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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PM Vishwakarma Scheme Completes 3 Years

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched on 17 September 2023, completed three years on 17 September 2026. The scheme has achieved its target of registering 30 lakh traditional artisans and craftspeople across India.

Key Highlights

  • 30 lakh artisans registered under the scheme.
  • 24.37 lakh artisans completed basic skill training.
  • 18.16 lakh toolkits distributed to beneficiaries.
  • 6.19 lakh loans worth ₹5,316 crore sanctioned.
  • 8.11 lakh beneficiaries received digital transaction incentives worth ₹42 crore.
  • Over 12,000 artisans trained in AI tools for branding, packaging and marketing.
  • 30,000 artisans onboarded onto e-commerce platforms for better market access.
  • The scheme covers 18 traditional trades, including carpenters, potters, goldsmiths, tailors, cobblers, barbers and toy makers.

The scheme provides artisans with recognition, skill training, modern toolkits, credit support, digital incentives and market linkages, helping connect traditional craftsmanship with modern business opportunities.

Veteran Kannada Actor Anant Nag to Receive Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024

Veteran Kannada actor Anant Nag has been selected for the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024, India’s highest honour in cinema, in recognition of his five-decade-long contribution to Indian and Kannada cinema. The award will be formally presented at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony on 22 September 2026 in Kevadia, Gujarat.

🏆 About the Honour

  • Award: Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2024)
  • Presented by: Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India
  • Ceremony: 72nd National Film Awards
  • Date & Venue: 22 September 2026, Kevadia, Gujarat
  • Significance: India’s highest recognition in cinema, awarded annually for lifetime contribution to film.

🎬 Anant Nag’s Cinematic Journey

  • Born: 4 September 1948 (Anant Nagarkatte)
  • Career Span: Over 50 years in cinema (debut in 1973).
  • Filmography: More than 300 films, including 250+ Kannada films.
  • Debut Films:
    • Kannada – Sankalp (1973)
    • Hindi – Ankur (1974, directed by Shyam Benegal)
  • Television: Iconic role in Malgudi Days (Doordarshan series based on R.K. Narayan’s stories).
  • Awards:
    • 5 Karnataka State Film Awards
    • 5 Filmfare Awards
    • Padma Bhushan (2025) for contribution to cinema.
  • Notable Films: Bayalu Daari (1976), Benkiya Bale (1983), Mungaru Male (2006), Godhi Banna Sadharana Mykattu (2016), KGF: Chapter 1 & 2 (2018, 2022), Gaalipata 2 (2022).

Six Yamuna Basin States Sign Agreement for Kishau Multipurpose Project

On 15 September 2026, six Yamuna basin states—Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Haryana—signed an agreement in New Delhi to implement the Kishau Multipurpose Project on the Tons River, a tributary of the Yamuna.

The project will feature a 232.6-metre-high concrete gravity dam with a storage capacity of 1,562 million cubic metres (MCM). The Central Government will fund 90% of the water component cost, while the remaining 10% will be shared by the six states.

Key Benefits

  • Irrigation: About 97,000 hectares of farmland.
  • Hydropower: 422 MW installed capacity and approximately 1,476 million units annually.
  • Water supply: Improved availability of drinking and industrial water, particularly for Delhi and Rajasthan.
  • Yamuna rejuvenation: Stored water will support ecological flow and help improve river health.
  • Water security: Promotes coordinated interstate management of Yamuna basin resources.

The project will be implemented by Kishau Corporation Limited, a joint venture of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The project was conceptualised decades ago, with the latest consensus reached in June 2026 after prolonged delays and disputes.

UPI Charges on Merchant Payments Above ₹2,000

On 16 September 2026, the Finance Ministry of India announced that UPI merchant transactions above ₹2,000 will attract a 0.4% fee.

