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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

India’s Cumulative Exports Rise 15.55% to USD 399.27 Billion in April–August 2026-27

• The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) reported that India’s combined Merchandise and Services exports reached an estimated USD 399.27 billion during April–August 2026 (FY27), registering a growth of 15.55% year-on-year.

Key Highlights :

• India’s cumulative merchandise exports during April–August 2026 stood at USD 215.91 billion, compared with USD 183.21 billion during April–August 2025, recording a growth of 85%.
• India’s total imports during April–August 2026 were estimated at USD 459.65 billion, registering a growth of 01%.
• Non-petroleum merchandise exports during April–August 2026 stood at USD 180.61 billion, compared with USD 157.89 billion in the corresponding period of the previous year, registering a growth of 39%.
• The merchandise trade deficit widened to USD 147.09 billion during April–August 2026, compared with USD 123.88 billion during April–August 2025.
• India’s combined merchandise and services exports in August 2026 reached USD 82.68 billion, registering a 41% year-on-year growth.
• India’s combined imports in August 2026 stood at USD 92.09 billion, registering a growth of 75%.
• India’s trade deficit in August 2026 narrowed to USD 9.41 billion, compared with USD 11.62 billion in August 2025.
• Electronic goods exports were a major driver of August 2026 export growth, rising 82% to USD 5.55 billion, compared with USD 2.93 billion in August 2025.
• Petroleum products exports increased 27% to USD 6.81 billion in August 2026.
• Engineering goods exports increased 86% to USD 12.32 billion in August 2026.
• Exports of Organic and Inorganic Chemicals increased 38% to USD 2.80 billion in August 2026.
• Exports of Cotton Yarn, Fabrics and Handloom Products increased 79% to USD 1.12 billion in August 2026.
• Services exports during April–August 2026 grew by an estimated 95% year-on-year.
• India’s services trade surplus increased to USD 86.71 billion during April–August 2026, compared with USD 79.94 billion in the corresponding period of the previous year.
• The major export destinations recording strong growth in August 2026 included Tanzania, Spain, Singapore and China.
• Major sources contributing to import growth in August 2026 included the United States, Russia and China.

Agriculture and Allied Sectors Record 3.6% Gross Value Added Growth in Q1 FY27: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation

• Agriculture and allied activities recorded 6% Gross Value Added (GVA) growth in Q1 FY27, down from 4.4% in Q1 FY26, according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
• The decline in agricultural GVA growth was attributed by experts to the impact of lower production in animal husbandry and livestock sectors, which were affected by flooding and extreme heat during April–June 2026.
• At current prices, agriculture and allied activities recorded 5% GVA growth in Q1 FY27, compared with 4.7% during the same period of the previous financial year.
• In Q4 FY26 (January–March 2026), agriculture and allied activities had recorded 9% GVA growth at constant prices.
• The Southwest Monsoon was 14% below normal cumulatively across India as of 30 August 2026.
• Eastern India recorded a rainfall deficit of nearly 26%, while Southern Peninsular India recorded a deficit of nearly 24% during 1 June–30 August 2026.
• Rainfall in June 2026 was more than 36% below normal, which significantly reduced Kharif crop acreage; however, improved rainfall in July narrowed the overall deficit.
• As of 28 August 2026, Kharif crop sowing had been completed over around 109 million hectares, which was 7% lower than the corresponding period of the previous year and nearly 3% below normal acreage.

Government Cuts Diesel Export Levy and Windfall Tax Effective September 1

• The Central Government revised the taxation framework for petroleum product exports, reducing both the export levy and windfall tax on diesel with effect from 1 September.
• The diesel export levy was reduced to ₹1 per litre from ₹3 per litre.
• The windfall tax on diesel exports was reduced to ₹19 per litre from ₹24 per litre.
• The latest changes are expected to reduce the tax burden on diesel exporters and improve the economics of diesel exports by lowering taxes payable by refiners and exporters.
• The government periodically reviews petroleum-product duties based on factors such as international crude oil prices, global fuel prices, export margins and domestic fuel availability.
• A windfall tax is generally imposed on unusually high profits arising from sharp increases in international prices, particularly in sectors such as petroleum.
• In the petroleum sector, the windfall-tax framework also aims to discourage refiners from diverting petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) excessively to overseas markets, thereby supporting domestic fuel availability.
• Higher export duties can increase costs for refiners and reduce their margins if the additional tax burden cannot be passed on to overseas buyers.
• The reduction in diesel export levy and windfall tax provides exporters with greater flexibility and can lower the overall cost of overseas diesel shipments.
• The revised duty structure reflects the government’s effort to balance domestic fuel availability with changing conditions in international energy markets.

National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited Infrastructure Fund II Achieves First Close at ₹19,000 Crore

• National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF), India’s sovereign-anchored alternative asset manager, announced the first closure of NIIF Infrastructure Fund II at ₹19,000 crore ($2 billion).
• NIIF Infrastructure Fund II has a target size of ₹30,000 crore ($3.2 billion), meaning the first close represents over 60% of the target.
• The fund attracted investments from major global institutional investors, including AustralianSuper, CPP Investments, a wholly owned subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, and Temasek.
• Major Indian institutional investors participating in the fund include ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Life Insurance, and HDFC Life Insurance.
• Alongside the fund, NIIF expects to mobilise around ₹9,000 crore ($950 million) in co-investment capital, allowing investors to participate in selected infrastructure transactions at scale.
• Infrastructure Fund II will invest in core infrastructure sectors such as energy, transport, and digital infrastructure.
• The fund will also expand into emerging themes including urban infrastructure and electric mobility.
• NIIF’s first infrastructure fund had raised ₹16,000 crore ($2.34 billion) and invested across renewable energy, transmission, distribution, battery storage, roads, ports and logistics, airports, data centres, and smart metering.
• NIIF has the capability to originate, build, operate, and realise value from infrastructure businesses, supported by completed and announced exits from investments in renewable energy, road assets, and smart metering.
• NIIF Infrastructure Fund II is intended to connect global and domestic institutional capital with large-scale Indian infrastructure opportunities.

