Current Affairs

Current Affairs is one of the most important sections of competitive examinations in India. At GK Now, we provide daily, accurate, and exam-oriented current affairs covering the latest national and international developments that are important for competitive exam preparation.

This category brings together short, easy-to-read current affairs articles designed to help aspirants quickly understand and revise important events, facts, appointments, government decisions, schemes, sports, science and technology, and other exam-relevant developments.

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  • National Current Affairs – Important government decisions, policies, bills, major developments, and national events
  • International Affairs – Global events, international relations, agreements, organisations, and major developments
  • Appointments – Important appointments, transfers, and new heads of organisations and institutions
  • Polity & Governance – Constitutional developments, Parliament, Supreme Court and High Court decisions, committees, and governance
  • Government Schemes & Policies – New schemes, initiatives, Cabinet decisions, programmes, and policy updates
  • Science & Technology – ISRO, DRDO, space missions, scientific discoveries, technology, and important innovations
  • Sports Current Affairs – Major tournaments, championships, records, medals, athletes, and sports-related developments
  • Awards & Honours – Important national and international awards, honours, and recognitions
  • Defence & Security – Defence exercises, military developments, weapons systems, appointments, and national security
  • Economy & Banking – Important economic developments, RBI updates, banking, finance, budgets, and major reports
  • Environment & Geography – Climate, biodiversity, protected areas, Ramsar sites, environmental initiatives, and geographical developments
  • Culture & Heritage – Festivals, traditions, heritage sites, cultural events, and important personalities
  • Important Days & Themes – National and international days, annual themes, and their significance

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Uttar Pradesh Introduces New Character Verification Policy for Government Jobs

The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, introduced a unified character and antecedent verification policy on 29 October 2026 to speed up government recruitment. Under the new policy, selected candidates can receive appointment letters while police verification is in progress, subject to prescribed conditions. Appointments will be confirmed after satisfactory verification.

Verification deadline: Police and other concerned authorities must submit verification reports within 30 days.

No unnecessary visits: Candidates will generally not be required to visit police or administrative offices, appear in person, or submit additional documents for verification.

Security-sensitive posts: Appointment will be issued only after detailed verification, following the prescribed procedure and prior approval of the Chief Minister.

Criminal cases: An FIR, pending investigation or chargesheet will not automatically disqualify a candidate. Eligibility will depend on the nature of the offence and the stage of the legal proceedings.

False declarations: Concealing criminal cases or providing false information may lead to cancellation of appointment and legal action.

Opportunity to appeal: Candidates will be given an opportunity to present their case if an adverse verification report is received. A hearing may also be conducted online.

Existing employees: Government employees already in service will not need fresh character verification.

Wider applicability: The policy covers direct recruitment in government departments, corporations, educational institutions, autonomous bodies, undertakings and local bodies. Pending cases will also be handled under the new guidelines.

The policy aims to reduce recruitment delays, improve transparency and make the appointment process more convenient for candidates.

UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey, from 9-20 November 2026

The 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) will be held in Antalya, Türkiye (Turkey), from 9-20 November 2026. It is organized under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and will bring together representatives from nearly every country to discuss global climate action.

COP31 aims to accelerate the implementation of the Paris Agreement, strengthen efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C, mobilize climate finance for developing countries, promote clean energy transitions, and enhance climate resilience.

Key agenda items include:

  • Climate finance for developing nations
  • Renewable energy expansion and energy efficiency
  • Reduction of greenhouse gas and methane emissions
  • Climate adaptation and disaster resilience
  • Sustainable cities and circular economy initiatives
  • Transition away from fossil fuels

What is COP?

