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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Reviews Reserve Bank of India’s FCNR(B), External Commercial Borrowings and Overseas Foreign Currency Borrowings Swap Schemes with Bank Chiefs

• Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman reviewed the progress of RBI's Swap Facility Schemes for FCNR(B) Deposits, External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs), and Overseas Foreign Currency Borrowings (OFCBs) with MDs & CEOs of Public Sector Banks (PSBs) and Public Financial Institutions (PFIs) in New Delhi.
• The meeting was attended by Secretaries of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Department of Revenue (DoR), Chief Economic Advisor (CEA), RBI Deputy Governor, and other senior officials.

Key Highlights :

• Public Sector Banks (PSBs) and PFIs informed that the RBI swap facility schemes have received an encouraging response from the Indian diaspora (NRIs) across the world.
• Banks are offering attractive returns on FCNR(B) deposits, including 5-year FCNR(B) deposits, after the RBI suspended the interest rate ceiling on fresh FCNR(B) deposits under the scheme.
• Significant participation has been reported from NRIs residing in Singapore, Hong Kong, West Asia, the United Kingdom (UK), the United States (US) and other overseas locations.
• Banks expect stronger mobilisation of External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) during the 3rd Quarter (October–December 2026) of the current Financial Year (FY).
• Public Sector Banks have adopted customised outreach strategies, including digital channels, to increase awareness and mobilisation of FCNR(B) deposits among the NRI diaspora.
• FCNR(B) deposit mobilisation has shown a clear accelerating trend, supported by higher returns and targeted outreach initiatives.
• International Banking Units (IBUs) located at International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), GIFT City, Gujarat, are being actively used to mobilise foreign currency funds from UK, USA, West Asia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Southeast Asia.
• The Union Finance Minister urged banks to maximise the utilisation of GIFT City’s financial ecosystem for raising foreign currency resources.
• The RBI Deputy Governor assured continued support to banks and financial institutions in mobilising deposits and eligible borrowings under the swap schemes.
• RBI's robust daily reporting framework enables transparent, real-time monitoring of fund mobilisation across participating institutions.
• Nirmala Sitharaman advised banks to intensify outreach to the NRI community, introduce innovative deposit products, and maintain the momentum of mobilisation throughout the scheme period.
• The participation of Public Sector Banks, Private Sector Banks, and Public Financial Institutions is expected to increase foreign currency inflows, strengthen India's foreign exchange reserves, and enhance the resilience of the external sector amid global uncertainty.
• The RBI Swap Facility Schemes were announced by the RBI Governor in the Monetary Policy Statement dated 5 June 2026.
• The package includes a US Dollar–Rupee Forex Swap Facility at Par for fresh FCNR(B) deposits.
• It also provides a Concessional Swap Facility for eligible External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) and Overseas Foreign Currency Borrowings (OFCBs).
• The primary objectives of these schemes are to attract foreign capital, strengthen India's Balance of Payments (BoP), boost foreign currency inflows, and support the country's foreign exchange reserves.
• Eligibility Period: FCNR(B) Deposits are eligible under the scheme until 30 September 2026.
• Eligibility Period: ECBs and OFCBs are eligible under the scheme until 31 December 2026.

Central Bureau of Narcotics Dismantles Illegal Mephedrone Lab in Pune Under Operation Vajra, Arrests Two Key Kingpins

• The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN), Madhya Pradesh Unit, dismantled a sophisticated Mephedrone (MD) manufacturing laboratory in Pune, Maharashtra, under Operation Vajra.
• The operation led to the arrest of two chief conspirators of an interstate synthetic drug trafficking syndicate from Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh) and Jodhpur (Rajasthan).
• Operation Vajra was conducted by the Preventive Branch, Office of the Deputy Narcotics Commissioner, CBN, Neemuch, based on specific intelligence, between 1–10 July 2026.
• During the operation, CBN seized a high-tech illicit MD laboratory, sophisticated machinery, laboratory equipment, precursor chemicals, and safety gear used for manufacturing synthetic drugs.
• The accused were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
• The investigation originated in February 2026, when CBN Neemuch intercepted a passenger bus at Mandsaur (Madhya Pradesh) and seized 8.17 kg of Mephedrone (MD).
• Follow-up searches uncovered an illegal drug laboratory at Thavlay, Mhow, leading to the seizure of 43.82 kg Mephedrone, 261.32 kg precursor chemicals, and advanced manufacturing equipment.
• The absconding mastermind was traced after an extensive interstate intelligence operation and arrested from Ujjain on 3 July 2026 with assistance from the Ujjain Police.
• Further investigation revealed another sophisticated MD manufacturing facility at Diggi, Bhosri, Pune, financed by a co-conspirator based in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
• CBN conducted simultaneous raids in Pune and Jodhpur on 9 July 2026, resulting in the arrest of the second conspirator and dismantling of the clandestine laboratory.
• The seized materials included digital machinery, heavy laboratory glassware, precursor chemicals, and protective safety equipment, all confiscated under the NDPS Act, 1985.

About Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) :

• Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) is a regulatory and law enforcement agency under the Ministry of Finance, responsible for supervising the legal cultivation of opium poppy, regulating the international trade of psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals, and combating drug trafficking.
• CBN Headquarters is located in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.
• During the calendar year 2026, CBN registered 142 cases, made 193 arrests, and dismantled 4 clandestine drug laboratories.
• These enforcement actions support the Government of India's vision of "Nasha Mukt Bharat" (Drug-Free India) by targeting organised narcotics networks.

