Current Affairs Capsule PDF (23 July, 2026)
India has launched the Campus Biodiversity Register (CBR) Initiative to help colleges and universities document the diversity of plants, animals, birds, insects, and other living organisms found on their campuses. Jointly implemented by the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF) and the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), the year-long programme promotes biodiversity conservation, scientific research, and environmental awareness. Institutions will record species using citizen science platforms such as iNaturalist, eBird, and SeasonWatch, contributing valuable ecological data. Inspired by the People’s Biodiversity Register, the initiative aims to strengthen conservation efforts, support policymaking, and encourage student participation. Registrations are open until November 2026, while biodiversity documentation will continue until June 2027, helping educational institutions build comprehensive records of their campus ecosystems.
Tamil Nadu’s Killai village in Cuddalore district has become the state’s first Climate-Resilient Village, adopting a community-driven approach to tackle climate risks. Located near the ecologically important Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, the village faces challenges including cyclones, floods, coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and saltwater intrusion. The initiative combines scientific planning, ecosystem conservation, resilient infrastructure, disaster preparedness, and sustainable livelihoods to strengthen local adaptation. Key measures include nature-based solutions, water management, climate-smart development, and community participation. The model aims to reduce vulnerability among fishermen, farmers, and residents while protecting natural ecosystems. Killai’s success demonstrates how local communities and environmental conservation can work together to build long-term resilience against climate change impacts and serve as a model for other coastal regions.
President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Museum of the City of Skopje in North Macedonia on 22 July 2026, highlighting India’s commitment to the values of peace, non-violence, and humanity. The ceremony was attended by North Macedonia President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova and dignitaries from both nations, reflecting strengthening bilateral ties. During the event, President Murmu described Gandhi’s principles of truth (Satya) and non-violence (Ahimsa) as universal ideals that promote justice, dignity, freedom, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence. She noted that Gandhi’s message remains relevant amid global challenges involving conflict and intolerance. The bust will serve as a symbol of India-North Macedonia friendship, cultural diplomacy, and shared commitment to tolerance and mutual respect.
India’s installed wind power capacity has reached 57,443 MW as of 30 June 2026, with 6,057 MW added during FY 2025–26, the highest annual increase in the last three financial years. According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), wind power generation also rose significantly to 106 billion units, up from 83 billion units in the previous two years. Gujarat remains the leading state with 16,086 MW of installed capacity, followed by Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. India also ranks fourth globally in cumulative wind energy installations, according to the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC). Government initiatives, including transmission reforms, offshore wind policies, and investment incentives, are driving growth, strengthening energy security, and supporting India’s long-term renewable energy and climate goals.
India has achieved 99.6% electrification of its broad gauge railway network, making Indian Railways the world’s second most electrified railway system after Switzerland. Since 2014, India has electrified over 48,000 route kilometres, more than doubling the progress made in the previous six decades. The initiative has significantly reduced diesel consumption from 293 crore litres in 2015–16 to 108 crore litres in 2024–25, lowering fuel imports and carbon emissions. Rail transport emits nearly 89% less CO₂ per tonne-kilometre than road transport, supporting India’s climate goals. Indian Railways has also installed over 1,260 MW of solar and wind energy capacity. Most railway zones and several states have achieved complete electrification, with remaining sections nearing completion.
The Chhattisgarh government has approved a 10% reservation for Agniveers in direct recruitment to selected Class-III government posts under the Chhattisgarh Reservation of Vacancies in Class-III Civil Services for Agniveer Soldiers Rules, 2026. The decision, taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, aims to support former Agniveers in securing government employment after completing their four-year service under the Agnipath Scheme. The reservation covers posts such as Police Constables, Forest Guards, and Jail Warders. Eligible candidates must belong to Chhattisgarh and possess a valid discharge certificate issued under the Agnipath Scheme. The initiative provides a structured transition to civilian careers while recognising military service and strengthening the state’s public service workforce.
The Andhra Pradesh government has launched the Mee Bhoomi–Blockchain Pilot Project to modernise land record management using blockchain technology. Developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) Andhra Pradesh and NIC Bengaluru’s Centre of Excellence in Blockchain Technology, the platform integrates revenue, survey, and registration records into a secure, tamper-proof system built on Hyperledger Fabric. The pilot covers seven mandals across seven districts, including 89 re-survey villages and over 1.37 lakh land parcel maps. It offers citizen-centric services such as auto-mutation after property registration, land subdivision, extent correction, and digital record verification. The blockchain-based platform improves transparency, prevents record tampering, reduces land disputes, enables secure data sharing, and supports faster services for government departments, banks, and financial institutions.
