National News
Vice President Inaugurates Mannam Smrithi Mandapam, Honours Legacy of Mannathu Padmanabhan
Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan unveiled the statue of renowned social reformer and freedom fighter Mannathu Padmanabhan and inaugurated the Mannam Smrithi Mandapam at the Mannam International Centre in Dwarka, New Delhi, on July 12, 2026. Organised by the Nair Service Society (NSS), Delhi, the event celebrated Padmanabhan’s contributions to social reform, education, equality, and nation-building. Born in 1878, Mannathu Padmanabhan founded the Nair Service Society in 1914 to promote education, community development, and social upliftment. The Vice President highlighted that his ideals went beyond caste and regional boundaries, focusing on dignity, justice, and equal opportunities for all. The newly inaugurated memorial aims to inspire future generations by preserving his legacy of service and inclusiveness. During the event, the Vice President also participated in the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign by planting a sapling, promoting environmental conservation. The occasion highlighted the continued role of NSS in cultural preservation, education, and social welfare initiatives across India.
NAMASTE Day 2026: India Marks Third Anniversary of Scheme for Safer and Dignified Sanitation
India will observe the 3rd NAMASTE Day on July 14, 2026, commemorating three years of the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme. Led by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the main celebration will be held at Rabindra Sadan, Kolkata, alongside the Divya Kala Mela, while Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across the country will organise similar events. The observance honours the contributions of sewer workers, septic tank workers, waste pickers, and former manual scavengers, while promoting their safety, dignity, and welfare. Activities include health check-up camps, occupational safety training, demonstrations of mechanised sanitation equipment, awareness on personal protective equipment (PPE), distribution of welfare benefits, and recognition of sanitation workers. Launched in 2023-24, the NAMASTE Scheme aims to eliminate hazardous manual sanitation practices by promoting mechanised technologies, improving workplace safety, and enhancing the social and economic well-being of sanitation workers through a more inclusive and dignified sanitation ecosystem.
ONGC Drills Second Geothermal Well in Ladakh, Advancing India’s First Geothermal Power Plant
The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has achieved a major milestone in India’s renewable energy journey by successfully drilling its second geothermal well in the Puga Valley of Ladakh. Developed through ONGC Energy Centre, the well was drilled to a depth of 1,000 metres at an altitude of over 14,000 feet, supporting the development of India’s first 1 MW pilot geothermal power plant. The project follows the success of ONGC’s first geothermal well, which confirmed the presence of high-temperature underground heat resources in the region. Geothermal energy can provide reliable, round-the-clock clean power, unlike solar and wind energy that depend on weather conditions. The Puga project aims to demonstrate the technical and commercial potential of geothermal electricity generation in India while supporting the country’s target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. If successful, it could strengthen energy security in remote regions like Ladakh, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and expand India’s renewable energy portfolio.
eSaras Empowers Rural Entrepreneurs as Digital India Completes 11 Years
As the Digital India programme marks 11 years, eSaras has emerged as a key initiative driving rural entrepreneurship and inclusive growth. Developed by the Digital India Corporation (DIC) under MeitY in collaboration with the Ministry of Rural Development, the platform enables Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and rural entrepreneurs to sell products directly to customers across India. Operating under DAY-NRLM, eSaras offers an end-to-end digital commerce ecosystem, including seller registration, product cataloguing, digital payments, logistics, and multilingual support through BHASHINI. The platform supports 8.99 crore SHG members, lists over 1,400 rural products, and reaches buyers through ONDC-enabled applications. By promoting handicrafts, handloom, food products, honey, millet-based foods, and other rural goods, eSaras helps diversify incomes beyond agriculture. The initiative also supports the government’s goal of creating 6 crore Lakhpati Didis by 2029, empowering women entrepreneurs with greater market access, higher earnings, and improved financial independence while preserving India’s traditional crafts and rural livelihoods.
State News
Ahmedabad Sets Guinness World Record by Planting 3.61 Lakh Saplings in One Hour
Ahmedabad entered the Guinness World Records by planting 361,000 saplings in just one hour, setting a new benchmark for the world’s largest Miyawaki plantation drive. Organized by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) on July 12, 2026, the campaign took place at Bhadaj near the Gota-Godhavi Canal under the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. More than 25,000 volunteers, including students, NCC cadets, government officials, police personnel, and local residents, participated in the record-breaking initiative. Spread across a 91,006-square-metre site, with 76,000 square metres dedicated to dense plantation, the drive featured 35 indigenous tree species suited to Gujarat’s climate. Using the Miyawaki afforestation method, which promotes faster-growing, denser forests with minimal maintenance, the initiative aims to boost Ahmedabad’s green cover, improve biodiversity, and support long-term ecological restoration while surpassing the previous world record for saplings planted in an hour.