Five Indian States Achieve Upper-Middle-Income Status While India Remains a Lower-Middle-Income Economy: World Bank

• According to the World Bank Country Income Classification (FY2027), India continues to be classified as a Lower-Middle-Income Economy.
• India's Gross National Income (GNI) per capita under the Atlas Method was USD 2,760 (2025), and the country has remained in the Lower-Middle-Income category since 2009.
• The World Bank classifies economies annually on 1 July based on the previous year's Gross National Income (GNI) per capita calculated using the Atlas Method.
• Under the FY2027 World Bank Income Classification, Low Income economies have GNI per capita of USD 1,175 or less, Lower-Middle Income economies have USD 1,176–4,635, Upper-Middle Income economies have USD 4,636–14,375, and High Income economies have above USD 14,375.
• Five Indian states have crossed the World Bank's Upper-Middle-Income threshold (GNI per capita above USD 4,636).
• Delhi ranks first among Indian states with a GNI per capita of USD 6,217, followed by Karnataka (USD 5,579), Telangana (USD 5,407), Tamil Nadu (USD 5,329), and Gujarat (USD 4,734).
• Maharashtra (USD 4,628), Haryana (USD 4,627), and Kerala (USD 4,610) narrowly missed the Upper-Middle-Income threshold by USD 8, USD 9, and USD 26, respectively.
• Bihar remains India's poorest major state with a per capita income of USD 984, followed by Uttar Pradesh (USD 1,403) and Jharkhand (USD 1,470).
• The per capita incomes of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand are lower than those of Nepal and several Sub-Saharan African countries.
• The report highlights significant regional income disparities within India, where several states have already achieved Upper-Middle-Income status while the country as a whole remains a Lower-Middle-Income economy.
• According to the analysis, Delhi's per capita income is comparable to countries such as South Africa, Fiji, and Mongolia, while Karnataka and Telangana have per capita incomes higher than Indonesia and Vietnam.
• In 1994, none of India's major states met the current World Bank Middle-Income thresholds, reflecting the country's substantial economic progress over the past three decades.
• In FY2027, the World Bank upgraded Sri Lanka, Vietnam, the Philippines, Jordan, and Micronesia from Lower-Middle-Income to Upper-Middle-Income status.
• Togo was upgraded from the Low-Income category to the Lower-Middle-Income category in FY2027.
• Sri Lanka's upgrade reflects its economic recovery following the 2022 economic crisis.

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

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to Establish Centre for High Altitude Medicine and Public Health Research in Keylong, Himachal Pradesh

• Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda will lay the foundation stone of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Centre for High Altitude Medicine and Public Health Research at Keylong, Himachal Pradesh.
• The centre aims to strengthen climate-resilient healthcare and biomedical research across India’s Himalayan region by developing scientific solutions for high-altitude and climate-sensitive areas.
• The existing ICMR field station at Keylong will be upgraded into a full-fledged multidisciplinary research hub for research, innovation, and capacity building in high-altitude healthcare.
• The centre will focus on research areas such as high-altitude physiology and acclimatisation, maternal and child health, disaster medicine, tribal health, and public health challenges in Himalayan regions.
• It will generate region-specific scientific evidence and develop scalable healthcare solutions to improve medical services in remote and difficult terrains.
• The centre will integrate advanced healthcare technologies including digital health platforms, telemedicine, drone-enabled healthcare logistics, and real-time public health surveillance systems.
• The initiative will support national priorities related to disaster preparedness, digital health innovation, and delivery of healthcare services in inaccessible areas.
• The centre will establish collaborations with institutions such as Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Himachal Pradesh Government, and national and international academic institutions.
• The project aligns with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision in health research and aims to promote inclusive and climate-resilient healthcare systems.

About Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

• Established: 1911 (as Indian Research Fund Association); renamed as Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in 1949
• Ministry: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Objective: Promote and coordinate biomedical research to address public health challenges in India.

Ahmedabad Creates Guinness World Record by Planting 3.61 Lakh Saplings in One Hour Using Miyawaki Technique

• Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) created a new Guinness World Record by planting 3,61,000 saplings in a single hour through the largest Miyawaki plantation drive in one hour.
• The record-breaking plantation campaign was organised on 12 July 2026 at Bhadaj near Gota-Godhavi Canal, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, under the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
• The initiative involved participation from more than 25,000 volunteers, including students, National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets, government officials, law enforcement personnel, organisations, and local residents.
• The plantation drive was conducted as part of Ahmedabad’s efforts to increase green cover, promote ecological restoration, and combat climate change.
• Key Highlights of the Record:
• Saplings planted: 3,61,000
• Time taken: 1 hour
• Date: 12 July 2026
• Location: Bhadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
• Organiser: Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC)
• Technique used: Miyawaki afforestation method
• Volunteers involved: More than 25,000
• The plantation was carried out at the Gota-Godhavi Canal area in Thaltej Ward of Ahmedabad.
• The plantation site covered:
• Total area: 91,006 square metres
• Core plantation area: 76,000 square metres
• Tree species planted: 35 indigenous species
• The plantation drive focused on creating dense forests using native species suitable for the climatic conditions of Gujarat, improving biodiversity and long-term environmental sustainability.
• The Miyawaki Method was developed by Japanese botanist Dr. Akira Miyawaki in the 1970s. It involves planting multiple native species closely together to create natural forest-like ecosystems.
• Features of the Miyawaki Method:
• Uses indigenous plant species.
• Creates dense forests in smaller areas.
• Enables trees to grow faster compared to conventional plantation methods.
• Produces forests that are significantly denser than traditional plantations.
• Requires less maintenance after establishment.
• Enhances biodiversity and improves soil quality.
• The use of 35 native tree species of Gujarat helps in better climate adaptation, higher survival rate, improved habitat for wildlife, and greater resistance to pests.
• This achievement highlights the role of community participation and innovative afforestation techniques in promoting urban environmental conservation.

