National News
PM Modi Forms Exam Reform Task Force Under Nilekani
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the formation of a high-powered Exam Reform Task Force chaired by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani to improve India’s examination system. The initiative aims to address concerns related to paper leaks, unfair practices, and declining trust in competitive examinations. The task force will recommend reforms focused on transparency, technology-based monitoring, security measures, and efficient exam management. Other members include former ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somnath, former Intelligence Bureau chief Tapan Deka, IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti, former Education Secretary Anita Karwal, and administration expert Amrit Lal Meena. The move comes ahead of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, which proposes stricter penalties for examination fraud and malpractice.
University of Leeds and IIT Kharagpur Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement
The University of Leeds and IIT Kharagpur have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen long-term collaboration in research, education, innovation, and student mobility. The partnership will promote interdisciplinary research, student and faculty exchange programmes, joint academic initiatives, innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration. Both institutions will also focus on research commercialization, including technology transfer, intellectual property development, startup support, and industry partnerships to transform research into practical solutions. The agreement further strengthens India–UK academic relations by encouraging global talent development, sustainable innovation, and international academic mobility. Students will benefit from global learning opportunities and cross-cultural exposure, while researchers will gain access to international expertise, collaborative projects, joint publications, and expanded research opportunities.
Sarnath Earns UNESCO World Heritage Status, Boosting India’s Heritage
Sarnath, the ancient Buddhist site in Uttar Pradesh, has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 48th World Heritage Committee session held in Busan, South Korea, on July 25, 2026. With this recognition, India’s total UNESCO World Heritage Sites increased to 45. Sarnath holds immense religious importance as the place where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, after enlightenment. The site includes historic monuments such as Dhamek Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, and Chaukhandi Stupa, reflecting over 2,500 years of Buddhist heritage. UNESCO recognized Sarnath for its outstanding universal value, cultural significance, and contribution to global peace, philosophy, and spirituality. The inscription will strengthen conservation and international recognition of this sacred Buddhist centre.
President Murmu Receives Honorary Doctorate from Romania’s ASE University
President Droupadi Murmu was conferred the honorary Doctor Honoris Causa by the Bucharest University of Economic Studies (ASE), Romania, in recognition of her distinguished public service, commitment to education, social inclusion, and efforts to strengthen India-Romania relations. Accepting the award, she dedicated the honour to the 1.4 billion people of India, calling it a symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations. In her address, President Murmu described education as the “greatest equaliser,” recounting her journey from being the first girl in her village to attend college to becoming India’s President. She also urged universities to balance technological advancement with ethics, compassion, wisdom, and human values, emphasizing the responsible use of artificial intelligence.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Resigned
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned following weeks of nationwide protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination. In his resignation letter, he stated that the decision was taken in the best interests of students and to restore confidence in India’s education system. He emphasized that education is vital for national development, acknowledged students’ concerns, highlighted government action against examination malpractice, and thanked the Prime Minister, colleagues, and ministry officials for their support. The NEET-UG controversy triggered widespread protests demanding transparency, accountability, and reforms in competitive examinations. The government has initiated investigations and proposed measures such as computer-based examinations, stronger digital infrastructure, improved monitoring, and faster grievance redressal. The resignation underscores the importance of maintaining fairness, integrity, and public trust in India’s examination system.
Pralhad Joshi Takes Additional Charge of Education Ministry
Pralhad Joshi has been given the additional charge of the Ministry of Education following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan from the Union Council of Ministers. The appointment was approved by President Droupadi Murmu, acting on the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under Article 75(2) of the Constitution of India. Joshi will continue to oversee his existing portfolios—Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy—alongside the Education Ministry until further orders. A senior BJP leader and Dharwad MP since 2004, Joshi previously served as the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal, and Mines. He also praised Pradhan’s contributions, particularly the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
AI Holobox of Atal Vajpayee Unveiled at Sangrahalaya
The AI Holobox of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was inaugurated on 26 July 2026 at the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, New Delhi. The exhibit features a hyper-realistic 3D AI avatar that interacts with visitors by answering questions based on verified historical records, speeches, writings, and archival material, offering an engaging way to learn about Vajpayee’s life and legacy. The museum already houses AI avatars of Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. The inauguration coincided with the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorating India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War, and included a special exhibition displaying microfilms, archival videos, historic photographs, personal letters, and official documents, highlighting the role of AI in preserving India’s political and cultural heritage.
