Dear Readers, get to know the daily current affairs today covering all the National & International Events provided here in this article. Current Affairs is an important topic in various competitive exams like IBPS/SBI/PO/Clerk and other competitive exams. To score better in this section, be updated with the daily happenings. Check the Daily Current Affairs July 2026 updates here. Revision is very important in remembering current affairs. Candidates after learning the Daily current affairs 29th July 2026, can test their knowledge by attempting Current Affairs Quiz provided with answers. Daily current affairs  29th July 2026 covers current affairs from International & National news, Important Days, State News, Banking & Economy, Business News, Appointments & Resignation, Awards & Honour, Books & Authors, Sports News, etc.,

Daily Current Affairs PDF of  29th July  2026

Get More: Static GK Pdfs

CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

National Stock Exchange Launches India’s First Domestic Benchmark-Based Indian Natural Gas Futures Contract

• The National Stock Exchange (NSE) announced the launch of India's first exchange-traded energy derivative, the Indian Natural Gas Futures, with trading commencing from 27 July 2026.
• The Indian Natural Gas Futures contract is linked to a domestic benchmark, providing India's first exchange-traded natural gas derivative based on domestic gas prices.
• The contract was launched under the trading symbol NATGASIND after receiving approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for trading in the Commodity Derivatives Segment.
• The cash-settled contract is benchmarked to the Indian Gas Exchange (IGX) Gujarat (Dahej) Hub
• The contract price is quoted in per mmBtu (Metric Million British Thermal Units), with the final settlement based on the monthly weighted average price of actual IGX deliveries.
• The trading unit of the contract is 250 mmBtu, and trading is available from Monday to Friday.
• NSE Clearing is responsible for the clearing, settlement, and margin management of the contract.
• The Indian Natural Gas Futures contract enables gas producers, consumers, traders, power companies, and other market participants to hedge against price volatility and improve price discovery and market efficiency.

Recent News :

• In July 2026, NSE Indices Limited, the index services subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), launched the Nifty500 Ahimsa Index.

About National Stock Exchange (NSE) : 

• Established : 1992
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra.

VIYONA Fintech Secures Bharat Connect Approval to Operate as Customer Operating Unit

• VIYONA Fintech, a Hyderabad, Telangana-based fintech infrastructure startup, received approval from the Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS), now known as Bharat Connect, to operate as a Customer Operating Unit (COU).
• The COU certification enables VIYONA Fintech to provide interoperable digital bill payment services across India through the Bharat Connect platform.
• Under the approval, VIYONA can offer Bharat Connect-powered bill payment services for electricity, water, gas, broadband, mobile recharges, Direct-to-Home (DTH) subscriptions, insurance premiums, loan EMIs, educational fees, and other approved bill payments.
• The approval also enables Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), banks, fintech companies, enterprises, and government organisations to integrate Bharat Connect services through VIYONA's digital platform.
• The certification strengthens VIYONA's digital payment infrastructure by expanding its role in India's interoperable bill payment ecosystem.
• The approval adds to VIYONA's National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) certifications, including Unified Payments Interface (UPI) Switch, Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), Banking Connect, Billers Operating Unit (BOU), and eKYC Setu.

About VIYONA Fintech :

• Established : 2018
• Headquarters : Hyderabad, Telangana.

Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs Grants Customs Clearance to Vizhinjam International Seaport for Export-Import Cargo Operations

• Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited (VISL), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, received final approval from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to commence Export-Import (EXIM) cargo operations from 18 August 2026.
• The CBIC notified VISL as a Customs Port under the Customs Act, 1962, enabling the port to handle direct EXIM cargo operations.
• The customs approval will reduce India's dependence on foreign transshipment hubs, improve international trade efficiency, and strengthen the country's maritime logistics ecosystem.
• The CBIC will coordinate EXIM cargo regulation in collaboration with Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited (VISL), Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited (AVPPL), and other concerned agencies.
• Vizhinjam International Seaport has been developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model by the Government of Kerala in collaboration with Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ).
• The approval marks a significant step toward establishing Vizhinjam as a major international transshipment and container port for India.

