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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Reserve Bank of India Notifies Master Directions on Payment System Operator Authorisation Framework

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued Master Directions on Authorisation to Operate a Payment System to create a comprehensive regulatory framework under the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act, 2007.
• The framework governs entities seeking to operate as Payment System Operators (PSOs) in India.
• A Payment System Operator (PSO) is an entity authorised by the RBI to operate a system enabling clearing, payment, or settlement of funds between participants.
• The objective of the directions is to provide a unified regulatory framework covering eligibility criteria, authorisation process, perpetual licence validity, voluntary surrender, and cooling-off requirements.
• As per Section 4 of the PSS Act, 2007, no entity other than the RBI can operate a payment system without prior authorisation.
• Any entity intending to establish or operate a payment system must mandatorily apply for RBI authorisation under the PSS Act, 2007.
• The framework strengthens regulatory oversight, financial system stability, and secure payment infrastructure in India.

YES Bank and Northern Arc Capital Join Hands to Expand Credit Access and Digital Lending

• YES Bank Limited (Indian private sector bank) and Northern Arc Capital Limited (a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC)) have formed a strategic partnership to expand formal credit access, digital lending, and investment opportunities in India.
• The collaboration supports the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by strengthening financial inclusion and improving technology-driven credit delivery.
• The partnership aims to enhance access to formal credit for underserved segments, including retail borrowers, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and emerging borrowers.
• It focuses on building scalable, tech-enabled lending systems through integrated digital platforms for faster loan origination and distribution.
• A key feature of the partnership is the integration of Northern Arc Capital’s digital lending platforms, including nPOS, NIMBUS, and NuScore, with YES Bank’s digital lending architecture.
• The collaboration strengthens digital credit infrastructure and improves data-driven lending decisions.
• The partnership also integrates asset management and bond platforms into YES Bank’s ecosystem.
• This enables customers to access structured credit products and alternative investment opportunities along with traditional banking services.
• The initiative promotes expansion of financial markets access and credit deepening in India’s economy.
• It represents a step toward a more inclusive, technology-driven financial ecosystem aligned with national development goals.

About YES Bank:

• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Managing Director & CEO: Vinay M. Tonse

Reserve Bank of India Introduces ‘RBI Reelathon 2026’ to Raise Cyber Fraud Awareness Among Students in Kerala

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched “RBI Reelathon 2026”, a statewide cyber fraud awareness campaign across approximately 150 colleges in Kerala.
• The initiative aims to promote financial literacy, cyber hygiene, safe digital banking, smart borrowing, and awareness of emerging online financial threats through student engagement and reel-making competitions.
• The campaign was inaugurated at the RBI Office, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, by Kerala DGP Ravada Chandrasekhar.
• The RBI Reelathon 2026 is designed to target students vulnerable to cyber frauds and spread awareness through creative digital content.
• The programme is implemented in three phases, including financial literacy awareness sessions, reel-making competitions on cyber fraud themes, and a grand finale in 2026 after multiple evaluation rounds.
• The initiative encourages students to create content highlighting cyber safety, digital awareness, and fraud prevention measures.
• Rewards: The top three winners will receive cash prizes of ₹75,000, ₹50,000, and ₹25,000
• Winning entries will be widely circulated through RBI, Kerala Police, banks, colleges, and partner institutions’ official social media platforms for maximum outreach.
• Cyber fraud types highlighted include: investment scams, digital arrest scams, fake loan apps, fake job offers, phishing attacks, and mule account networks.
• Prevention of cyber fraud requires cyber hygiene, safe digital practices, and timely reporting during the “Golden Hour” for better fund recovery.
• Mule accounts are used by cybercriminals to transfer or conceal illegal proceeds.