State News
Puri Jagannath Temple Protects Sacred Names Through Trademarks
The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) of Puri has secured trademark approval for five sacred names linked to Lord Jagannath traditions to protect the temple’s cultural identity. The approved trademarks include Jagannath Dham, Shree Kshetra, Mahaprasad, Nilachakra, and Koili Vaikuntha. The move follows controversy over the use of the term “Jagannath Dham” for a temple in Digha, West Bengal, which Odisha authorities argued was historically associated with the Puri shrine. The SJTA has applied for protection of 29 names, symbols, and cultural elements connected with Jagannath heritage. Trademark registration under the Trade Marks Act, 1999, aims to prevent commercial misuse and unauthorized exploitation while preserving the religious and cultural significance of these sacred identities.
Uttarakhand Radio-Collars Elephants Ahead of Kumbh Mela 2027
Uttarakhand Forest Department is planning to radio-collar herd-leading elephants before the 2027 Haridwar Kumbh Mela to reduce human-elephan
t conflict and improve pilgrim safety. The project will be carried out with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) to track elephant movements in real time across the Rajaji-Corbett elephant landscape. Researchers have been studying herd size, migration routes, movement patterns, and elephant behaviour since May 2026. Radio collars placed on leading elephants will help officials issue early warnings, guide mitigation teams, and prevent encounters near human settlements. The proposal has been discussed by the State Wildlife Board and Tiger Steering Committee and requires approval from the Union Environment Ministry. Uttarakhand recorded 2,026 elephants in its 2020 census, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
Rajasthan Launches Bharat Taxi Cooperative Mobility Service in Jaipur
The Rajasthan Government launched the Bharat Taxi cooperative mobility service in Jaipur on 25 July 2026, under the vision of “Sahakar Se Samriddhi.” Inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, the platform empowers drivers, known as Sarathis, through cooperative ownership, profit-sharing, and direct transfer of trip earnings. Bharat Taxi currently has 8 lakh registered drivers, 41 lakh customers, and completes around 11,000 trips daily, with plans to expand to 500 cities. In Rajasthan, over 30,000 Sarathis and 7 lakh customers have already joined. The service offers transparent fares, ₹5 lakh accident insurance for drivers, and aims to boost employment, tourism, and urban mobility. MoUs with Jaipur Metro, Rajasthan Police, Saras, and Jaipur Municipal Corporation will enhance integrated transport services.
International News
UNESCO Adds Mount Olympus and D-Day Beaches to Heritage List
UNESCO added Mount Olympus (Greece) and the D-Day Landing Beaches (France) to the World Heritage List during the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Busan, South Korea, on 26 July 2026. Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest peak at 2,918 metres, was recognized as a Mixed World Heritage Site for its exceptional natural biodiversity and cultural significance as the legendary home of the Olympian gods in Greek mythology. The D-Day Landing Beaches in Normandy, including Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno, Sword Beaches, and Pointe du Hoc, were inscribed as a Cultural Heritage Site for their pivotal role in the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France on 6 June 1944 during World War II. UNESCO also highlighted conservation concerns, including tourism, climate change, and sea-level rise.
Economy News
India Enters Red Hat’s Top Five Global Growth Markets
India has become one of Red Hat’s top five global growth markets, driven by rapid adoption of open-source software, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and digital transformation. According to Navtej Singh Bal, Vice President and General Manager for India and South Asia, the country has evolved into a key business, engineering, and innovation hub for both Red Hat and IBM. He noted that AI will transform jobs by boosting productivity rather than replacing workers, increasing demand for skills in AI, data science, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Bal also highlighted India’s digital public infrastructure, including UPI, Aadhaar, and passport services, as a strong foundation for AI-driven innovation. However, challenges such as infrastructure costs, talent shortages, and AI deployment remain.
Award News
Dr G Satheesh Reddy Wins Changemaker-2026 Award
Former DRDO Chairman Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy received the prestigious EMESCO-Dr. B.V. Pattabhiram Changemaker-2026 Award in Hyderabad for his contributions to defence research, scientific innovation, and technological self-reliance. The award was presented by actor and politician Chiranjeevi. Dr. Reddy highlighted India’s progress in indigenous defence technologies, stating that the country has significantly reduced dependence on advanced nations for critical military systems. A member of the National Security Advisory Board, he has also played an important role in inspiring students and young scientists through lectures, discussions, and science outreach programmes. The award honours individuals creating positive social impact and is named after Dr. B.V. Pattabhiram, a renowned motivational speaker, educator, and counsellor.
Appointments News
Keshav Chandra Takes Charge as Mines Secretary
Shri Keshav Chandra, IAS (1995 AGMUT cadre), has assumed charge as the Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, on 27 July 2026. Soon after taking office, he chaired a review meeting with senior officials to assess key mining sector programmes and future priorities. Discussions focused on mineral exploration, auction and operationalisation of mineral blocks, and development of critical and strategic minerals. Keshav Chandra emphasized effective implementation of schemes, coordination among stakeholders, and strengthening India’s mineral security. The Ministry’s focus on critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, rare earth elements, and graphite is aimed at supporting sectors like electric vehicles, renewable energy, defence, and advanced technology. His leadership comes during a period of major mining reforms and resource development efforts.