About CBIC :

• Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) was established in 1964 and is headquartered in New Delhi, Delhi.
• CBIC functions under the Department of Revenue (DoR), Ministry of Finance (MoF).
• The current Chairman of CBIC is Vivek Chaturvedi.

State Bank of India to Become First Indian Bank to Issue Perpetual Bonds in 2026

• State Bank of India (SBI) is set to become the first Indian bank to issue Basel III-compliant Additional Tier-I (AT-1) Perpetual Bonds in 2026.
• SBI plans to raise ₹5,000 crore through the issuance of AT-1 Perpetual Bonds, with the issue expected within the next two weeks.
• The proposed AT-1 Perpetual Bonds will carry a five-year call option, allowing SBI to redeem the bonds after five years, subject to regulatory approval.
• The bond issue is part of SBI's broader plan to raise up to ₹60,000 crore during the financial year through Infrastructure Bonds, Basel III-compliant AT-1 Bonds, and Tier-II Bonds.
• Basel III-compliant AT-1 Perpetual Bonds are capital instruments that help banks strengthen their capital base, improve the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), and comply with Basel III regulatory norms.
• Perpetual Bonds have no fixed maturity date, but they may include a call option, enabling the issuer to redeem them after a specified period.
• Canara Bank was the last Indian bank to issue AT-1 Perpetual Bonds, raising ₹3,500 crore in November 2025 at a 55% coupon rate.
• SBI last issued Perpetual Bonds in October 2024, raising ₹5,000 crore at a 98% coupon rate with a 10-year call option.
• In June 2026, the SBI Board approved raising up to ₹60,000 crore through various debt instruments to strengthen the bank's capital and support future growth.

About State Bank of India (SBI):

• Founded Year: 1955
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Chairman: Challa Sreenivasulu Setty
• Slogan: "The Banker to Every Indian"

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Gujarat Launches e-Zero First Information Report (e-Zero FIR) System for Faster Action Against Cyber Financial Frauds

• The Government of Gujarat launched the e-Zero First Information Report (e-Zero FIR) System to enable victims of cyber financial fraud to lodge complaints without visiting a police station.
• The system was launched by Harsh Sanghavi, Minister of State for Home, Industries, Transport, Youth and Sports, Government of Gujarat, in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
• The initiative aims to speed up cybercrime investigations, improve the chances of recovering defrauded money, and make the cybercrime reporting process faster and more citizen-friendly.
• The e-Zero FIR System has been developed in collaboration with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
• Under the new system, cyber financial fraud complaints registered through the 1930 National Cyber Crime Helpline are automatically converted into e-Zero FIRs.
• The e-Zero FIR is electronically transmitted to the concerned police station, where the investigating officer contacts the complainant to verify details and complete the required legal formalities.
• After verification, the First Information Report (FIR) is formally registered, and the investigation begins immediately, reducing delays during the critical period after a cyber fraud.
• The initiative is designed to improve police response time, expedite FIR registration, and increase the chances of blocking fraudulent financial transactions.
• The system also aims to strengthen coordination among cybercrime investigation agencies, promote technology-driven policing, and provide faster and more efficient citizen services.
• The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) supports the initiative by coordinating cybercrime investigations, developing cyber forensic capabilities, assisting State Police forces with technology and intelligence, implementing preventive measures, and creating public awareness about cybercrime.
• Integration of the e-Zero FIR System with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) enables faster sharing of information and enhances the investigation of cyber financial fraud cases.

About Gujarat:

• Chief Minister: Bhupendra Patel
• Governor: Acharya Dev Vrat
• Capital: Gandhinagar
• National Parks: Gir, Blackbuck, Gulf of Kutch (Marine), Vansda National Parks
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Nal Sarovar Bird, Wild Ass, Kutch Desert, Barda, Purna Wildlife Sanctuaries

RECENT NEWS

• The Gujarat region’s Gir Forest has successfully rehabilitated the Indian Grey Hornbill, which had gone missing from the region over sixty years ago. The scientific evaluations have revealed that hornbills that were brought back via a precise conservation scheme have thrived, developed nesting locations, and reared young ones over four years. 

