Current Affairs

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Asian Games 2026 – India’s Performance on 29 September

On 29 September 2026, India had a landmark day at the Asian Games in Aichi–Nagoya, winning its first athletics gold (women’s 4x400m relay) and its first individual gold in shooting (Neeru Dhanda in women’s trap). India’s overall tally rose to 53 medals (6 Gold, 21 Silver, 26 Bronze), placing the country 10th in the standings.

🥇 Key Gold Medal Wins

  • Neeru Dhanda (Shooting – Women’s Trap Individual)
    • First Indian woman to win an individual Asian Games gold in trap shooting.
    • Scored 28/30 hits, beating China’s Sun Yunong.
  • Women’s 4x400m Relay Team (Athletics)
    • India’s first athletics gold at the 2026 Games.
    • Team members: Names not fully reported yet, but performance marked a breakthrough.

🥈 Silver Medal

  • Women’s Trap Team (Shooting)
    • Neeru Dhanda, Aashima Ahlawat, Manisha Keer.
    • Scored 328 points, finishing behind China (346).

🥉 Bronze Medals

  • Athletics
    • Gulveer Singh – Men’s 5000m (his third medal of the Games).
    • Pooja – Women’s High Jump.
    • Mixed 4x100m Relay – Bronze.
    • Men’s 4x400m Relay – Bronze.
  • Boxing
    • Narender Berwal – Men’s +90kg (lost semifinal, secured bronze).

India Ranks 9th Globally in Forest Area and 3rd in Net Annual Forest Gain

At the 28th Session of the Committee on Forestry (COFO-28) held in Rome in September 2026, India’s progress in forest conservation and afforestation was highlighted on the global platform.

  • India ranks 9th globally in total forest area.
  • India ranks 3rd globally in net annual forest gain, after China and Russia.
  • India has committed to restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.
  • Major initiatives supporting forest restoration include the National Forest Policy 1988, Green India Mission, and CAMPA.
  • India’s forestry efforts contribute to climate action, biodiversity conservation, ecological restoration, and rural livelihoods.
  • The country’s forest and land-restoration efforts are also linked to its broader climate and sustainable-development commitments.

Jharkhand’s Traditional Mandar Instrument Gets GI Tag

Jharkhand’s traditional folk percussion instrument Mandar received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in September 2026, recognizing its distinctive craftsmanship and deep connection with the state’s tribal culture.

Key Points

  • Instrument: Traditional percussion/drum instrument of Jharkhand.
  • Community: Closely associated with the Oraon community of the Chotanagpur region.
  • Unique feature: One side is made using local red soil, giving it a distinctive deep, resonant sound.
  • Uses: Played during Jhumar, Sarhul and other tribal festivals and community gatherings.
  • GI Registry: Geographical Indications Registry, Chennai.
  • Application: Filed in 2021 by Raidih Mandar Producer Company Ltd., Gumla.
  • Application No.: 777.
  • Importance: Protects the instrument’s authenticity, supports local artisans, preserves tribal heritage, and promotes Jharkhand’s cultural identity.

India’s Performance at Asian Games – 28 Sept 2026

On 28 September 2026, India delivered its strongest day yet at the Asian Games in Nagoya, winning 8 medals (4 Silver, 4 Bronze), with athletics contributing 7 podium finishes. The overall tally rose to 45 medals (4 Gold, 20 Silver, 21 Bronze), placing India at 12th position in the standings.

🏅 India’s Medal Wins on 28 Sept 2026

Athletics (Track & Field)

  • Murali Sreeshankar – Silver in Men’s Long Jump (8.07m).
  • Gulveer Singh – Silver in Men’s 1500m (3:36.72, his 2nd medal after 10,000m silver).
  • Yashvir Singh – Silver in Men’s Javelin Throw (85.72m, personal best).
  • Rohit Yadav – Bronze in Men’s Javelin Throw (84.35m).
  • Vithya Ramraj – Bronze in Women’s 400m Hurdles (54.75s, broke PT Usha’s 42-year-old national record).
  • Parul Chaudhary – Bronze in Women’s 5000m (15:14.61, her 2nd medal after steeplechase bronze).
  • Athletics contributed 7 medals in one day, a record surge for India.