  • Rate: 0.4% MDR on Person-to-Merchant (P2M) transactions above ₹2,000.
  • Cap: ₹300 per transaction for payments of ₹75,000 and above.
  • Effective Date: 15 October 2026.
  • Applicability: Only for merchant payments (PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay, etc.).

Exemptions:

  • Person-to-Person (P2P) transfers remain free.
  • Small merchants earning up to ₹1 lakh/month via UPI QR codes are exempt.
  • Essential sectors (railways, telecom, fuel, utilities) have a flat ₹5 MDR.

💡 What is UPI?

  • UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is a real-time payment system launched in 2016 by NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India).
  • It enables instant money transfers via mobile apps using:
    • Virtual Payment Address (VPA)
    • Mobile number
    • QR codes
  • Operates on IMPS infrastructure, available 24×7.

🎯 Purpose of the Fee

  • Cost Recovery: To cover infrastructure and settlement costs for high-value merchant transactions.
  • Encourage Digital Payments: Keeps small-value transactions free to promote everyday usage.
  • Balance for Merchants: Fee is far lower than debit/credit card MDR (Merchant Discount Rate).
  • Sustainability: Ensures long-term viability of UPI ecosystem.

World Circular Economy Forum 2026 Held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat

India is hosting the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from 15–18 September 2026, marking the first WCEF in South Asia.

  • Theme: “Circular Economy: Transition for People and Prosperity”
  • Venue: Mahatma Mandir Convention & Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar
  • Participation: 2,000+ stakeholders from 65+ countries
  • The forum brings together policymakers, business leaders, researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs to promote resource efficiency and sustainable development.
  • Key discussions cover AI and circularity, green technology, finance, governance, employment, skills, startups and sustainable products.
  • The event features 125+ exhibitors and more than 80 accelerator sessions.
  • India’s initiatives such as Mission LiFE, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) support the country’s circular economy goals.

The World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) is a leading global conference dedicated to advancing the principles of the circular economy — an economic system focused on reducing waste, reusing resources, and promoting sustainability.

India’s Retail and Wholesale Inflation Rise in August 2026

According to data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, India’s inflationary pressures strengthened in August 2026, with both retail and wholesale inflation rising.

  • Retail CPI inflation increased to 4.82%, the highest level of 2026 so far, from 4.45% in July.
  • Food inflation rose to 5.95%, mainly due to sharp price increases in onion, garlic and ginger.
  • Wholesale WPI inflation climbed to 9.92%, led by higher fuel and power, food, and manufactured product prices.
  • WPI fuel and power inflation reached 22.93%, while manufactured products recorded a series-high 8.37%.
  • With CPI remaining above the RBI’s 4% medium-term target, persistent food and fuel price pressures could make monetary policy more challenging.
  • Rising crude oil prices and West Asia tensions may add further inflationary pressure, potentially increasing the likelihood of RBI rate hikes.

India Win Women’s Asia Cup 2026

India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 final at Dubai on 13 September 2026, winning a record-extending eighth Asia Cup title and avenging their defeat in the 2024 final.

  • India: 183/5
  • Sri Lanka: 111 all out in 19.4 overs
  • Result: India won by 72 runs
  • Top scorer: Shafali Verma – 68 runs
  • Smriti Mandhana: 59 runs
  • Best bowler: Shree Charani – 4/20
  • Deepti Sharma: 3/19

Key Highlights

  • Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana shared a record 129-run opening partnership, the highest for any wicket in Women’s Asia Cup history.
  • Shafali scored 68 off 39 balls and hit the fastest fifty in Women’s Asia Cup history, reaching 50 in just 24 balls.
  • Mandhana scored 59 off 39 balls, helping India post a strong 183/5.
  • Sri Lanka’s chase struggled against India’s disciplined bowling. Chamari Athapaththu top-scored with 36.
  • Shree Charani’s 4/20 and Deepti Sharma’s 3/19 dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup.
  • Shafali finished as the tournament’s leading run-scorer with 236 runs in five innings.
  • The victory gave India their eighth Women’s Asia Cup title, further extending their record.

