdan-Martin

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

OpenAI Appoints Prabhjeet Singh as India Managing Director and Unveils GPT-5.6 AI Model Family

• OpenAI has appointed Prabhjeet Singh, former Head of Uber India and South Asia, as the Managing Director (MD) for India Operations.
• As Managing Director, Prabhjeet Singh will lead consumer growth, enterprise adoption, and strategic partnerships for OpenAI in India.
• OpenAI also announced the limited preview release of its latest AI model family, GPT-5.6.
• The GPT-5.6 rollout will be phased, while the company coordinates with the United States (U.S.) Government for wider public availability.
• GPT-5.6 introduces three variants: Sol (flagship model), Terra (mid-tier model), and Luna (base model).
• Terra offers performance comparable to GPT-5.5 at nearly half the cost, making it a more cost-effective AI model.
• Luna is designed to provide faster AI responses and is available without requiring a subscription.
• OpenAI is an American Artificial Intelligence (AI) research organisation known for developing Generative AI technologies.
• OpenAI develops the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) series of Large Language Models (LLMs) used for text generation, reasoning, coding, and AI-powered applications.
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of OpenAI : Sam Altman

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Indian Army to Acquire 450 Carl Gustaf M4 Launchers to Boost High-Altitude Firepower

• Indian Army issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) in July 2026 to procure 450 Carl Gustaf Mark-IV (M4) 84 mm lightweight recoilless rocket launchers.

Key Highlights :

• The Carl Gustaf M4 is a shoulder-fired, multi-role recoilless rifle system designed for infantry support, anti-armour operations, bunker destruction, and battlefield combat.
• The Carl Gustaf weapon system is developed by Saab, Sweden, and has been in service with the Indian Army since 1974 through earlier M2 and M3 variants.
• The M4 variant weighs less than 7 kg, compared to 14 kg (M2) and 10 kg (M3), significantly improving mobility and endurance, especially in high-altitude regions.
• The Carl Gustaf M4 will be manufactured in India at Saab’s facility in Reliance MET City, Jhajjar, Haryana.
• Saab’s Jhajjar facility is India’s first fully foreign-owned defence manufacturing unit, established after receiving approval for 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
• Construction of the Saab manufacturing plant began in March 2024, supporting both Indian Armed Forces and global export markets.
• The launcher can accurately engage targets up to 1,000 metres, making it suitable for anti-armour, anti-personnel, and battlefield support missions.
• The Carl Gustaf M4 is designed to operate in temperatures ranging from –20°C to +50°C, enabling deployment from the Himalayas to the Rajasthan deserts.
• The RFP requires delivery within 12 months of contract signing, along with 15 years of product support and a 24-month warranty.
• The induction of 450 M4 launchers is part of the Indian Army’s infantry modernisation programme, replacing heavier legacy systems with lighter and more capable weapons.
• The Carl Gustaf family is one of the world’s most widely used shoulder-fired weapon systems, employed by several armed forces globally.
• Much of the Carl Gustaf ammunition is manufactured in India by Munitions India Limited (MIL), supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence production.
• Target Practice Tracer (TPT) rounds are used for realistic training, replicating the flight characteristics of live ammunition.
• Smoke rounds create protective smoke screens, helping troops manoeuvre while reducing enemy visibility.
• Illumination rounds are used to light up the battlefield during night operations, improving visibility and target identification.
• High Explosive Dual Purpose (HEDP) rounds provide anti-personnel and anti-structure capability, capable of breaching field fortifications and penetrating lightly armoured vehicles.
• A technology cooperation agreement signed in 1976 enabled licensed production of earlier Carl Gustaf variants in India.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Astronaut Anil Menon to Embark on Maiden Mission to the International Space Station

• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronaut Anil Menon is scheduled to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on 14 July 2026 aboard the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft.
• The launch will take place from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan.
• Anil Menon will travel with Roscosmos cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina as part of Expedition 74/75.
• The Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft will automatically dock with the Prichal module of the ISS after a two-orbit, three-hour journey.
• On arrival, the crew will join NASA astronauts Jessica Meir, Jack Hathaway, Chris Williams, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov, Serhei Mikaev, and Andrey Fedyaev.
• The mission will last approximately 8 months, with the crew expected to return to Earth in April 2027.
• This will be Anil Menon’s first spaceflight since being selected as a NASA astronaut in 2021 and completing astronaut training in March 2024.
• During the mission, Anil Menon will conduct research on vein structure, blood flow, and blood composition in microgravity to improve astronaut health.
• He will test methods for producing intravenous (IV) fluids using the ISS potable water system for future deep-space missions.
• He will continue research on the in-space production of semiconductor crystals, supporting high-performance computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and advanced medical devices.
• The mission will also evaluate ultrasound using Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to reduce dependence on medical support from Earth.
• Bioprinting vascular constructs in microgravity will be tested to improve understanding of the aging process and support future therapeutic developments.
• The International Space Station (ISS) is a modular orbital laboratory operating in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of approximately 400 km.
• The ISS has been continuously inhabited since November 2000 and serves as a platform for microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and international scientific cooperation.
• The Soyuz spacecraft, developed by Roscosmos, is one of the world's longest-serving human spaceflight systems, regularly transporting astronauts and cosmonauts to the ISS.
• The ISS supports NASA’s Artemis Programme, helping prepare for long-duration missions to the Moon and Mars.
• NASA will provide live launch and docking coverage through NASA+, Amazon Prime, and its official YouTube channel.

Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Entrusts Indian Institute of Technology Madras and Centre for Development of Advanced Computing with Centralised National Bridge Health Monitoring Platform

• The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) plans to centralise the National Bridge Health Monitoring Software by involving Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).
• The software is linked to the Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS), which uses sensor-based technology for real-time monitoring of bridges on the National Highway network.
• The Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS) continuously monitors bridge movement, stress, vibration, and structural health using sensors installed on bridge components.
• The Ministry has introduced a standardised Model Request for Proposal (Model RFP) for all future BHMS projects.
• Under the new policy, the supply, installation, and maintenance of sensors will be awarded separately through competitive bidding.
• All BHMS components in highway contracts where physical work has not yet started will be de-scoped and re-tendered using the new Model RFP.
• The objective is to create a uniform framework for deploying continuous real-time bridge monitoring systems across India's National Highway network.
• Executing agencies include State Public Works Departments (PWDs), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and other agencies implementing centrally sponsored highway projects.
• Projects where BHMS installation has already begun may continue under the existing contractual arrangement, but agencies must submit details to the MoRTH Standards and Research Wing within 30 days.
• If agencies fail to provide details within 30 days, the Ministry will presume that the BHMS component has been de-scoped under the new guidelines.
• Road-owning agencies have been directed to complete a nationwide digital inventory survey of bridges by 30 September 2026 under the Indian Bridge Management System (IBMS).
• The Indian Bridge Management System (IBMS) aims to create a comprehensive national database of bridges for scientific monitoring, maintenance, and timely interventions.

Chinese AI Startup DeepSeek Reportedly Developing Indigenous AI Inference Chip

• DeepSeek is a Chinese Artificial Intelligence (AI) startup headquartered in Hangzhou, China.
• In July 2026, DeepSeek was linked to the development of a custom AI chip designed for AI inference workloads and to reduce China’s dependence on foreign semiconductor technology.
• AI Inference is the stage where a trained AI model processes inputs and generates outputs such as text, images, or predictions.
• AI Training is the process of building an AI model using large datasets and high computational power, requiring more advanced hardware than inference.
• The AI chip project reportedly began around July 2025 and remained in an early development stage during 2026.
• DeepSeek has been recruiting chip-design engineers and holding discussions with semiconductor foundries and memory manufacturers for chip production.
• Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), China’s largest semiconductor foundry, is associated with the project.
• SMIC currently operates with a 7-nanometre (7 nm) process node, the most advanced node publicly linked to its production under existing US and Dutch export controls.
• In April 2026, DeepSeek released its V4-Pro and V4-Flash AI models, optimised for Huawei Ascend processors and other Chinese-made AI chips.
• Huawei’s Ascend series is a key component of China’s domestic AI hardware ecosystem.
• United States (US) restrictions on the export of advanced NVIDIA AI chips to China have accelerated the development of indigenous AI hardware.
• US and Dutch export controls have also restricted China’s access to advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment and critical chip technologies.
• DeepSeek is reportedly planning its first external funding round, targeting around USD 7 billion.
• The company’s reported valuation is estimated between USD 52 billion and USD 59 billion.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Plans to Repurpose PROMISE Mars Rover as Lunar Explorer for Artemis Mission

• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is considering repurposing PROMISE (Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping, and In-Situ Exploration) into a lunar rover for the Artemis Programme.
• PROMISE is a full-scale engineering model that was originally built to support the Curiosity and Perseverance Mars rover missions.
• If approved, PROMISE will explore the Moon’s South Pole, one of the key target regions of the Artemis Programme.
• The rover will map lunar terrain, search for water ice and other resources, identify sites for future lunar infrastructure, and support NASA’s long-term goal of establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon.
• PROMISE is powered by a Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG), a nuclear power source that generates electricity from the natural decay of radioactive material.
• The use of an RTG enables the rover to operate in harsh lunar environments, including regions with limited sunlight.
• PROMISE was originally known as OPTIMISM before being renamed.
• The rover has served as a ground-based engineering model at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California, USA.
• At JPL, PROMISE/OPTIMISM is used to test software updates, mission commands, and hardware modifications before they are transmitted to the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers operating on Mars.

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research Develops India’s First Mobile Smart Algal Liquid Tree for Air Purification

• Scientists at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, developed India’s first mobile “Liquid Tree”, called the Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT).
• SALT (Smart Algal Liquid Tree) is an innovative air purification system designed to improve air quality in densely populated urban and industrial areas where planting conventional trees is difficult.
• SALT is a compact container filled with water and microalgae, which are microscopic single-celled organisms that perform photosynthesis by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO₂) and releasing oxygen (O₂).
• Microalgae are responsible for generating nearly 50% of the Earth’s oxygen through photosynthesis.
• SALT works by drawing or bubbling polluted air through the algae-filled tank, where CO₂ is absorbed, oxygen is released, and certain air pollutants are trapped or biologically processed.
• Unlike earlier fixed Liquid Tree systems, SALT is mobile, allowing deployment at multiple urban and industrial locations.
• SALT can operate using natural sunlight as well as artificial light, enabling continuous photosynthesis even in the absence of sunlight.
• The system can be powered by both solar energy and electricity.
• The first SALT units have been installed at the CSIR-CIMFR campus, Dhanbad (Jharkhand) and Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL), Singrauli (Madhya Pradesh).
• CSIR-CIMFR is working towards the commercialisation of SALT and aims to make the technology affordable for widespread public use.
• SALT is intended for use in transport hubs, industrial sites, educational institutions, shopping centres, parks, and other crowded public spaces with limited space for conventional tree plantation.
• Unlike conventional trees, SALT does not require soil, needs minimal maintenance, and is less vulnerable to pests and harsh urban conditions.
• SALT cannot replace natural trees, as conventional trees also support biodiversity, provide shade, cool urban environments, absorb rainwater, and maintain ecosystem balance.
• CSIR-CIMFR, formerly known as the Central Mining Research Institute (CMRI) and Central Fuel Research Institute (CFRI), is headquartered in Dhanbad, Jharkhand.

South Korea to Launch Fourth Medium-Sized Earth Observation Satellite on SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket

• South Korea is set to launch its 4th next-generation medium-sized Earth Observation Satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA.
• The satellite has been developed under the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA).
• The 500-kg satellite carries indigenous high-resolution imaging payloads capable of capturing images of the entire Korean Peninsula every three days.
• The satellite will be placed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of approximately 888 km.
• After launch, the satellite will undergo four months of in-orbit testing before becoming fully operational in the first half of 2027.
• The Earth Observation Satellite will support agriculture, forest management, disaster response, climate change monitoring, environmental observation, and public safety.
• KASA has announced plans to establish a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communication constellation consisting of hundreds of satellites by 2035.
• The planned constellation aims to strengthen South Korea’s space and communication infrastructure.
• The project seeks to develop a domestic satellite internet service similar to SpaceX’s Starlink.
• The satellite programme also supports South Korea’s long-term objective of landing a spacecraft on the Moon by 2030.
• Falcon 9 is a reusable launch vehicle developed by SpaceX for launching satellites and spacecraft into orbit.