Non-Resident Indian Deposit Inflows Decline 23% to $2.78 Billion in Q1 FY27: Reserve Bank of India

• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data showed that Non-Resident Indian (NRI) deposit inflows declined 24% to $2.78 billion in Q1 FY27 (April–June 2026), compared with $3.61 billion in Q1 FY26.
• Outstanding NRI deposits stood at $168.51 billion at the end of June 2026, compared with $165.96 billion in May 2026 and $168.33 billion in June 2025.
• The RBI stated that net inflows under non-resident deposits improved in June 2026, mainly due to higher FCNR(B) deposits following policy measures announced by the RBI.
• The three major NRI deposit schemes are FCNR(B) (Foreign Currency Non-Resident–Banks), NRE (Non-Resident External), and NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary)
• FCNR(B) deposit inflows stood at $1.73 billion during April–June FY27, compared with $1.77 billion during the corresponding period of FY26.
• Outstanding FCNR(B) deposits stood at $35.49 billion in June 2026, compared with $35.85 billion in June 2025.
• FCNR(B) accounts allow NRIs to maintain fixed deposits in India in freely convertible foreign currencies for a tenure of 1 to 5 years.
• Since FCNR(B) deposits are maintained in foreign currency, they provide protection against currency fluctuations during the deposit tenure.
• Following RBI policy measures announced on 5 June 2026 relating to NRI deposits and External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs), FCNR(B) inflows surged to $65.4 billion during 8 June–21 August 2026.
• During 8 June–21 August 2026, Overseas Foreign Currency Borrowings (OFCBs) recorded inflows of $4.9 billion, while ECBs recorded inflows of $2.6 billion.
• NRE deposit inflows declined sharply to $141 million in Q1 FY27 from $1.99 billion in the corresponding period of FY26.
• Outstanding NRE deposits stood at $98.76 billion in June 2026, compared with $98.59 billion in June 2025.
• NRO deposit inflows increased to $903 million in Q1 FY27 from $850 million in Q1 FY26.
• Outstanding NRO deposits increased to $34.26 billion in June 2026, compared with $31.99 billion in June 2025.
• NRO accounts are rupee-denominated bank accounts maintained by NRIs in India.

IDFC FIRST Bank Raises $350 Million Through 5.8% Overseas Bond Issue

• IDFC FIRST Bank priced a $350 million five-year senior notes issue, marking its second overseas bond issuance.
• The latest issue was priced on 24 August 2026 through the bank’s IFSC Banking Unit.
• The $350 million senior notes carry a 80% coupon and will mature on 28 August 2031.
• The notes will be allotted on 28 August 2026, with interest payable semi-annually on 28 February and 28 August, starting from 28 February 2027.
• The bonds are structured as unsecured Regulation S (Reg S) private placement.
• The latest issue is proposed to be listed on the Vienna Multilateral Trading Facility (Vienna MTF) and the Global Securities Market of India International Exchange (India INX) and/or the Debt Securities Market of NSE International Exchange (NSE IX).
• With the latest issuance, IDFC FIRST Bank has priced $950 million of international bonds in August 2026.
• The latest $350 million issue followed the bank’s maiden international bond issuance of $500 million, launched on 18 August 2026 with a three-year maturity.
• The maiden $500 million issue was upsized by $100 million to $600 million on 19 August 2026 due to strong investor demand.
• Including the upsized maiden issue, the bank priced $600 million + $350 million = $950 million in international bonds within six days.
• Both international bond issuances attracted strong demand from global institutional investors, according to the bank.
• The notes will be repaid at maturity unless they are redeemed or purchased and cancelled earlier.
• IDFC FIRST Bank stated that there has been no delay or default in payment of interest or principal on its securities.
• The fundraising followed S&P Global Ratings assigning IDFC FIRST Bank an investment-grade long-term issuer credit rating of BBB- with a stable outlook on 13 August 2026.

About IDFC First Bank:

• Founded: 2015
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Managing Director & CEO: V. Vaidyanathan
• Tagline : Always You First
• Merger: IDFC Bank merged with Capital First in 2018

Liberalised Remittance Scheme Outward Remittances Rise 19.9% to $2.5 Billion in Q1 FY27: Reserve Bank of India

• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data showed that outward remittances under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) by resident individuals increased 9% year-on-year to $2.5 billion during April–June FY27, mainly driven by higher international travel and overseas investments.
• Deposit-related remittances increased 95% YoY to $70.74 million during the period.
• Remittances for purchase of equity and debt investments more than doubled to $456.7 million, highlighting increased overseas investment by resident individuals.
• Remittances for purchase of immovable property abroad increased 5% YoY to $49.66 million.
• Travel-related remittances, the largest component of LRS outflows, increased 7% YoY to $1.37 billion.
• Remittances for overseas education declined 3% YoY to $96.76 million.
• Remittances classified as gifts increased 11% to $211.5 million.
• The Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) was introduced in 2004 by the RBI, allowing resident individuals to remit up to $250,000 per financial year for permissible current account or capital account transactions, or a combination of both.
• The LRS limit was initially $25,000 per financial year and was gradually increased to $250,000.
• In the broader remittance data cited, remittances increased 4.5% to $7.23 billion, supported mainly by higher equity and debt investments and deposit-related remittances.
• Remittances for equity and debt investments doubled to $1.06 billion in the broader period.
• Deposit-related remittances in the broader data increased 6% to $283.65 million.
• Remittances for immovable property purchases increased 45% to $134.6 million.
• Travel-related remittances in the broader data declined 25% YoY to $3.8 billion.

Reserve Bank of India Turns Net Dollar Buyer, Purchases $561 Million in June Amid Foreign Inflows

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) became a net buyer of US dollars in June, purchasing $561 million, compared with a net sale of $6.10 billion in May.
• June marked the RBI’s first net dollar purchase since February, after it remained a net seller for three consecutive months amid foreign-exchange market intervention during the West Asia crisis.
• In June, the RBI bought $30.89 billion and sold $30.33 billion, resulting in a net purchase of $561 million.
• The Indian rupee appreciated 0.36% against the US dollar in June.
• To attract foreign capital, the RBI and the Central Government announced several measures in June 2026.
• The RBI expanded the Fully Accessible Route (FAR) to include 15-year, 30-year and 40-year Government Securities, allowing foreign investors to invest in these securities without existing maturity restrictions.
• The RBI introduced a concessional foreign-exchange swap facility for eligible External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) to facilitate foreign-currency funding.
• The RBI also allowed banks to raise fresh 3–5 year FCNR(B) deposits, with the RBI bearing the full hedging cost.
• Separately, the Central Government exempted Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) from tax on interest income and capital gains arising from Government Securities, effective 1 April 2026.
• The tax exemption was aimed at improving post-tax returns for foreign investors and making Indian Government Bonds more attractive to overseas investors.
• The RBI’s gold holdings remained unchanged at 880.52 metric tonnes as of the week ended 31 July 2026.
• The outstanding net short dollar position in the forward market declined to $103.33 billion at the end of June, from $106.67 billion at the end of May.
• Net short dollar positions with maturities below one year declined to $40.33 billion from $50.59 billion, while positions with maturities above one year increased by $8 billion to $64.21 billion.
• Of the total net short dollar position, $10.18 billion was in one-month contracts, $5.73 billion in 1–3 month contracts, and $24.42 billion in contracts maturing between 3 months and one year.
• The remaining $64.21 billion of the net short dollar position was in contracts with maturities of more than one year.
• The rupee’s Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) increased to 75 in July, from 91.26 in June.
• REER adjusts the Nominal Effective Exchange Rate (NEER) for inflation differentials between India and its major trading partners.
• A REER above 100 indicates an appreciation relative to the base year, which can potentially make Indian exports less competitive.