Bank of Baroda Launches ‘bob Golden Goal Deposit Scheme’ with Interest Rates up to 7.40%

• Bank of Baroda (BOB) has launched the bob Golden Goal Deposit Scheme, a 555-day retail term deposit scheme for deposits below ₹3 crore.
• The scheme offers attractive and stable returns, with interest rates of up to 7.40% per annum (p.a.).
• The scheme is accessible through bank branches, net banking, and the bob World mobile app.
• It is available to a wide range of customers including individuals, joint account holders, clubs, associations, educational institutions, partnerships, and other eligible entities.
• The scheme has a fixed maturity period of 555 days.
• It offers two categories of deposits: callable deposits and non-callable deposits.
• Non-callable deposits provide an additional 5 basis points (bps) over callable deposits in exchange for restrictions on premature withdrawal.
• Under callable deposits, interest rates are 6.75% p.a. (general/NRO/NRE), 7.25% p.a. (resident senior citizens), and 7.35% p.a. (resident super senior citizens).
• Under non-callable deposits, interest rates are 6.80% p.a. (general/NRO/NRE), 7.30% p.a. (resident senior citizens), and 7.40% p.a. (resident super senior citizens).
• Premature withdrawal rules: No penalty is applicable for deposits up to ₹5 lakh held for at least 12 months, while other withdrawals attract penalties as per bank norms.

About Bank of Baroda

• Founded : 20 July 1908
• Headquarters : Vadodara, Gujarat, India
• MD & CEO : Debadatta Chand

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Odisha Approves ₹76,612 Crore Investment Proposals Across 20 Projects

• The High-Level Clearance Authority (HLCA) of Odisha, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, approved investment proposals worth ₹76,611.86 crore across 20 projects.
• The projects are expected to generate more than 50,500 employment opportunities across nine districts of the state.
• The approved investments cover sectors such as lab-grown diamonds, renewable energy, critical minerals, steel manufacturing, healthcare, railways and infrastructure.
• Odisha has approved three major lab-grown diamond manufacturing projects in Khordha district, marking its entry into the emerging diamond manufacturing industry.
• Kira Diam LLP will invest ₹7,000 crore and create around 5,100 jobs.
• Anjali Labtech Limited will invest ₹1,617.50 crore and generate approximately 2,000 jobs.
• Grow Magnificent Private Limited will invest ₹1,200 crore and create around 1,000 jobs.
• In the critical minerals and advanced materials sector, N A N Magnetech Private Limited will invest ₹1,250 crore to manufacture Electric Vehicle (EV)-grade Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) magnets.
• Larsen & Toubro Limited will invest ₹2,400 crore in a permanent magnet manufacturing facility in Ganjam.
• World Titanium Industry Private Limited will establish a titanium dioxide slag and pigment plant with an investment of ₹2,800 crore.
• In the renewable energy sector, Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited will invest ₹10,000 crore in Ganjam for manufacturing solar ingots, wafers and photovoltaic cells.
• Saatvik Solar Industries Private Limited received approval for a ₹1,709.81 crore solar photovoltaic cell manufacturing facility.
• The steel sector accounted for the largest share of investments approved by the state government.
• Rashmi Metallurgical Industries Private Limited will establish a ₹15,000 crore integrated steel plant in Jajpur with a capacity of 4 million tonnes per annum.
• Shyam Metalics and Energy Limited received approval for a ₹7,580 crore integrated steel manufacturing project in Sambalpur.
• SMC Power Generation Limited will undertake expansion projects worth ₹9,150 crore in Jharsuguda.
• BR Steel & Power Private Limited will invest ₹2,400 crore in an integrated steel plant in Sambalpur.
• Ratnamani Metals and Tubes Limited will establish a specialty steel manufacturing facility in Jajpur with an investment of ₹1,642 crore.
• Other major projects include a ₹1,170 crore pharmaceutical manufacturing facility by Nectar Lifesciences Limited, a ₹1,500 crore railway coach manufacturing unit by Jupiter Wagons Limited, a ₹5,220 crore pumped-storage hydroelectric project by Rajapuspa Renova LLP, and a ₹2,471.98 crore thermal power project by KU Urja Private Limited.
• The investments are expected to support Odisha’s industrial diversification and strengthen India’s capabilities in clean energy, electric mobility, advanced manufacturing and critical minerals processing.