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

RECENT NEWS

• Gujarat Police have launched ‘Operation Surakshit Cyberspace’, it is a 28 day statewide campaign aimed at to make the digital space safer for women and children. The initiative began on 1st of July, 2026, and it will continue till 28th July, 2026.

West Bengal Renames ‘Khela Hobe Diwas’ as ‘Ayushman Diwas’ to Promote Healthcare Awareness

• The West Bengal Government has announced that August 16 will be observed as ‘Ayushman Diwas’ instead of ‘Khela Hobe Diwas’, shifting the focus towards healthcare awareness and promotion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).
• The announcement was made by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and coincides with the completion of the first 100 days of the BJP-led government in the state.
• Ayushman Diwas aims to spread awareness among citizens about the benefits, eligibility criteria, and utilisation of cashless healthcare services under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
• The day will be marked through awareness campaigns, outreach programmes, and public events across West Bengal to encourage eligible families to access affordable healthcare facilities.
• The decision represents a shift in the state government’s public welfare focus from sports promotion under Khela Hobe Diwas to healthcare accessibility and financial protection.
• Khela Hobe Diwas was introduced in 2021 by the previous Trinamool Congress (TMC) Government led by Mamata Banerjee to promote sports participation among youth.
• Under Khela Hobe Diwas, sports equipment was distributed to schools, clubs, and youth organisations to encourage physical fitness and sporting activities across the state.
• The slogan “Khela Hobe” became widely associated with the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections and was later developed into a state-level sports promotion initiative.
• Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is the flagship health assurance scheme of the Government of India, providing financial protection against major medical expenses.
• Under AB-PMJAY, eligible families receive cashless health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospitalisation.
• Beneficiaries can avail treatment at empanelled government and private hospitals across India, reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure.

About West Bengal:

• Chief Minister: Suvendu Adhikari
• Governor: R. N. Ravi
• Capital: Kolkata
• National Parks: Sundarbans National Park, Jaldapara National Park, Gorumara National Park, Singalila National Park, Neora Valley National Park, Buxa National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary, Buxa Wildlife Sanctuary, Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary, Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary, Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary, Lothian Island Wildlife Sanctuary, West Sundarban Wildlife Sanctuary

RECENT NEWS

• The sate of West Bengal set to become the 36th State/Union Territory t implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and it marks the significant milestone in country’ journey towards the universal health coverage.

India Observes 3rd NAMASTE Day to Recognise Contribution of Sanitation Workers

• India is set to observe the 3rd NAMASTE Day, marking three years since the launch of the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme.
• The nationwide celebrations are being led by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, with the main event scheduled at Rabindra Sadan, Kolkata, West Bengal.
• The observance aims to recognise the valuable contribution of sanitation workers and highlight their role in maintaining public health and cleanliness.
• National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme focuses on transforming sanitation work by promoting mechanised cleaning of sewer and septic tanks and eliminating hazardous manual cleaning practices.
• The scheme aims to ensure the safety, dignity, and livelihood security of sanitation workers by providing:
• Safety training and protective equipment
• Skill development opportunities
• Health support
• Access to welfare benefits
• The initiative strengthens the government’s efforts towards achieving zero fatalities during sanitation work and creating a safer sanitation ecosystem in India.

Centre of Excellence on Human-Wildlife Conflict and National Human-Wildlife Conflict Portal Launched at WII-SACON, Coimbatore

• Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav inaugurated the Centre of Excellence (CoE) on Human-Wildlife Conflict at the Wildlife Institute of India–Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (WII-SACON), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.
• Along with the Centre of Excellence, the National Human-Wildlife Conflict Portal was also launched to strengthen data management, knowledge sharing, and decision-making for reducing human-wildlife conflicts across India.
• The inauguration was followed by the National Workshop on Human-Wildlife Conflict, which brought together policymakers, forest officials, scientists, researchers, technology experts, and conservation practitioners from across the country.
• The Centre of Excellence (CoE) was announced earlier by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife.
• The Centre will function as a national hub for:
• Research and innovation
• Policy support
• Capacity building
• Development and dissemination of best practices
• Scientific and evidence-based management of human-wildlife conflict
• Bhupender Yadav highlighted that human-wildlife conflict has become a major conservation and development challenge due to habitat fragmentation, changing land-use patterns, and increasing human activities.
• The minister emphasised the need for area-specific and species-specific strategies for managing conflicts involving:
• Tigers outside tiger reserves
• Leopards
• Elephants
• The government also stressed the importance of mission-mode awareness campaigns in both urban and rural areas to reduce human-wildlife conflicts.
• The National Human-Wildlife Conflict Portal will act as a digital platform for improving conflict-related data collection, analysis, information sharing, and policy planning.
• During the event, the first edition of the publication series “Current Status of Human-Wildlife Conflict in India: An Overview” was released.
• The event also included a live demonstration of the portal and expert discussions on:
• Human-elephant conflict
• Human-big cat conflict
• Role of technology in conflict mitigation

About Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

• Union Minister: Bhupender Yadav
• Constituency: Alwar, Rajasthan
• Minister of State: Kirti Vardhan Singh

About Tamil Nadu:

• Chief Minister: C. Joseph Vijay
• Governor: Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar (Additional Charge)
• Capital: Chennai
• National Parks: Guindy National Park, Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Indira Gandhi (Anamalai) National Park, Mudumalai National Park, Mukurthi National Park, Palani Hills National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Kalakad Wildlife Sanctuary, Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary, Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, Pulicat Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Kamarajar Port Limited Becomes India’s Second Major Port to Achieve 18 Metre Operational Draft

• Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) in Tamil Nadu has become the second major port in India to achieve an operational draft of 18 metres, after Visakhapatnam Port.
• The achievement was announced by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways after the successful completion of the Capital Dredging Phase VI Project at Kamarajar Port.
• With the enhanced draft capacity, the port can now accommodate fully laden Capesize vessels carrying cargo parcels of up to 1,70,000 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT), making it a deep-draft and “Cape Compliant” port.
• The dredging project was completed with an investment of around ₹440 crore and involved deepening of major navigational areas:
• Outer approach channel: Increased from 20 metres to 23 metres
• Inner entrance channel: Increased from 19 metres to 22 metres
• Alongside berths and harbour basin: Upgraded to support 18 metre draft vessels
• The project was undertaken in alignment with the objectives of Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
• According to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, the enhanced capacity will improve cargo-handling efficiency, reduce logistics costs, promote Ease of Doing Business, and strengthen Kamarajar Port’s role in India’s Export-Import (EXIM) trade.
• The increased draft capability will allow shipping lines to operate larger vessels, resulting in reduced freight costs through economies of scale.
• The development is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Kamarajar Port among domestic and international ports and support India’s growing maritime trade requirements.

Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) Launches Centralised IT Enabled Services (CITES 2.01) Platform for Unified Provident Fund Services

• The Government of India launched the upgraded Centralised IT Enabled Services (CITES 2.01) platform for the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), migrating around 34 crore member accounts from more than 120 decentralised databases into a single unified national system.
• The platform was launched by Union Minister for Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya and aims to modernise EPFO services, improve efficiency, enable faster claim settlements, and provide seamless services to members across India.
• The upgraded system will enable the crediting of Provident Fund interest for 2025–26 by 15 July 2026, much earlier than the usual October–November timeline.
• Interest at 8.25% for 2025–26, amounting to an estimated ₹1.44 lakh crore, will be automatically processed for around 34 crore EPFO members and verified by field authorities before being credited to members’ accounts.
• The CITES 2.01 project was approved by the Central Board of Trustees (CBT), EPFO in 2021, implementation started in January 2023, and nationwide migration was completed in 2026.
• Under the new centralised framework, EPFO members can now submit and process service requests through any authorised EPFO office instead of being restricted to their respective regional offices.
• Claim settlements will now be processed through a centralised system using faster electronic payment channels. Interest on final settlements will be calculated up to the date of payment authorisation instead of the last day of the previous month.
• The withdrawal framework has been simplified, allowing members to withdraw up to 75% of their provident fund balance. The earlier 13 withdrawal categories have been consolidated into three broad groups covering essential needs, housing needs, and special circumstances.
• The auto-settlement limit for eligible advance claims has been increased from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh for members with complete Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance.
• Aadhaar-linked Universal Account Number (UAN) holders will benefit from automatic Provident Fund account transfers while changing jobs, reducing manual intervention.
• Under the Centralised Pension Payment System (CPPS), Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) pensioners can submit Life Certificates at any EPFO office and receive pensions in any bank account across India.
• The government plans to introduce Unified Payments Interface (UPI)-linked withdrawals after the nationwide implementation of the CITES platform is completed.

Navi Mumbai International Airport Notified as Authorised Port for Drug Imports Under Drugs Rules, 1945

• The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) notified Navi Mumbai International Airport, Maharashtra as an authorised port of entry for the import of drugs under the Drugs Rules, 1945.
• The notification was issued through an amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945 after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
• With the inclusion of Navi Mumbai International Airport, the total number of notified ports of entry for the import of drugs through air, sea, road, and rail routes has increased to 42.
• The move aims to facilitate smoother movement of pharmaceutical consignments, strengthen logistics infrastructure, provide importers with an additional gateway for medicines, and promote Ease of Doing Business while ensuring effective regulatory oversight.
• The amendment is part of the government's efforts to strengthen the drug regulatory framework and improve trade facilitation for the pharmaceutical sector.
• Navi Mumbai International Airport was inaugurated in October 2025 and is among India's largest greenfield airport projects, developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

About Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW)

• Union Minister: Jagat Prakash Nadda
• Ministers of State: Jadhav Prataprao Ganpatrao and Anupriya Singh Patel

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

World Intellectual Property Organization Report 2026 Highlights India as a Global Innovation Leader with 7.9% Growth in Intangible Investment

• The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Luiss Business School (LBS) jointly released the 3rd edition of the World Intangible Investment Report 2026.
• The World Intangible Investment Report 2026 highlights India as the fastest-growing major economy in intangible investments among the world's 15 largest economies.
• India's intangible investment reached USD 78.2 billion in 2023, registering an annual growth of 7.9%.
• India recorded the highest intangible investment growth of 7.9%, surpassing Japan (4.8%), the Philippines (4.6%), and the United States of America (USA) (4.4%).
• India's intangible investment growth (7.9%) was higher than its tangible investment growth, reflecting a shift towards a knowledge-based economy.
• India's intangible investments are driven by software, Research and Development (R&D), intellectual property, innovation, brands, design, databases, and organisational capital.
• The largest share (45%) of India's intangible investment is in software and databases, followed by organisational capital (21.8%), Research and Development (R&D) (12.7%), design (11%), and brands (9.3%).
• The report reaffirms India's emergence as a global innovation powerhouse with increasing investments in software, R&D, intellectual property, innovation, and organisational capabilities.
• The report states that India remains the world's fastest-growing major economy, supported by young innovators, entrepreneurs, and creators, and is steadily building a knowledge-driven economy powered by ideas, innovation, and enterprise.
• According to the report, the United States of America (USA), Japan, and Germany were the largest investors in absolute terms in intangible investments.
• Sweden, the United States of America (USA), and France recorded the highest intangible investment intensity

About World Intellectual Property Organization :

• Formation : 14 July 1967
• Headquarters : Geneva, Switzerland
• Director General : Daren Tang
• Members : 194 member states
• Parent Organization : United Nations Economic and Social Council

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Indian Navy's INS Surat and Japan's JS Takanami Conduct Joint Naval Exercise off Mumbai Coast

• The Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) warship JS Takanami (DD-110) conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Indian Navy warship INS Surat off the coast of Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• The PASSEX focused on validating communication procedures, tactical manoeuvres, and enhancing interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).
• The exercise reflects the strengthening India–Japan Strategic Partnership and their shared commitment to a Free, Open, Secure, and Rules-Based Indo-Pacific Region.