COP stands for Conference of the Parties, the supreme decision-making body of the UNFCCC. Since the convention was adopted in 1992, COP meetings have been held annually to review progress in combating climate change and to negotiate new measures for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

ISRO to Launch NVS-03 Navigation Satellite Aboard GSLV-F18

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is scheduled to launch the NVS-03 navigation satellite aboard the GSLV-F18 rocket on 30 October 2026 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

  • NVS-03 is the third satellite in ISRO’s second-generation Navigation Satellite Series (NVS).
  • The mission aims to strengthen NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation), India’s indigenous regional satellite navigation system.
  • NVS-03 is equipped with an indigenous atomic clock and will transmit navigation signals in L1, L5 and S bands. The L1 band will improve compatibility with civilian navigation devices.
  • NavIC provides Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) services across India and up to 1,500 km beyond India’s borders.
  • The satellite will be placed into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) before being moved to its designated operational orbit.

The mission is an important step towards improving the reliability and continuity of NavIC services and strengthening India’s self-reliance in satellite-based navigation technology.

UAE Confers First Class Order of Zayed II on flydubai Pilot Captain Smit Machchhar

On 28 October 2026, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on flydubai crew members, including Captain Smit Machchhar, in recognition of their courage and professionalism in protecting passengers during an in-flight incident.

  • Flight: FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on 30 September 2026.
  • Incident: Captain Smit Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot during the flight.
  • Emergency landing: The crew, assisted by another pilot on board and passengers, brought the situation under control and diverted the aircraft to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
  • Investigation: UAE investigations revealed that the co-pilot had planned to seize the aircraft and carry out an attack at Tel Aviv airport.
  • Award presentation: The honours were presented by UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Union Cabinet Decisions – 28 October 2026

On 28 October 2026, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved four major decisions covering government employees, container manufacturing, rural governance and sports goods manufacturing.

  • Dearness Allowance (DA/DR): Increased by 3 percentage points, from 60% to 63%, effective 1 July 2026, benefiting central government employees and pensioners.
  • Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme: Approved an outlay of ₹10,000 crore to develop domestic shipping-container manufacturing capacity and generate employment.
  • Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana (PM VGSY): Approved ₹7,395.55 crore for 2026–27 to 2030–31 to strengthen Panchayati Raj institutions and rural governance.
  • Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme: Approved ₹1,856.67 crore for 2026–27 to 2033–34 to promote sports goods manufacturing, research and innovation in India.

Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Approves PM MITRA Textile Park, GCC Projects and PRAGATI Park

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet approved several major industrial and infrastructure projects on 27 October 2026, including a ₹1,947-crore PM MITRA Mega Textile Park, four Global Capability Centre (GCC) projects worth ₹1,709.84 crore, and a robotics and artificial intelligence park in Greater Noida.

PM MITRA Textile Park: Ramky Infrastructure Ltd was selected as the preferred bidder to develop a 1,000-acre mega textile park on the Lucknow–Hardoi border at an estimated cost of ₹1,947 crore. The project will operate under a public-private partnership model with a 50-year concession period.

Global Capability Centres (GCCs): The Cabinet approved four GCC projects in Gautam Buddh Nagar with a proposed investment of ₹1,709.84 crore by Havells India, LG Soft India, Ameriprise India and MetLife under the Uttar Pradesh Global Capability Centre Policy-2024.

PRAGATI Park: The Cabinet approved a robotics and artificial intelligence park named PRAGATI Park in Greater Noida, spread across 69.52 acres. The project is expected to generate over one lakh direct and indirect jobs and contribute ₹2,000 crore annually to the state’s economy at full scale.

Urban Water Projects: Seven drinking water and sewerage schemes in Lucknow and Varanasi were also approved under AMRUT 2.0.

Aditya wins U-19 World Championships in 55kg category

India’s Aditya won the gold medal at the World Under-19 Boxing Championships in Montenegro on 27 October 2026, defeating Russia’s Islam Magomedov 4–1 in the men’s 55 kg final. This was India’s first gold medal of the championship.

  • Harshika won bronze in the women’s 65 kg category.
  • Prachi Tokas secured bronze in the women’s over-80 kg category.
  • Megha Sheokand was scheduled to face Russia’s Ekaterina Frolova in the women’s 80 kg final later that day.