Jharkhand has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) to establish the state’s first Jharkhand Film and Television Institute (JFTI) in Ranchi. Developed by the Jharkhand Film Development Corporation Limited (JFDCL) in collaboration with SRFTI, the institute will offer industry-focused training in filmmaking, television production, and digital media. Initially operating from Suchna Bhawan, it will introduce certificate courses in cinematography, film direction, editing, sound design, animation, screenplay writing, and production, with plans to launch undergraduate programmes later. The initiative aims to develop skilled media professionals, promote regional storytelling, preserve Jharkhand’s cultural heritage, support the growing OTT and entertainment sectors, and strengthen the state’s creative economy through quality film education.
Rajasthan has launched the Mukhyamantri Yuva Suyog Platform to promote youth development through sports, skill building, employment opportunities, and community participation. Introduced from the Chief Minister’s official residence in Jaipur, the digital registration-based initiative connects young people with government programmes while encouraging leadership and civic engagement. The pilot phase has begun in Bagru Assembly constituency and Baran district, with participants registering through the Yuva Suyog Portal. The platform features competitions in cricket, volleyball, kabaddi, and football, with winning teams progressing to higher-level contests. It also includes digital mapping of sports infrastructure to support future development. Registered participants become members of District-level Yuva Suyog Clubs, while integration with the MY Bharat programme promotes volunteerism, community service, and nationwide youth engagement.
Punjab has become the first Indian state to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a mainstream subject from Class 1 to Class 12 under the Sarbat.AI initiative of the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB). The programme aims to build AI literacy, ethical awareness, and practical technology skills among students through a phased rollout. Initially, AI will be integrated into the Computer Science curriculum for Classes VIII to XII using live classes, recorded lectures, projects, assessments, and a Learning Management System, before expanding to lower classes. More than 12,000 Computer Science teachers will receive specialised training, supported by Neeev AI and technology partners such as Google, Intel, Canva, and FA-AI. The initiative prepares students for future careers while promoting responsible and ethical use of AI.
India hosted the International Governing Board Meeting of the BRICS Network University (BRICS NU) and the BRICS Network University Conference on Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge Systems under its BRICS Presidency 2026. Organised by the Ministry of Education, the event brought together policymakers, university leaders, researchers, and academics from BRICS nations to strengthen cooperation in higher education, research, innovation, and institutional partnerships. Discussions covered joint academic programmes, faculty and student exchanges, and collaborative research initiatives. A key highlight was the first BRICS NU conference on traditional and indigenous knowledge systems, focusing on preservation, ethical governance, responsible AI use, and community ownership. India also proposed creating a new International Thematic Group on Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge Systems, receiving broad support from participating member countries.
A new University of Oxford study has identified the world’s cities most vulnerable to extreme heat, with three Indian cities—Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai—ranking among the global top 10. Published in Sustainable Cities and Society, the research assessed 205 major cities using a heat-risk framework that considered peak temperature exposure, population vulnerability, and adaptive capacity. Delhi ranked second due to high population density, frequent heatwaves, and the urban heat island effect. Mumbai ranked sixth, facing risks from rising temperatures, humidity, and dense development, while Chennai ranked ninth due to prolonged heat and rapid urbanisation. The study highlights the need for stronger heat-action plans, green spaces, climate-resilient infrastructure, improved healthcare systems, and better urban planning to protect vulnerable populations from increasing heat threats.
The United States has approved a 30-year civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia under Section 123 of the US Atomic Energy Act of 1954, creating a long-term framework for peaceful nuclear collaboration. The deal enables cooperation in reactor development, nuclear fuel supply, technology transfer, infrastructure, and technical expertise, while supporting Saudi Arabia’s energy diversification goals. US companies are expected to play a major role in the kingdom’s civilian nuclear programme, with the possibility of a future uranium enrichment facility subject to joint studies. The agreement has sparked debate because it excludes the “Gold Standard” restrictions on uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing and does not require the IAEA Additional Protocol. Supporters view it as a strategic partnership, while critics cite potential nuclear proliferation risks.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revived its polymer banknotes initiative by inviting a global Expression of Interest (EoI) for security-grade polymer substrate sheets through Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited (BRBNMPL). The move aims to introduce durable plastic ₹10 and ₹20 notes, which are subject to heavy circulation and frequent replacement. Polymer banknotes last longer, resist moisture, dirt, and tearing, and support advanced anti-counterfeit features such as transparent windows, holograms, and colour-shifting inks. Although they cost more initially, their extended lifespan reduces replacement and maintenance costs while offering environmental benefits through recyclability. India first proposed polymer notes in 2010, but the plan stalled due to high costs and import dependence. The 2026 initiative marks a renewed push toward modernising India’s currency system.