About Odisha:

• Capital: Bhubaneswar
• Chief Minister: Mohan Charan Majhi
• Governor: Hari Babu Kambhampati
• Statehood Day: 1 April 1936

• National Parks: Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary

RECENT NEWS

• State Government of Odisha have approved the restoration of the original Odia names for 64 places spread across the 26 districts of the state. This decision was approved by the state Cabinet which was chaired by the Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi

Government Approves ₹22 Crore Assistance for 9 Startups Under National Green Hydrogen Mission; Launches Green Hydrogen Certification Portal of India

• The Central Government approved ₹22 crore in financial assistance for nine startups under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM).
• This is the first batch of support under the mission’s dedicated ₹100 crore startup funding programme, aimed at promoting innovation and commercialization in the green hydrogen sector.
• The announcement was made by Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi during a National Green Hydrogen Mission workshop organized by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
• The funding programme seeks to support startups working in green hydrogen production, storage, transportation and related technologies.
• The government expects startups to play a key role in developing cost-effective solutions and strengthening India’s position as a global hub for green hydrogen production and exports.
• During the workshop, the government also launched the Green Hydrogen Certification Portal of India (GHCI).
• The portal has been developed to facilitate certification and regulatory compliance under the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India.
• It will help verify that hydrogen produced in India meets prescribed green hydrogen standards.
• The certification framework aims to enhance transparency, build investor confidence, support exports, ensure sustainability compliance and promote a credible green hydrogen marketplace.
• Union Minister Pralhad Joshi urged states to accelerate the formulation and implementation of green hydrogen policies.
• According to government data, six states have notified dedicated green hydrogen policies, seven states have incorporated hydrogen provisions into existing policies and four states are finalizing their policy frameworks.
• States are offering incentives such as Capital Expenditure (Capex) subsidies, electricity duty exemptions, waivers on wheeling charges, infrastructure support and faster project approvals to attract investments in the sector.
• Technological advancements in electrolyzers are significantly reducing the cost of green hydrogen production.
• Traditional Alkaline Electrolyzers require around 55 units of electricity to produce one kilogram of hydrogen.
• Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Electrolyzers have reduced electricity consumption to approximately 46–48 units per kilogram.
• Emerging Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cell (SOEC) technology is expected to further reduce consumption to 38–42 units per kilogram, with future potential to reach 33 units per kilogram.
• Launched in 2023, the National Green Hydrogen Mission is one of India’s flagship clean energy initiatives with a financial outlay of ₹19,744 crore.
• The mission aims to establish India as a global hub for the production, utilization and export of green hydrogen.
• It targets the production of at least 5 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) of green hydrogen annually by 2030.

About Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE):

• Union Minister: Pralhad Joshi (Dharwad,Karnataka)
• Minister of State: Shripad Yesso Naik
• Secretary: Santosh Kumar Sarangi

RECENT NEWS

• Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has once again proved its strong performance by securing an ‘Excellent’ rating in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) for the financial year 2024–25. The organisation scored an impressive 96.42 out of 100.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India–United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and Double Contribution Convention (DCC) to Come into Force on 15 June 2026

• The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Double Contribution Convention (DCC) between India and the United Kingdom are set to come into force on 15 June 2026.
• The agreements are expected to boost bilateral trade, strengthen investment flows, improve market access and provide significant benefits to Indian professionals working temporarily in the United Kingdom.
• The foundation for the agreement was laid through the Enhanced Trade Partnership (2021) and the India–United Kingdom Roadmap 2030.
• After 14 rounds of negotiations, the CETA was concluded on 6 May 2025.
• The agreement was signed in London on 24 July 2025 by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and United Kingdom Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
• The Double Contribution Convention (DCC) was signed on 10 February 2026 to complement the broader economic partnership framework.
• CETA is a next-generation Free Trade Agreement (FTA) comprising 30 chapters covering goods, services, investment, digital trade, financial services, intellectual property rights, government procurement, innovation, sustainability and support for small and medium enterprises.
• The agreement aims to promote modern economic cooperation, strengthen supply chain resilience and enhance technological collaboration between the two countries.
• Under the agreement, the United Kingdom will provide zero-duty access on nearly 99% of India’s tariff lines, covering almost the entire value of Indian exports.
• Major sectors expected to benefit include:
• Textiles and Clothing
• Leather and Footwear
• Engineering Goods and Auto Components
• Marine Products
• Processed Food Products
• Chemicals
• Pharmaceuticals
• India has protected sensitive sectors from import competition, including:
• Dairy Products
• Cereals
• Millets
• Edible Oils
• Oilseeds
• Apples
• Various Vegetable Products
• The agreement provides one of the most comprehensive market access commitments by the United Kingdom in the services sector.
• It covers all major service sectors and 137 sub-sectors, including:
• Information Technology (IT)
• Information Technology Enabled Services (ITES)
• Financial Services
• Professional Services
• Healthcare
• Education
• Engineering
• Telecommunications
• Consulting Services
• CETA introduces transparent and predictable mobility pathways for Indian professionals in categories such as Business Visitors, Intra-Corporate Transferees, Contractual Service Suppliers, Independent Professionals and Investors.
• The agreement also provides dedicated annual mobility opportunities for up to 1,800 Indian chefs, yoga instructors and classical musicians in the United Kingdom.
• Under the Double Contribution Convention (DCC), Indian employees and employers on temporary assignments in the United Kingdom will be exempt from making dual social security contributions.
• The exemption period has been extended from three years to five years.
• The DCC is expected to benefit more than 75,000 Indian professionals and over 900 Indian companies operating in the United Kingdom.
• The convention will reduce business costs, improve workforce mobility and strengthen collaboration in high-skill sectors.