Cyclone Arnab 2026: Latest Updates and Important Facts

Cyclone Arnab developed over the Bay of Bengal in October 2026 and moved towards the eastern coast of India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast that it could intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm and cross the Andhra Pradesh–Yanam coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam on 28 October 2026. The cyclone posed a potential threat to Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha, prompting authorities to prepare evacuation, rescue and relief measures.

Important Facts About Cyclone Arnab

  • Expected Landfall: Between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam along the Andhra Pradesh–Yanam coast
  • Expected Date of Landfall: 28 October 2026
  • Forecast Wind Speed: 115–125 km/h, with gusts up to 140 km/h
  • States and Regions on Alert: Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Puducherry
  • Potential Weather Impacts: Heavy to very heavy rainfall, strong winds, rough seas and possible flooding.

RBI Data Centre and Cybersecurity Training Institute Inaugurated in Odisha

On 25 October 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) new Data Centre and Cybersecurity Training Institute at Info Valley-II, Jatni, near Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The initiative aims to strengthen India’s digital financial infrastructure, improve data security and enhance cybersecurity capabilities.

Key Highlights

  • Data Centre: It will support critical financial and payment systems, including the Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) and National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) systems, helping improve the reliability and resilience of financial services.
  • Cybersecurity Training Institute: It will provide specialised training, capacity building and research in cybersecurity and emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, big-data analytics and blockchain.
  • Significance: The facilities will strengthen the security and reliability of India’s digital banking ecosystem and help build technological expertise within the RBI and the wider financial sector.

India to Have Four Functional Space Launch Pads by 2029

India plans to expand its space infrastructure with four functional launch pads by 2029, according to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman V. Narayanan, who announced the plan on 25 October 2026. The expansion aims to meet the growing domestic and global demand for satellite launches and strengthen India’s space capabilities.

Key Points

  • New SSLV Complex: A dedicated 2,000-acre Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) complex is being developed at Kulasekarapattinam in the Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) district of Tamil Nadu.
  • New Launch Infrastructure: The facility will include launch pads, integration buildings, rail-track systems, and telemetry, tracking and command facilities.
  • Third Launch Pad: A third launch pad is planned at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, to support next-generation launch vehicles.
  • Private Sector Participation: ISRO will collaborate with private companies and startups, transfer technological expertise, and support the growth of commercial space operations.
  • Employment Opportunities: Greater private-sector participation is expected to promote economic growth and create thousands of high-technology jobs.

The expansion is part of India’s broader efforts to strengthen its space programme and increase its capacity to launch satellites for domestic and international customers. ISRO will continue to operate as a government agency while encouraging greater private-sector participation in the space industry.

Lula da Silva Wins Fourth Term as Brazil’s President

On 25 October 2026, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defeated Flávio Bolsonaro in Brazil’s presidential runoff election, securing a fourth non-consecutive term with approximately 51% of the vote.

  • Election result: Lula received over 51.49 million votes, while Flávio Bolsonaro secured 48.68% of the vote.
  • Historic achievement: At the age of 80, Lula is set to become Brazil’s oldest president to take the oath of office, with his swearing-in scheduled for 5 January 2027.
  • Key campaign issues: Lula focused on the cost of living, a reduced workweek and the possibility of free public transport on weekends. His victory also interrupted the recent electoral trend of right-wing victories in several South American countries.

ITBP Raising Day 2026: 65th Raising Day Celebrated on 24 October

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) celebrated its 65th Raising Day on 24 October 2026, marking its establishment on 24 October 1962 following the India-China War. Known as the “Himveers,” ITBP personnel guard approximately 3,488 km of the India-China border, from Karakoram Pass in Ladakh to Jachep La in Arunachal Pradesh.

  • Key responsibilities: Border surveillance and patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), counter-infiltration, disaster rescue, internal security and civic action programmes in remote Himalayan villages.
  • Modernisation: ITBP is strengthening border security through drone platoons, anti-drone capabilities, specialised combat training, Shaurya Commandos and protected underground infrastructure.
  • Leadership: ITBP Director General Shatrujeet Kapur highlighted the force’s enhanced preparedness to address emerging security challenges along the China border.

