Current Affairs Capsule PDF (28 July, 2026)

National News

India Approves Anhydrous Ammonia Fertilizer to Boost Sustainable Farming

India has approved the manufacture and agricultural use of anhydrous ammonia as a fertilizer for three years, marking a major step toward improving nitrogen efficiency and reducing dependence on traditional fertilizers like urea. Containing around 82% nitrogen, anhydrous ammonia offers high nutrient concentration but requires specialized equipment, safe storage, and trained handling due to its hazardous nature. The decision supports India’s goals of sustainable agriculture and aligns with the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which promotes green ammonia and green urea production. By diversifying fertilizer options, improving nutrient management, and reducing import dependence, the initiative aims to strengthen fertilizer security while supporting environmentally friendly farming practices.

Kosi–Mechi Link Project Boosts Bihar’s Irrigation and Water Management

The Kosi–Mechi Intra-State Link Project has received approval under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayi Yojana–Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme, marking a major step toward improving Bihar’s irrigation infrastructure. With a balance project cost of ₹6,143.22 crore and central assistance of ₹3,652.56 crore, the initiative aims to transfer surplus Kosi River water to the Mechi basin, expand irrigation coverage, and strengthen agricultural productivity. Scheduled for completion by March 2029, the project includes modernization of the Eastern Kosi Main Canal, with 8.5% progress already achieved. It will improve water efficiency, support farmers, boost rural development, and promote sustainable water resource management through enhanced irrigation facilities.

National Honour Amendment Bill 2026 Seeks Legal Protection for Vande Mataram

The National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on 24 July 2026 to provide statutory protection to India’s National Song, Vande Mataram, under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. The proposed amendment aims to place Vande Mataram under the same legal framework that currently protects the National Flag, Constitution, and National Anthem. It seeks penalties for intentionally preventing or disrupting the singing of the National Song. The bill is part of celebrations marking 150 years of Vande Mataram and aims to recognize its historical role in India’s freedom movement while promoting respect for national symbols. The proposal will undergo parliamentary discussion before final approval.

Earth Sciences Ministry Marks Two Decades of Scientific Achievements

The Ministry of Earth Sciences celebrated its 20th Foundation Day on 27 July 2026 at Prithvi Bhawan, New Delhi, highlighting two decades of progress in weather forecasting, ocean research, climate studies, polar exploration, and disaster preparedness. Established in 2006, MoES has strengthened India’s scientific capabilities through initiatives like Mission Mausam, Prithvi systems, and the Deep Ocean Mission. The event featured scientists, policymakers, and researchers who recognized India’s advancements in atmospheric and ocean sciences. Several new initiatives were launched, including advanced weather platforms, AI-based coastal monitoring systems, upgraded cyclone warning facilities, and 13 Centres of Excellence. The celebrations reflected MoES’s contribution to national resilience, public safety, and sustainable development.

National e-Vidhan Application Drives Digital Transformation of Legislatures

The National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) is transforming India’s State and Union Territory Legislatures by replacing traditional paper-based processes with secure digital systems. Under the Digital India Programme, the initiative aims to create a unified “One Nation, One Application” platform for managing legislative documents, proceedings, and workflows. According to the latest update, 33 out of 37 State and UT Legislatures have signed MoUs for implementation, while 21 Legislative Houses have already become fully digital. NeVA improves efficiency, transparency, accessibility, and coordination among lawmakers, officials, and citizens. The platform continues to receive upgrades based on feedback, supporting India’s vision of modern and paperless governance.

State News

Madurai Honors 107-Year-Old Banyan Tree Promoting Urban Conservation

Madurai celebrated the 107th birthday of a historic banyan tree near Sellur–Kulamangalam Road, highlighting the importance of conserving mature trees and urban biodiversity. Considered the last surviving centenarian tree in the Meenakshipuram locality, the banyan tree represents the city’s ecological and cultural heritage. It provides shade, supports bird habitats, and strengthens local ecosystems amid rapid urban development. The Green Nature Festival, organized by the Water Body Protection Movement and other groups, included tree decorations, sapling distribution, and environmental awareness activities. Held annually since 2019, the celebration encourages citizens to protect natural heritage and recognize the vital role of banyan trees in maintaining ecological balance.

Maharashtra Leads Agriculture Growth by Unlocking PM-RKVY Second Instalment

Maharashtra has become the first Indian state to qualify for the second instalment of funds under the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana after utilizing more than 75% of its initial allocation. The state used nearly ₹260 crore from the ₹335 crore released earlier, demonstrating effective implementation and financial management of agricultural projects. RKVY supports agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, animal husbandry, mechanisation, digital farming, and infrastructure development through flexible state-based planning. The scheme also promotes innovation through RKVY-RAFTAAR by supporting agri-startups, entrepreneurship, and modern farming solutions. Maharashtra’s achievement highlights the importance of efficient fund utilisation to improve productivity, sustainability, and farmer incomes across India.