Hindi Diwas 2026: History, Article 343 and Significance

Hindi Diwas was observed on 14 September 2026 across India to commemorate the Constituent Assembly’s historic decision in 1949 to adopt Hindi in Devanagari script as the official language of the Union under Article 343.

📜 History of Hindi Diwas

  • Constituent Assembly Decision (14 September 1949): After intense debates on India’s linguistic diversity, leaders like K.M. Munshi and N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar reached the Munshi–Ayyangar compromise, declaring Hindi in Devanagari script as the official language of the Union.
  • Constitutional Provision: Incorporated in Article 343 (Part XVII) of the Indian Constitution. It also allowed English to continue for official purposes for 15 years, later extended under the Official Languages Act, 1963.
  • First Celebration: Initiated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1953, making 14 September an annual observance.

BRICS New Delhi Declaration 2026

The BRICS New Delhi Declaration 2026 was unanimously adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit (12–13 September 2026) in New Delhi. It is a 140-point document titled “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, covering terrorism, global governance reforms, trade, climate change, technology, and conflict resolution.

📌 Key Highlights of the New Delhi Declaration 2026

1. Global Governance & Multilateralism

  • Called for reforms in UNSC, IMF, and World Bank to give greater voice to the Global South.
  • PM Modi described the current system as a “pyramid of privilege” that must become a “platform of partnership”.

2. Terrorism & Security

  • Condemned the Pahalgam terror attack in the “strongest terms.”
  • Reaffirmed zero tolerance for terrorism, rejected double standards, and emphasized accountability for sponsors of terror.
  • Stressed cooperation against extremism and radicalization, especially among youth.

3. Conflicts & Peace

  • Expressed deep concern over West Asia tensions and urged restraint.
  • Called for a two-state solution for Palestine and protection of civilians in conflict zones.

4. Trade & Economy

  • Opposed unilateral tariffs and trade restrictions.
  • Supported fair competition in renewable energy markets and sustainable energy transitions.

5. Climate & Sustainability

  • Emphasized renewable energy, green technology, and climate finance.
  • Endorsed initiatives like the “Big Cats Alliance” for biodiversity protection.

6. Technology & Innovation

  • Promoted digital public infrastructure, AI, fintech, and cross-border payment systems (UPI–Pix integration).
  • Stressed equitable participation of the Global South in future technologies and rule-making.

7. Nuclear Safety

  • Expressed concern over attacks on civilian nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards.
  • Reaffirmed commitment to nuclear safety and security during armed conflicts.

🌍 Membership Context

  • Full Members (11): Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE.
  • Partner Countries (10): Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Vietnam.

India–EU Free Trade Agreement Moves Toward Final Approval, Expected by End-2026

The India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has entered a decisive stage, with the European Council advancing the agreement on 11 September 2026 toward final approval. The deal is expected to be formally signed by the end of 2026.

Key features of the proposed FTA include:

  • Trade: Greater market access and tariff reductions for goods and services.
  • India’s expected gains: Duty-free or improved access for textiles, pharmaceuticals, IT services and agricultural products.
  • EU’s expected gains: Reduced Indian tariffs on automobiles, machinery, wines and luxury goods.
  • Digital and green economy: Cooperation on e-commerce, data protection, renewable energy and climate commitments.
  • Mobility: Easier pathways for Indian professionals, students and researchers to work or study in EU countries.
  • Dispute settlement: A structured framework for resolving trade disputes and addressing regulatory issues.
  • Strategic importance: The agreement would strengthen India–EU economic ties, support India’s Indo-Pacific strategy, and help the EU diversify its trade relationships beyond the US and China.

PM Modi Holds Bilateral Meetings with Putin, Pezeshkian and Guterres Ahead of BRICS Summit 2026

On 11 September 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral meetings in New Delhi with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit.