BRICS Science Academies Forum Meeting 2026 Held at Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Telangana

• The 2nd BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Science Academies Forum Meeting 2026 was held at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT Hyderabad), Telangana.
• The theme of the forum was “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development and Strengthening Global South Cooperation”.
• The meeting brought together representatives from BRICS member countries and partner countries to discuss the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in sustainable development and global cooperation.
• The forum focused on the 3C approach of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
• Collective approach
• Collaborative approach
• Context-sensitive approach
• The event was hosted by the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) as India holds the BRICS Presidency 2026 under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”.
• The forum identified five priority areas for Artificial Intelligence-driven interventions:
• Advanced Materials and Manufacturing
• Healthcare
• Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability
• Agriculture and Food Security
• Disaster Prediction and Management
• Other major BRICS engagements hosted by India in 2026 include:
• 3rd BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) held in New Delhi, Delhi, which concluded with the adoption of the BRICS Joint Statement on Disaster Risk Reduction and implementation of the BRICS DRR Work Plan (2025–2028).
• India launched six flagship knowledge products during the meeting to support evidence-based policymaking, institutional strengthening, and capacity building in disaster risk reduction.
• Meeting of Heads of BRICS National Standards Bodies (NSBs) was held from 16th to 17th July 2026 in Bengaluru, Karnataka, where BRICS countries agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation in standardisation.
• 8th BRICS Heads of Prosecution Services Meeting was held virtually from 20th to 21st July 2026 under the theme “Exchanging Experiences and Best Practices in Criminal Adjudication from the Prosecution’s Perspective”.
• The meeting was chaired by Attorney General for India R. Venkataramani and discussed the development of a BRICS Model Framework for Judicial Cooperation and strengthening forensic cooperation through institutions like the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU).
• 5th BRICS Working Group Meeting on Geospatial Technology and its Applications was hosted by Indian Institute of Technology Tirupati (IIT Tirupati) and IIT Navavishkar I-Hub Foundation (IITNiFi) at Yerpedu, Andhra Pradesh from 20th to 22nd July 2026.
• The BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry Women Empowerment (BRICS CCI WE) released a whitepaper titled “Women in Innovation, Science & Entrepreneurship (WISE): Challenges and Opportunities” to strengthen women’s participation in science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
• The BRICS Network University (BRICS NU) International Governing Board (IGB) Meeting and conference on Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge Systems were hosted by India, resulting in the adoption of the BRICS Network University IGB Declaration.

About Indian National Science Academy (INSA)

• Established: 1935
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• President: Shekhar C. Mande
• Objective: Promote and advance scientific research, innovation, and international scientific cooperation.

About Telangana:

• Chief Minister: 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. 

Himachal Pradesh Launches Mukhyamantri Machhuara Samman Nidhi Yojana for Reservoir Fishermen

• Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, launched the Mukhyamantri Machhuara Samman Nidhi Yojana to provide financial assistance and social security to fishermen engaged in reservoir fisheries during the annual fishing ban period.
• The scheme aims to support fishermen whose livelihood is affected during the temporary fishing ban period and provide them with financial stability.
• The scheme will be implemented with an estimated annual expenditure of ₹1.20 crore by the Himachal Pradesh Government.
• Under the scheme, eligible fishermen will receive lump-sum financial assistance of ₹3,500 each during the fishing ban period.
• The scheme is expected to benefit around 3,700 fishing families across five major reservoirs of Himachal Pradesh:
• Gobind Sagar Reservoir
• Pong Dam Reservoir
• Kol Dam Reservoir
• Chamera Reservoir
• Ranjit Sagar Reservoir
• The beneficiaries include active fishermen involved in reservoir fisheries through registered Fisheries Cooperative Societies and holding valid fishing licences.
• Eligible fishermen can apply through their respective Fisheries Cooperative Societies by submitting:
• Aadhaar Card
• Parivar Register details
• Valid registration on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP)
• The Directorate of Fisheries, Himachal Pradesh Government, will maintain beneficiary records and conduct random verification to ensure transparency and effective implementation of the scheme.