Shooting

  • Esha Singh – Silver in Women’s 25m Pistol (equalled Games record with 38 hits, lost gold in shoot-off).

Martial Arts (Kurash)

  • Pincky Balhara – Bronze in Women’s -78kg Kurash (her 2nd Asian Games medal after 2018 silver).

📊 India’s Medal Tally (as of 28 Sept 2026)

CategoryCount
Gold4
Silver20
Bronze21
Total45

Rank: 12th in overall standings.

J&K Assembly Passes Resolution for Immediate Restoration of Full Statehood

On 28 September 2026, the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly adopted a resolution demanding the urgent restoration of full statehood. The resolution, moved by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, was passed by voice vote amid protests and a walkout by BJP legislators.

🔑 Key Points

  • Mover: CM Omar Abdullah
  • Adoption: Voice vote, despite BJP opposition
  • Scope: Calls for full statehood restoration only
  • Exclusions: No mention of Articles 370 & 35A (to avoid derailment)
  • Support: NC, Congress, CPI(M), PDP, JKPC, AAP, AIP supported
  • Opposition: BJP legislators protested, tore papers, and staged walkout

📜 Historical Background

  • 1954–2019: J&K enjoyed special status under Article 370 and 35A.
  • August 2019: Parliament abrogated Article 370; J&K downgraded to a Union Territory with legislature, Ladakh separated as a UT without legislature.
  • 2000: J&K Assembly (Farooq Abdullah govt.) passed a resolution seeking greater autonomy.
  • 2024: Assembly passed resolution demanding restoration of special status.
  • Supreme Court (2023–24): Directed that statehood be restored “at the earliest after elections.”
  • 2026: Current resolution focuses only on statehood restoration, marking a strategic step without reopening the Article 370 debate.

Lalit Kala Akademi Announces 20 Awards at 65th National Exhibition of Art (2026)

The Lalit Kala Akademi has announced 20 awards at the 65th National Exhibition of Art (2026), selecting winners from over 6,175 entries by 2,495 artists across 27 states and UTs. The awards span painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, and mixed media, showcasing the diversity of contemporary Indian art.

🎨 Key Highlights of the 65th National Exhibition of Art

  • Event: 65th National Exhibition of Art
  • Organizer: Lalit Kala Akademi (National Academy of Art)
  • Entries Received: 6,175 artworks from 2,495 artists
  • States/UTs Represented: 27
  • Works Selected for Exhibition: 270 (First-tier jury)
  • Awards Announced: 20 (Second-tier jury)
  • Date of Announcement: 27 September 2026

🏆 Award-Winning Artists & Works

The Lalit Kala Akademi Awards are among the highest recognitions for visual artists in India.

ArtistArtworkMediumCategory
Chandra Shekhar SainMy Entire World – ITerracottaSculpture
Gopal Chandra NaskarThe Tune of The Srimad Bhagavad GitaAcrylic on CanvasPainting
Kishor Kumar NarkhadiwalaParyavaranOil on CanvasPainting
Mrinal DeyHopeless SettlementAcrylic on CanvasPainting
Nidhi ChopraTangible DreamsCeramicSculpture
Nimai Singh SarungbamMudra – ITeak WoodSculpture
Pankaj Kumar SharmaHaloed Traveler – IIPanel WorkDrawing
Pritam Madhukar Deuskar(Title not specified)PrintmakingPrintmaking

(Other awardees include artists across mixed media and experimental forms, reflecting India’s evolving art practices.)

India’s First LNG‑Powered Train Flagged Off from Sabarmati

India’s first LNG-powered train was flagged off on 27 September 2026 from Sabarmati Railway Station, Ahmedabad, by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. It uses a diesel–LNG dual-fuel system, replacing up to 40% of diesel consumption, cutting costs and emissions while marking a major step in India’s green railway transition.