  • India–Russia: Modi and Putin reviewed cooperation in trade, defence, energy, space, politics, skill mobility and people-to-people ties. They discussed global and regional issues, including conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region.
  • Modi reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy are the way forward for resolving conflicts. Putin invited Modi to Russia for the 24th India-Russia Annual Summit, which Modi accepted.
  • Modi gifted Putin a Russian translation of the Thirukkural, the ancient Tamil classic by Thiruvalluvar.
  • India–Iran: Modi and President Pezeshkian discussed bilateral relations and developments in West Asia, stressing dialogue, diplomacy, regional peace, freedom of navigation and safety of seafarers.
  • India–UN: Modi and António Guterres discussed global conflicts, freedom of navigation, sustainable development, renewable energy, food security and human-centric AI. They also emphasized multilateralism and UN Security Council reforms.

Putin Arrives in New Delhi for BRICS Summit 2026, Xi Jinping to Visit India

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on 11 September 2026 for the 18th BRICS Summit, while Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to arrive on 12 September, marking his first visit to India in seven years. Delhi has turned into a security fortress with 30,000 personnel deployed, four-layer cordons, and strict traffic curbs.

🏛 BRICS Summit 2026 – Key Details

  • Dates: 12–13 September 2026
  • Venue: Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
  • Chairship: India (Theme: Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, Sustainability)
  • Significance: Marks 20 years of BRICS since its establishment in 2006.

👥 Leaders Arriving

  • Russia: President Vladimir Putin (arrived 11 Sept).
  • China: President Xi Jinping (arriving 12 Sept, first India visit since 2019).
  • Iran: President Masoud Pezeshkian (expected soon).
  • Others: Leaders from South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Indonesia, and partner countries.

📌 Agenda & Focus Areas

  • Global Security: Ukraine war, West Asia crisis, energy security.
  • Economy: Trade, investment, supply chains, digital cooperation.
  • Sustainability: Food security, climate resilience, renewable energy.
  • India’s Role: Positioning BRICS as a stronger Global South platform.

PMMSY Completes Six Years: Key Highlights

India’s fisheries sector is becoming an important pillar of livelihoods, food security, exports and the Blue Economy, with the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) driving modernisation and sustainable growth.

  • PMMSY launched: 2020; completes 6 years on 10 September 2026.
  • Total outlay: ₹20,750 crore.
  • Budget 2026–27 allocation: Record ₹2,500 crore under PMMSY.
  • Approved projects: ₹21,394.88 crore as of 11 August 2026, including a Central share of ₹9,510.89 crore.
  • Fish production: Increased from 141.64 lakh tonnes (2019–20) to a record 197.75 lakh tonnes (2024–25).
  • Fisheries exports: Rose from ₹46,663 crore (2019–20) to ₹73,890 crore (2025–26).
  • Employment: PMMSY has created direct and indirect employment for 58 lakh people.

Global Fintech Fest 2026: Agentic AI, Tokenisation and Quantum

Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2026, the world’s largest fintech conference, was held from 8–11 September 2026 at Jio World Centre, Mumbai. The 7th edition focused on Agentic AI, Tokenisation and Quantum as transformative technologies for building inclusive and globally connected finance.

  • Theme: Potential to Impact: Agentic AI | Tokenisation | Quantum – Trusted, Connected, Global Systems for Inclusive Finance
  • Organisers: Payments Council of India (PCI), NPCI and Fintech Convergence Council (FCC).
  • PM Narendra Modi called for greater UPI integration with international payment systems to make cross-border payments as seamless as domestic transactions.
  • PhonePe and Visa announced initiatives including Tap to Pay, Cross Border Scan to Pay and Smart Accept.
  • BharatPe launched the Agentic AI Merchant Suite and Credit Coach for MSMEs.
  • RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra highlighted fintech’s role in addressing the MSME credit gap.
  • The event explored Agentic AI for autonomous financial workflows, tokenisation for programmable assets, and quantum computing for security and financial optimisation.
  • Major Indian and international financial leaders participated, including PM Modi, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra and senior global central-bank officials.