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Indian Council of Agricultural Research Joins Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 Campaign

• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research and its institutes across India participated in the Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 campaign, reaffirming their commitment to cleanliness and hygiene.

Key Highlights

• At Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, Dr. M. L. Jat, Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education and Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, administered the Swachhata Pledge to officers and staff.
• At Krishi Anusandhan Bhawan, New Delhi, Dr. Rajbir Singh, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension), Indian Council of Agricultural Research, also administered the Swachhata Pledge.
• Officers and staff from Indian Council of Agricultural Research Headquarters and its institutes across the country participated in the pledge.
• The campaign aims to promote cleanliness, hygiene and a clean and healthy working environment across Indian Council of Agricultural Research institutions.
• The launch reaffirmed Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s commitment to making Swachhata a continuous practice and an integral part of everyday life.

Third BIMSTEC Conference on Traditional Medicine Knowledge, Genetic Resources and Intellectual Property Rights Concludes in Goa

• The Third Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation Conference on Traditional Medicine Knowledge, Genetic Resources and Intellectual Property Rights and the Second BIMSTEC Nodal Group Meeting concluded in Goa with participation from all seven BIMSTEC Member States.
• On the second day, delegates visited the All India Institute of Ayurveda, Goa, where they observed its advanced facilities for tertiary healthcare and academics and exchanged institutional best practices.
• A plantation programme was also organised, symbolising the shared commitment of BIMSTEC countries towards traditional medicine and biodiversity conservation.

Key Highlights

• The BIMSTEC Nodal Group identified four key areas of cooperation:
• Institutional and policy cooperation
• Standards and trade
• Documentation and capacity building
• Implementation mechanisms
• All seven BIMSTEC Member States unanimously agreed to support one another in the areas of intellectual property, genetic resources and traditional medicine knowledge.
• The conference concluded with the “Goa Conclusions”, which were described as a strong foundation for future regional cooperation under BIMSTEC.
• Prof. Vaidya P. K. Prajapati, Director, All India Institute of Ayurveda, highlighted that the conference moved beyond discussions towards consensus on important issues.
• Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, appreciated the active participation and constructive cooperation of all BIMSTEC Member States.
• Kadirkamu Kandasamy Yoganaadan, Director, Science, Technology and Innovation and Health and Human Resource Development Division, BIMSTEC Secretariat, appreciated the Ministry of Ayush and All India Institute of Ayurveda, Goa, for organising the conference and highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in improving people's well-being and preserving traditional medicine heritage.
• Prof. Dr. Sujata Kadam, Dean, All India Institute of Ayurveda, Goa, delivered the Vote of Thanks and expressed gratitude to the participating BIMSTEC Member States, delegates, experts, officials and stakeholders.

About Goa:

• Chief Minister: Pramod Sawant
• Governor: S. Sreedharan Pillai
• Capital: Panaji
• National Parks: Bhagwan Mahavir National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Bhagwan Mahavir, Bondla, Cotigao, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuaries

RECENT NEWS

• The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Mr. Amit Shah presided over the 28th meeting of the Western Zonal Council held in Panaji, Goa on 7th September, 2026.

79th Hyderabad Liberation Day Celebrations Held in Telangana

• Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan participated as the Chief Guest at the 79th Hyderabad Liberation Day celebrations held at Parade Ground, Secunderabad, Telangana, on 17 September 2026.

Key Highlights

• 17 September 1948 marked the conclusion of a decisive chapter in the history of independent India, with the integration of the erstwhile Hyderabad State into the Indian Union following the events of September 1948 and Operation Polo.
• The Vice-President highlighted that Hyderabad Liberation Day is not merely a commemoration of a historical date but also a reminder of nation-building, national integration and constitutional values.
• He recalled the contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who served as the first Home Minister and Minister for States, in integrating the princely states and laying the foundation for a strong and unified India.
• The Vice-President paid tribute to freedom fighters and patriots including Ramji Gond, Turrebaz Khan and Komaram Bheem for their courage and sacrifices.
• He emphasised that political integration brings territories together, while constitutional democracy brings citizens together, with national unity strengthened through equal rights, equal dignity and equal opportunity.
• He highlighted the role of the Central Armed Police Forces in the integration of princely states and in safeguarding India's territorial integrity during 1947–48, as well as their contribution to combating Left-Wing Extremism in Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and other affected areas.
• The Vice-President visited the War Memorial and laid a wreath in tribute to the bravehearts. He also inspected the parade and witnessed the March Past and cultural performances.
• A special exhibition by the Central Bureau of Communication, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting showcased the struggle, sacrifices and historical journey associated with the liberation and integration of Hyderabad with the Indian Union.
• Ten contingents of the Central Armed Police Forces participated in the March Past, while a special cultural presentation on “Hyderabad Vimochanam” was organised during the celebrations.
• Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Malkajgiri Member of Parliament Etela Rajender and other dignitaries attended the event.

About Telangana:

• Chief Minister: A. Revanth Reddy
• Governor: Shiv Pratap Shukla
• Capital: Hyderabad
• National Parks: Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park, Mrugavani National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary, Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary, Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary, Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary, Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary, Shivaram Wildlife Sanctuary

RECENT NEWS

• Telangana has taken a major step towards global urban development by engaging international partners at the World Economic Forum 2026. In a key outcome, the UAE and Telangana agreed to explore collaboration for developing Bharat Future City, envisioned as a net-zero, future-ready smart city and a cornerstone of the state’s long-term growth strategy.

Department of Posts Issues Commemorative Postage Stamp in Honour of Sant Malook Das

• Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, released a commemorative postage stamp issued by the Department of Posts, Government of India, in honour of Sant Malook Das ji.
• The stamp was released during the Sant Samagam organised in memory of Sant Malook Das ji.