West Bengal Renames August 16 as ‘Ayushman Diwas’, Replacing ‘Khela Hobe Diwas’
The West Bengal government has announced that August 16 will now be observed as ‘Ayushman Diwas’, replacing ‘Khela Hobe Diwas’. The decision, announced by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, aims to promote awareness about the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and coincides with the completion of the BJP government’s first 100 days in office. The observance will include awareness campaigns, outreach programmes, and public events to educate eligible families about the scheme, which provides cashless health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care at empanelled hospitals. Introduced in 2021 by the previous TMC government, Khela Hobe Diwas focused on encouraging sports participation among youth through the distribution of sports equipment. The renaming reflects the state’s shift from sports promotion to healthcare awareness, with a greater emphasis on expanding access to affordable medical treatment for economically vulnerable families.
Andhra Pradesh Launches ‘Pillale Sampada’ Initiative to Promote Balanced Population Growth
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has launched the “Pillale Sampada” (Children are Wealth) initiative, marking a shift in the state’s demographic policy from population control to population conservation. Announced during the World Population Day programme in Vijayawada, the initiative focuses on encouraging balanced population growth while strengthening maternal healthcare, child welfare, education, and women’s empowerment. Naidu highlighted that human resources are essential for sustainable development and warned that declining fertility rates and an ageing population could create future workforce challenges. The government plans to improve nutrition programmes, strengthen Anganwadi services, reduce unnecessary Caesarean deliveries, and establish workplace childcare facilities. The initiative will also support children’s education through the Talliki Vandanam scheme, which provides ₹15,000 per child to families. Linked with the Swarna Andhra 2047 vision, the policy aims to build a healthy, educated, and productive population capable of driving long-term economic growth while addressing future demographic challenges.
International News
14 Nations Reaffirm 2016 South China Sea Arbitration Ruling, Reject China’s Maritime Claims
Fourteen countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Philippines, Japan, and Australia, have reaffirmed the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration ruling, stating that China has no legal basis for its broad maritime claims under international law. Issued on July 12, 2026, to mark the tenth anniversary of the Hague tribunal’s decision, the joint statement described the ruling under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as final and legally binding. The 2016 arbitration, initiated by the Philippines, rejected China’s claims based on the Nine-Dash Line and ruled that several disputed features could not create extensive maritime zones. China has continued to reject the decision, calling it “null and void” and refusing to recognize the tribunal’s authority. The participating nations also expressed concerns over rising tensions, use of coercion, and aggressive maritime actions in the region. The statement highlighted the importance of freedom of navigation, peaceful dispute resolution, and maintaining a rules-based maritime order in the strategically important South China Sea.
Science & Technology News
Japan Successfully Tests RV-X Reusable Rocket, Advancing Future Space Technology
Japan has achieved a major milestone in reusable space technology with the successful first lift-off and landing test of the RV-X experimental reusable rocket developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Conducted on July 11, 2026, at the Noshiro Rocket Testing Center in Akita Prefecture, the test demonstrated key technologies required for future reusable launch vehicles. The rocket completed a 40-second flight, reaching an altitude of around 10–11 metres, moving horizontally about 16 metres, and landing safely at its designated site. The 7.3-metre-tall RV-X prototype is designed to test rocket recovery, precision landing, guidance systems, and technologies that can reduce launch costs. Before the flight, it underwent more than 160 combustion tests to ensure reliability. The programme supports Japan’s long-term goal of developing affordable and efficient space transportation systems and contributes to the international CALLISTO reusable rocket project with France and Germany. The successful demonstration strengthens Japan’s position in the global space industry and highlights the growing importance of reusable rockets for sustainable and cost-effective space missions.
ISRO Completes Key Gaganyaan Crew Module Tests, Boosting Readiness for India’s First Human Spaceflight
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully completed three critical qualification tests for the Gaganyaan Crew Module, marking a major milestone toward India’s first human spaceflight mission. Conducted on July 12, 2026, the tests validated the Crew Module Uprighting System (CMUS), Crew-Service Umbilical Unit (CSU-2) separation mechanism, and Apex Cover separation system. The CMUS demonstrated its ability to automatically inflate flotation devices using compressed gas, ensuring the crew capsule remains upright after ocean splashdown for safe astronaut recovery. ISRO also confirmed the successful separation of the Crew-Service Umbilical Unit before atmospheric re-entry and verified the structural integrity and timely release of the Apex Cover, which protects the parachute deployment system. These systems are vital for safe re-entry, parachute deployment, splashdown, and post-landing operations. The successful tests significantly enhance mission readiness and reinforce ISRO’s progress toward launching Gaganyaan, India’s first indigenous mission to send astronauts into low Earth orbit and return them safely to Earth.