Union Cabinet Approves ₹20,804 Crore Railway Multitracking Projects Across 9 States

The Union Cabinet has approved eight railway multitracking projects worth ₹20,804 crore across nine states, adding 1,196 km of new railway lines by FY 2029–30.

  • The projects will increase freight capacity by 74 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) and reduce congestion on busy railway routes.
  • Around 6,911 villages, covering a population of about 1.08 crore, will benefit from improved connectivity.
  • Eastern & Central India: ₹10,783 crore for 656 km of tracks across West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
  • Southern India: ₹10,021 crore for 540 km across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana.
  • The projects will improve connectivity to important tourist destinations and industrial areas and facilitate the movement of coal, cement, steel, automobiles, petroleum and food grains.
  • The expansion supports India’s energy-efficient and lower-cost rail freight strategy by shifting more transportation from road to rail.
  • The government is also quadrupling seven high-density railway corridors covering about 11,000 km, of which around 2,000 km has already been completed.

Justice Dipak Misra Conferred Kalinga Ratna Award 2026

On 8 September 2026, former Chief Justice of India Justice Dipak Misra was conferred the Kalinga Ratna Award by Sarala Sahitya Sansad in Cuttack.

  • Award: Kalinga Ratna Award
  • Recipient: Former CJI Justice Dipak Misra
  • Presented by: Sarala Sahitya Sansad
  • Venue: Cuttack, Odisha
  • Award components: Silver idol of Goddess Saraswati and a citation
  • Justice Misra highlighted fraternity in the Constitution’s Preamble as a moral bond beyond caste, creed, language and social status.
  • He stressed that one person’s dignity cannot be protected by diminishing another’s dignity.
  • He also spoke against war, noting that victories in war often leave behind grief, hatred and wounded generations.
  • Sarala Samman: Conferred on eminent litterateur Dr Ramachandra Behera for his contribution to Odia literature spanning over six decades.
  • Chief Guest: Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.

International Literacy Day 2026: Theme, Literacy Rate & Important Facts

International Literacy Day was observed on 8 September 2026 under the UNESCO theme “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity.” The day marked its 60th anniversary and highlighted the importance of literacy for individuals, sustainable development, and global prosperity.

  • Established: 1966 by UNESCO; first observed in 1967.
  • Date: 8 September every year.
  • 2026 Theme: Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity.
  • Global adult literacy rate: 88%, up from 65% in 1975.
  • Around 739 million youth and adults still lack basic literacy skills.
  • India’s literacy rate: approximately 77.7%–79.7% in 2026.
  • Highest literacy rate: Kerala – 96.2%.
  • Lowest literacy rate: Bihar – 63.8%–74.3%.
  • Sikkim was declared a Fully Literate State in May 2026, achieving 99.82% literacy.
  • India continues to promote literacy through initiatives such as NEP 2020, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Mid-Day Meal Scheme, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and the National Literacy Mission.

BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir Inaugurated in Paris, France

The BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Paris was inaugurated on 6 September 2026 in Bussy-Saint-Georges, eastern Paris, becoming the first traditional Hindu stone temple in France.

  • The temple follows ancient Vedic architecture and was completed under the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
  • A 13-day Festival of Culture was held from 2–14 September 2026 to mark the inauguration.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the inauguration ceremony virtually.
  • The festival featured Jal Yatra, Nagar Yatra, Palkhi Yatra, Vedic Mahayagna, Murti-Pratishtha, and cultural and devotional programmes.
  • The temple is regarded as a symbol of faith, harmony, service and cultural diversity.
  • PM Modi described the Mandir as a new milestone in India–France cultural relations, reflecting the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”

Bhagwat Prasad Makwana Appointed Chairperson of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis

The Government of India has appointed a new Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and three Members to the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK) on 7 September 2026. The appointments will remain effective up to 31 March 2028, completing the remaining tenure of the present Commission.