The occasion honours the courage and sacrifices of ITBP personnel serving in extreme high-altitude conditions and highlights the force’s continued efforts to modernise India’s Himalayan border security.

United Nations Day 2026: 24 October

United Nations Day is observed every year on 24 October to commemorate the establishment of the United Nations (UN) in 1945. The day highlights the importance of international cooperation, peace, security, human rights, and sustainable development.

Important Facts about United Nations Day

  • First observed: 24 October 1948
  • United Nations established: 24 October 1945
  • Headquarters: New York City, United States
  • UN Charter signed: 26 June 1945, in San Francisco, USA
  • Purpose: To maintain international peace and security, promote human rights, and encourage international cooperation.
  • UN Day declared: The UN General Assembly officially designated 24 October as United Nations Day in 1947.
  • Public holiday recommendation: In 1971, the UN General Assembly recommended that member states observe the day as a public holiday.

India Concludes Asian Para Games 2026 with Record 114 Medals

India concluded its campaign at the Fifth Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, on 24 October 2026, winning a record 114 medals.

  • Medal tally: 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze medals, surpassing India’s previous record of 108 medals at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China.
  • Flag-bearers: Double gold medallists Nishad Kumar and Mona Agarwal led India’s contingent at the closing ceremony. Nishad won gold in the men’s high jump and long jump (T47), while Mona won gold in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 and 50m rifle three positions SH1 events, setting a Games record and a world record, respectively.
  • Key achievement: For the first time at these Games, para-athletics was not India’s leading source of gold medals, with para-badminton, archery and shooting contributing significantly to the final tally.

Yamuna Rejuvenation Projects Worth ₹8,941 Crore Launched in Delhi

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched Yamuna rejuvenation projects worth ₹8,941 crore at an official ceremony in Delhi on 22 October 2026, setting a target to clean the river by May 2029.

Key Points:

  • Projects Inaugurated: 10 projects.
  • Projects Initiated: 33 projects.
  • Target for Yamuna Rejuvenation: May 2029.
  • Progress: More than 40% of the work has been completed, according to Amit Shah.
  • Major Initiatives: Upgradation and construction of sewage treatment plants (STPs), sewer rehabilitation, sewage tapping, drainage improvements and household sewer connections.
  • Coordination: The governments of Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, along with the Central Government, are working together to clean the Yamuna.
  • Garbage Clearance: The Delhi government has cleared 2.17 crore metric tonnes of garbage and reclaimed 100 acres of land from waste.
  • Landfill Reduction: The height of garbage mounds at Okhla and Bhalswa has been reduced by 30–40 metres, while the Ghazipur landfill has been reduced by 10–15 metres.
  • Other Initiatives: A three-year action plan has been prepared to provide sewerage connections to every household in Delhi and improve access to clean drinking water.

The initiative aims to prevent untreated wastewater from entering the Yamuna and improve sanitation, waste management and environmental conditions in Delhi.

India–Poland Agree to Double Bilateral Trade by 2030

India and Poland agreed to double bilateral trade by 2030 following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on 22 October 2026.

  • Trade: Promote investment and business partnerships in manufacturing, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, energy and critical minerals; support early implementation of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement.
  • Defence and Technology: Proposed a Defence Industry Dialogue and agreed to strengthen cooperation in AI, semiconductors, quantum technology, cybersecurity and counter-terrorism.
  • Connectivity: Explore more direct flights and cooperation in shipping, ports and maritime security; highlighted the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
  • Critical Minerals and Space: Enhance cooperation in rare earth minerals, mining, battery recycling and space research.
  • Education and Culture: Expand university partnerships, student exchanges and joint research; recognise historical ties dating back to the Second World War.
  • UN Reforms: Poland supported India’s membership of a reformed UN Security Council and its candidature for a non-permanent seat for 2028–29.
  • Global Issues: Condemned terrorism, including the Pahalgam attack of 22 April 2025, and called for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
  • Climate and Energy: Promote clean energy and climate-resilient development; India invited Poland to join the International Solar Alliance and Global Biofuels Alliance.

