National News
Union Launches Digital Module for Online Notary Applications
The Ministry of Law and Justice has launched the Fresh Application Module on the existing Notary Portal, enabling eligible advocates and legal practitioners to apply online for appointment as Notary Public under the Notaries Act, 1952, and the Notaries Rules, 1956. The initiative was launched by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal and developed jointly by the Department of Legal Affairs and the National Informatics Centre (NIC). The portal offers paperless applications, automated scrutiny, real-time tracking, and transparent processing, reducing paperwork and delays. Applications will be invited periodically based on vacancies and regional requirements. The initiative strengthens Digital India by improving efficiency, accessibility, transparency, and accountability in legal administration while modernizing the appointment process for notaries across the country.
Ayushman Sarathi WhatsApp Chatbot Simplifies PM-JAY Access
The National Health Authority (NHA) has launched Ayushman Sarathi, a WhatsApp-based chatbot designed to simplify access to services under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). Through WhatsApp, beneficiaries can verify eligibility, apply for and download Ayushman Cards, complete e-KYC, link Aadhaar, search nearby empanelled hospitals, track grievances, and provide feedback without visiting government offices. The chatbot functions round-the-clock through secure API integration, making healthcare services more accessible, transparent, and citizen-friendly. The initiative strengthens Digital India by promoting paperless governance and improving healthcare delivery through digital platforms. It also reduces administrative burden while ensuring quicker access to essential health services for millions of beneficiaries across the country.
SSBSK Strengthens Child Healthcare in India
The Government of India has launched the Samagra Shishu Bal Swasthya Karyakram (SSBSK) to strengthen healthcare services for children from birth to 36 months. The programme integrates newborn and early childhood healthcare initiatives into a unified framework, focusing particularly on vulnerable children such as those suffering from low birth weight, malnutrition, premature birth, or developmental delays. It provides additional home visits, regular monitoring, early screening, and timely referrals by frontline health workers. The programme also promotes parental awareness on nutrition, child development, breastfeeding, and reduced screen exposure. Digital integration with national health portals enables continuous monitoring and better coordination among healthcare providers. SSBSK aims to improve child survival, promote healthy development, and reduce childhood illnesses through comprehensive community-based healthcare services.
Bureau of Port Security Established in India
The Government of India has established the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to strengthen maritime and cyber security across Indian ports. Modeled on the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), the new agency will function as the apex regulatory authority for port and ship security. Initially operating under the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), BoPS will oversee compliance with security standards, conduct surveillance, coordinate intelligence sharing, and enhance cyber resilience. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has been designated as the Recognised Security Organisation responsible for security assessments, planning, and training. The initiative aims to modernize India’s maritime security framework, safeguard critical infrastructure, and strengthen preparedness against emerging physical and cyber threats.
India Wins Five Medals at Global Skills Challenge
India delivered an impressive performance at the Global Skills Challenge Australia 2026, winning five medals, including three gold, one silver, and one bronze. Held from 23–29 June 2026, the competition featured nearly 600 participants from 16 countries and served as a preparatory event for the upcoming WorldSkills Shanghai competition. Indian participants excelled in cloud computing, additive manufacturing, health and social care, and digital game art, demonstrating world-class technical and creative capabilities. The achievement reflects the growing success of the Skill India Mission in developing globally competitive vocational talent. India’s outstanding performance highlights the country’s progress in skill development, encourages youth participation in technical careers, and reinforces its reputation as an emerging leader in global vocational education and workforce excellence.
State News
Maharashtra Approves India’s First Offshore Airport Project
The Maharashtra Government has granted in-principle approval for India’s first offshore airport, a landmark aviation project proposed by the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC). The airport will be constructed in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Palghar district, around 4.75 km from the proposed Uttan–Virar Sea Link, ensuring future road connectivity. The project aims to address land scarcity and increasing air traffic in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region by using advanced offshore engineering techniques. The airport will feature world-class passenger and cargo terminals, seamless integration with transport networks, and ample scope for future expansion without large-scale land acquisition. It is expected to reduce urban noise pollution, improve regional connectivity, promote trade, tourism, logistics, employment generation, and strengthen Maharashtra’s position as a major aviation and economic hub.
Rajasthan–Haryana Yamuna Water Project Agreement
Rajasthan and Haryana have signed a landmark agreement to implement the Yamuna Water Project, ending a nearly 30-year-old water-sharing dispute between the two states. Under the project, approximately 580 million cubic metres (MCM) of Yamuna water will be transported through underground pipelines from the Western Yamuna Canal to water-scarce regions of Rajasthan. Districts such as Sikar, Churu, and Jhunjhunu, along with parts of Haryana, will benefit significantly from improved drinking water availability. The agreement includes provisions for cost-sharing, project monitoring, and dispute-resolution mechanisms to ensure smooth implementation. Supported by the Central Water Commission, the project will promote groundwater recharge, reduce water wastage, encourage sustainable water management, strengthen inter-state cooperation, and improve long-term water security in drought-prone areas.