🚆 Key Highlights of India’s First LNG Train

  • Launch Date: 27 September 2026
  • Location: Sabarmati Railway Station, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
  • Flagged Off By: Union Home Minister Amit Shah, with Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel present
  • Technology: Diesel–LNG dual-fuel system
  • Converted Units: Two 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars (DPCs) at Sabarmati Integrated Coaching Depot
  • Fuel Replacement: LNG replaces ~40% of diesel consumption
  • Trials: Over 2,000 km of field trials completed before launch
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: ~2,200 litres LNG per DPC (850–900 kg usable LNG)
  • Range: One full LNG fill enables ~1,600 km of operation
  • Savings: Estimated ₹11.9 lakh annually per DPC; ~₹23.9 lakh for an 8-coach rake

Rajat Sharma Re-elected as NBDA President for 2026–27

Senior journalist Rajat Sharma has been unanimously re-elected as the President of the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) for the 2026–27 term on 25 September 2026. Sharma, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of India TV and host of Aap Ki Adalat, has previously headed the organisation when it was known as the News Broadcasters Association (NBA).

The NBDA, established in 2007 as NBA and renamed in 2021, represents India’s TV and digital news broadcasters and promotes ethical journalism, self-regulation and responsible news broadcasting.

MoD Signs ₹811 Crore Deal with BDL for 160 Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a ₹811 crore contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) on 25 September 2026 for the supply of 160 Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons (SAAW) to the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The SAAW, developed by DRDO and manufactured by BDL, is a precision-guided standoff weapon with a range of up to 100 km, designed to target enemy airfield runways, bunkers and other infrastructure. The procurement will strengthen the IAF’s precision-strike and airfield-denial capabilities while supporting indigenous defence production under Atmanirbhar Bharat.

DURGA E-Auto Scheme 2026: 1,300 Pink Electric Autos

The Delhi Cabinet approved the DURGA (Driving Upliftment and Rozgar for Women/Transgender Green E-Auto) Scheme on 23 September 2026 to promote self-employment among women and transgender persons while encouraging clean and safe urban transport.

  • Total e-autos: 1,300 pink electric autos
    • 1,170 for women
    • 130 for transgender persons
  • Eligibility: Delhi residents aged 20–40 years, with LMV licence and PSV badge.
  • Income limit: Family income up to ₹5 lakh in FY 2025–26.
  • Budget: ₹20 crore for 2026–27.
  • Lock-in period: 3 years.
  • EV benefits: ₹50,000 purchase incentive and 100% exemption from road tax and registration fees.
  • Charging infrastructure: Facilities at 70 Delhi Metro stations.
  • Selection: Applications will be submitted online; if applications exceed available permits, selection will be through a draw of lots.

Oscars 2027 Entry: Marathi Film Gondhal Selected as India’s Official Entry

India has chosen the Marathi film Gondhal as its official entry for the Academy Awards (Oscars) 2027 in the Best International Feature Film category. This marks a proud moment for Marathi cinema, highlighting its growing global recognition.

📌 Key Highlights

  • Film: Gondhal (Marathi)
  • Category: Best International Feature Film (Oscars 2027)
  • Significance: Represents India on the world stage at the Academy Awards.
  • Impact: Strengthens regional cinema’s presence in global film circuits.

🏆 About the Selection

  • The Film Federation of India (FFI) annually selects one film to represent India at the Oscars.
  • Gondhal was chosen for its unique storytelling, cultural depth, and cinematic excellence.
  • The film showcases the richness of Marathi traditions while addressing universal themes, making it relatable to international audiences.

India’s Performance at Asian Games 2026 (as of 25 Sept 2026)

India has won 17 medals so far at the Asian Games 2026 (Aichi–Nagoya, Japan), including 1 Gold, 7 Silver, and 9 Bronze, placing the country around 15th in the medal standings. The women’s cricket team secured India’s only gold, while shooting, athletics, wushu, and rowing have contributed heavily to the tally.