About Himachal Pradesh:

• Chief Minister: Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
• Governor: Kavinder Gupta
• Capital: Shimla
• National Parks: Great Himalayan National Park, Pin Valley National Park, Inderkilla National Park, Khirganga National Park, Simbalbara National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary, Kalatop-Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Kais Wildlife Sanctuary, Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary, Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

President Droupadi Murmu Concludes State Visits to Moldova, North Macedonia, and Romania (19–25 July 2026)

• President Droupadi Murmu undertook a week-long State Visit to Moldova, North Macedonia, and Romania from 19–25 July 2026 to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, technology, tourism, education, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

Key Highlights :

Moldova

• President Droupadi Murmu received a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour at the Presidential Palace and held bilateral talks with Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova.
• India and Moldova agreed to enhance cooperation in agriculture, logistics, infrastructure, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, Renewable Energy (RE), Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and innovation.
• India unveiled the 3Ts Roadmap (Trade, Technology, and Talent) to strengthen long-term bilateral relations with Moldova.

North Macedonia

• President Droupadi Murmu visited North Macedonia from 21–22 July 2026, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian President to the country.
• She held bilateral talks with President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova and met Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation.
• She addressed the Assembly of North Macedonia and the India–North Macedonia Business Forum in Skopje, highlighting opportunities for economic and business collaboration.
• President Droupadi Murmu and North Macedonian leaders jointly unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Museum of the City of Skopje, symbolizing the strong cultural ties between the two nations.

Romania

• President Droupadi Murmu visited Romania from 23–25 July 2026 at the invitation of President Nicușor Dan, marking the first State Visit by an Indian President to Romania in nearly 30 years.
• She was conferred the prestigious Doctor Honoris Causa by the Bucharest University of Economic Studies (BUES).
• India and Romania signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of Science & Technology, Education, and Sports.
• Both countries jointly declared 2028 as the "India–Romania Year of Innovation" to commemorate 80 years of diplomatic relations between India and Romania.

About Moldova :

• President : Maia Sandu
• Prime Minister : Vasile Tofan
• Capital : Chișinău
• Currency : Moldovan leu

About North Macedonia :

• President : Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova
• Prime Minister : Hristijan Mickoski
• Capital : Skopje
• Currency : Macedonian denar

About Romania :

• President : Nicușor Dan
• Prime Minister : Ilie Bolojan
• Capital : Bucharest
• Currency : Romanian leu

Sarnath Recognized as India’s 45th United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage Site

• The Ancient Buddhist Site of Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh (UP) was inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List during the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) held in Busan, South Korea.

Key Highlights :

• With this inscription, Sarnath became India's 45th UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS) and the 4th UNESCO World Heritage Site in Uttar Pradesh, after the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.
• Sarnath was included in UNESCO's Tentative List in 1998, and India submitted its nomination dossier in January 2025 for the 2025–26 World Heritage cycle.
• The inscription recognizes the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of Sarnath as one of the world's holiest Buddhist pilgrimage centres, where Gautama Buddha (Lord Buddha) delivered his first sermon (Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta/Dharmachakra Pravartana) after attaining enlightenment.
• Sarnath marks the beginning of the spread of Buddhist teachings and remains one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.
• The site includes significant monuments such as the Dhamek Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, monasteries, temples, and archaeological remains, forming the historic Deer Park (Mrigadava).
• The UNESCO recognition enhances Sarnath's global importance as a centre of Buddhist heritage, culture, archaeology, spirituality, and religious tourism.
• With this inscription, India now ranks 6th globally and 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region in terms of the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with 45 World Heritage Sites and 69 properties on the UNESCO Tentative List.
• India's 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites comprise 37 Cultural Sites, 7 Natural Sites, and 1 Mixed Site (Khangchendzonga National Park).

About UNESCO World Heritage Convention :

• The UNESCO World Heritage Convention is an international treaty adopted in 1972 to identify, protect, conserve, and preserve cultural and natural heritage of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV).
• The Convention is officially known as the "Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage" and is administered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee (WHC).
• World Heritage Sites are selected based on their Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) and must satisfy one or more of UNESCO's 10 selection criteria.
• The Convention recognizes three categories of heritage: Cultural Heritage, Natural Heritage, and Mixed Heritage Sites.
• The Convention promotes international technical, financial, scientific, and conservation cooperation among member countries for the protection of heritage sites.
• Countries that ratify the Convention are known as State Parties and are responsible for identifying, protecting, conserving, and managing their World Heritage Sites.
• India ratified the UNESCO World Heritage Convention in 1977.