Key Highlights

• The commemorative stamp seeks to preserve and promote the legacy of Sant Malook Das ji, particularly his teachings on devotion, knowledge, compassion and public welfare.
• Sant Malook Das ji was a devoted follower of Lord Ram and regarded Lord Ram's character as a guiding philosophy based on duty, sacrifice, truth, compassion, justice and public welfare.
• The stamp was released on the occasion of the inauguration of Shri Ram Katha and in the presence of Swami Rajendra Das Devacharya Ji Maharaj, office bearers of Shri Malook Peeth Seva Sansthan Nyas and devotees from different parts of India.
• The Union Minister linked the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 with human-centred development, including compassion, economic opportunities, technology access for the last person, character building through education and public welfare.
• The commemorative postage stamp will serve as a medium to preserve the spiritual and cultural heritage of Sant Malook Das ji in national memory and connect future generations with his message of devotion, knowledge, compassion and humanity.

Dryland Congress 2026 Concludes in New Delhi with Delhi Declaration on Drylands

• The three-day Dryland Congress 2026 concluded in New Delhi with a call for stronger South-South and triangular cooperation to accelerate solutions for dryland agriculture.
• The Congress concluded with the adoption of the Delhi Declaration on Drylands (3D).
• The declaration establishes a shared agenda for transforming dryland agriculture through collaboration, knowledge exchange, innovation and collective action across the Global South.

Key Highlights

• The meeting reaffirmed the commitment to convert scientific knowledge into practical action, scale up proven innovations and strengthen partnerships for resilient and sustainable dryland agriculture.
• The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing challenges faced by dryland agricultural systems.
• Dr. M. L. Jat, Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, stressed the need for robust data and information systems for dryland agri-food systems.
• Dr. M. L. Jat also called for establishing common innovation grounds or living laboratories that can connect research, agricultural practices and policy.

PM Vishwakarma Scheme Completes Three Years with 30 Lakh Artisans Registered

• PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17 September 2023, completed three years with 30 lakh traditional artisans and craftspeople registered across India.
• The scheme aims to strengthen the livelihoods and entrepreneurial capabilities of traditional artisans through skill training, modern toolkits, concessional credit and market support.
• Around 24.50 lakh beneficiaries have received basic skill training under the scheme.
• A total of 18.15 lakh modern toolkits have been delivered to beneficiaries through India Post.
• Around 6.18 lakh Vishwakarma beneficiaries have received loans of up to ₹1 lakh at a concessional interest rate of 5% per annum.
• Loans sanctioned under the ₹1 lakh loan component amount to ₹5,297 crore.

Key Highlights

• West Bengal was onboarded for implementation of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme in May 2026.
• More than 7 lakh applications have been received under the scheme in West Bengal, with efforts being made to expedite implementation and ensure eligible artisans receive scheme benefits.
• The third anniversary celebrations were organised by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises at Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium, Kolkata.
• An exhibition showcasing the traditional arts and crafts of Vishwakarma artisans was also inaugurated during the event.
• Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Shobha Karandlaje encouraged beneficiaries to make full use of the opportunities provided under the scheme and highlighted the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs.
• PM Vishwakarma identity cards and certificates, modern toolkits and ₹1 lakh loan cheques were distributed to artisans from West Bengal.
• More than 2,000 Vishwakarma beneficiaries and Panchayat functionaries from across West Bengal participated in the anniversary celebrations.
• Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Jitan Ram Manjhi highlighted the progress of the scheme at the third anniversary event in Kolkata.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Global Food Prices Reach Highest Level Since November 2022 Amid Weather and Black Sea Supply Disruptions

• The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that world food prices rose in August 2026 to their highest level since November 2022, driven by adverse weather and Black Sea supply disruptions.
• The FAO Food Price Index (FFPI) rose to 3 points in August 2026 from 130.8 points in July 2026, remaining nearly 17% below the March 2022 record peak.
• The FAO’s price indices for cereals, vegetable oils, sugar, meat and dairy all increased in August 2026.
• Extreme heat and drought in Europe affected prospects for maize, sugar beet and livestock production, while the threat of El Niño raised concerns over palm oil and sugar production in Asia.
• The FAO Cereals Price Index increased 2% month-on-month, reaching its highest level since May 2024.
• The Vegetable Oil Price Index increased 6%, reaching its highest level since June 2022.
• The Sugar Price Index jumped 9%, reaching its highest level since June 2025, partly due to lower sugar production in Brazil’s Centre-South region.
• Black Sea disruptions curtailed grain shipments from Russia and Ukraine, while the S.–Iran conflict strained fertiliser supplies.
• The FAO cut its 2026 global cereal production forecast by 4 million tonnes to 2.980 billion tonnes, which is 2.0% below 2025 and represents the largest annual decline since 2018.
• Despite the reduction, 2026 global cereal production is projected to remain the second-highest on record.
• World cereal stocks for 2026/27 were revised down 1% to 947.2 million tonnes, only marginally above the previous season.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Sanjukta Parashar Becomes First Woman Inspector General to Lead CRPF’s CoBRA Unit

• Sanjukta Parashar, a senior 2006-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, took charge as Inspector General (IG) of the Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA).
• Sanjukta Parashar became the first woman officer to lead the elite CoBRA jungle warfare force.
• She assumed charge as IG of the 10-battalion CoBRA sector headquarters in New Delhi, Delhi.
• She succeeded Danesh Rana, a 1996-batch IPS officer of the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram and Union Territories) cadre.
• Sanjukta Parashar is popularly known as the “Iron Lady of Assam” for her role in frontline counter-insurgency operations.
• She has served as a Deputy Inspector General (DIG) with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and has also led the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) wing of Assam Police.
• Her professional experience includes field policing, anti-militancy operations, counter-insurgency and national security investigations.
• Sanjukta Parashar was awarded the Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Training on 21 April 2022 by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the 13th NIA Day in New Delhi.

About CoBRA :

• CoBRA stands for Commando Battalion for Resolute Action and is a specialised CRPF jungle warfare commando unit.
• The CoBRA was raised during 2008–09 by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to tackle Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) and insurgency in various parts of India, including certain Northeastern states.
• CoBRA is a 10-battalion specialised force trained in guerrilla warfare, jungle warfare and long-range patrols.
• CoBRA personnel are primarily deployed for operations against Left-Wing Extremism and insurgency.
• The appointment reflects the increasing participation of women officers in senior operational roles within the CRPF, including leadership of formations associated with the Rapid Action Force, Jammu, Northeast, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

Government Reconstitutes Central Board of Film Certification with 18 Members for a Three-Year Term