About United Kingdom:

• Capital: London
• Prime Minister: Keir Starmer
• Currency: Pound Sterling (£)

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Appointments Committee of the Cabinet Clears Appointments for Chairperson and Members of National Statistical Commission

• The National Statistical Commission (NSC) was established in 2005 as a nodal body for coordinating all core statistical activities in India.
• The NSC is responsible for evolving, monitoring, and enforcing statistical priorities, standards, and coordination across the national statistical system.
• The Commission ensures statistical coordination between Central Government Ministries, Departments, and State/UT administrations.
• The NSC consists of a part-time Chairperson, four part-time Members with expertise in statistics, and the CEO of NITI Aayog (ex-officio Member).
• The Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) serves as the Secretary of the NSC.
• The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved new appointments to the NSC Chairperson and Members.
• The newly appointed NSC Chairperson is Dr. Saibal Chattopadhyay, former Director of IIM Kolkata.
• Dr. Saibal Chattopadhyay holds a Ph.D. in Statistics and has expertise in sampling methods, estimation techniques, and survey research methodologies.
• He specializes in sequential estimation methods, finite population inference, multi-stage sampling, environmental health statistics, clinical studies, and marketing research techniques.
• Prof. Shubhabrata Das has been appointed as a Member of NSC and is a Professor at IIM Bangalore.
• He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Statistics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and degrees from the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata.
• His areas of specialization include statistics, operational research, actuarial mathematics, fuzzy data analysis, and measurement and scaling techniques.
• Shri Satyendra Bahadur Singh is a retired officer of the Indian Statistical Service (1987 batch).
• He has extensive experience in official statistics, economic statistics, labour and employment statistics, policy support, training, and administration.
• Dr. Madhavan Mukund is the Director of the Chennai Mathematical Institute (CMI).
• He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Aarhus University, Denmark, and a B.Tech from IIT Bombay.
• His expertise lies in computer science, formal methods, theoretical computing, and mathematical foundations of computation.

About NSC :

• The NSC is responsible for developing national statistical policies, ensuring data quality, and promoting public trust in official statistics.
• It also formulates standard statistical concepts, definitions, classifications, and methodologies across sectors.
• The Commission is responsible for setting national quality standards for core statistics and ensuring their effective implementation.
• The NSC undertakes statistical audits to ensure the accuracy, quality, and integrity of official statistical data.
• It also reviews the functioning of the national statistical system and recommends measures for performance improvement and modernization.
• The NSC promotes cooperation between central and state statistical systems for better coordination and efficiency.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