Confederation of Indian Textile Industry and European Apparel and Textile Confederation Launch EU–India Textile Dialogue to Facilitate India–EU FTA Implementation

• The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) and the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (EURATEX) jointly launched the EU–India Textile and Apparel Dialogue (TAD) to strengthen bilateral cooperation and support the effective implementation of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
• The mandate for the EU–India Textile and Apparel Dialogue (TAD) was signed on 14 July 2026 during Bharat Tex 2026 in New Delhi by Ashwin Chandran, Chairman of CITI, and Mario Jorge Machado, President of EURATEX.
• The EU–India Textile and Apparel Dialogue (TAD) provides a structured bilateral industry platform for continuous dialogue between Indian and European textile and apparel industries.
• The platform aims to promote reciprocal market access, resilient value chains, industrial competitiveness, and sustainable growth in the textile and apparel sector.
• The TAD Monitoring Committee will monitor the implementation of the India–EU FTA, address issues related to customs procedures, regulatory barriers, rules of origin, trade flows, investment, and market access, and recommend practical solutions to facilitate trade.
• The initiative assumes significance as India and the European Union concluded FTA negotiations in January 2026, with the India–EU Free Trade Agreement expected to be signed later in 2026.
• The European Union (EU) has long been one of the largest export destinations for India's textile and apparel industry.
• In 2025, the European Union was the second-largest market for India's textile and apparel exports, with exports valued at US$7.6 billion.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Pralhad Joshi Assumes Additional Charge as India’s Union Education Minister

• Union Minister Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi, currently heading the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD) and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), was assigned additional charge as the 10th Union Minister of Education.
• Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi assumed the additional responsibility following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan at Kartavya Bhavan, New Delhi, Delhi.
• President Droupadi Murmu, acting on the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accepted the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan with immediate effect under Clause (2) of Article 75 of the Constitution of India.
• Dharmendra Pradhan resigned by taking moral responsibility for the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy and the nationwide student protests that followed.
• With this appointment, Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi became the 10th Union Minister of Education of India while continuing to hold his existing ministerial portfolios.
• In the Ministry of Education (MoE), Naresh Pal Gangwar, a 1994-batch IAS officer, assumed charge as Secretary, Department of Higher Education, replacing Vineet Joshi.
• K. Anil Kumar, a 1995-batch IAS officer, took charge as Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy in the Ministry of Education.

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin Steps Down Due to Health Reasons

• Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin resigned from office nearly two years before completing his five-year term, citing serious health problems, including autonomic neuropathy, which occasionally causes loss of consciousness.
• Mohammed Shahabuddin, a former judge and veteran of Bangladesh's 1971 Liberation War, assumed office as the 22nd President of Bangladesh in April 2023.
• Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad accepted the resignation and, under Article 54 of the Constitution of Bangladesh, assumed charge as the Acting President.
• Under Article 54 of the Constitution of Bangladesh, the Acting President will discharge presidential duties until a new President is elected by Parliament.
• Under Bangladesh's parliamentary system, the President serves as the constitutional Head of State and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, while executive powers are exercised by the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers.
• The resignation has created a vacancy in Bangladesh's highest constitutional office, with the Acting President performing all constitutional responsibilities until the election of a new President in accordance with the Constitution.

About Bangladesh :

• Capital : Dhaka
• Currency : Taka

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SpaceX Successfully Conducts 13th Starship Test Flight, Launches 20 Starlink V3 Satellites

• SpaceX successfully completed the 13th integrated test flight of its Starship launch system from Starbase, Texas, United States of America (USA).
• During the mission, Starship successfully deployed 20 next-generation Starlink Version 3 (V3) satellites into orbit, marking the first-ever deployment of Starlink V3 satellites.
• The mission marked the second test flight of Starship Version 3 (V3) and represented another major milestone in SpaceX's reusable launch vehicle programme.
• The 124-metre (m) Starship rocket successfully launched from Starbase, Texas, demonstrating the performance of its upgraded launch and flight systems.
• The Starlink V3 satellites are equipped with advanced communication capabilities and laser-link technology to enhance global satellite-based internet connectivity.
• After completing satellite deployment, the Starship upper stage successfully performed atmospheric re-entry followed by a controlled soft splashdown in the Indian Ocean.
• The successful re-entry provided critical engineering data on the heat shield, spacecraft systems, and flight performance, supporting future Starship missions.
• The mission tested hardware, software, satellite deployment mechanisms, and flight systems to improve the reliability of future space missions.
• The test flight was closely monitored by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as Starship is being developed as the Human Landing System (HLS) for NASA's Artemis lunar missions.
• The mission supports NASA's Artemis Programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon and establish a sustainable lunar presence before future missions to Mars.
• The successful flight also advances SpaceX's long-term objective of enabling human exploration and settlement of Mars through the Starship programme.