India’s largest-ever IPO – Jio Platforms Limited

Jio Platforms Limited, the digital arm of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), launched its ₹30,213 crore IPO on 21 October 2026, making it India’s largest-ever IPO according to the provided information.

  • IPO Price Band: ₹1,065–₹1,119 per share.
  • Company Valuation: Approximately ₹10.3 lakh crore at the upper price band.
  • Subscription Period: 21–23 October 2026.
  • Listing Date: Scheduled for 28 October 2026 on BSE and NSE.
  • FY2025–26 Financials: Revenue of ₹1,46,885 crore and net profit of ₹30,049 crore.
  • Utilisation of Funds: ₹27,500 crore is earmarked for repayment of Reliance Jio Infocomm’s borrowings, with the remaining amount intended for general corporate purposes.
  • Day 1 Subscription: The issue was reported to be fully subscribed within 100 minutes, with overall subscription reaching approximately 3.2 times.

IBSAMAR 2026: 9th India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime Exercise Concludes in South Africa

The ninth edition of the India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime Exercise IBSAMAR 2026 concluded on 21 October 2026 at Simon’s Town, South Africa.

The ten-day exercise involved the Indian, Brazilian and South African Navies in harbour and sea phases, featuring professional interactions and maritime activities to enhance interoperability, strengthen operational cooperation and promote mutual understanding.

The exercise reaffirmed the three countries’ commitment to maritime security and safe, secure and open seas based on a rules-based international order.

Police Commemoration Day – 21 October 2026

Police Commemoration Day is observed on 21 October 2026 across India to honour police personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty while protecting the nation and maintaining law and order.

The day commemorates the sacrifice of 10 police personnel who were killed in an ambush by heavily armed Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh, on 21 October 1959. The decision to observe 21 October as Police Commemoration Day was taken at the Conference of Inspectors General of Police in January 1960.

Special initiative in 2026: Amit Shah will flag off a nationwide motorcycle rally themed “Fight Against Drugs”. Police riders from States and Union Territories, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and other central police organisations will participate. The riders will proceed to Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, to join the Ekta Parade on 31 October 2026.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Visits India (20–21 October 2026)

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited India on 20–21 October 2026 to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, energy, defence, technology and regional security.

  • Meeting with S. Jaishankar: Reviewed the India–US Strategic Roadmap and discussed the early conclusion of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).
  • 26/11 Tribute: Paid tribute to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.
  • Freedom 250 Reception: Celebrated 250 years of US independence and highlighted the importance of India–US relations.
  • Energy Cooperation: Visited Reliance Industries’ Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat and discussed energy security, including Venezuelan crude oil.
  • Trade and Tariffs: Described the proposed India–US trade agreement as “incredibly close” to completion and discussed US tariffs linked to its policy on Russia’s war in Ukraine.
  • Strategic Cooperation: Both countries emphasized cooperation in defence, technology, counterterrorism and Indo-Pacific security.

India-Australia Joint Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 Begins in Kerala

The 5th edition of the India-Australia Joint Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 commenced on 19 October 2026 at the Foreign Training Node in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Around 120 personnel each from the Indian Army and the Australian Army are participating in the exercise, which will continue until 1 November 2026.

  • Participating Countries: India and Australia.
  • Indian Army Contingent: Troops from the Garhwal Rifles and other arms and services.
  • Australian Army Contingent: Troops from the 13 Brigade.
  • First-time Participation: An observer delegation from New Zealand.
  • Theme: “Joint Sub-Conventional Operations in Island and Coastal Environment under Chapter VII of the UN Mandate”.
  • Main Objectives: To enhance interoperability, jointmanship and operational coordination between the two armies.
  • Training Focus: Joint planning, tactical drills, combat training, surveillance and reconnaissance, protection of vital installations, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
  • Previous Edition: The 4th edition was held at Irwin Barracks in Perth, Australia, from 13 to 26 October 2025.

The exercise aims to strengthen military cooperation, mutual trust and coordination between India and Australia, particularly in island and coastal environments, and promote peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra) – 20 October 2026

Vijaya Dashami, popularly known as Dussehra, is being celebrated across India on 20 October 2026, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It is celebrated on the tenth day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin (September–October).