India’s Defence Manufacturing Surges to Record ₹1.78 Lakh Crore in FY26

• India’s annual defence production has reached an all-time high of ₹1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025–26, marking a major milestone in the country’s defence manufacturing sector.
• The production figure shows a 15.6% increase over FY 2024–25 output of ₹1.54 lakh crore.
• Compared to FY 2020–21, when production stood at ₹84,643 crore, the growth is a remarkable 110% increase.
• Indigenous defence production has grown nearly four times, rising from ₹43,746 crore in FY 2013–14.
• The achievement reflects India’s strengthening push for self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) in defence manufacturing under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and other PSUs contributed around 76% of total defence production.
• The private sector contributed 24%, up from 22% in FY 2024–25, indicating increasing private participation in the defence ecosystem.
• The private sector’s output reached an all-time high of around ₹42,000 crore in FY 2025–26.
• The growth highlights the expanding role of the private defence industry in India’s military-industrial base.
• India also achieved record defence exports of ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025–26.
• The surge in production and exports reflects the success of policies promoting indigenisation and domestic defence manufacturing.
• The overall performance demonstrates strong momentum in India’s drive towards defence self-reliance and export competitiveness.
• The increase in defence production has been a key factor in boosting India’s global defence export capabilities.
• The government’s initiatives have significantly reduced dependence on imported defence equipment.
• Over the last decade, defence production has expanded steadily due to reforms promoting Make in India in defence.

India–Thailand Hold 10th Defence Dialogue, Agree to Deepen Industrial and Technological Cooperation

• The 10th Thailand–India Defence Dialogue was held in Bangkok on 16 June 2026 to review the full spectrum of bilateral defence cooperation.
• The dialogue focused on exchanging views on regional and global security issues of mutual interest.
• The meeting was co-chaired by Thailand’s Deputy Permanent Secretary for Defence Admiral Nuttapol Diewvanich and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Government of India Shri Satyajit Mohanty.
• Both sides discussed the evolving security situation in the Indo-Pacific region.
• They exchanged perspectives on regional developments and reaffirmed commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
• The delegations reviewed progress in bilateral defence cooperation since the previous dialogue.
• Key areas of discussion included military-to-military engagements, capacity building, training exchanges, and maritime cooperation.
• The dialogue also assessed ongoing cooperation in the defence industry sector between India and Thailand.
• Both sides explored opportunities in defence manufacturing, research, innovation, and capability development.
• The aim was to strengthen mutually beneficial partnerships between the two countries’ defence ecosystems.
• The delegations also discussed cooperation under regional and multilateral defence frameworks, including ASEAN-led mechanisms.
• Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing practical defence cooperation and addressing shared security challenges.
• The meeting also outlined the future roadmap for bilateral defence engagement.
• India and Thailand had elevated their ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2025, strengthening overall defence relations.

About Thailand :

• Prime Minister : Anutin Charnvirakul
• Capital : Bangkok
• Currency : Thai baht (฿)

Drogo Aerospace Hands Over First 41 JK 250e Drones to Indian Army Under ₹72-Crore Deal

• Drogo Aerospace Private Limited (formerly Drogo Drones Private Limited) delivered the first batch of 41 JK 250e drones to the Indian Army (IA) Southern Command in Nashik, Maharashtra.
• The delivery was made under a ₹72-crore contract for the supply of 217 JK 250e drones to the Indian Army.
• The remaining 176 drones are scheduled to be delivered by August 2026.
• The JK 250e is an indigenous electric unmanned aerial system (UAS) developed specifically for the Indian Army’s Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations.
• The drone has been designed to meet the frontline operational requirements of the Indian Army.
• The JK 250e drone provides up to three hours of flight endurance on a single battery charge.
• It is capable of performing surveillance, reconnaissance, tactical overwatch, border security, and other critical military missions.
• The drone enhances the Army’s capability for real-time monitoring and situational awareness in operational areas.
• The JK 250e is fully designed and manufactured in India, highlighting the country's growing indigenous defence manufacturing capability.
• The project supports the Government of India’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives in the defence sector.
• The induction of these drones will strengthen India's self-reliance in military technology and reduce dependence on imported unmanned systems.
• Drogo Aerospace Pvt Ltd is headquartered in Madhapur, Hyderabad, Telangana.
• The company specializes in indigenous unmanned aerial systems, defence technologies, AI-enabled aerial intelligence solutions, and advanced aerospace platforms.
• Drogo Aerospace focuses on developing technologies for strategic, security, and national defence applications.
• The JK 250e programme represents a significant step toward enhancing India's ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) capabilities through indigenous innovation.