MEA Appoints Dr. K. Srikar Reddy as Qatar Ambassador
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has appointed Dr. K. Srikar Reddy, currently Consul General of India in San Francisco, as India’s next Ambassador to Qatar. His appointment comes as India-Qatar relations continue to expand in energy, trade, investment, technology, and strategic cooperation. Qatar is India’s largest supplier of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), providing 11.2 million tonnes (about 41% of India’s LNG imports) in FY 2024–25. In 2024, Petronet LNG signed a 20-year LNG agreement with QatarEnergy (2028–2048). Both countries elevated ties to a Strategic Partnership in February 2025, aiming to negotiate a CEPA and BIT and double bilateral trade from $14 billion to $28 billion by 2030. Qatar also hosts over 8 lakh Indians, strengthening people-to-people ties.
Defense News
Bhargavastra: India’s Indigenous Anti-Drone Defence System Explained
Bhargavastra is an indigenous anti-swarm drone defence system developed to counter enemy drones and loitering munitions. The Indian Army was introduced to the system on 24 July 2026 during the Make-II project launch in Nagpur. Designed as a mobile, low-cost air defence solution, Bhargavastra combines advanced detection, tracking, command, and interception technologies. It uses radar, EO/IR sensors, passive RF detectors, and C4I systems to identify threats in real time. The system features a two-layer defence mechanism with mini-rockets for swarm attacks and smart mini-missiles for precision strikes up to 2.5 km. It can detect large UAVs from 10 km and small drones from 6 km. Bhargavastra also integrates soft-kill electronic warfare and hard-kill weapons to strengthen India’s layered defence capabilities.
Schemes News
Himachal Launches Machhuara Samman Nidhi Scheme for Reservoir Fishermen
The Himachal Pradesh Government launched the Mukhyamantri Machhuara Samman Nidhi Yojana to provide financial support to reservoir fishermen affected by the annual fishing ban. Announced by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the scheme offers ₹3,500 annually to each eligible fisherman through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Around 3,700 fishing families are expected to benefit, with the government allocating nearly ₹1.20 crore every year. Eligible beneficiaries must be licensed reservoir fishermen, members of registered Fisheries Cooperative Societies, and possess required documents, including Aadhaar and an NFDP registration number. The scheme covers major reservoirs such as Gobind Sagar, Pong Dam, Kol Dam, Chamera, and Ranjit Sagar, promoting livelihood security alongside sustainable fisheries conservation.
MJPJAY Scheme: Maharashtra’s Cashless Healthcare Plan Explained
The Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY) is a Maharashtra government health insurance scheme launched in 2012 to provide cashless medical treatment to economically weaker families. Earlier known as Rajiv Gandhi Jeevandayee Arogya Yojana, it is implemented by the State Health Assurance Society. The scheme provides health coverage of ₹1.5 lakh per family annually and ₹2.5 lakh for organ transplant procedures. Families covered under both MJPJAY and Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY can receive combined coverage of ₹5 lakh annually. Beneficiaries can access free treatment across empanelled government and private hospitals. The scheme covers 996 procedures across 34 specialties, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, surgery, and critical care. It aims to reduce healthcare expenses and ensure timely treatment for vulnerable citizens.
Majhi Kanya Bhagyashree Yojana: Benefits, Eligibility and Application
The Majhi Kanya Bhagyashree Scheme is a Maharashtra government initiative launched on 1 August 2017 by the Women and Child Development Department to improve the social and financial status of girl children. The scheme aims to prevent female foeticide, promote girls’ education, support family planning, and improve the child sex ratio. Under the scheme, eligible families with one or two daughters receive fixed deposit benefits for their children. A family with one girl child receives a fixed deposit of ₹50,000, while families with two daughters receive ₹25,000 for each child. The deposits mature when the girl turns 18 years old, and interest benefits are available periodically. Maharashtra residents with annual family income below ₹7.5 lakh and required documents can apply offline.
Sports News
Anahat Singh Creates History With World Junior Squash Title
India’s Anahat Singh created history by becoming the first Indian player to win the girls’ singles title at the World Junior Squash Championships 2026. The 18-year-old from New Delhi defeated Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem 3-0 (11-3, 11-7, 11-9) in the final to achieve a landmark victory for Indian squash. Anahat dominated the tournament, losing only two games across six matches and defeating several top international players. Her triumph ended Egypt’s 13-year winning streak in the championship and made her the first non-Egyptian champion since 2010. Coming from a sporting family, Anahat began with badminton before choosing squash at a young age. Her historic achievement surpasses India’s previous best performance by Joshna Chinappa in 2005 and marks a major milestone for Indian squash.