Historical & Mythological Significance

Ramayana Connection: Dussehra commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of dharma over adharma.

Durga Puja Connection: In eastern India, Vijaya Dashmi marks Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura, celebrated with immersion of Durga idols (Visarjan).

Name Meaning: Vijaya = victory, Dashmi = tenth day.

France Protests 2026: Causes and Key Facts

France is witnessing one of its largest social uprisings in decades, sparked by student protests over poor school conditions that have now merged with wider anger about living costs and inequality. The demonstrations have escalated into nationwide unrest, with hundreds of schools blockaded, thousands arrested, and violent clashes between protesters and police.

Reasons Behind the France Protests

  • Education Crisis:
    • Shortage of teachers and staff.
    • Overcrowded classrooms and exhausting timetables.
    • Dilapidated school buildings, poor ventilation, and unsafe infrastructure.
    • Anger at the Parcoursup university admissions system, seen as unfairly selective.
  • Wider Social Grievances:
    • Rising living costs and economic inequality.
    • Cuts to public services and frustration with government inaction.
    • Connection to earlier “Yellow Vest” protests (2018), now revived with student participation.

Scale of the Movement

  • Began 18 September 2026 in Créteil (Paris suburbs).
  • By early October, over 1,800 high schools were blockaded nationwide.
  • Nearly 90% of universities joined the protests.
  • On 6 October, between 250,000–450,000 people demonstrated across France.
  • By mid-October, protests drew 550,000 participants, spreading to major cities like Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg.
  • Mass Arrests: Over 6,800 people detained, most of them minors.
  • Police Clashes: Tear gas, riot control weapons, and stun grenades used; one teenager lost his hand after picking up a police grenade.

Asian Para Games 2026 Opens in Aichi-Nagoya

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito officially declared the fifth edition of the Asian Para Games open on 18 October 2026 at the Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium in Aichi-Nagoya.

  • The continental multi-sport event features participation from all 45 Asian nations under the official motto ‘Imagine One Heart’ and runs until 24 October 2026.
  • The Indian contingent comprises 281 members, including 168 athletes (112 men and 56 women), competing across 11 disciplines. Para-badminton star Pramod Bhagat and para-athlete Simran Sharma served as India’s flag-bearers.
  • The Indian delegation’s ceremonial attire featured deep blue blazers adorned with golden motifs inspired by the Indus Valley Civilisation, including the Priest-King sculpture, Dancing Girl figurine and ancient seals.

INS Samarthak, First Multi-Purpose Vessel, Commissioned into the Indian Navy

Indian Naval Ship INS Samarthak, the first of its class of Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPVs), was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 16 October 2026. The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Vice President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan.

  • Built by: Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Shipyard.
  • Significance: The first major warship built by an Indian private shipyard.
  • Indigenous content: More than 75%.
  • Primary role: Testing and evaluation of indigenous sensors and weapons developed by Indian industry.
  • Other capabilities: Maritime surveillance, reconnaissance, offshore patrolling, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
  • Key feature: Versatile design with modular construction and pre-outfitting to improve construction efficiency.
  • Importance: Strengthens India’s indigenous shipbuilding and defence manufacturing capabilities, supporting the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and enhancing maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

Census (Amendment) Rules 2026: Eligibility for Census Enumerators Expanded

The Ministry of Home Affairs notified the Census (Amendment) Rules, 2026, on 16 October 2026, expanding the eligibility criteria for appointing Census enumerators to ensure a wider pool of personnel for Census operations.

  • Eligible candidates: Teachers from government, aided and private educational institutions; government officials and clerks; local authority staff; and personnel from PSUs, banks, statutory bodies, companies, societies and trusts.
  • Additional provision: State and Union Territory administrations may appoint any other person they consider suitable as an enumerator.
  • Role of enumerators: Visit households, collect demographic, social and economic data, and ensure accurate population counting.
  • Legal framework: Census Act, 1948.
  • Census frequency: Once every 10 years.
  • Last Census: 2011. The 2021 Census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Caller Name Display (CNAP) Service from 1 November 2026

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed all telecom service providers to introduce the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) service across India from 1 November 2026.