Schemes News
UP Khet Suraksha Yojana 2026: Farmers to Get Up to 60% Subsidy for Solar Fencing
The Uttar Pradesh Government has launched the UP Khet Suraksha Yojana 2026 to help farmers protect their crops from stray cattle, nilgai, wild boars, and other animals that cause significant agricultural losses. Under the scheme, eligible farmers will receive a subsidy of up to 60%, with financial assistance of up to ₹1.43 lakh per kilometre for installing solar-powered electric fencing. In certain cases, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), small, and marginal farmers may receive a subsidy of up to 70%. Farmers owning or leasing at least 0.5 hectares of agricultural land in Uttar Pradesh, with Aadhaar-linked bank accounts and proof of crop damage, are eligible to apply through the state’s Agriculture Department portal. The solar fencing system uses safe low-voltage electric pulses to deter animals without causing serious harm, reducing crop losses and promoting renewable energy. The scheme aims to improve farm productivity, strengthen rural livelihoods, and provide long-term protection for agricultural land.
EPFO Launches Amnesty Scheme 2026 to Regularise Exempted PF Trusts
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced the Amnesty Scheme 2026, offering eligible establishments a one-time six-month opportunity to regularise their Exempted Provident Fund (PF) Trusts and achieve statutory compliance. Announced by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the scheme is aimed at organisations operating employer-managed PF trusts that have not completed the required legal formalities. Eligible establishments can apply retrospectively by submitting the prescribed application and supporting documents to their respective EPFO Regional Office. Exempted PF Trusts allow employers to manage employees’ provident fund contributions internally, provided they offer benefits equal to or better than those under the EPFO. The initiative seeks to strengthen governance, improve transparency, simplify provident fund administration, and protect employees’ retirement savings. By providing a structured compliance window, the scheme reduces legal uncertainty, enhances employee confidence, and encourages uniform adherence to provident fund laws across privately managed trusts while ensuring better regulatory oversight and long-term social security for workers.
Summits & Conferences News
All India Water Resource Secretaries’ Conference 2026: Centre and States Review Water Sector Reforms
The Ministry of Jal Shakti will conduct the All India Conference of Senior Most Secretaries of Water Resources Departments of States and Union Territories on July 13, 2026, in New Delhi to strengthen India’s water governance framework. Chaired by Union Minister of Jal Shakti C. R. Patil, the conference will focus on sustainable water management, irrigation efficiency, dam safety, and community participation in water conservation. Organised by the Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD & GR), the meeting will bring together senior officials and representatives from key organisations such as the Central Water Commission (CWC) and National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA). Discussions will cover eight priority areas, including the M-CADWM scheme, #CatchTheRain campaign, revised project appraisal guidelines, reservoir rule curves, State Water Reforms Framework, dam safety evaluations, irrigation census progress, and Model State Water Awards. The conference aims to improve Centre-State coordination, promote efficient water management practices, and accelerate reforms for India’s long-term water security.
Sports News
Linda Noskova Wins Wimbledon 2026, Claims Maiden Grand Slam Title in Historic Czech Final
Linda Noskova captured her first Grand Slam title by defeating fellow Czech Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-3 in a thrilling women’s singles final at Wimbledon 2026. The ninth seed dominated the opening set before overcoming the disappointment of missing five championship points in the second set, eventually sealing victory with an unreturnable serve in the deciding set. At just 21, Noskova became the ninth consecutive first-time Wimbledon women’s singles champion. Her triumph also extended the Czech Republic’s recent dominance at the tournament, following titles won by Marketa Vondrousova (2023) and Barbora Krejcikova (2024). An emotional Noskova dedicated the victory to her late mother and thanked her family for their support. Despite the defeat, Muchova earned praise for her spirited comeback after saving multiple match points. The all-Czech final showcased the country’s exceptional depth in women’s tennis and marked another historic moment for Czech tennis on the Wimbledon stage.
Wimbledon 2026 Champions: Jannik Sinner Defends Title, Linda Noskova Wins Maiden Grand Slam
The 2026 Wimbledon Championships delivered exciting matches and historic achievements across all categories. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner successfully defended his men’s singles title by defeating Alexander Zverev in a four-set final, 6–7 (7–9), 7–6 (7–2), 6–3, 6–4. The match lasted 3 hours and 46 minutes, with Sinner recovering after losing the opening set to secure his 10th consecutive victory over Zverev. In the women’s singles final, ninth seed Linda Noskova defeated fellow Czech Karolina Muchova 6–2, 5–7, 6–3 to win her first Grand Slam title, becoming the ninth straight first-time Wimbledon women’s champion. Henry Patten and Harri Heliovaara captured the men’s doubles title, while Guo Hanyu and Kristina Mladenovic won the women’s doubles crown. Marcelo Arévalo and Jelena Ostapenko emerged as the mixed doubles champions, completing an unforgettable Wimbledon 2026.