  • Chairperson: Shri Bhagwat Prasad Makwana
  • Vice-Chairperson: Shri Kaishab Bihari
  • Members: Shri Manoj Kumar Balmiki, Smt. Sushma Gaudiyal and Shri Ravi Ramu Kalose
  • The new team brings experience in social welfare, public service, administration and academia.
  • The appointments aim to strengthen the NCSK’s work for the rights, dignity and socio-economic welfare of Safai Karamcharis and other disadvantaged communities.
  • The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment welcomed the appointments and expressed confidence in the new team.

BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi on 12–13 September: Key Facts

The 18th BRICS Summit 2026 will be held in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026 under India’s chairship. Hosted at Bharat Mandapam, the summit will mark the 20th anniversary of BRICS, established in 2006. The theme is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

Key Points for Exams

  • 18th BRICS Summit: 12–13 September 2026
  • Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
  • Chair: India
  • Theme: Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability
  • Significance: 20 years of BRICS
  • Full Members: 11
  • Partner Countries: 10
  • India’s BRICS Chairship: 4th time

Satwiksairaj-Chirag Win China Masters 2026 Badminton Title

Indian badminton pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won their maiden China Masters 2026 title on 6 September in Shenzhen, defeating China’s He Ji Ting and Ren Xiang Yu 11–21, 21–13, 21–17 in a 70-minute final.

  • Event: Li-Ning China Masters 2026 — BWF Super 750
  • Venue: Shenzhen Arena, China
  • Historic achievement: First Indian men’s doubles pair to win the China Masters.
  • Career milestone: Their 10th BWF World Tour title and second Super 750 title of 2026, after the Singapore Open.
  • Comeback: They recovered brilliantly after losing the opening game.
  • Breakthrough: After finishing runners-up in 2023 and 2025, they finally captured the title on their third final appearance.
  • World ranking: Currently World No. 5 in men’s doubles.
  • Significance: The victory provides strong momentum ahead of the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, beginning 19 September.

UN Supports ‘Correct the Map’ Resolution to Show Africa’s True Size

The UN General Assembly on 4 September 2026 supported replacing the traditional Mercator world map with a map that more accurately represents the actual size of continents, particularly Africa.

  • The “Correct the Map” resolution, sponsored by Togo and backed by African Union members, received 164 votes in favour.
  • The United States voted against the resolution, while six countries abstained.
  • The resolution is non-binding, but aims to encourage governments and institutions to move away from the traditional Mercator projection.
  • The Mercator map, created by Gerardus Mercator in 1569, significantly enlarges regions near the poles.
  • Africa appears much smaller than its actual size on the Mercator map; in reality, Africa is about 14 times larger than Greenland.
  • The Equal Earth projection, developed in 2018, provides a more accurate representation of the relative sizes of continents.
  • The African Union’s 54 member states adopted the Equal Earth projection in February 2026.
  • France supported the change and plans to stop using the Mercator map, while the US criticised the UN vote as a distraction from more serious global issues.
  • Supporters argue that maps influence how people perceive the political, economic and geographical importance of different regions.

Teachers’ Day – 5 September

Teachers’ Day is celebrated in India every year on 5 September, marking the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the second President of India and a renowned philosopher, scholar, and educationist.

When Dr. Radhakrishnan became President in 1962, his students and friends wanted to celebrate his birthday. He suggested instead that 5 September be observed as Teachers’ Day, dedicating the occasion to teachers and their contribution to society.

Key Points

  • Date: 5 September
  • Occasion: Birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
  • Dr. Radhakrishnan: Second President of India
  • First observed: 1962
  • National Teachers’ Awards: Presented to outstanding teachers for their contribution to education.
  • Teachers play an important role in developing knowledge, values, curiosity, critical thinking, and character.