• The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) reconstituted the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with 18 members on 16 September 2026.
• The newly reconstituted CBFC will function for three years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, with immediate effect.
• The new Board will function under the leadership of Shashi Shekhar Vempati, Chairperson of CBFC.
• The reconstitution was carried out by the Central Government under Section 3(1) of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, read with Rule 3 of the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024.
• The CBFC is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) responsible for examining films and granting certification for public exhibition in India.
• The CBFC is headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• The reconstituted 18-member CBFC includes personalities from films, music, literature, arts and other creative fields, providing diverse representation.
• Prominent members of the new Board include Preity Zinta, Suniel Shetty, Pankaj Tripathi, Roopali Ganguly, Pallavi Joshi, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Manoj Joshi and Priyadarshan.
• Ricky Kej, a Grammy Award-winning musician, is also a member of the reconstituted CBFC.
• Other members include Vinod Anupam, Abhishek Jain, Hansraj Hans, Supriya Yarlagadda, Yatindra Mishra, Neela Madhab Panda, Nishigandha Wad, Waman Kendre and Ramesh Patange.
• Waman Kendre and Ramesh Patange have been retained from the previous CBFC Board.
• The reconstitution aims to improve the efficiency of film certification, strengthen regulatory mechanisms, promote diverse representation, and enhance engagement with the entertainment industry.
• The CBFC examines films and grants certification for public exhibition in India according to the prescribed cinematographic and certification guidelines.
• The legal framework for the present Board is based on the Cinematograph Act, 1952 and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024.
• The previous CBFC Board was formally reconstituted in August 2017, making the 2026 reconstitution a major administrative update.

About Central Board of Film Certification :

• Formed : 15 January 1951
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra

Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited Chairman Dileep Sanghani Joins International Cooperative Alliance Global Board for 2026–2030 Term

• Dileep Sanghani, Chairman of Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), was elected as an At-Large Director to the Global Board of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) for the 2026–2030 term.
• Sanghani was among 15 At-Large Directors elected from 24 candidates during the ICA General Assembly 2026.
• The ICA General Assembly 2026 was held on 15 September 2026 at the Panama Convention Centre in Panama City, Panama.
• The election involved 116 voters representing 193 ICA members from 66 countries.
• Ariel Guarco of Argentina was re-elected unopposed as President of ICA for the 2026–2030 term.
• The ICA Global Board consists of 30 members.
• The 30-member ICA Global Board includes the President, 4 Regional Vice-Presidents, 8 representatives from ICA sectoral organisations, the President of the Youth Committee, the President of the Gender Equality Committee, and 15 At-Large Directors.

About IFFCO :

• Founded : 3 November 1967
• Headquarters : New Delhi, India

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ENVIRONMENT

Two New Frog Species, ‘Ingerana aizawl’ and ‘Duttaphrynus phawngpui’, Discovered in Mizoram

• Researchers from Mizoram discovered a new stream-dwelling frog species named Ingerana aizawl along the Hratdawng Stream on the Mizoram University campus, Aizawl, Mizoram.
• The species Ingerana aizawl was named after Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram.
• For nearly 20 years, the frog population found on the Mizoram University campus was identified as Ingerana borealis, but genetic and morphological studies confirmed it as a distinct new species.
• Ingerana aizawl is a small and stout frog characterised by wrinkled dorsal skin, a distinct circular tympanum with an elevated central protrusion, and a strongly developed supratympanic fold.
• The habitat of Ingerana aizawl consists of small forest streams, and the species is mainly active and calls at night.
• The mating call of Ingerana aizawl consists of a rhythmic series of 12 short notes.
• Ingerana aizawl breed during the May–July period and mates during the monsoon season.
• The discovery of Ingerana aizawl was reported in the international scientific journal Zootaxa.
• Researchers used genetic sequencing, statistical analysis of body measurements and morphological comparison with museum specimens to establish that Ingerana aizawl is genetically distinct from its closest relatives.
• The genetic difference between Ingerana aizawl and its nearest relatives was found to be up to 6.6%.
• Another new frog species, Duttaphrynus phawngpui, was discovered in Phawngpui National Park, Lawngtlai district, Mizoram.
• Duttaphrynus phawngpui was named after Phawngpui (Blue Mountain), the highest mountain in Mizoram, and belongs to the Duttaphrynus stuarti species group.
• Duttaphrynus phawngpui was recorded at elevations of above 2,000 metres within Phawngpui National Park.
• Duttaphrynus phawngpui is a medium-sized toad reaching up to 56 mm in body length, with yellowish-brown to earthy-brown skin, irregular dark blotches, a pale stripe along the back, and crossbars on the legs.
• Unlike several related species such as Duttaphrynus stuarti, Duttaphrynus chandai and Duttaphrynus dhara, Duttaphrynus phawngpui lacks a clearly visible eardrum and most of the bony skull ridges.
• The two newly described species, Ingerana aizawl and Duttaphrynus phawngpui, highlight the rich amphibian diversity of Mizoram and the wider Indo-Burma region.
• The Duttaphrynus phawngpui study was published in Taprobanica, while the Ingerana aizawl study was published in Zootaxa.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Identifies Huge ‘McGetchin’ Crater Formed by 2024 Lunar Impact

• The NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) scientists confirmed the discovery of the McGetchin Crater on the Moon using imagery from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO).
• The McGetchin Crater was formed by an asteroid or comet fragment impact on the Moon, with the impact estimated to have occurred between April 11 and May 22, 2024.
• The newly discovered crater is considered the largest newly formed impact crater discovered in recent times in the Solar System.
• The crater measures approximately 728 feet (222 metres) in diameter and 141 feet (43 metres) in depth, making it larger than the Roman Colosseum.
• The impactor that created the crater was estimated to be approximately the size of a three- to six-storey building.
• The crater was named McGetchin in honour of Thomas (Tom) McGetchin, a pioneering lunar scientist and former Director of the Lunar and Planetary Institute in Houston, USA.
• The crater appeared in LRO imagery as a large bright spot surrounded by a dark halo, indicating that the lunar surface had been significantly disturbed by the impact.
• The impact generated a cold spot about 7 km wide, associated with loosened lunar regolith and ejected debris.
• Impact debris was dispersed to distances of more than 100 km, indicating higher-than-expected material dispersion angles.
• The asteroid or comet fragment struck the Moon without prior detection, demonstrating the difficulty of detecting relatively small near-space objects before impact.
• Such large lunar impacts are considered rare, occurring approximately once every 132 years, making the McGetchin impact a statistically rare scientific observation.
• The discovery was made during a routine data-quality check by Robert Wagner, a scientist working with NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter.
• NASA’s LRO has been studying and mapping the Moon since 2009, providing high-resolution imagery used to identify changes on the lunar surface.
• The findings were reported in the scientific journal Science Advances.
• The study of the new crater can improve scientists’ understanding of lunar impact processes, regolith behaviour and debris distribution.
• The discovery may also help scientists better prepare for future crewed lunar missions, including planned missions involving the United States and China.
• The Moon has virtually no atmosphere, unlike Earth, so incoming space debris is not significantly slowed down or burned up before reaching the lunar surface.