Key Highlights :

• INS Surat is a state-of-the-art stealth guided missile destroyer of the Indian Navy.
• INS Surat is the fourth and final vessel of the Visakhapatnam-class (Project 15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project).
• The warship was designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai.
• INS Surat has approximately 75% indigenous content, supporting India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence manufacturing.
• INS Surat was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2025.
• With a displacement of 7,400 tonnes and a length of 164 metres, INS Surat is among the largest destroyers in the world.
• INS Surat features an advanced stealth design with a reduced radar cross-section, X-band stealth hull, and an integrated mast for sensors.
• The warship is powered by a Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) propulsion system comprising four gas turbines.
• INS Surat has a maximum speed of 30 knots (56 km/h) and accommodates 300 personnel, including 50 officers and 250 sailors.
• INS Surat is India's first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled warship, using indigenously developed AI technologies to improve operational efficiency and combat readiness.
• The warship is armed with 16 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles having a range of 290–450 km.
• Its air defence capability includes 32 Barak-8 Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MR-SAMs) with a range of 70 km.
• Additional weapon systems include 2 twin torpedo tubes, a 76-mm Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM), and a Close-In Weapon System (CIWS).
• INS Surat has an aviation facility with a hangar for two Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) or one MH-60R helicopter, along with an enhanced flight deck for helicopter operations.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

GalaxEye Loses Contact with World's First OptoSAR Satellite Drishti After Suspected Space Weather Anomaly

• Bengaluru-based space startup GalaxEye lost communication with Mission Drishti, the world's first OptoSAR (Optical + Synthetic Aperture Radar) Earth observation satellite, after an onboard anomaly.

Key Highlights :

• Mission Drishti was launched on 3 May 2026 aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket, marking a major milestone for India's private space sector.
• Drishti was the world's first satellite to integrate Electro-Optical (EO) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors on a single platform.
• The combination of EO and SAR technology enabled all-weather, day-and-night, and continuous Earth observation, overcoming limitations of conventional optical satellites.
• Mission Drishti was India's largest privately developed Earth observation satellite, weighing 190 kg.
• The satellite was capable of capturing high-precision Earth imagery with a spatial resolution of 5 metres, optimized for spatial, spectral, and temporal observations.
• The mission was designed to provide advanced geospatial intelligence for governments, defence agencies, and commercial users.
• Mission Drishti was intended to support applications such as defence surveillance, agriculture, disaster management, maritime monitoring, and other Earth observation services.
• Although the satellite was successfully launched and initially established communication, it failed to complete the Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP).
• According to GalaxEye, the satellite suffered a critical system anomaly due to a geomagnetic solar storm, which damaged an essential onboard component.
• The geomagnetic storm, caused by solar flares and radiation emitted by the Sun, gradually disrupted communication with the satellite until contact was completely lost.
• Recovery efforts are still underway, but GalaxEye stated that the probability of restoring communication remains very low.
• The mission received global recognition, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing Mission Drishti as a major achievement in India's space journey.
• Mission Drishti was the first satellite mission of GalaxEye, representing a significant step in India's private space technology ecosystem, despite its premature end.
• Following the incident, GalaxEye has initiated a comprehensive review of the mission, including its satellite systems and supply chains, to strengthen future missions.
• Suyash Singh, Founder of GalaxEye, announced that the company will continue building its OptoSAR satellite constellation and plans to launch two additional 300-kg satellites over the next couple of years.

India and Indonesia Sign Landmark Deal for Export of Astra Mk 1 Missiles

• India and Indonesia signed a landmark defence agreement for the export of the Astra Mk 1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), making Indonesia the first foreign country to import India's indigenously developed Astra missile system.
• The agreements were announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Indonesia, strengthening bilateral defence cooperation under India's Act East Policy.
• The defence package also includes the export of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and cooperation in defence technology, maritime security, and critical minerals.
• The BrahMos Missile Defence System contract was signed between BrahMos Aerospace and the Ministry of Defence of Indonesia.
• The Astra Mk 1 export agreement was signed between Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Republikorp.
• The agreements mark a major milestone for India's defence export ambitions and highlight India's emergence as a trusted defence partner in Southeast Asia.

Key Highlights :

• Astra is an indigenous Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) family developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• The Astra Mk 1 has an operational range of 80–110 km and can engage aerial targets at an altitude of up to 20 km.
• Astra Mk 1 travels at a maximum speed of Mach 4.5, making it one of India's advanced air-to-air missiles.
• The missile uses Inertial Guidance, Mid-Course Updates, and Terminal Active Radar Homing to achieve high-precision target engagement.
• Astra Mk 1 is currently integrated with the Indian Air Force's Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft and is planned for future integration with the Tejas Mk 1A and Rafale fighter aircraft.
• Indonesia will integrate the Astra Mk 1 missile with its Sukhoi Su-27 and Su-30 fighter aircraft, significantly enhancing its air combat capability.
• The BrahMos missile deal will strengthen Indonesia's maritime strike capability across its vast archipelagic territory.
• The Philippines became the first international customer for the BrahMos missile system under a USD 375 million contract signed in 2022, with deliveries beginning in 2024.
• Astra Mk 3, officially named Gandiva, is currently under development by DRDO.
• Astra Mk 3 (Gandiva) is expected to have a range exceeding 350 km, making it India's longest-range indigenous air-to-air missile.
• Astra Mk 3 will be powered by a Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) engine, enabling sustained thrust throughout its flight and significantly improving long-range interception capability.