Delhi EV Policy 2.0 Pushes Clean Mobility
The Delhi Government has approved the Delhi Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2.0 (2026–2030) with an estimated outlay of ₹15,000 crore to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and reduce air pollution. The policy offers direct purchase subsidies, 100% exemption from road tax and registration fees for eligible EVs priced up to ₹30 lakh, along with attractive scrappage incentives. It also proposes a phased ban on new registrations of petrol, diesel, and CNG vehicles in selected categories while promoting electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, buses, and commercial vehicles. The government plans to establish nearly 32,000 EV charging points and expand battery-swapping infrastructure across the capital. The policy supports clean mobility, energy security, reduced carbon emissions, and sustainable urban transportation.
International News
India, Saudi Arabia Sign Pact on Sustainable Water Cooperation
India and Saudi Arabia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the inaugural Saudi Water Week in Jeddah to strengthen bilateral cooperation in water resource management and sustainable irrigation. The agreement was signed by India’s Ambassador Suhel Khan and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen AlFadley. The partnership focuses on improving irrigation efficiency, promoting sustainable water management, strengthening institutional and technical capacity, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge, technology, and best practices. The agreement addresses increasing global water challenges caused by climate change, rapid urbanization, and rising demand for water resources. It also expands India–Saudi strategic relations beyond energy and trade while supporting long-term water security, climate resilience, agricultural sustainability, and collaborative research initiatives between the two countries.
Economy News
Industrial Output Hits Five-Month High in India
India’s Industrial Output, measured by the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), grew by 5.1% in May 2026, recording its highest growth in the last five months. The expansion was driven by strong performance in the manufacturing sector, which grew 5.5%, while electricity and gas supply increased 9.9% due to rising summer demand and renewable energy generation. Capital goods output surged 12.9%, indicating stronger investment activity, whereas mining remained the only sector showing contraction. A major highlight of this release is the adoption of the 2022–23 base year and replacement of the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) with the Output Producer Price Index (PPI) for better measurement of real industrial output. The data reflects improving industrial momentum and continued economic recovery despite global uncertainties.
India’s External Debt Rises to $762.8 Billion
According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), India’s external debt increased to $762.8 billion at the end of FY26, registering a rise of $26.3 billion over the previous financial year. Consequently, the external debt-to-GDP ratio increased from 19.8% to 20.8%. The RBI noted that the appreciation of the US dollar reduced the reported increase by around $24.6 billion, meaning the actual rise would have been higher without valuation effects. The debt composition remains diversified, with the US dollar accounting for the largest share, followed by the Indian rupee, Japanese yen, and euro. While short-term debt increased faster than long-term borrowings, India’s strong foreign exchange reserves and diversified debt profile continue to keep the country’s external position stable.
Banking & Economy News
Eurobank Launches UPI Remittance Service Between Greece and India
Eurobank has launched a UPI-based cross-border remittance service that enables eligible customers in Greece to transfer money instantly, securely, and conveniently to India. The service has been introduced through a strategic collaboration with NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), marking another milestone in the global expansion of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI). Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the initiative, stating that it significantly lowers transaction costs and strengthens India’s digital payment ecosystem. During his visit to Greece, he also met Eurobank CEO Fokion Karavias to discuss strengthening bilateral economic cooperation, encouraging Greek investments in India, and exploring opportunities in manufacturing and infrastructure. The initiative enhances financial connectivity while promoting India’s leadership in digital payment innovation worldwide.
India’s External Debt Rises to $762.8 Billion
According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), India’s external debt rose to $762.8 billion by the end of FY26, increasing by $26.3 billion over the previous financial year. The external debt-to-GDP ratio also increased from 19.8% to 20.8%. RBI noted that the appreciation of the US dollar reduced the reported increase by nearly $24.6 billion, indicating that the actual rise would have been much higher without exchange rate effects. The debt composition remains diversified, with the US dollar accounting for the largest share, followed by the Indian rupee, Japanese yen, and euro. Although short-term debt has increased at a faster pace than long-term borrowings, India’s strong foreign exchange reserves and diversified borrowing profile continue to maintain overall external sector stability.
Rajiv Kumar Appointed Part-Time Chairman of HDFC Bank
HDFC Bank has appointed former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar as its Part-Time Chairman for a period of three years, subject to approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He has also been appointed as an Independent Director for four years beginning 30 June 2026, pending shareholder approval. Rajiv Kumar succeeds the interim arrangement following the resignation of former Chairman Atanu Chakraborty, while Keki Mistry continues as interim chairman until approvals are completed. A 1984-batch IAS officer, Rajiv Kumar previously served as Secretary in the Department of Financial Services before becoming the Chief Election Commissioner of India. His extensive experience in banking reforms, public finance, and governance is expected to strengthen HDFC Bank’s leadership and corporate governance framework.