About South Korea :

• President : Lee Jae Myung
• Prime Minister : Han Seong-sook
• Capital : Seoul
• Currency : Korean Republic won

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India and Kyrgyzstan Inaugurate International Centre for Civilizational Studies “Manas and Mahabharata” in Bishkek

• India and Kyrgyzstan strengthened their cultural and academic partnership with the inauguration of the International Centre for Civilizational Studies “Manas and Mahabharata” in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
• The centre has been established by the Manas National Academy in collaboration with the Centre for the Studies of International Relations (CSIR), New Delhi, to promote comparative civilizational research, cultural diplomacy, and academic exchanges.
• The centre aims to encourage interdisciplinary research on the Mahabharata of India and the Manas epic of Kyrgyzstan, covering areas such as history, literature, philosophy, international relations, and cultural studies.
• The initiative seeks to promote civilizational dialogue, humanitarian diplomacy, international research collaboration, faculty and student exchanges, and studies on the shared historical and cultural heritage of the Eurasian region.
• During the event, trilateral cooperation agreements were signed between the Manas National Academy, the Centre for the Studies of International Relations (CSIR), New Delhi, and seven leading universities of Kyrgyzstan to facilitate joint research projects, academic partnerships, and educational exchange programmes.
• As part of the event, the first Hindi translation of the Kyrgyz national epic "Manas" was released. The translation was prepared by Professor Hem Chandra Pande and Professor Ramakant Dwivedi, based on the Russian poetic adaptation by Mar Baizhiev, and includes the three major sections—Manas, Semetey, and Seitek.
• The initiative highlights the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening India–Kyrgyzstan bilateral relations and promoting greater understanding of the shared civilizational heritage of the two countries.

About Kyrgyzstan

• Capital: Bishkek
• Currency: Kyrgyzstani Som
• President: Sadyr Japarov

India and Australia Launch Australia-India Partnership for Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS) to Strengthen Strategic Technology Cooperation

• India and Australia launched the Australia-India Partnership for Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS) during the third India- Australia Annual Summit held in Melbourne, Australia, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
• The Australia-India Partnership for Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS) aims to strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, critical minerals, digital resilience, defence research, and resilient supply chains.
• The partnership will bring together government institutions, private companies, universities, research organisations, and defence technology developers to promote innovation, technology collaboration, investment, and commercialisation of research.
• The partnership focuses on five key pillars: Supply Chain Flexibility and Diversification, Critical Technologies, Cybersecurity, Digital Resilience, and Defence Research Cooperation.
• The initiative seeks to enhance economic resilience, strengthen national security, reduce dependence on single-country supply chains, and ensure secure access to critical technologies and strategic minerals.
• Along with PACTS, the leaders also announced the Australia-Canada-India Technology and Innovation Partnership (ACITI) to strengthen trilateral cooperation in emerging technologies, innovation, joint research, and technology development.
• Under the Australia-Canada-India Technology and Innovation Partnership (ACITI), the participating countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote joint innovation projects, facilitate research collaboration, and leverage the expertise and resources of all three countries.

RECENT NEWS

• India has secured five medals at the Global Skills Challenge (GSC) Australia 2026, as India clinched three gold medals, one silver, and one bronze and it marks India’s one of the strongest performances at the international event.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Former India Captain Sourav Ganguly Inducted into International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame

• Former India captain Sourav Ganguly was inducted into the International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame, becoming the 12th Indian cricketer to receive one of cricket's highest individual honours.
• The International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame recognises retired cricketers who have made exceptional contributions to the game through outstanding performances, leadership, and lasting impact on international cricket.
• Popularly known as "Dada", Sourav Ganguly is credited with transforming Indian cricket through his aggressive leadership, building a fearless team, and laying the foundation for India's success in international cricket.
• Under his captaincy, India reached the 2003 International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup Final, registered several memorable overseas Test victories, and nurtured future stars such as Mahendra Singh (MS) Dhoni, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, and Zaheer Khan.
• During his international career, Sourav Ganguly represented India in 113 Test matches and 308 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), establishing himself as one of India's most successful captains and batters.
• With this honour, Sourav Ganguly joined the elite group of Indian International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame inductees, including Bishan Singh Bedi, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar, Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Vinoo Mankad, Diana Edulji, Virender Sehwag, Neetu David, and Mahendra Singh (MS) Dhoni.