About Indonesia :

• President : Prabowo Subianto
• Capital : Jakarta
• Currency : Indonesian rupiah

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ENVIRONMENT

Scientists Develop Ultra-Sensitive Ammonia Sensor for Portable, Wearable, and Self-Powered Toxic Gas Detection

• Scientists have developed an advanced ammonia sensing platform capable of detecting ammonia gas at extremely low concentrations while operating efficiently at room temperature.
• The technology was developed by researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
• The sensor is based on a hybrid Vanadium Oxide–Vanadium Sulfide (VOx​/VS2​) heterostructure, engineered through a controlled surface transformation process.
• The VOx​/VS2​ heterostructure creates abundant active sites for ammonia adsorption and enhances charge transport, resulting in rapid, highly selective, and highly sensitive ammonia detection.
• The sensor can detect ammonia concentrations as low as 319 parts per billion (ppb), which is well below occupational safety limits.
• The device demonstrates excellent selectivity against other gases, stable performance over repeated sensing cycles, long-term reliability exceeding 10 weeks, and effective sensing over a wide concentration range.
• Unlike conventional gas sensors, the new sensor operates at room temperature, eliminating the need for high temperatures or external activation sources, thereby reducing energy consumption.
• Ammonia (NH3​) is widely used in fertilizer production, refrigeration, chemical manufacturing, and agriculture, but accidental exposure can damage the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
• The research team developed a portable threshold-triggered ammonia monitoring device that provides instant alerts by classifying air quality into Safe, Warning, and Danger zones.
• The portable monitoring system is suitable for industrial facilities, storage units, laboratories, and agricultural environments where ammonia leakage poses risks.
• Researchers also developed a self-powered ammonia sensor by integrating the sensing platform with a flexible piezoelectric nanogenerator, enabling operation without an external power source by harvesting mechanical energy from human motion.
• The team successfully fabricated flexible and wearable ammonia sensors on polymer, paper, and textile substrates, maintaining sensing performance even during bending, twisting, and folding.
• Prototype applications include smart bands, smart-home warning systems, and electronic textile platforms for personal safety and environmental monitoring.
• The research was led by Angappane Subramanian, along with Dr. Vishnu G. Nath, Ankur Verma, Abhijit Paul, and Dr. Subash Cherumannil Karumuthil.
• The findings were published in the journal ACS Sensors, demonstrating how advanced nanomaterials and device engineering can improve human health, industrial safety, and environmental protection.

Chitkara University Establishes ₹20-Crore Atal Incubation Centre to Boost Deep-Tech Startups

• Chitkara University, Punjab launched the Atal Incubation Centre–Chitkara Incubation Foundation (AIC-CIF) and AIC-PRIDE Labs to strengthen India's deep-tech startup ecosystem.
• The initiative involves a combined investment of ₹20 crore over a period of five years.
• The incubation ecosystem will support startups working in Drone Technologies, Agritech, and Renewable Energy.
• The primary objective of AIC-CIF is to promote research commercialisation, entrepreneurship, and technology-led economic growth by nurturing deep-tech startups.
• AIC-CIF was launched in collaboration with the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India), Government of India (GoI), and Chitkara University.
• The inauguration was attended by Amit Dhaka (IAS), CEO, Invest Punjab, Prateek Deshmukh, Deepakshi Jindal from Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, and Dr. Ashok Chitkara and Dr. Madhu Chitkara of Chitkara University.
• The event also marked the launch of ATL Sarthi Punjab, an initiative of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM).
• ATL Sarthi Punjab aims to strengthen, mentor, and support Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) across Punjab.
• The initiative will create an innovation pipeline from schools to startups, encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven solutions.
• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) is the Government of India's flagship initiative under NITI Aayog to promote innovation and entrepreneurship across the country.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Wimbledon 2026: Jannik Sinner and Linda Noskova Win Singles Titles

• World No. 1 Jannik Sinner (Italy) won the men’s singles title at Wimbledon 2026 for the second consecutive year, defeating Alexander Zverev (Germany) in a four-set final.
• In the men’s singles final, Jannik Sinner defeated Alexander Zverev with a score of 6-7 (7-9), 7-6 (7-2), 6-3, 6-4 in a match lasting 3 hours and 46 minutes.
• With this victory, Sinner successfully defended his Wimbledon title and registered his 10th consecutive victory over Alexander Zverev.
• Linda Noskova (Czechia) won her maiden Grand Slam singles title by defeating fellow Czech player Karolina Muchova in the women’s singles final.
• In an all-Czech women’s single final, 9th seed Linda Noskova defeated 10th seed Karolina Muchova with a score of 6-2, 5-7, 6-3.
• Noskova became the ninth consecutive first-time women’s singles champion at Wimbledon after securing her first Grand Slam title.
• In men’s doubles, Harri Heliovaara (Finland) and Henry Patten (Great Britain) won the title by defeating Marcelo Arévalo (El Salvador) and Mate Pavić (Croatia) in straight sets.
• In women’s doubles, Guo Hanyu (China) and Kristina Mladenovic (France) claimed the championship by defeating Gabriela Dabrowski (Canada) and Luisa Stefani (Brazil).
• The women’s doubles victory marked the first Grand Slam title for Guo Hanyu and the seventh Grand Slam women’s doubles title for Kristina Mladenovic.
• In mixed doubles, Marcelo Arévalo (El Salvador) and Jelena Ostapenko (Latvia) won the Wimbledon 2026 title.
• Complete Wimbledon 2026 Champions List:
• Men’s Singles: Jannik Sinner (Italy)
• Women’s Singles: Linda Noskova (Czechia)
• Men’s Doubles: Harri Heliovaara (Finland) / Henry Patten (Great Britain)
• Women’s Doubles: Guo Hanyu (China) / Kristina Mladenovic (France)
• Mixed Doubles: Marcelo Arévalo (El Salvador) / Jelena Ostapenko (Latvia)
• Wheelchair Men’s Singles: Tokito Oda (Japan)
• Wheelchair Women’s Singles: Yui Kamiji (Japan)
• Wheelchair Quad Singles: Niels Vink (Netherlands)