Indian Navy Retires Sea King Mk42B Helicopter Fleet After 36 Years of Service

• Indian Navy (IN) decommissioned its Sea King Mk42B helicopters, popularly known as the “Flying Frigates”, after 36 years of distinguished operational service.
• The fleet was operated by Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 330, also known as the “Harpoons”.
• The decommissioning ceremony concluded with a final ceremonial flight from INS Shikra, the Western Naval Command (WNC) air station located in Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• The Sea King Mk42B (Bravo) fleet was procured between 1989 and 1990 and inducted to strengthen the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW)
• The Sea King helicopters were equipped with advanced torpedoes, depth charges, and missiles, making them a key maritime combat platform.
• Their primary roles included anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-ship operations, and Search and Rescue (SAR)
• The Sea King platform has served the Indian Navy for 55 years, beginning with the induction of the Sea King Mk42 variant in 1971.
• INAS 330 was commissioned on 17 April 1971 under the command of Commander M.P. Wadhawan.
• Over its service history, INAS 330 became one of the Navy’s most decorated squadrons, earning 22 Nausena Medals.
• The retired Sea King Mk42B airframes will be repurposed as utility transport helicopters and test platforms for future sensor and weapon trials.
• These helicopters are also expected to support testing under the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM) Programme.
• The retirement of the Mk42B fleet marks the Navy’s transition to the advanced Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk “Romeo” helicopters from the United States of America (USA).
• India signed a USD 2.12 billion contract in 2020 to procure 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.
• The MH-60R Seahawk is equipped with advanced dipping sonar, Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, Mark 54 anti-submarine torpedoes, and enhanced network-centric warfare capabilities.
• The new helicopters are intended to replace the ageing Sea King fleet and enhance India's capability against modern underwater threats.
• The phase-out was partly driven by increasing maintenance challenges and spare-part shortages affecting the Sea King fleet.
• Despite the retirement of the Mk42B variant, the Sea King remains in service through INAS 350, nicknamed the “Saaras”.
• INAS 350 operates the Sea King Mk42C variant from INS Dega, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPS & PORTALS

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Unveils Green Hydrogen Certification Portal of India for Transparent Green Hydrogen Certification

• The Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi, launched the Green Hydrogen Certification Portal of India (GHCI) during a national workshop on “Strengthening the National Green Hydrogen Mission: Through State Policies, Hubs & Infrastructure.”
• The portal has been developed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to ensure transparent certification and regulatory compliance under the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India.
• The initiative supports India’s broader push for clean energy transition and development of a green hydrogen ecosystem.
• The Minister urged States to actively participate in the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), highlighting that 6 States have already notified dedicated Green Hydrogen Policies.

Key Highlights :

• 7 States have integrated hydrogen policies into their existing industrial and renewable energy frameworks, while 4 States are in the process of finalisation.
• Under domestic manufacturing promotion, incentives have been provided to 15 companies to develop 3,000 MW per annum electrolyser manufacturing capacity.
• This aims to reduce dependence on imported supply chains and strengthen indigenous green hydrogen production infrastructure.
• In the refinery sector, contracts have been awarded for the supply of 30,000 MTPA green hydrogen to IOCL, BPCL, HPCL, and NRL.
• ₹84 crore has been sanctioned for pilot projects for testing 100% hydrogen injection in the steel sector.
• For clean mobility, around ₹208 crore has been allocated for 37 hydrogen-fuelled vehicles and 9 hydrogen refuelling stations.
• An additional ₹193.35 crore investment has been made for 7 national testing facilities related to hydrogen technologies.
• The Government has launched a dedicated R&D roadmap worth ₹113 crore supporting 21 approved research projects.
• The Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme and standards for Green Ammonia and Green Methanol have been finalised to strengthen the regulatory framework.
• Under international supply agreements, contracts have been signed for 7 lakh MTPA of Green Ammonia to 11 fertiliser plants.
• The National Green Hydrogen Mission (launched in 2023) has an outlay of ₹19,744 crore.
• The Mission targets 5 MMT green hydrogen production capacity supported by 125 GW renewable energy capacity.
• It is expected to attract investments exceeding ₹8 lakh crore, generate over 6 lakh jobs, and reduce 50 million tonnes of annual carbon emissions.
• Under the SIGHT programme, incentives have been awarded for 8,62,000 MTPA green hydrogen production capacity.
• A notable achievement includes JSW’s 3,600 MTPA green hydrogen plant, commissioned in November 2025.
• The government has allocated ₹100 crore for startups working on green hydrogen technologies, with 9 startups approved for ₹22 crore funding.
• The event marked part of the celebration of 12 Years of Decisive Governance, highlighting progress in renewable energy, industrial decarbonisation, and green hydrogen development.