Important: India’s Teachers’ Day is celebrated on 5 September, while World Teachers’ Day is observed globally on 5 October under UNESCO.

Krishna Janmashtami 2026: Celebration, Significance, History & Rituals

Krishna Janmashtami, celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, is being observed on 4 September 2026 (Friday), with devotees marking the occasion through fasting, prayers and midnight worship.

  • Birth of Lord Krishna: Krishna was born in Mathura to Devaki and Vasudeva and was taken to Gokul, where he was raised by Nanda and Yashoda.
  • This auspicious festival falls on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada (Shravan in some regions).
  • Significance: His midnight birth symbolizes the victory of good over evil and dharma over adharma.
  • Bhagavad Gita: Krishna later guided Arjuna on the battlefield of the Mahabharata, delivering the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
  • Major traditions: Jhulan Utsav, bhajans, kirtans, Raslila and Dahi Handi are important parts of Janmashtami celebrations.
  • Midnight Puja: The Nishita Puja Muhurat is 11:56 PM to 12:42 AM.
  • Fasting: Many devotees observe a fast until midnight, when Krishna’s birth is ritually celebrated

ISRO Launches EOS-05: India’s First Geo-Imaging Earth Observation Satellite

ISRO successfully launched EOS-05 aboard the GSLV-F17 rocket on September 4, 2026, marking a major milestone in India’s Earth-observation capabilities with its first geo-imaging satellite in geosynchronous orbit.

  • Launch Date: 4 September 2026 at 2:55 AM IST
  • Launch Vehicle: GSLV-F17
  • Launch Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
  • Satellite: EOS-05 — India’s first geo-imaging Earth observation satellite
  • Payload Mass: Approximately 2,367 kg, the heaviest satellite carried by a GSLV
  • Orbit: Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit, targeting geosynchronous orbit at around 36,000 km
  • Key Capability: Continuous/frequent high-resolution imaging of large geographical areas
  • Applications: Agriculture, disaster management, urban planning, environmental monitoring, border surveillance and maritime security
  • Significance: Strengthens India’s capability for real-time Earth monitoring and strategic applications.

India’s credit rating upgraded to ‘A-‘ by Japan Credit Rating Agency

India’s credit rating has been upgraded by Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) from ‘BBB+’ to ‘A-’, reflecting the country’s strong economic fundamentals and improving financial and fiscal position.

  • Rating upgrade: ‘BBB+’ → ‘A-’
  • Outlook: Stable
  • Country ceiling: Upgraded by one notch to ‘A’
  • Key reasons: Strong economic growth, effective economic policies, improved fiscal quality and a stronger financial system.
  • Growth drivers: Robust private consumption and public investment.
  • Economic reforms: Digital Public Infrastructure and Goods and Services Tax (GST) have strengthened India’s economic foundations.
  • Fiscal improvement: Central Government fiscal deficit declined from 4.7% in FY25 to 4.4% in FY26.
  • Capital expenditure: Remained high, with greater focus on infrastructure investment.

Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra Appointed First CEO of Ram Janmabhoomi Trust

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on 2 September 2026 appointed retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra as its first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at a meeting held in Ayodhya.

  • Jeetendra Mishra: Former Indian Air Force officer who headed the Western Air Command during Operation Sindoor. He was selected from three shortlisted candidates after 5,585 applications were scrutinised.
  • New General Secretary: Govind Dev Giri, the trust’s former treasurer.
  • New Treasurer: Mahesh Bhagchandka.
  • New Trustees: Madan Mohan Pandey of Ayodhya, Mahesh Bhagchandka of Delhi and Dr Nirmala Yadav of Shikohabad.
  • Mishra, who hails from Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, received several military decorations, including the Yudh Seva Medal.
  • Madan Mohan Pandey is an advocate who represented Ram Lalla Virajman in the Ram Janmabhoomi case.
  • The trust may appoint a Joint CEO or Deputy CEO if required and will prepare an SOP defining the CEO’s duties and responsibilities.