About NASA :

• Formed : July 29, 1958
• Headquarters : Washington, D.C
• Administrator : Jared Isaacman

National Institute of Technology Rourkela Develops Hybrid Energy System to Enhance EV Battery Efficiency and Lifespan

• Researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela have developed a hybrid energy storage system designed to improve the efficiency and lifespan of electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
• The technology combines a conventional EV battery with a supercapacitor to protect the battery from sudden power-demand surges and make more efficient use of the supercapacitor.
• EV batteries experience high stress during sudden acceleration, rapid deceleration, regenerative braking, and frequent start-stop operations, which can increase thermal stress and battery-cell degradation.
• The supercapacitor can charge and discharge within seconds and provides substantially higher specific power than conventional batteries, allowing it to handle sudden changes in power demand.
• Conventional hybrid energy-storage systems generally use passive, semi-active, or active configurations.
• In a passive configuration, the battery and supercapacitor are connected directly, which limits the supercapacitor’s ability to respond optimally to changing power requirements.
• Active configurations use separate electronic converters for the battery and supercapacitor, providing greater control but increasing the number of components, switches, and control systems, thereby adding complexity.
• The NIT Rourkela hybrid system provides a balance between passive and active configurations by reducing the number of components while retaining effective control over energy flow.
• The system was tested under demanding conditions such as sudden braking, rapid acceleration, and rapid deceleration.
• During testing, the system maintained a stable 48-volt output, enabled smoother battery-current changes, and allowed the supercapacitor to respond effectively to sudden power-demand variations.
• The technology is primarily designed for low-voltage EVs operating in the 24–60 volt DC range.
• Potential applications include electric scooters, motorcycles, e-rickshaws, cargo tricycles, and campus and industrial utility vehicles.
• The technology is particularly relevant to electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers, where frequent changes in speed and operating conditions can place significant stress on batteries.
• The development supports India’s expanding electric mobility ecosystem by addressing the need for battery systems capable of handling repeated high-power cycles with reduced degradation.
• The key innovation of the NIT Rourkela team is simplifying the power-electronics architecture while retaining the supercapacitor’s ability to handle transient loads.
• The reduced component count could help lower the complexity associated with conventional active hybrid energy-storage systems.
• The researchers have secured a patent for the developed hybrid energy-storage technology.

Bharat Forge and Pratt & Whitney Canada Partner on Defence Research and Development Organisation’s High-Altitude, Long-Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Programme

• Bharat Forge Limited (BFL) and Pratt & Whitney Canada, a business of United States of America(USA)-based RTX, announced a collaboration on 15 September 2026 to evaluate the integration of advanced turboprop engines into the High-Altitude, Long-Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle programme developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• The collaboration will cover engine compatibility, performance assessment, and installation requirements for the DRDO HALE UAV.
• Pratt & Whitney Canada will evaluate the compatibility, performance and installation requirements of its advanced turboprop engines for the HALE UAV platform.
• Bharat Forge will lead the engine-airframe integration, including installation design and systems interfaces connecting the propulsion system, airframe structure and onboard subsystems.
• HALE UAVs are unmanned aircraft designed to operate at high altitudes and perform long-duration missions.
• HALE UAVs are primarily used for surveillance, intelligence gathering and reconnaissance (ISR) across land and maritime domains.
• HALE platforms are classified based on their operational altitude, endurance profile and mission requirements, making them important for strategic and border-area monitoring.
• The collaboration is aimed at strengthening India’s indigenous aerospace and defence manufacturing capabilities under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat
• The partnership highlights public-private collaboration in India’s defence sector, particularly in areas such as propulsion, avionics, airframe development and precision manufacturing.
• Bharat Forge, headquartered in Pune, Maharashtra, operates in advanced engineering, manufacturing and aerospace systems.

About Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) :

• Established : 1958
• Headquarters : New Delhi, and functions under the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
• Headed by Rajesh Kumar Singh.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

Department of Rural Development and Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Expand Pension Coverage in Rural India

• The Department of Rural Development and the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding to expand pension coverage and social security among rural communities.
• The partnership will promote pension awareness, enrolment and pension-related support through a dedicated cadre of “Pension Sakhis”.
• The initiative will leverage the community institutional network of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission, including Banking Correspondent Sakhis and trained Community Resource Persons.

Key Highlights

• Pension Sakhis will provide doorstep awareness, enrolment assistance and pension-related support to Self Help Group members, rural women, Lakhpati Didis and other underserved groups, particularly in remote rural areas.
• Digital dashboards, mobile and web-based solutions will be used to monitor pension outreach and enrolment.
• Unique identifier-based tracking through Central Recordkeeping Agencies will further support monitoring of beneficiaries and enrolment.
• Rohit Kansal, Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development, highlighted social security as an important pillar of inclusive growth, helping Self Help Group households manage vulnerabilities and strengthen resilience.
• Mamta Shankar, Whole Time Member (Economics), Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority, highlighted the importance of retirement planning in view of increasing life expectancy.
• The collaboration aims to increase the adoption of pension products, including the National Pension System, among rural households with limited access to formal retirement and social security mechanisms.
• The partnership is expected to strengthen pension awareness and financial literacy, deepen financial inclusion and improve social security coverage among rural communities.

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Government Sets Up 10-Member Task Force to Explore Revival of Formula One in India

• Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced the formation of a 10-member task force to assess the challenges and feasibility of reviving Formula One in India.
• The task force will be headed by Yugal Kishore Joshi, Programme Director and Adviser at NITI Aayog.

Key Highlights

• The task force will include Kunal, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and Arindam Ghosh, President of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India, along with representatives from the Departments of Tourism and Commerce and the governments of Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.
• The task force will suggest comprehensive measures for the sustainable growth of motorsports in India and prepare a coordinated roadmap for the revival of Formula One.
• The Government aims to facilitate the hosting of a Formula One race in India by 2028.
• The task force will conduct a detailed assessment of the challenges involved in reviving motorsports and identify the policy interventions required to address them.
• India last hosted a Formula One Grand Prix in 2013 at the Buddh International Circuit, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

Indian Olympic Association Introduces Memorial Trophies Named After Raja Randhir Singh and Jaspal Rana

• Indian Olympic Association President P. T. Usha announced two new memorial trophies named after veteran sports administrator Raja Randhir Singh and renowned pistol coach Jaspal Rana.
• The trophies will be awarded from 2026 to honour the best athletes at the Asian Games.