About NASA :

• Established : 1958, is the space agency of the United States
• Headquarters : Washington, D.C.
• Administrator : Jared Isaacman.

Bihar to Set Up Permanent National Skill Training Institute for Women Campus and Skill India International Centre in Patna

• The Government of Bihar and the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) announced the establishment of the permanent National Skill Training Institute for Women (NSTI-W), Patna campus and the Skill India International Centre (SIIC), Bihar to strengthen women's skilling and global employment opportunities.
• The initiative was announced by Samrat Choudhary, Chief Minister (CM) of Bihar, and Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSDE and Minister of State for Education, Government of India.
• The foundation stone for the projects was laid by Dilip Kumar, Director General (DG), Directorate General of Training (DGT).
• The permanent NSTI-W Patna campus will be developed at Bihta, Bihar with an investment of ₹99.97 crore to provide modern infrastructure and industry-aligned skill training for women.
• The Skill India International Centre (SIIC), Bihar will be established with an investment of ₹7 crore to promote global employment through language training, international certification, and safe migration assistance.
• The initiatives aim to strengthen Bihar's skill development ecosystem, promote women-led development, and create domestic as well as international employment opportunities for the youth.
• NSTI-W Patna is Bihar's only Central Government skill training institute for women, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• NSTI-W Patna offers Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) and Craft Instructor Training Scheme (CITS) courses to develop a skilled workforce.

National Forensic Sciences University Goa's Digital Forensics Laboratory Recognized as Examiner of Electronic Evidence Under the Information Technology Act

• The Digital Forensics Laboratory at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Goa Campus has been notified as an Examiner of Electronic Evidence under Section 79A of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
• The recognition authorizes the NFSU Goa Digital Forensics Laboratory to examine and certify electronic evidence in Computer (Media) Forensics and Mobile Device Forensics, ensuring the legal admissibility of digital evidence in courts.
• NFSU Goa has become the second laboratory under NFSU and one of only 21 notified forensic laboratories in India to receive this recognition.
• NFSU Goa is also the fourth notified forensic laboratory in Western India authorized as an Examiner of Electronic Evidence.
• The notification under Section 79A of the IT Act, 2000 strengthens the credibility of digital forensic investigations and supports the judicial system through authenticated electronic evidence.
• The recognition is expected to enhance cyber forensic capabilities in Goa, strengthen research, training, and consultancy, and bridge the digital forensic infrastructure gap in Western India.
• The recognition further reinforces NFSU Goa's position as a Centre of Excellence in Digital Forensics and Cyber Security in India.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Sharmila Dhankar Wins Historic Gold Medal and Shilpa Shyla Secures Bronze Medal in Women’s F57 Shot Put at Commonwealth Games 2026

• Sharmila Dhankar won the Gold Medal and Shilpa Shyla secured the Bronze Medal in the Women’s F57 Shot Put event at the Commonwealth Games 2026.
• The achievement marked a historic milestone for India’s Para Athletics, as it became India’s first-ever Gold Medal in Para Athletics at the Commonwealth Games.
• India also created history by winning two medals in the same Para Athletics event for the first time at the Commonwealth Games.
• Sharmila Dhankar produced her season-best performance with a throw of 9.81 metres to clinch the Gold Medal.
• Her victory ended India’s 20-year wait for a Para Athletics medal at the Commonwealth Games.
• Sharmila Dhankar became the first Indian athlete to win a medal in Para Athletics at the Commonwealth Games.
• Shilpa Shyla won the Bronze Medal with a personal best throw of 7.26 metres in the Women’s F57 Shot Put event.
• The performances of both athletes highlighted India’s growing dominance and development in international Para Sports.
• Sharmila Dhankar, from Chhithroli village, Haryana, overcame physical and personal challenges after being affected by polio at the age of two.
• She started her para-athletics training under coach Tek Chand in 2020 and became the National Champion in 2021.
• Sharmila has also achieved several milestones, including international medals, Indian national records, and top ranking in the Women’s F57 category.
• The Women’s F57 Shot Put event achieved several milestones for India:
• First Commonwealth Games Gold Medal in Para Athletics.
• First Indian woman to win a Para Athletics medal at the Commonwealth Games.
• First time India won two medals in the same Para Athletics event at the Commonwealth Games.
• Ended India’s 20-year wait for a Para Athletics medal at the Commonwealth Games.