🇮🇳 India’s Medal Tally (as of 25 Sept 2026)

Medal TypeCountKey Events
🥇 Gold1Women’s Cricket (defeated Sri Lanka in final)
🥈 Silver7Shooting (Elavenil Valarivan – individual & team 10m air rifle; Himanshu Dhillon – 10m air rifle; Men’s team 10m air rifle), Weightlifting (Mirabai Chanu – 49kg), Wushu (Roshibina Devi – 60kg sanda), Athletics (Mixed 4x400m relay)
🥉 Bronze9Shooting (Rudrankksh Patil – 10m air rifle; Women’s skeet team; Men’s skeet team; Mixed skeet team), MMA (Suchika Tariyal – women’s -60kg), Soft Tennis (Jay Meena – men’s singles), Badminton (Men’s team), Rowing (Satnam Singh & Salman Khan – double sculls), Athletics (Seema Kumari – 10,000m)

Total: 17 medals (1 Gold, 7 Silver, 9 Bronze)

🏅 Highlights of India’s Performance

  • Historic Gold: Women’s cricket team led by Harmanpreet Kaur clinched India’s first gold of the Games.
  • Shooting Dominance: Contributed 8 medals so far, making it India’s strongest sport again.
  • Weightlifting Milestone: Mirabai Chanu’s silver is India’s first Asian Games weightlifting medal since 1998.
  • Athletics Breakthrough: Seema Kumari’s bronze in 10,000m ended a 16-year drought in the event.
  • Combat Sports Success: Roshibina Devi won her third consecutive Asian Games medal in wushu; Suchika Tariyal earned India’s first MMA medal.
  • Rowing Consistency: Satnam Singh repeated his medal-winning feat from 2022, this time with Salman Khan in double sculls.

US, Denmark and Greenland Sign Agreement to Strengthen US Military Presence in Greenland

The US, Denmark and Greenland agreed on 18 September 2026 to strengthen US military access and security arrangements in Greenland, while restricting military bases and sensitive investments by non-NATO adversaries.

  • The agreement provides the US with permanent access, basing and overflight rights.
  • Non-NATO countries will be barred from establishing military bases in Greenland.
  • The deal is intended to strengthen Arctic and North Atlantic security.
  • The arrangements would reportedly remain valid even if Greenland becomes independent.
  • The agreement does not involve US acquisition of Greenland, a longstanding goal previously expressed by President Trump.
  • Details about possible new US military bases remain unclear.

Asian Games 2026: Aichi–Nagoya, Japan (19 Sept – 4 Oct)

The Asian Games 2026 officially opened today (19 September 2026) in Aichi–Nagoya, Japan, with India’s flag-bearers Manu Bhaker and Tajinderpal Singh Toor leading a 500-athlete contingent. The Games run until 4 October, featuring 43 sports, including new disciplines like freestyle BMX, MMA, paddle surfing, teqball, and virtual taekwondo.

🏟️ Key Facts about Asian Games 2026

  • Edition: 20th Asian Games (XX Asiad)
  • Dates: 19 September – 4 October 2026
  • Host City: Aichi Prefecture & Nagoya, Japan
  • Main Venue: Paloma Mizuho Stadium, Nagoya
  • Motto: Imagine One Asia
  • Participation: 11,000+ athletes from 46 nations
  • Events: 469 events across 43 sports
  • Olympic Qualification: Archery, hockey, sailing, squash, surfing, tennis, and triathlon offer direct quotas for Los Angeles 2028 Olympics

🇮🇳 India at Asian Games 2026

  • Contingent Size: ~500 athletes across 35 sports.
  • Flag Bearers:
    • Manu Bhaker – Double Olympic medallist shooter.
    • Tajinderpal Singh Toor – Defending Asian Games shot put champion.
  • Past Record: India won 107 medals (28 gold) at Hangzhou 2023, its best-ever tally.
  • Target: To surpass the 2023 record and secure more Olympic quotas.

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.

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