About International Cricket Council (ICC)

• Established: 1909
• Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Chairman: Jay Shah

RECENT NEWS

• The International Cricket Council has suspended the Cricket Canada membership with the immediate effect. ICC cited the serious breaches of governance and membership obligations. 

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Malala Day 2026 Observed on 12 July

• World Malala Day is observed annually on 12 July to honour Malala Yousafzai and raise awareness about the right to education, women's empowerment, and children's rights across the world.
• The United Nations (UN) declared 12 July as Malala Day in recognition of Malala Yousafzai's contribution to promoting girls' education and human rights.
• Malala Yousafzai was born on 12 July 1997 in Mingora, Pakistan. In 2014, at the age of 17, she became the youngest-ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for her advocacy of girls' education.
• In 2007, the Taliban took control of her hometown and banned girls from attending school. In 2009, Malala began writing an anonymous blog for British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Urdu, highlighting life under Taliban rule.
• On 9 October 2012, Malala Yousafzai survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban after being shot while returning home from school. The incident drew global attention to the importance of girls' education.
• On her 16th birthday (12 July 2013), Malala addressed the United Nations (UN) Youth Assembly in New York, delivering a landmark speech advocating universal access to education.
• TIME Magazine included Malala Yousafzai among the World's Most Influential People in 2013. She has also received the United Nations Human Rights Prize and the Liberty Medal.
• In 2017, Malala Yousafzai joined the University of Oxford for higher education and continues to campaign globally for girls' education and women's rights through the Malala Fund.

Daily CA One- Liner: July 12 & 13

• The Union Ministry of Education released the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) Reports for 2022–23 and 2023–24, highlighting record growth in higher education enrolment, Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), women's participation, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, and enrolment of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes
• Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar launched the new Letter of Authorisation (LoA) regime to promote sustainable high-seas fishing, enhance the income of fishing communities, and strengthen India's Blue Economy
• The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, won the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prize 2026 for its flagship Samriddh Gram: Integrated Phygital Service Delivery Model, enabled by the BharatNet initiative
• India and Kyrgyzstan strengthened their cultural and academic partnership with the inauguration of the International Centre for Civilizational Studies “Manas and Mahabharata” in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
• India and Australia launched the Australia-India Partnership for Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS) during the third India- Australia Annual Summit held in Melbourne, Australia, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
• Former India captain Sourav Ganguly was inducted into the International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame, becoming the 12th Indian cricketer to receive one of cricket's highest individual honours.

• Financial Intelligence Unit–India (FIU-IND) secured the Runner-up position at the Best Egmont Case Award (BECA) 2026 during the Egmont Group Plenary held in Baku, Azerbaijan.
• NSE Indices Limited, the index services subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), launched the Nifty500 Ahimsa Index.
• The World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved an $890 million financing package for India’s national rooftop solar programme on 9–10 July 2026.
• OpenAI has appointed Prabhjeet Singh, former Head of Uber India and South Asia, as the Managing Director (MD) for India Operations.
• Indian Army issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) in July 2026 to procure 450 Carl Gustaf Mark-IV (M4) 84 mm lightweight recoilless rocket launchers.
• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronaut Anil Menon is scheduled to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on 14 July 2026 aboard the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft.
• The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) plans to centralise the National Bridge Health Monitoring Software by involving Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).
• DeepSeek is a Chinese Artificial Intelligence (AI) startup headquartered in Hangzhou, China.
• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is considering repurposing PROMISE (Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping, and In-Situ Exploration) into a lunar rover for the Artemis Programme.
• Scientists at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, developed India’s first mobile “Liquid Tree”, called the Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT).
• South Korea is set to launch its 4th next-generation medium-sized Earth Observation Satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA.

• World Malala Day is observed annually on 12 July to honour Malala Yousafzai and raise awareness about the right to education, women's empowerment, and children's rights across the world