About Ministry of New and Renewable Energy :

• Cabinet Minister : Pralhad Joshi
• Minister of State : Shripad Yesso Naik

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

Competition Commission of India Approves Kedaara Capital Fund IV and Pearl Holding’s Investment in Axis Finance

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the subscription of equity shareholding in Axis Finance Limited by Kedaara Pearl Holding and Kedaara Capital Fund IV AIF.
• The proposed transaction involves the acquisition of equity stake in the target company by the Kedaara Group investment vehicles.
• The acquirers in the deal are Kedaara Pearl Holding and Kedaara Capital Fund IV AIF, collectively referred to as the Kedaara Group entities.
• The target company, Axis Finance Limited, is a financial services provider operating across India.
• Axis Finance Limited is engaged in wholesale lending, MSME financing, and retail lending to individuals and businesses.
• The company is also involved in the distribution of insurance products.

Recent News :

• In June 2026, The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the proposed combination involving the acquisition of PGIM India Asset Management Private. Limited. and PGIM India Trustees Pvt. Ltd. by TVS Emerald Ltd. and TVS Venu Management and Consultancy Services Pvt. Ltd.

About CCI:

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is a statutory body within the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and is responsible for enforcing the Competition Act of 2002.
• Founded: October 14, 2003
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India
• Chairperson: Ravneet Kaur

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Deepti Sharma Becomes Joint-Highest Wicket-Taker in Women’s International Cricket

• Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma created history by becoming the joint-highest wicket-taker in women’s international cricket.
• She achieved the milestone during India’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Group A match against the Netherlands at Headingley, Leeds.
• Deepti claimed her 355th international wicket by dismissing Dutch opener Phebe Molkenboer.
• With this wicket, she equalled the record of former Indian captain Jhulan Goswami, who also has 355 international wickets.
• Deepti Sharma now shares the top position among the leading wicket-takers in women’s international cricket.
• The achievement highlights India’s significant contribution to women’s cricket, with Indian players occupying the top positions in the all-time wicket-taking charts.

Highest Wicket-Takers in Women’s International Cricket:

• Deepti Sharma (India) – 355 wickets
• Jhulan Goswami (India) – 355 wickets
• Katherine Sciver-Brunt (England) – 355 wickets

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Indian Army Veteran Lieutenant General Vijay Oberoi Passed Away

• Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) Vijay Oberoi, former Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) of the Indian Army (IA), passed away at the age of 84.

About Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) Vijay Oberoi :

• Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi was born on 29 September 1941 in Chakwal (now in Pakistan).
• He was widely recognized for leading post-Kargil military reforms, revising Army doctrines, and promoting the welfare of war-disabled soldiers.
• Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi joined the Indian Army in 1961 through the 1st Battalion, Maratha Light Infantry.
• Despite losing his right leg in action during the 1965 war, he rose to some of the highest positions in the Indian Army.
• He served as Director General of Military Operations (DGMO), a key position responsible for operational planning and military strategy.
• He also served as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Army Training Command (ARTRAC).
• Later, he held the prestigious post of GOC-in-C Western Command, one of the Indian Army’s most important operational commands.
• Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi served as Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) from 2000 to 2001.
• He retired from the Indian Army on 30 September 2001.
• For his distinguished military service, he was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) in 1998.
• He was also honoured with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Sena Medal (SM), and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM).
• Following retirement, he founded the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), a leading defence and strategic studies think tank in India.
• He also established the War Wounded Foundation, dedicated to supporting and rehabilitating injured military personnel.
• His contributions played a major role in strengthening the Indian Army after the Kargil War (1999) through structural and doctrinal reforms.
• Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi became a symbol of resilience by completing the Mumbai Marathon at the age of 72 using a prosthetic leg.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2026 Observed on 19 June