Key Highlights

• The Raja Randhir Singh Trophy will be awarded to the Best Male Athlete of the Asian Games.
• The Jaspal Rana Trophy will be awarded to the Best Female Athlete of the Asian Games.
• The awards honour the contributions of Raja Randhir Singh and Jaspal Rana to Indian sports.
• Raja Randhir Singh served as the Secretary General of the Indian Olympic Association from 1987 to 2012, for 25 years, and also served as President of the Olympic Council of Asia.
• Raja Randhir Singh passed away at the age of 79 in May 2026.
• Jaspal Rana was a multiple Asian Games and Commonwealth Games medallist and a renowned pistol coach.
• Jaspal Rana, who coached double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker, passed away at the age of 49 in June 2026.
• The announcement was made during the launch of the book “Maverick Jaspal”, co-authored by sports journalists S. Kannan and G. Rajaraman.
• The upcoming Asian Games will be hosted by Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
• P. T. Usha stated that there were no accommodation-related issues for the Indian contingent at Aichi-Nagoya at the time of the announcement.
• Sahdev Yadav, the Chef de Mission of the Indian contingent, will coordinate and address any accommodation-related issues during the Asian Games.

India Wins Record-Extending Eighth Women’s Asia Cup 2026 Title

• India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium to win a record-extending eighth Asia Cup title.
• The victory also helped India avenge its defeat to Sri Lanka in the 2024 Women’s Asia Cup final.

Key Highlights

• India has now defeated Sri Lanka six times in Women’s Asia Cup finals across the One Day International and Twenty20 formats, including the 2004 edition when India won the two-team tournament 5–0.
• India posted 183/5 after an outstanding opening partnership between Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana, before bowling Sri Lanka out for 111 in 19.4 overs.
• Shafali Verma scored 68 runs off 39 balls, including 9 fours and 2 sixes, while Smriti Mandhana scored 59 off 39 balls, with 5 fours and 3 sixes.
• Their 129-run opening partnership became the highest partnership for any wicket in Women’s Asia Cup history, surpassing the previous record of 128 runs by Jemimah Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma against the United Arab Emirates in 2022.
• The 129-run partnership was also the highest partnership in the final of any women’s Twenty20 International tournament, surpassing the previous record of 120 runs by Hayley Matthews and Stafanie Taylor for the West Indies against Australia in the 2016 Women’s Twenty20 World Cup final.
• Shafali Verma completed her half-century in 24 balls, registering the fastest fifty in Women’s Asia Cup history and surpassing Smriti Mandhana’s previous record of 25 balls against Sri Lanka in 2022.
• Shafali recorded her third 50-plus score of the tournament, equalling Chamari Athapaththu’s record from Sri Lanka’s 2024 title-winning campaign.
• Shafali finished as the leading run-scorer of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026, scoring 236 runs in 5 innings at an average of 47.20 and a strike rate of 171.01, including 3 fifties and a highest score of 68.
• Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana have registered 6 century partnerships in Women’s Twenty20 Internationals, equalling the record held by Esha Oza and Theertha Satish of the United Arab Emirates.
• Their partnership took their combined Twenty20 International tally to 3,909 runs in 105 innings, at an average of 38.32, with a scoring rate of 8.26, including 6 century partnerships and 24 half-century partnerships.
• G. Kamalini, playing her first match of the tournament, provided a late boost with an unbeaten 15 off 5 balls, including a four and a six, helping India reach 183/5.
• In Sri Lanka’s chase of 184 runs, Chamari Athapaththu was the top scorer with 36 runs off 32 balls, while Nilakshika Silva contributed 22 runs.
• Shree Charani was the leading bowler for India, taking 4 wickets for 20 runs in 4 overs.
• Deepti Sharma claimed 3 wickets for 19 runs in 4 overs, playing a key role in restricting Sri Lanka’s chase.
• Sri Lanka were reduced to 63/3 after 10 overs and eventually bowled out for 111 in 19.4 overs, giving India a 72-run victory.
• Brief Scores: India 183/5 (Shafali Verma 68, Smriti Mandhana 59) defeated Sri Lanka 111 all out (Chamari Athapaththu 36, Nilakshika Silva 22) by 72 runs.

James Rodríguez Announces Retirement from Colombian International Football

• Colombian midfielder James Rodríguez, aged 35, announced his retirement from international football after a 15-year career with the Colombia national team.
• Rodríguez represented Colombia in 4 FIFA World Cups and ended his international career after the latest edition of the global tournament in North America.

Key Highlights

• He won the FIFA World Cup 2014 Golden Boot after scoring 6 goals for Colombia during the tournament.
• Rodríguez made his Colombia debut in 2011 in a match against Bolivia in La Paz.
• His outstanding performance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup helped him earn a move to Spanish club Real Madrid.
• During his club career, Rodríguez also played for Bayern Munich and Everton, besides several clubs across different countries.
• In recent years, he represented Olympiakos, São Paulo, Rayo Vallecano, Club León and Minnesota United before joining Colombian club Atlético Nacional.
• Rodríguez served Colombia as the number 10 player and also wore the captain’s armband during his international career.

Nairobi to Host 2029 World Athletics Championships, Marking First Edition in Africa

• Nairobi, Kenya has been confirmed as the host city for the 2029 World Athletics Championships, marking the first time that the championships will be held in Africa.
• The decision was announced by World Athletics President Sebastian Coe following the Ultimate Championship in Hungary.
• Kenya is a leading nation in distance running and is recognised globally for its strong athletics tradition, but it has not previously hosted an event of this scale.

Key Highlights

• The World Athletics Championships will return to Germany in 2031, with Munich selected as the host city.
• The 2029 edition in Nairobi is expected to highlight Kenya’s long-standing contribution to track and field athletics and strengthen Africa’s role in hosting major international sporting events.
• The World Athletics Championships traditionally run for 10 days and feature a full programme of track and field events.
• Events such as the men’s triple jump, shot put, race walks and marathon are included in the World Athletics Championships programme, unlike the recently held Ultimate Championship, which had a shorter three-day format and an invitation-only field.
• The 2027 World Athletics Championships are scheduled to be held in Beijing, China.

CURRENT AFAFIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Patient Safety Day 2026 Observed on 17 September

• World Patient Safety Day is observed annually on 17 September to create global awareness about patient safety and promote action to prevent avoidable harm during healthcare delivery.
• Patient safety is an important healthcare discipline focused on reducing risks, preventing errors and avoiding unnecessary harm to patients during healthcare.