Defence News
General Dhiraj Seth Assumes Charge as Army Chief
General Dhiraj Seth assumed charge as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on 30 June 2026, succeeding General Upendra Dwivedi, who retired after completing nearly four decades of distinguished military service. General Seth’s tenure will continue until 31 August 2028. Before becoming Army Chief, he served as the 49th Vice Chief of the Army Staff from 1 April 2026. Commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986 after graduating from the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, he has nearly 40 years of operational experience. He has commanded an Armoured Regiment, Counter-Insurgency Force, South Western Command, and Southern Command. He is also the first Armoured Corps officer to become Army Chief since General Shankar Roy Chowdhary in 1997.
Bureau of Port Security Established in India
The Government of India has established the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to strengthen maritime and cyber security across the country’s ports. The new body is modeled on the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and will function as the apex authority for regulating ship and port security. Initially operating under the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), BoPS will oversee compliance with security standards, surveillance, intelligence sharing, cyber security, and risk management. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has been designated as the Recognised Security Organisation responsible for conducting security assessments, preparing security plans, and training agencies. The initiative aims to modernize port security and safeguard India’s rapidly expanding maritime infrastructure against physical and cyber threats.
Project BRAHMANK Marks 16th Raising Day
Project BRAHMANK, one of the flagship projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), celebrated its 16th Raising Day in Arunachal Pradesh, marking fifteen years of strategic infrastructure development in India’s northeastern region. Since its establishment in 2011, the project has successfully constructed and maintained hundreds of kilometres of roads and several strategically important bridges across difficult Himalayan terrain. The project has significantly improved connectivity in remote border districts, enhanced military mobility, facilitated disaster response operations, and supported socio-economic development in the region. By providing all-weather road connectivity to border areas, Project BRAHMANK has strengthened India’s defence preparedness while improving access to healthcare, education, and essential services for local communities. It remains a vital component of India’s border infrastructure strategy.
DFP-2026 Enhances DRDO Financial Powers
The Delegation of Financial Powers to DRDO 2026 (DFP-2026) has been introduced by the Ministry of Defence to improve efficiency, transparency, and faster execution of defence research and development projects. The revised framework grants greater financial autonomy to various levels within the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), enabling quicker approvals for procurement, research, testing, and innovation activities. It also strengthens initiatives such as the Technology Development Fund (TDF), Extra-Mural Research (EMR), and Defence Innovation Accelerator programmes. The reform aims to reduce procedural delays, improve accountability, and encourage stronger collaboration among DRDO, industry, startups, MSMEs, and academic institutions. DFP-2026 is expected to accelerate indigenous defence technology development and further strengthen India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision in the defence sector.
Sports News
Kidambi Srikanth Wins Silver at US Open
Indian badminton star Kidambi Srikanth won the silver medal in the men’s singles event at the US Open 2026, finishing as runner-up after a hard-fought final against Chinese Taipei’s Su Li-yang. Srikanth lost the opening game 15-21, made a strong comeback to win the second 21-16, but went down 9-21 in the deciding game. Despite missing the title, his performance demonstrated resilience and consistency on the international stage. The silver medal marks one of his best performances in recent years and boosts his confidence ahead of upcoming BWF tournaments. Srikanth, whose last BWF title came at the 2017 French Open, continues to remain a key figure in Indian badminton and aims to return to championship-winning form.
Cricket Returns at LA28 Olympics with New Qualification Path
Cricket will officially return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028 (LA28) after more than a century, with men’s and women’s T20 competitions featuring six teams each. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a new qualification pathway based on ICC rankings, continental representation, host nation eligibility, and a 2027 Olympic Qualifier Tournament. Four women’s teams—Australia, India, South Africa, and Great Britain—have already secured qualification, while the men’s qualification process remains open. The tournament will feature group-stage matches, crossover fixtures, and medal playoffs at a dedicated cricket venue in Los Angeles. Cricket’s Olympic return is expected to expand the sport’s global reach, attract new audiences, and strengthen its international profile ahead of future Olympic editions.
Important Days News
International Asteroid Day Observed on 30 June
International Asteroid Day is observed every year on 30 June to raise global awareness about asteroid impact risks and the importance of planetary defence. The day was officially proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2016 and commemorates the 1908 Tunguska Event in Siberia, the largest recorded asteroid-related explosion in Earth’s history. The 2026 theme, “Planetary Defence and Asteroid Impact Hazards,” highlights the importance of international cooperation in asteroid detection, tracking, scientific research, and emergency preparedness. Asteroids are rocky remnants from the early formation of the solar system, and some are classified as Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) because their orbits approach Earth. Global organizations such as the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) and the Space Mission Planning Advisory Group (SMPAG) work together to monitor potentially hazardous asteroids and develop strategies to protect Earth from possible future impacts.
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