• World Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2026 is observed globally on 19 June to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a hereditary blood disorder.
• The day aims to increase public understanding of the disease, promote early diagnosis, improve access to treatment and support affected individuals and their families.
• The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) officially recognized World Sickle Cell Day in 2008 to promote awareness of the disease and its social, economic and health impacts.
• The first World Sickle Cell Day was observed on 19 June 2009.
• The observance highlights the challenges faced by patients, including pain, complications and the emotional burden associated with the disease.
• Sickle Cell Disease is a genetic and inherited blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells, reducing their ability to carry oxygen efficiently throughout the body.
• Early diagnosis, timely treatment and proper disease management can significantly improve the quality of life of affected individuals.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) supports global efforts to improve screening, diagnosis, treatment and care for people living with Sickle Cell Disease.
• According to global estimates, Sickle Cell Disease remains a major public health concern, particularly in Africa, where a large proportion of cases are reported.
• The disease is also prevalent in countries such as India, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Brazil, Suriname, Guyana, Italy and Greece.
• Increased awareness, genetic counselling, newborn screening and access to healthcare services are considered essential for reducing the disease burden worldwide.

About World Health Organization (WHO):

• Established: 1948
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• Director-General: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
• Parent Organization: United Nations

World Sauntering Day 2026 Observed on 19 June

• World Sauntering Day 2026 is observed globally on 19 June to encourage people to slow down, relax and appreciate the world around them.
• The day promotes mindful walking, connecting with nature and enjoying life's simple pleasures instead of rushing through daily activities.
• It is also popularly known as International Sauntering Day.
• The observance serves as a reminder to maintain a balanced lifestyle and take time to appreciate one's surroundings.
• World Sauntering Day was established in 1979 by W. T. Rabe.
• The day was created as a light-hearted response to the growing popularity of jogging and fitness-oriented running activities during the 1970s.
• The term "sauntering" refers to walking in a relaxed, unhurried and leisurely manner.
• According to W. T. Rabe, sauntering should be done comfortably and with the intention of enjoying the journey rather than focusing on speed or distance.
• The observance encourages people to reduce stress, improve mental well-being and spend quality time outdoors.
• World Sauntering Day highlights the importance of slowing down in an increasingly fast-paced world and appreciating everyday experiences.

Daily CA One- Liner: June 19

• The High-Level Clearance Authority (HLCA) of Odisha, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, approved investment proposals worth ₹76,611.86 crore across 20 projects
• The Central Government approved ₹22 crore in financial assistance for nine startups under the National Green Hydrogen Mission
• The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Double Contribution Convention (DCC) between India and the United Kingdom are set to come into force on 15 June 2026
• Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma created history by becoming the joint-highest wicket-taker in women’s international cricket.

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued Master Directions on Authorisation to Operate a Payment System to create a comprehensive regulatory framework under the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act, 2007.
• YES Bank Limited (Indian private sector bank) and Northern Arc Capital Limited (a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC)) have formed a strategic partnership to expand formal credit access, digital lending, and investment opportunities in India.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched “RBI Reelathon 2026”, a statewide cyber fraud awareness campaign across approximately 150 colleges in Kerala.
• Bank of Baroda (BOB) has launched the bob Golden Goal Deposit Scheme, a 555-day retail term deposit scheme for deposits below ₹3 crore.
• The National Statistical Commission (NSC) was established in 2005 as a nodal body for coordinating all core statistical activities in India.
• India’s annual defence production has reached an all-time high of ₹1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025–26, marking a major milestone in the country’s defence manufacturing sector.
• The 10th Thailand–India Defence Dialogue was held in Bangkok on 16 June 2026 to review the full spectrum of bilateral defence cooperation.
• Drogo Aerospace Private Limited (formerly Drogo Drones Private Limited) delivered the first batch of 41 JK 250e drones to the Indian Army (IA) Southern Command in Nashik, Maharashtra.
• Indian Navy (IN) decommissioned its Sea King Mk42B helicopters, popularly known as the “Flying Frigates”, after 36 years of distinguished operational service.
• The Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi, launched the Green Hydrogen Certification Portal of India (GHCI) during a national workshop on “Strengthening the National Green Hydrogen Mission: Through State Policies, Hubs & Infrastructure.”
• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the subscription of equity shareholding in Axis Finance Limited by Kedaara Pearl Holding and Kedaara Capital Fund IV AIF.
• Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) Vijay Oberoi, former Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) of the Indian Army (IA), passed away at the age of 84.
• World Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2026 is observed globally on 19 June to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a hereditary blood disorder
• World Sauntering Day 2026 is observed globally on 19 June to encourage people to slow down, relax and appreciate the world around them