1. Aswath Becomes India’s 98th Chess Grandmaster

• 17-year-old S. Aswath from Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu became India’s 98th Chess Grandmaster (GM) after securing his third and final GM norm at the 2026 Pune International Grandmaster Round Robin Tournament.
• Aswath achieved the Grandmaster title requirement after defeating United States’ FIDE Master (FM) Kannan Vaidyanathan with the black pieces in the final round.
• He finished the tournament with 7 points from 9 rounds, including 6 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss, securing the runner-up position.
• The Grandmaster title is awarded by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) to players who achieve:
• Three Grandmaster (GM) norms
• FIDE rating of 2500 or above
• Aswath secured his:
• First GM norm: Grenke Open, 2025
• Second GM norm: First Saturday GM Round Robin, Budapest, December 2025
• He also crossed the 2500 FIDE rating mark for the first time during the Budapest event.
• The 2026 Pune International Grandmaster Round Robin Tournament was won by top seed Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta, who scored 7.5 points after defeating Sri Lanka’s International Master (IM) LMST De Silva in the final round.
• Tournament Results:
• Winner: Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta – 7.5 points and ₹1 lakh prize money
• Runner-up: S. Aswath – 7 points and ₹75,000 prize money
• Third Position: International Master (IM) Kushagra Mohan – 6.5 points
• Special Achievement: FIDE Master (FM) Advik Agarwal earned his second International Master (IM) norm and received a special cash prize of ₹25,000.
• With Aswath’s achievement, India’s total number of Chess Grandmasters has increased to 98, bringing the country closer to achieving its 100th Grandmaster milestone.

About International Chess Federation (FIDE)

• Full Form: Fédération Internationale des Échecs (International Chess Federation)
• Established: 1924
• Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland

Leander Paes Appointed Player Ambassador of Asian Tennis Federation (ATF)

• Indian tennis legend Leander Paes has been appointed as the Player Ambassador of the Asian Tennis Federation (ATF).
• The announcement was made during a ceremony held on the sidelines of the Wimbledon Championships in London, in the presence of ATF President Yuriy Polskiy, senior officials, players, and members of the international tennis community.
• As the Player Ambassador, Leander Paes will work with the Asian Tennis Federation (ATF) to promote tennis across Asia, mentor emerging players, support grassroots development programmes, and represent the federation at major international events.
• Paes is the only Indian tennis player to have won an Olympic medal, securing a bronze medal in Men’s Singles at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.
• He represented India at 7 consecutive Olympic Games and retired in 2021 after a professional career spanning three decades.
• Leander Paes became the World No. 1 Doubles Player in 1999 and spent around 462 weeks inside the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Top 10 rankings.
• He won 18 Grand Slam titles, including:
• 8 Men’s Doubles Grand Slam titles
• 10 Mixed Doubles Grand Slam titles
• He completed a Career Grand Slam in both Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles categories.
• At the Asian Games, Paes won 8 medals, including 5 gold medals, between the 1990 Beijing Asian Games and 2006 Doha Asian Games.
• He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2024, becoming the first Asian male player to be inducted as a player.
• Paes also holds the record for the most doubles wins in Davis Cup history.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Veteran Playback Singer S. Janaki Passed away at the Age of 88

• Legendary playback singer Sistla Sreeramamurthy (S.) Janaki, popularly known as the "Nightingale of South India" and "Nightingale of the South", passed away at the age of 88 in Mysuru, Karnataka after battling age-related health issues.

About S. Janaki :

• Janaki was born on 23 April 1938 at Repalle, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh (AP).
• Janaki made her playback singing debut with the Tamil film "Vidhiyin Vilayattu" in 1957.
• Her illustrious career spanned more than six decades (1957–2017), making her one of India's greatest and most versatile playback singers.
• During her career, she recorded more than 48,000 songs in nearly 20 Indian languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, and several other regional languages.
• Janaki was renowned for singing classical compositions, romantic melodies, folk songs, comic numbers, and emotionally rich duets, becoming the voice of several generations of Indian cinema.
• She collaborated with legendary music directors including Ilaiyaraja, M. S. Viswanathan, K. V. Mahadevan, A. R. Rahman, and many others.
• Janaki won 4 National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer.
• She received her National Film Awards for "Senthoora Poove" from 16 Vayathinile (Tamil, 1977), "Ettumanoor Ambalathil" from Oppol (Malayalam, 1981), "Vennello Godari Andam" from Sitara (Telugu, 1984), and "Inji Iduppazhagi" from Thevar Magan (Tamil, 1992).
• She was honoured with 33 State Film Awards, one of the highest recognitions received by an Indian playback singer.
• Janaki was selected for the Padma Bhushan in 2013 for her contribution to Arts, but she declined the honour.
• Some of her most celebrated songs include "Singara Velane Deva", "Chinnanchiriya Vannaparavai", "Sakalakala Vallavan" (Tamil), "Naguva Nayana", "Jotheyali Jothejotheyali", and "Chinnada Mallige Hoove" (Kannada).