Leh Launches First Yoga Wellness Instructor Certificate Course

The National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa in Leh has launched a three-month, 400-hour Yoga Wellness Instructor Certificate Course in collaboration with the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, New Delhi. The programme, conducted according to MDNIY guidelines, aims to promote yoga education, holistic healthcare, and wellness practices in Ladakh. The course was inaugurated by Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena, founder of Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, along with officials including Dr. Tashi Thinlas and Dr. Padma Gurmet. The initiative highlights the integration of yoga with traditional and modern healthcare systems while creating opportunities for yoga professionals in the Union Territory. Participants will receive theoretical and practical training to support personal wellness and community health.

Gujarat Launches e-Zero FIR System for Faster Cyber Fraud Action

The Gujarat Government launched the e-Zero FIR system on 27 July 2026 to simplify reporting of cyber financial fraud cases without requiring victims to visit police stations. Introduced by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi in Gandhinagar, the digital platform enables complaints received through the 1930 National Cybercrime Helpline to be automatically converted into e-Zero FIRs and forwarded electronically to the concerned police station. Police officials verify details with complainants before formally registering cases and beginning investigations. Developed with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, the initiative aims to speed up response times, improve chances of recovering stolen funds, strengthen cybercrime coordination, and promote technology-based policing in Gujarat.

Gujarat Launches Shipbuilding Policy 2026 to Boost Maritime Growth

Gujarat has introduced the Shipbuilding and Repair Policy 2026 to establish itself as India’s leading maritime manufacturing hub with expected investments exceeding ₹27,000 crore. Announced by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the policy focuses on expanding shipbuilding capacity, attracting private investment, developing green shipyards, and creating employment through large-scale skill development. It plans to establish two Integrated Mega Shipbuilding Parks with modern shipyards, research centres, testing facilities, and logistics infrastructure. The proposed Greenfield Shipbuilding Cluster in Porbandar is expected to attract significant private investment and strengthen marine industries. The initiative promotes innovation, sustainability, exports, and self-reliance while supporting India’s ambition to become a global maritime power.

Banking News

Government Approves Polymer Banknote Trials to Modernize Indian Currency System

The Indian Government has approved the Reserve Bank of India’s proposal to introduce one billion ₹10 and one billion ₹20 polymer banknotes for field trials. Announced by Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary, the initiative aims to test the durability, security, and performance of polymer notes under different climate and usage conditions. Polymer banknotes, made from a special plastic material, last longer, resist moisture and dirt, reduce replacement costs, and offer stronger anti-counterfeiting features than paper notes. Paper currency will continue alongside polymer notes, while digital payments remain unaffected. The move revives India’s earlier 2012 attempt, supported by global experience and rising currency printing costs.

SBI Life Insurance Becomes Principal Partner for India’s Para Sports Team

SBI Life Insurance Company Limited has partnered with the Paralympic Committee of India to become the Principal Partner of the Indian Contingent for the 2026 Para Sport Season. The collaboration aims to support para-athletes, celebrate their achievements, promote inclusivity, and increase awareness of para sports in India. Under the agreement, SBI Life Insurance will serve as the Official Life Insurance Partner for the Commonwealth Para Games 2026 in Glasgow and the Asian Para Games 2026 in Aichi–Nagoya. The partnership continues the company’s commitment to empowering athletes, following its earlier association with India’s para-athletes during the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. It reflects growing support for India’s para sports movement.

Awards News

Prem K. Vora Honored With Rashtriya Ashok Samman for Industry Leadership

Prem K. Vora, President of the Electric Merchants Association for 2025–26, received the prestigious Rashtriya Ashok Samman (Bharat Samman) during the National Leadership Conclave held in New Delhi in July 2026. The award recognized his contributions to India’s electrical trade sector, ethical business practices, MSME development, and sustainable industrial growth. As EMA President, Vora has promoted digital transformation, the Green Electricals initiative, innovation, and modernization within the industry. His leadership has strengthened the electrical trade ecosystem and supported businesses adapting to technological changes. Previously, he received recognitions including the Global Youth Ambassador Awards and Iconic Emerging Leader in the Electrical Industry Award for his achievements.

Science & Technology News

India Unveils Indigenous Semiconductor Chips for Future Space Missions

India has announced that future space launch vehicles will use domestically developed semiconductor chips, marking a major milestone in achieving self-reliance in strategic technology. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed the initiative following Skyroot Aerospace’s successful Vikram-1 orbital test flight, highlighting the rapid growth of India’s private space sector. Space-grade semiconductors power critical systems such as navigation, flight control, onboard computers, telemetry, and communications while withstanding extreme conditions including radiation, vibrations, and temperature variations. The initiative aims to strengthen supply-chain security, reduce dependence on imported components, and boost innovation. It also aligns with ISRO’s plan to manufacture indigenous processors and mission-specific electronics within four years.