Key Highlights

• The 72nd World Health Assembly established World Patient Safety Day in 2019 through Resolution WHA 72.6, titled “Global action on patient safety”, recognising patient safety as a global health priority.
• The first World Patient Safety Day was observed on 17 September 2019.
• The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, commemorated World Patient Safety Day 2026 at the National Institute of Health and Family Welfare Auditorium, New Delhi.
• The 2026 theme was “Safe Care for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs)”, with the campaign slogan “Safe care for life!”. The theme focused on preventing harm throughout the Noncommunicable Disease care continuum.
• Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director (National Health Mission), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to strengthening patient safety, quality of care and safer health systems.
• Nearly 63% of all deaths in India are attributed to Noncommunicable Diseases, making patient safety an important component of healthcare delivery.
• Referring to National Family Health Survey-6 data, Aradhana Patnaik highlighted that 96% of immunizations and 90.6% of institutional deliveries are being conducted through public health facilities.
• She stressed the need to further strengthen quality and safety practices, particularly in patient referrals and continuity of care, to ensure timely access to appropriate healthcare services and better health outcomes.
• States and Union Territories were urged to accelerate quality improvement initiatives and prepare a roadmap to achieve 100% National Quality Assurance Standards certification of Ayushman Aarogya Mandir–Sub Health Centres by March 2027, followed by certification of Ayushman Aarogya Mandir–Primary Health Centres.
• A structured and time-bound quality assurance approach was highlighted as essential for establishing a strong culture of patient safety across all levels of healthcare.
• The inaugural session concluded with the administration of the National Patient Safety Pledge, reaffirming the collective commitment of healthcare stakeholders towards safer and higher-quality healthcare delivery.
• State-led innovations and best practices highlighted during the programme included:
• Jharkhand: Comprehensive geriatric diabetic and hypertensive screening model.
• Kerala: Hridhyaragam initiative for prevention and control of Noncommunicable Diseases.
• Rajasthan: SETU online referral application.
• These State-level initiatives highlighted the importance of context-specific solutions, knowledge sharing and adoption of effective practices to improve patient safety at different levels of healthcare delivery.
• India has strengthened its institutional framework for healthcare quality and patient safety through initiatives including the National Quality Assurance Standards and the National Patient Safety Implementation Framework.
• The 2026 observance provided a platform for stakeholders to share experiences and best practices and reinforce a culture of patient safety across the healthcare system.
• The national observance reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to improving quality of care and patient safety as an integral component of Universal Health Coverage.
• The event advanced the vision of “Safe Care for Life” through dialogue, knowledge sharing and collective action to strengthen healthcare systems.
• Senior officials and representatives who attended the event included Sibin C., Joint Secretary (Policy), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; Prof. (Dr.) Pragya Sharma, Executive Director, National Health Systems Resource Centre; Deepak Soni, Director (National Health Mission); Dr. Binod Kumar Patro, Director, National Institute of Health and Family Welfare; and Dr. Rajiv Pathni, Advisor (Quality and Patient Safety), National Health Systems Resource Centre.
• Globally, the World Health Organization states that approximately 1 in 10 patients is harmed during healthcare, with around half of this harm considered preventable, highlighting the importance of strengthening patient safety.

Daily CA One- Liner: September 19

• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research and its institutes across India participated in the Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 campaign, reaffirming their commitment to cleanliness and hygiene
• The Third Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation Conference on Traditional Medicine Knowledge, Genetic Resources and Intellectual Property Rights and the Second BIMSTEC Nodal Group Meeting concluded in Goa with participation from all seven BIMSTEC Member States
• Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan participated as the Chief Guest at the 79th Hyderabad Liberation Day celebrations held at Parade Ground, Secunderabad, Telangana, on 17 September 2026
• Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, released a commemorative postage stamp issued by the Department of Posts, Government of India, in honour of Sant Malook Das ji
• The three-day Dryland Congress 2026 concluded in New Delhi with a call for stronger South-South and triangular cooperation to accelerate solutions for dryland agriculture
• PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17 September 2023, completed three years with 30 lakh traditional artisans and craftspeople registered across India
• The Department of Rural Development and the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding to expand pension coverage and social security among rural communities
• Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced the formation of a 10-member task force to assess the challenges and feasibility of reviving Formula One in India
• Indian Olympic Association President P. T. Usha announced two new memorial trophies named after veteran sports administrator Raja Randhir Singh and renowned pistol coach Jaspal Rana
• India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium to win a record-extending eighth Asia Cup title
• Colombian midfielder James Rodríguez, aged 35, announced his retirement from international football after a 15-year career with the Colombia national team.
• Nairobi, Kenya has been confirmed as the host city for the 2029 World Athletics Championships, marking the first time that the championships will be held in
• The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) reported that India’s combined Merchandise and Services exports reached an estimated USD 399.27 billion during April–August 2026 (FY27), registering a growth of 55% year-on-year.
• Agriculture and allied activities recorded 6% Gross Value Added (GVA) growth in Q1 FY27, down from 4.4% in Q1 FY26, according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
• The Central Government revised the taxation framework for petroleum product exports, reducing both the export levy and windfall tax on diesel with effect from 1 September.
• National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF), India’s sovereign-anchored alternative asset manager, announced the first closure of NIIF Infrastructure Fund II at ₹19,000 crore ($2 billion).
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data showed that Non-Resident Indian (NRI) deposit inflows declined 24% to $2.78 billion in Q1 FY27 (April–June 2026), compared with $3.61 billion in Q1 FY26.
• IDFC FIRST Bank priced a $350 million five-year senior notes issue, marking its second overseas bond issuance.
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data showed that outward remittances under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) by resident individuals increased 9% year-on-year to $2.5 billion during April–June FY27, mainly driven by higher international travel and overseas investments.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) became a net buyer of US dollars in June, purchasing $561 million, compared with a net sale of $6.10 billion in May.
• The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that world food prices rose in August 2026 to their highest level since November 2022, driven by adverse weather and Black Sea supply disruptions.
• Sanjukta Parashar, a senior 2006-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, took charge as Inspector General (IG) of the Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA).
• The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) reconstituted the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with 18 members on 16 September 2026.
• Dileep Sanghani, Chairman of Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), was elected as an At-Large Director to the Global Board of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) for the 2026–2030 term.
• Researchers from Mizoram discovered a new stream-dwelling frog species named Ingerana aizawl along the Hratdawng Stream on the Mizoram University campus, Aizawl, Mizoram.
• The NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) scientists confirmed the discovery of the McGetchin Crater on the Moon using imagery from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO).
• Researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela have developed a hybrid energy storage system designed to improve the efficiency and lifespan of electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
• Bharat Forge Limited (BFL) and Pratt & Whitney Canada, a business of United States of America(USA)-based RTX, announced a collaboration on 15 September 2026 to evaluate the integration of advanced turboprop engines into the High-Altitude, Long-Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle programme developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• World Patient Safety Day is observed annually on 17 September to create global awareness about patient safety and promote action to prevent avoidable harm during healthcare delivery.