Former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Passed away at 74

• Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar, passed away at the age of 74.
• Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was born in 1952 into the Al Thani royal family, which has ruled Qatar since 1851.
• Before becoming Emir of Qatar, he served as Commander of the Armed Forces, Defence Minister, and Crown Prince.
• He came to power through a bloodless coup in 1995 and ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013.
• In 2013, he voluntarily abdicated the throne in favour of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, becoming one of the first modern Arab leaders to peacefully transfer power.
• Under his leadership, Qatar transformed into a global hub for energy, diplomacy, media, and investment.
• During his reign, Qatar emerged as one of the world's leading Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) exporters.
• He played a key role in the establishment of Al Jazeera, one of the world's leading international news networks.
• He founded the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), the country's sovereign wealth fund, to diversify Qatar's economy through global investments.
• Under his leadership, Qatar Airways expanded into one of the world's leading international airlines.
• His vision and policies contributed significantly to Qatar successfully hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the first FIFA World Cup held in the Middle East.
• Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani received several prestigious international honours, including the Grand Collar of the Order of Prince Henry (Portugal) and the Collar of the Order of Isabella the Catholic (Spain).

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Youth Skills Day 2026: 15 July to

• World Youth Skills Day is observed every year on 15 July to highlight the importance of skill development among youth and the need to equip young people with skills required for employment, entrepreneurship, and self-employment.

• World Youth Skills Day 2026 focuses on creating awareness about the importance of investing in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and developing future-ready skills among young people.
• The day aims to encourage governments, employers, industries, educational institutions, and training organisations to provide better opportunities for youth skill development.
• The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared 15 July as World Youth Skills Day in November 2014 through a resolution initiated by Sri Lanka.
• The first World Youth Skills Day was observed on 15 July 2015.
• The observance highlights the need to address the global skill gap among young people by improving access to quality education, vocational training, and digital skills.
• Skill development helps youth enhance their employability, entrepreneurship capabilities, financial independence, and contribution to economic and social development.
• The day provides an opportunity to recognise the potential of young people and promote policies that support inclusive employment and lifelong learning opportunities.

About United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)

• Established: 1945
• Headquarters: New York, United States
• President: Annalena Baerbock
• Members: 193 Member States

Daily CA One-Liner: July 15

• Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda will lay the foundation stone of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Centre for High Altitude Medicine and Public Health Research at Keylong, Himachal Pradesh
• Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) created a new Guinness World Record by planting 3,61,000 saplings in a single hour through the largest Miyawaki plantation drive in one hour
• The West Bengal Government has announced that August 16 will be observed as ‘Ayushman Diwas’ instead of ‘Khela Hobe Diwas’, shifting the focus towards healthcare awareness and promotion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana

• India is set to observe the 3rd NAMASTE Day, marking three years since the launch of the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme.
• Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav inaugurated the Centre of Excellence (CoE) on Human-Wildlife Conflict at the Wildlife Institute of India–Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (WII-SACON), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

• Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) in Tamil Nadu has become the second major port in India to achieve an operational draft of 18 metres, after Visakhapatnam Port
• The Government of India launched the upgraded Centralised IT Enabled Services (CITES 2.01) platform for the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), migrating around 34 crore member accounts from more than 120 decentralised databases into a single unified national system
• The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) notified Navi Mumbai International Airport, Maharashtra as an authorised port of entry for the import of drugs under the Drugs Rules, 1945
• World No. 1 Jannik Sinner (Italy) won the men’s singles title at Wimbledon 2026 for the second consecutive year, defeating Alexander Zverev (Germany) in a four-set final.
• 17-year-old S. Aswath from Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu became India’s 98th Chess Grandmaster (GM) after securing his third and final GM norm at the 2026 Pune International Grandmaster Round Robin Tournament
• Indian tennis legend Leander Paes has been appointed as the Player Ambassador of the Asian Tennis Federation
• World Youth Skills Day is observed every year on 15 July to highlight the importance of skill development among youth and the need to equip young people with skills required for employment, entrepreneurship, and self-employment.

• Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman reviewed the progress of RBI's Swap Facility Schemes for FCNR(B) Deposits, External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs), and Overseas Foreign Currency Borrowings (OFCBs) with MDs & CEOs of Public Sector Banks (PSBs) and Public Financial Institutions (PFIs) in New Delhi.
• The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN), Madhya Pradesh Unit, dismantled a sophisticated Mephedrone (MD) manufacturing laboratory in Pune, Maharashtra, under Operation Vajra.
• According to the World Bank Country Income Classification (FY2027), India continues to be classified as a Lower-Middle-Income Economy.
• The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Luiss Business School (LBS) jointly released the 3rd edition of the World Intangible Investment Report 2026.
• The Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) warship JS Takanami (DD-110) conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Indian Navy warship INS Surat off the coast of Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Bengaluru-based space startup GalaxEye lost communication with Mission Drishti, the world's first OptoSAR (Optical + Synthetic Aperture Radar) Earth observation satellite, after an onboard anomaly.
• India and Indonesia signed a landmark defence agreement for the export of the Astra Mk 1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), making Indonesia the first foreign country to import India's indigenously developed Astra missile system.
• Scientists have developed an advanced ammonia sensing platform capable of detecting ammonia gas at extremely low concentrations while operating efficiently at room temperature.
• Chitkara University, Punjab launched the Atal Incubation Centre–Chitkara Incubation Foundation (AIC-CIF) and AIC-PRIDE Labs to strengthen India's deep-tech startup ecosystem.
• Legendary playback singer Sistla Sreeramamurthy (S.) Janaki, popularly known as the "Nightingale of South India" and "Nightingale of the South", passed away at the age of 88 in Mysuru, Karnataka after battling age-related health issues.
• Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar, passed away at the age of 74.