UPI Records Massive Transaction Growth In FY26 Digital Payments
India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has recorded significant growth in FY 2025-26, processing 24,161.69 crore transactions worth ₹314.23 lakh crore, according to the Ministry of Finance. Operated by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007, UPI had 55.49 crore onboarded users by June 2026. The platform saw a sharp rise compared with FY 2024-25, when it handled 18,586.60 crore transactions valued at ₹260.56 lakh crore. To strengthen security, the government, RBI, and NPCI have introduced risk-based transaction limits, stronger authentication measures, and frameworks such as the Comprehensive UPI Information Security Framework (CUISF) 2025. UPI is also expanding globally, with merchant payment services available in countries including Bhutan, Singapore, and the UAE.
NRI deposit inflows declined 29.25% to $1.33 billion during April–May FY27 compared with $1.88 billion in the same period last year, according to RBI data. The total outstanding NRI deposits stood at $165.96 billion in May 2026. Inflows into FCNR(B) deposits fell to $282 million, while NRE deposits declined to $597 million. However, NRO deposits recorded a slight rise, reaching $451 million during the period. The RBI attributed the decline to slower growth in NRE and FCNR(B) accounts during the initial months of FY27. Later policy measures, including a concessional swap facility for fresh FCNR(B) deposits announced in June 2026, boosted foreign currency inflows, with fresh FCNR(B) deposits reaching $17.4 billion between June 8 and July 17.
Rahul Himalian, Director (Tourism & Marketing) of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), has been given additional charge as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) following the resignation of Sanjay Kumar Jain. The appointment took effect on 20 July 2026, ensuring continuity in leadership at the public sector enterprise. A 1999-batch Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) officer, Himalian brings over 26 years of experience in railway operations, tourism, marketing, and administration. He has been serving on the IRCTC Board since February 2024 and will continue handling his existing responsibilities along with the CMD role. IRCTC, a Miniratna PSU under the Ministry of Railways, manages online ticketing, catering, tourism services, hotel bookings, and Rail Neer packaged drinking water operations.
Senior IAS officer Anurag Jain has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog by the Central Government after approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). A 1989-batch Madhya Pradesh cadre IAS officer, Jain brings nearly four decades of experience in public administration, governance, infrastructure development, and industrial policy. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) confirmed that he will assume charge from the date of joining, with the appointment continuing for two years or until further orders. His appointment comes as India advances policy reforms under the Viksit Bharat@2047 vision. NITI Aayog has also witnessed recent leadership changes, including new members and initiatives such as the Investment Friendliness Index 2026 aimed at encouraging state-level reforms and investment growth.
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has been selected for the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 by the Tilak Smarak Trust for his contributions to strengthening India’s national security framework. Announced on 21 July 2026, the award will be presented on 1 August 2026 at Maharashtra Mandal Ground in Pune by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Doval is being recognised for his role in strategic security planning, intelligence coordination, counter-terrorism efforts, and protecting India’s national interests. A retired Indian Police Service officer, Doval has held key assignments with the Intelligence Bureau and served in sensitive regions including Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Mizoram, and Sikkim, along with overseas postings in Islamabad and London. The Lokmanya Tilak National Award honours individuals contributing to nation-building, defence, administration, science, and social development.
India created history with Samudra Pradakshina, the country’s first tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition. The nine-member crew of women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force completed a 314-day voyage covering nearly 25,500 nautical miles aboard the indigenous Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni. Flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in September 2025 and welcomed back to Mumbai on 22 July 2026, the expedition crossed the equator twice, the International Date Line, all meridians of longitude, and rounded Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope. Showcasing India’s maritime capabilities, indigenous shipbuilding under Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and the spirit of Nari Shakti, the mission highlighted women’s leadership, resilience, and joint operational excellence across the three armed services.