Sarvesh Anil Kushare Wins Silver Medal in Men’s High Jump at Commonwealth Games 2026

• Sarvesh Anil Kushare won the Silver Medal in the Men’s High Jump event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 held in Glasgow, Scotland.
• The Indian national record holder cleared a best height of 2.25 metres, securing his first-ever medal at a major multi-sport event.
• Romaine Beckford (Jamaica) won the Gold Medal, while Jack Kimani (Scotland) secured the Bronze Medal with a best jump of 2.20 metres.
• Both Sarvesh Kushare and Romaine Beckford cleared 2.25 metres and failed to clear 2.28 metres. However, Romaine Beckford was awarded the Gold Medal based on the countback rule, having cleared 2.25 metres with fewer failed attempts.
• Sarvesh successfully cleared 2.25 metres on his third and final attempt, displaying remarkable composure under pressure.
• During the competition, he cleared 2.05 metres, 2.20 metres, and 2.25 metres, but was unsuccessful in all three attempts at 2.28 metres.
• The Silver Medal is Sarvesh Kushare’s first medal at a major multi-sport event and marks India’s best-ever performance in the Men’s High Jump at the Commonwealth Games, surpassing the Bronze Medal won by Tejaswin Shankar at the previous edition.
• Prior to the Commonwealth Games 2026, Sarvesh Kushare set a new Indian National Record by clearing 2.31 metres at the Inter-State Athletics Championships, establishing himself as India’s top high jumper.

About Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF)

• Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
• Founded: 1930 (as the British Empire Games Federation)
• President: Dr. Donald Rukare

Ajaya Babu Wins Silver Medal in Men’s 79 Kilogram Weightlifting Event at Commonwealth Games 2026

• Ajaya Babu won the Silver Medal in the Men’s 79 Kilogram Weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 held in Glasgow, Scotland.
• Representing India, the weightlifter from Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh, lifted a combined total of 330 kilograms, missing the Gold Medal by just 1 kilogram.
• Ajaya Babu successfully lifted 149 kilograms in the Snatch and 181 kilograms in the Clean and Jerk, finishing with a total lift of 330 kilograms.
• Erry Hidayat Muhammad (Malaysia) won the Gold Medal with a Games Record total lift of 331 kilograms (147 kilograms Snatch + 184 kilograms Clean and Jerk).
• Chris Murray (England) secured the Bronze Medal with a total lift of 325 kilograms.
• During the competition, Ajaya Babu set a Commonwealth Record in the Snatch by lifting 149 kilograms on his third attempt.
• His 181-kilogram Clean and Jerk brought his total to 330 kilograms, equalling the existing Games Record, before Malaysia’s Erry Hidayat Muhammad surpassed it with 331 kilograms.
• Ajaya Babu’s medal became India’s sixth medal in weightlifting at the Commonwealth Games 2026.
• Earlier, Ajaya Babu won the Gold Medal at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025 held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
• He qualified for the Commonwealth Games 2026 after achieving a personal best total lift of 335 kilograms (152 kilograms Snatch + 183 kilograms Clean and Jerk).