ZSI Discovers Two New Spider Species Expanding India’s Biodiversity Records

Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India have discovered and documented two new spider species, Simonia lawbah from Meghalaya and Hamataliwa papikonda from Andhra Pradesh, adding important records to India’s biodiversity database. The findings, published in peer-reviewed journals including Zootaxa and Records of the Zoological Survey of India, highlight the country’s unexplored wildlife diversity. Simonia lawbah, found in Krem Lawbah Cave, is India’s first recorded species of the Simonia genus and a cave-adapted ray spider. Hamataliwa papikonda, discovered in Papikonda National Park, is a lynx spider known for active hunting. The discoveries emphasize the importance of taxonomy, biodiversity surveys, and conservation research.

Sports News

Sarvesh Kushare Wins Historic Commonwealth Games High Jump Silver Medal

Sarvesh Anil Kushare secured the silver medal in the men’s high jump at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with a best leap of 2.25 meters, earning his first major multi-sport medal. He cleared the height on his final attempt but was unable to cross 2.28 meters. Jamaica’s Romaine Beckford claimed gold on countback after fewer failed attempts, while Scotland’s Jack Kimani took bronze with 2.20 meters. The achievement surpasses India’s previous best of a bronze medal in the event and highlights Kushare’s consistent form, following his national record jump of 2.31 meters at the Inter-State Athletics Championships.

Ajaya Babu Secures Thrilling Commonwealth Games Weightlifting Silver Medal

Ajaya Babu won the silver medal in the men’s 79kg weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 after lifting a combined total of 330kg. The Andhra Pradesh lifter recorded 149kg in the snatch and 181kg in the clean and jerk, missing the gold by just 1kg. Malaysia’s Erry Hidayat Muhammad claimed gold with a Games record of 331kg, while England’s Chris Murray secured bronze with 325kg. Ajaya’s silver became India’s sixth weightlifting medal of the Games, highlighting the country’s growing strength in the sport. A Commonwealth champion in 2025, Ajaya continues to establish himself among India’s leading international weightlifters.

Gyaneshwari Yadav Claims Record-Breaking Commonwealth Games Weightlifting Silver Medal

Gyaneshwari Yadav won the silver medal in the women’s 53kg weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games 2026, becoming India’s fourth weightlifting medalist and fifth overall at the Games. The Chhattisgarh athlete lifted 88kg in the snatch and 111kg in the clean and jerk, setting Commonwealth Games records before Nigeria’s Onome Omolola surpassed them to claim gold. Canada’s Rebeka Groulx secured bronze. An Assistant Sub Inspector in the Chhattisgarh Police, Gyaneshwari has also excelled at the Asian Weightlifting Championships, winning silver and bronze medals while setting a national record. Her consistent international performances confirm her status among India’s top young weightlifters.

Esha Singh Wins World Cup Gold as Manu Bhaker Takes Bronze

Esha Singh captured the gold medal in the women’s 25m pistol event at the ISSF World Cup 2026 in Hangzhou, China, after delivering a brilliant performance with 40 hits in the final, defeating China’s Zhang Yueyue, who finished with 37 hits. The victory also earned Esha direct qualification for the ISSF World Cup Final 2026 in Rome. Fellow Indian shooter and Olympian Manu Bhaker secured the bronze medal with 28 hits after a tense shoot-off, adding another international achievement to her career. Esha’s latest triumph strengthens her growing reputation, while both shooters highlighted India’s rising dominance in women’s pistol shooting on the global stage.

Important Days News

World Hepatitis Day 2026 Promotes Awareness, Prevention, and Equal Healthcare Access

World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28 to raise awareness about viral hepatitis, a major cause of preventable liver disease and deaths worldwide. The 2026 theme, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” emphasizes removing barriers to testing, vaccination, treatment, and quality healthcare while combating stigma and improving health equity. The campaign, led by the World Health Organization, supports the goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. It also highlights the importance of early diagnosis, vaccination, safe healthcare practices, and public awareness. Despite effective vaccines and treatments, millions remain undiagnosed, making timely prevention and access to care essential.

World Nature Conservation Day 2026 Highlights Protecting Earth’s Natural Resources

World Nature Conservation Day is observed annually on July 28 to promote the conservation of natural resources, biodiversity, and sustainable development. The 2026 observance emphasizes protecting forests, wildlife, water, soil, and ecosystems threatened by climate change, pollution, deforestation, and habitat loss. Inspired by global environmental initiatives, including the 1972 Stockholm Conference and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the day encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to adopt eco-friendly practices. It highlights that healthy ecosystems support clean water, food security, climate stability, and economic development. By raising awareness and inspiring collective action, the observance reinforces the importance of safeguarding nature for present and future generations.

Obituaries News

Veteran Congress Leader Hira Singh Bisht Passes Away After Decades Service

Former Uttarakhand minister and veteran Congress leader Hira Singh Bisht passed away on 26 July 2026 in Dehradun at the age of 85 after suffering a cardiac arrest during treatment. A three-time MLA representing Doiwala and Rajpur constituencies, Bisht played a significant role in Uttarakhand’s political development and public service. He served as a Cabinet Minister in the N.D. Tiwari government, handling important portfolios including transport, labour, and technical education. Beyond politics, he contributed to sports administration as a founder member of the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand and supported the development of Raipur Cricket Stadium. He also worked for labour welfare through INTUC leadership.