Mirabai Chanu Wins Commonwealth Games 2026 Weightlifting Gold
Indian weightlifting star Mirabai Chanu won the gold medal in the women’s 48 kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026, securing her third consecutive Commonwealth Games title. The 31-year-old athlete lifted a total of 190 kg to claim the top position and deliver India’s first gold medal at the Birmingham Games. Chanu successfully lifted 85 kg in snatch and 105 kg in clean and jerk after overcoming early challenges. Nigeria’s Ruth Asuquo Nyong won silver, while Malaysia’s Irene Jane Henry secured bronze. With this victory, Mirabai has now won medals in four consecutive Commonwealth Games editions, including gold medals in 2018, 2022, and 2026. Her achievements, including an Olympic silver and World Championship medals, continue to inspire Indian athletes.
Raja Muthupandi Wins Silver in Commonwealth Weightlifting 2026
Indian weightlifter Raja Muthupandi won the silver medal in the men’s 65kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow. He lifted a combined total of 286kg in the snatch and clean & jerk events, finishing behind Malaysia’s Aznil Bin Bidin Muhamed, who secured gold with a Commonwealth Games record total of 299kg. Papua New Guinea’s Morea Baru claimed bronze. Raja showed strong determination after recovering from a difficult start in the snatch and a failed clean & jerk attempt. His achievement marks another success for India’s weightlifting campaign, following medals by Mirabai Chanu and Rishikanta Singh. Despite past injuries and setbacks, Raja’s comeback highlights his perseverance and strengthens India’s reputation as a leading nation in Commonwealth weightlifting.
Rishikanta Singh Wins India’s First CWG 2026 Silver
Indian weightlifter Rishikanta Singh Chanambam created history by winning India’s first silver medal at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 in the men’s 60 kg weightlifting category. The athlete from Imphal West, Manipur, delivered a record-breaking performance with a 121 kg snatch, setting a new Commonwealth Games record. He lifted 143 kg in clean and jerk, achieving a total of 264 kg. Malaysia’s Mohamad Aniq Kasdan won gold with a 273 kg total, while Joshua Amunga Mboya secured bronze. Trained at the National Sports Academy, Khuman Lampak, Rishikanta earlier won gold at the 2025 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships with record lifts. His achievement marks a major milestone in Indian weightlifting and strengthens the country’s presence in global competitions.
Nyck de Vries Wins Tokyo Formula E for Mahindra Racing
Mahindra Racing strengthened its Formula E championship campaign after Nyck de Vries won the second race of the Tokyo E-Prix in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. Starting fifth, De Vries expertly managed changing wet-to-dry conditions, using Attack Mode strategically to take the lead before holding off rivals in a one-lap sprint following a late red flag. The victory was his second win of the 2026 season and Mahindra Racing’s second triumph this year—the team’s first multi-win season since 2017–18. Mahindra earned 38 points across the Tokyo double-header, climbing to fourth in the Teams’ Championship with 210 points, just one point behind Andretti. Teammate Edoardo Mortara also impressed by equalling the season pole-position record.
Important Days News
CRPF Foundation Day 2026: History, Role and Significance
CRPF Foundation Day is observed on 27 July every year to commemorate the establishment and contributions of the Central Reserve Police Force, India’s largest Central Armed Police Force. Celebrating its 87th Foundation Day in 2026, the CRPF continues to play a crucial role in maintaining internal security, combating terrorism, tackling Left-wing extremism, ensuring election security, and conducting disaster relief operations. Established in 1939 as the Crown Representative’s Police, it was renamed CRPF after the CRPF Act, 1949. The force’s historic contributions include the 1959 Hot Springs sacrifice, where 10 personnel lost their lives. With over 246 battalions and specialized units like CoBRA and RAF, CRPF remains a key pillar of India’s security framework and has also participated in UN peacekeeping missions.
Kargil Vijay Diwas 2026: Remembering India’s War Heroes
Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on 26 July to commemorate India’s victory in the Kargil War of 1999 and honour the bravery of soldiers who fought in Operation Vijay. In 2026, India marks the 27th anniversary of the historic victory, remembering the sacrifices made in the challenging mountainous terrain of Ladakh. The conflict began in May 1999 after Pakistani forces and infiltrators occupied strategic positions along the Line of Control. The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Vijay, supported by the Air Force’s Operation Safed Sagar, to recapture the occupied peaks. Key victories included the Battles of Tololing and Tiger Hill. Heroes like Captain Vikram Batra, Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, and Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav continue to inspire the nation.
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