The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Malvan, the second Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at Karwar Naval Base under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited with over 80% indigenous content, the vessel is designed for anti-submarine warfare, underwater surveillance, mine warfare, and low-intensity maritime operations in shallow coastal waters. Named after the historic coastal town of Malvan in Maharashtra, the warship honours India’s rich naval heritage and succeeds the Navy’s earlier minesweeping craft. Its compact design enables effective operations where larger vessels face limitations, enhancing maritime domain awareness and coastal security. The commissioning of INS Malvan reflects India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing and strengthens the Indian Navy’s capability to safeguard the country’s maritime interests.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has signed two major industry contracts to advance the indigenous Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) Mk-II programme under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. DRDO’s Centre for Air Borne Systems (CABS) has partnered with AI Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) to convert six Airbus A321 aircraft into platforms for the AEW&C system, while Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited (ADSTL) will develop and produce advanced mission systems. The aircraft will undergo integration, flight trials with the Indian Air Force, and certification before induction. The AEW&C Mk-II platform will enhance long-range surveillance, early threat detection, secure communications, and command-and-control capabilities, strengthening India’s air defence, indigenous aerospace manufacturing, and self-reliance in advanced defence technologies.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Aircraft Engines have signed a long-term agreement to manufacture superalloy turbine ring forgings for the globally used CFM LEAP engine programme. Under the partnership, HAL will produce these high-precision components at its Foundry and Forge Division in Bengaluru, strengthening India’s role in the global aerospace supply chain. The LEAP engine, developed by CFM International, powers the Airbus A320neo, Boeing 737 MAX, and COMAC C919 aircraft and is known for its fuel efficiency and lower emissions. The agreement enhances India’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, supports exports of high-value aerospace components, and reinforces the country’s ambition to become a global aerospace manufacturing hub while expanding HAL’s presence in international civil aviation markets.
The Common Service Centre (CSC) Scheme under the Digital India Mission has enabled individuals to start home-based digital service businesses by becoming Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs). With the advancement of CSC 4.0, centres now provide more than 500 government and private services, including Aadhaar services, PAN applications, Ayushman Bharat registration, banking, insurance, bill payments, and government certificates. Eligible applicants must be Indian citizens, have passed Class 10, possess basic computer knowledge, internet access, and complete the Telecentre Entrepreneur Course (TEC) certification. The registration process involves TEC completion, online application, document submission, and verification by authorities. CSC operators earn commissions based on services provided, with potential monthly earnings exceeding ₹30,000 depending on location, demand, and customer volume. Applicants must use only official CSC portals to avoid fraud.
The Mini Nandi Farmer Prosperity Scheme aims to strengthen dairy farming by supporting farmers in setting up scientific dairy units with high-yielding indigenous cattle breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal, and Tharparkar. The scheme provides financial assistance of up to ₹11.80 lakh for establishing a 10-cow dairy unit costing ₹23.60 lakh, with 50% government subsidy, 15% beneficiary contribution, and 35% bank loan support. At least 50% of beneficiaries will be women dairy farmers, promoting rural entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. Eligible cattle must meet quality standards, including first or second lactation requirements and proper identification through ear tags. Applicants need dairy farming experience, land availability, and fodder arrangements. The online application process ensures transparency, while the initiative boosts milk production, indigenous breeds, and rural livelihoods.
IIT Madras will host the 3rd Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Symposium 2026 on 1–2 August at the IIT Madras Research Park in Chennai, in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and RISC-V International. The symposium, themed “Empowering Bharat’s Semiconductor Future,” will bring together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, startups, investors, and students to advance India’s semiconductor ecosystem. Discussions will focus on indigenous processor development, RISC-V architecture, artificial intelligence, secure computing, hardware innovation, and semiconductor design. A key highlight will be the DIR-V Grand Challenge Hackathon, showcasing innovative RISC-V solutions. The event supports India’s semiconductor ambitions by promoting open-source processor technologies, strengthening academia-industry collaboration, encouraging startup innovation, and developing a skilled workforce for future chip design.
India observes Lokmanya Tilak Jayanti on 23 July to honour Bal Gangadhar Tilak, one of the most influential leaders of the freedom movement. Born in 1856, Tilak played a major role in transforming India’s struggle for independence into a mass movement with his slogan, “Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it.” A strong advocate of self-rule, Swadeshi, and national education, he co-founded institutions like the New English School, Deccan Education Society, and Fergusson College. Through newspapers Kesari and The Mahratta, he spread nationalist ideas and challenged British policies. He also launched the public Ganesh festival, promoted Shivaji celebrations, and led the Home Rule Movement with Annie Besant. His contributions as a leader, journalist, and social reformer continue to inspire generations.
The Commonwealth Games 2026 are scheduled to kick off with the grand opening ceremony in…
On 22nd July 2026, Honourable President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a statue of the great Mahatma…
India has commissioned the INS Malvan, it is the second Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water…
Samudra Pradakshina. is the first-ever circumnavigation expedition by women of all three Services of India.…
India has achieved a historic milestone in its railway modernization initiative with the electrification of…
Rahul Himalian, the Director (Tourism & Marketing), has been given the additional charge of the…