Kranti Goud Creates History as First Female Cricketer on Lord’s Honours Board
Indian fast bowler Kranti Goud made history by becoming the first female cricketer to be featured on the prestigious Lord’s Honours Board after claiming a remarkable five-wicket haul against England Women in the historic Test match at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Her match-winning spell helped India put pressure on England’s batting lineup and earned her a place among the greatest performers at the “Home of Cricket.” Goud dismissed key batters including Tammy Beaumont, Maia Bouchier, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Alice Capsey, and Lauren Bell to complete her five-wicket haul with exceptional accuracy and consistency. With this achievement, she became the 15th Indian bowler to enter the Lord’s Honours Board, joining legends such as Kapil Dev, Bishan Singh Bedi, Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Jasprit Bumrah. The milestone was celebrated emotionally as Goud signed the Honours Board and shared the historic moment with her family and teammates. Her achievement represents a landmark moment for Indian and women’s cricket, highlighting the growing impact of female cricketers on the global stage.
Yastika Bhatia Creates History with First Women’s Test Century at Lord’s
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia created history by becoming the first woman cricketer to score a Test century at Lord’s Cricket Ground during India Women’s historic Test match against England Women on July 12, 2026. Her remarkable innings of 113 runs helped India gain a strong position and earned her a place on the prestigious Lord’s Honours Board, a rare achievement in international cricket. After scoring only 12 runs in the first innings, Yastika made a शानदार comeback in the second innings, reaching her century in 145 balls with a composed performance. The milestone marked her maiden international century and made her one of the few Indian batters to score a Test hundred at Lord’s, joining legends such as Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, Dilip Vengsarkar, Vinoo Mankad, and Mohammad Azharuddin. Her historic knock also added significance to the first-ever women’s Test match played at Lord’s and highlighted the growing achievements of women’s cricket.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot Race: Kylian Mbappé Overtakes Lionel Messi
The race for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot has intensified after the Round of 16, with Kylian Mbappé moving to the top of the standings ahead of Lionel Messi. Both stars have scored eight goals, but Mbappé leads the rankings thanks to three assists, compared to Messi’s one, which serves as FIFA’s primary tiebreaker. Mbappé reached the milestone after scoring a brace against Morocco, while Messi netted his eighth goal in Argentina’s victory over Egypt, extending his remarkable scoring streak in World Cup matches. Erling Haaland finished the tournament with seven goals following Norway’s elimination, while Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane remain in contention with six goals each as England advances. Other notable performers include Ousmane Dembélé, Ismaïla Sarr, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Julián Quiñones. The Golden Boot is awarded to the tournament’s top scorer, with assists and then fewer minutes played used to break ties if players finish level on goals.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Finals Set: France, Spain, England, and Argentina Reach Final Four
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has reached its most exciting stage, with France, Spain, England, and Argentina securing places in the semi-finals after dramatic quarter-final victories. France defeated Morocco 2-0 with goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, setting up a semi-final clash against Spain. Spain advanced after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Belgium, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal late in the match. England booked their place after overcoming Norway 2-1 in extra time, as Jude Bellingham scored twice, including the winning goal in the 93rd minute. Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time, with Julián Álvarez scoring twice to seal the victory. The first semi-final will see France face Spain on July 15 at AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas, while England will meet Argentina on July 16 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta. The winners will advance to the World Cup final on July 20, 2026, competing for football’s biggest prize.
Neeru Dhanda Wins Women’s Trap Gold at ISSF Shotgun World Cup 2026
Neeru Dhanda created history by winning the women’s trap gold medal at the ISSF Shotgun World Cup 2026 in Lonato, Italy, on July 11, 2026. The Indian shooter delivered an outstanding performance, topping the qualification round with 121 out of 125 targets and entering the final as the leading competitor. In a tense gold medal match, Dhanda defeated former world champion Carole Cormenier of France after both shooters were tied at 25 hits with two targets remaining. Her composed performance secured India’s first shotgun gold medal of the season and marked her first individual ISSF World Cup medal. Earlier in 2026, she had won a mixed trap bronze medal at the ISSF World Cup in Almaty. Her victory highlights India’s growing success in international shooting.
Obituaries News
Former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Dies at 74
Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani passed away on July 12, 2026, at the age of 74, marking the end of an era in the country’s history. Ruling from 1995 to 2013, Sheikh Hamad transformed Qatar into one of the world’s wealthiest nations by developing the North Field gas reserves, expanding liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, and establishing the Qatar Investment Authority. He also elevated Qatar’s global influence through the launch of Al Jazeera and laid the foundation for hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Following his death, Qatar declared a period of national mourning, lowered flags, and suspended government operations. World leaders, including King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, paid tribute to his visionary leadership and contributions. While his legacy includes rapid economic growth and global prominence, his tenure also drew international scrutiny over labor rights, human rights issues, and controversies surrounding Qatar’s successful 2022 World Cup bid.
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