India’s Weightlifting Medal Winners at Commonwealth Games 2026

• Mirabai Chanu – Gold Medal (Women’s 48 Kilogram)
• Rishikanta Singh – Silver Medal (Men’s 60 Kilogram)
• Raja Muthupandi – Silver Medal (Men’s 65 Kilogram)
• Gyaneshwari Yadav – Silver Medal (Women’s 53 Kilogram)
• Bindyarani Devi – Bronze Medal
• Ajaya Babu – Silver Medal (Men’s 79 Kilogram)

India’s Esha Singh Wins Gold and Manu Bhaker Secures Bronze in Women’s 25 Metre Pistol Event at International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup 2026

• Esha Singh won the Gold Medal in the Women’s 25 Metre Pistol event at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup 2026 held in Hangzhou, China.
• Manu Bhaker won the Bronze Medal in the same event, giving India two medals in the competition.
• In the final, Esha Singh scored 40 hits to defeat Zhang Yueyue (China), who secured the Silver Medal with 37 hits.
• Esha had earlier finished second in the qualification round, before delivering a dominant performance in the final to clinch the title.
• Manu Bhaker secured the Bronze Medal after winning a shoot-off with 28 hits, adding another international medal to her career.
• By winning the Gold Medal, Esha Singh earned direct qualification for the International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup Final 2026, scheduled to be held in Rome, Italy, in December 2026.
• The victory further strengthened Esha Singh’s international achievements, adding to her impressive medal tally, including her four medals at the Hangzhou Asian Games.
• India’s performance highlighted the growing strength of the country’s women’s pistol shooting team on the international stage.

About International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF)

• Established: 17 July 1907
• Headquarters: Munich, Germany
• President: Luciano Rossi

Daily CA One- Liner: July 29

• The Government of Gujarat launched the e-Zero First Information Report (e-Zero FIR) System to enable victims of cyber financial fraud to lodge complaints without visiting a police station
• The 2nd BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Science Academies Forum Meeting 2026 was held at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT Hyderabad), Telangana
• Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, launched the Mukhyamantri Machhuara Samman Nidhi Yojana to provide financial assistance and social security to fishermen engaged in reservoir fisheries during the annual fishing ban period
• Sharmila Dhankar won the Gold Medal and Shilpa Shyla secured the Bronze Medal in the Women’s F57 Shot Put event at the Commonwealth Games 2026
• Sarvesh Anil Kushare won the Silver Medal in the Men’s High Jump event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 held in Glasgow, Scotland
• Ajaya Babu won the Silver Medal in the Men’s 79 Kilogram Weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 held in Glasgow, Scotland

• Esha Singh won the Gold Medal in the Women’s 25 Metre Pistol event at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup 2026 held in Hangzhou, China.
• The National Stock Exchange (NSE) announced the launch of India's first exchange-traded energy derivative, the Indian Natural Gas Futures, with trading commencing from 27 July 2026.
• VIYONA Fintech, a Hyderabad, Telangana-based fintech infrastructure startup, received approval from the Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS), now known as Bharat Connect, to operate as a Customer Operating Unit (COU).
• Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited (VISL), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, received final approval from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to commence Export-Import (EXIM) cargo operations from 18 August 2026.
• State Bank of India (SBI) is set to become the first Indian bank to issue Basel III-compliant Additional Tier-I (AT-1) Perpetual Bonds in 2026.
• President Droupadi Murmu undertook a week-long State Visit to Moldova, North Macedonia, and Romania from 19–25 July 2026 to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, technology, tourism, education, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
• The Ancient Buddhist Site of Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh (UP) was inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List during the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) held in Busan, South Korea.
• The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) and the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (EURATEX) jointly launched the EU–India Textile and Apparel Dialogue (TAD) to strengthen bilateral cooperation and support the effective implementation of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
• Union Minister Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi, currently heading the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD) and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), was assigned additional charge as the 10th Union Minister of Education.
• Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin resigned from office nearly two years before completing his five-year term, citing serious health problems, including autonomic neuropathy, which occasionally causes loss of consciousness.
• SpaceX successfully completed the 13th integrated test flight of its Starship launch system from Starbase, Texas, United States of America (USA).
• The Government of Bihar and the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) announced the establishment of the permanent National Skill Training Institute for Women (NSTI-W), Patna campus and the Skill India International Centre (SIIC), Bihar to strengthen women's skilling and global employment opportunities.
• The Digital Forensics Laboratory at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Goa Campus has been notified as an Examiner of Electronic Evidence under Section 79A of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).