  • Purpose: To display the caller’s name along with their mobile number on the recipient’s phone.
  • Name source: The subscriber database of the originating telecom service provider.
  • International calls: Unsaved international numbers will display “International Call”.
  • Availability: The service will be provided to all users automatically, without requiring a separate request.
  • Technology: Trials have been conducted on 4G and higher-generation wireless terrestrial networks.
  • Future expansion: CNAP for 2G and 3G networks and public switched telephone networks (landline networks) will be considered separately.

India’s Ramsar Sites Increase to 103 with Two New Wetlands

On 15 October 2026, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced the addition of Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh, taking India’s total Ramsar sites to 103.

Important Points

  • New Ramsar Sites: Sukhna Wetland (Chandigarh) and Sauj Jheel (Uttar Pradesh).
  • Sukhna Wetland: Located at the foothills of the Shivalik Hills, it supports resident and migratory waterbirds, including the vulnerable common pochard.
  • Sauj Jheel: Located in the Ganga floodplain near Saman Bird Sanctuary, it regularly supports over 30,000 waterbirds, including the vulnerable sarus crane.
  • International Framework: The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands was signed in 1971. India became a party in 1982.
  • Policy Initiative: The Amrit Dharohar Scheme, announced in the Union Budget 2023–24, promotes wetland conservation and sustainable use.
  • Significance: The additions strengthen biodiversity conservation, migratory bird habitats, water security, climate resilience and community livelihoods.

National Social Assistance Programme Renamed as Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana

On 14 October 2026, the Union Cabinet approved the continuation of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) for five years, from 2026–27 to 2030–31, with a total outlay of ₹53,428 crore. The programme has been renamed Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana, with revised eligibility criteria and pension assistance for persons with disabilities.

Key Points

  • New name: National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) → Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana.
  • Duration: 2026–27 to 2030–31 (five years).
  • Total outlay: ₹53,428 crore.
  • Beneficiaries: Approximately 3.20 crore people across all 36 States and Union Territories.
  • Disability pension assistance:
    • Up to 79 years of age: ₹375.
    • 80 years and above: ₹625.
  • Benchmark disability criterion: Reduced from 80% to 40%.
  • Minimum age for disability pension: Since birth.
  • Implementation: Revised guidelines for disability pension are to be issued and implemented within three months.
  • Pension schemes for senior citizens and widows, along with the family benefit scheme, will continue in their existing form.

Renamed Schemes

Existing SchemeNew Name
National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP)Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana
Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension SchemePradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana
Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension SchemePradhan Mantri Vidhawa Pension Yojana
Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension SchemePradhan Mantri Divyangjan Pension Yojana
National Family Benefit SchemePradhan Mantri Parivar Labh Yojana

Cabinet Approves Sale of 60.72% Stake in IDBI Bank to Fairfax for ₹52,878 Crore

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved Canada-based Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. as the strategic buyer for a 60.72% stake in IDBI Bank for approximately ₹52,878.08 crore, marking the largest foreign direct investment (FDI) in India’s financial sector once completed.

Key Points:

  • Strategic Buyer: Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. (Canada).
  • Total Stake Sale: 60.72% — Government of India (30.48%) and Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) (30.24%).
  • Sale Price: ₹81 per share, exceeding the benchmark valuation of ₹75.99 per share.
  • Government’s Remaining Stake: 15%.
  • LIC’s Remaining Stake: 19%.
  • Disinvestment Process: The sale followed a two-stage competitive bidding process overseen by government committees.
  • Background: The RBI placed IDBI Bank under the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework on 5 May 2017 due to non-performing assets and losses. Restrictions were lifted on 10 March 2021 following improvements in its financial health.
  • Further Disinvestment: The CCEA authorised the sale of the government’s remaining 15% stake through the open market under standard procedures.

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