India’s GST Collection Rises 14.8% to ₹1.99 Lakh Crore in August 2026

India’s Gross GST revenue in August 2026 reached ₹1.99 lakh crore, registering a 14.8% year-on-year growth over August 2025. The strong collection reflects robust domestic consumption, improved tax compliance, and continued growth in manufacturing and services.

📊 Key Facts

  • GST Collection: ₹1.99 lakh crore
  • YoY Growth: 14.8%
  • CGST: ~₹35,000 crore
  • SGST: ~₹44,000 crore
  • IGST: ~₹95,000 crore
  • Cess: ~₹25,000 crore
  • GST introduced: 1 July 2017
  • Tagline/Concept: “One Nation, One Tax”

About GST (Goods and Services Tax)

  • Introduced: 1 July 2017
  • Nature: Indirect tax replacing multiple levies like excise duty, service tax, VAT.
  • Structure:
    • CGST: Collected by the Centre on intra-state sales.
    • SGST: Collected by States on intra-state sales.
    • IGST: Collected by Centre on inter-state sales and imports.
  • Objective: “One Nation, One Tax” – to simplify taxation, remove cascading effect, and create a unified national market.

26th SCO Summit 2026 – Bishkek Declaration

The 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, from 31 August to 1 September 2026, marking the 25th anniversary of the SCO. The summit concluded with the adoption of the Bishkek Declaration.

🔑 Key Points

  • Theme: “25 Years of the SCO: Together for Sustainable Peace, Development and Prosperity”
  • Members: 10 countries, including India, China, Russia, Iran, Pakistan and Belarus.
  • Counter-terrorism: Members called for action against terror financing, recruitment, radicalisation and terrorist safe havens. PM Modi stressed that terrorism cannot be a strategic asset for anyone.
  • Cybersecurity: Adopted the 2026–2028 International Information Security Cooperation Plan.
  • Anti-narcotics: Cooperation programmes against drug addiction and synthetic drugs up to 2030; an SCO Anti-Narcotics Centre was also proposed/established.
  • Green technology: Roadmap for a Green Technology Corridor (2026–2030).
  • Biodiversity: Cooperation initiative for biodiversity conservation and sustainable management during 2026–2031.
  • Connectivity: Action Plan for developing transport and logistics centres (2026–2030).
  • West Asia & Iran: The declaration addressed the conflict in West Asia, including the situation involving Iran and Palestine, and opposition to unilateral sanctions.
  • India’s focus: India highlighted counter-terrorism, stronger connectivity with Central Asia and greater institutional cooperation within the SCO.

India’s real GDP grew 7.8% in Q1 (April–June) of FY 2026–27

India’s real GDP grew 7.8% in Q1 (April–June) of FY 2026–27, while real GVA increased 8.2%, reflecting strong economic activity despite global uncertainties, oil price shocks and supply-chain disruptions.

Key Points

  • Real GDP growth: 7.8% in Q1 FY27
  • Real GVA growth: 8.2%
  • Real GDP: ₹81.36 lakh crore
  • Nominal GDP: ₹88.27 lakh crore, up 10.3%
  • Manufacturing: Major driver of growth
    • Capital goods output: +15.2%
    • Electrical equipment manufacturing: +27%
    • Computer, electronic & optical products: +12.4%
  • Exports of goods and services: +25.8%
  • Imports: +30.5%
  • Transport goods exports: +52.2%
  • Machinery and equipment exports: +31.9%
  • Commercial vehicle sales: +18.3%
  • Three-wheeler sales: +29.7%
  • The estimates use the new national accounts series with 2022–23 as the base year, introduced by MoSPI in February 2026.
  • Next GDP estimates (Q2 FY27): Scheduled for 30 November 2026.

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