Daily GK Update- 12th, July 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NCW Constitutes Expert Committee to Review Regulations Governing IVF Clinics and ART Centres: National Commission for Women (NCW) has constituted a high-level Expert Committee, chaired by Justice Asha Menon (Former Delhi High Court Judge), to review the regulatory framework governing IVF clinics, ART centres and gamete banks. The committee will assess the implementation of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021, Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, and the 2026 Amendment Rules, while identifying regulatory gaps and recommending reforms. The panel will propose Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and best practices to ensure ethical treatment, transparency, informed consent, privacy, and protection of women’s reproductive rights in the ART sector.

 

2. Sirsa Kinnow Receives GI Tag, Becomes Haryana’s First Exclusive GI-Tagged Fruit: Sirsa Kinnow has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry. With this recognition, Sirsa Kinnow has become Haryana’s first fruit and the state’s first exclusive GI-tagged product.

 

3. CSIR and IP Australia Sign Agreement to Expand Access to Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL): CSIR and IP Australia signed an agreement to provide IP Australia access to the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (CSIR-TKDL) during the 3rd India–Australia Annual Summit held in Melbourne in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL), established in 2001 by CSIR and the Ministry of AYUSH, is the world’s first database for protecting India’s traditional knowledge from wrongful patent claims by serving as a prior art database. The TKDL contains information on over 5.2 lakh formulations and practices from Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa, and Yoga, translated into English, German, French, Japanese, and Spanish to assist patent examiners globally. With this agreement, 18 patent offices worldwide now have access to the CSIR-TKDL under Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs), and the database has helped revoke, reject, amend, withdraw, or abandon over 375 patent applications based on documented prior art evidence.

 

4. NPPA Fixes Retail Prices for 39 Drug Formulations: The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority fixed the retail prices of 39 new drug formulations on 8 July 2026 under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013. The order covered formulations used in hypertension, diabetes, HIV, heart disease, eye infections, cancer, cardiovascular disorders, epilepsy, pain management, and vitamin deficiencies. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority is a regulatory body under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers. It fixes and revises prices of scheduled medicines under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013, and monitors compliance with price control provisions.

 

5. FSSAI Issues Nine Notices to Swiggy Instamart: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued nine notices to Swiggy Instamart on 11 July 2026 over consumer complaints linked to food safety and labelling issues. The complaints mentioned expired, spoiled, contaminated and unsafe food products sold through the quick-commerce platform. The complaints cited expired whey protein, rotten Akshayakalpa Organic Eggs with a foul smell, contaminated infant formula, spoiled milk products and damaged packaged food items. FSSAI also flagged alleged misleading licensing information, including NOICE Eggs being marketed under a brand category not covered by the existing licence.

 

6. Joint Parliamentary Committee Backs One Nation, One Election Framework: The Joint Parliamentary Committee on the One Nation, One Election proposal stated on 11 July 2026 that the framework conforms to the Constitution of India. The committee examined the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, which was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 17 December 2024 and referred to the committee on 19 December 2024. The 41-member Joint Parliamentary Committee is chaired by BJP MP P.P. Chaudhary. The committee has held about 16 meetings, including sittings at the Parliament House Annexe and in several states such as Goa, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Karnataka, and Gujarat. The committee has consulted legal experts, including six former Chief Justices of India, on constitutional questions related to the proposal. It has also met civil society stakeholders, with about 99% of those consulted supporting simultaneous elections.

 

7. Centre Launches Amnesty Scheme for PF Trusts: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation launched the Amnesty Scheme, 2026 on 29 June 2026 under the Ministry of Labour & Employment. The scheme gives exempted Provident Fund trusts a one-time six-month window to regularise their status under the Employees’ Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952. Provident Fund trusts are employer-managed funds that operate under the EPF framework for employee retirement savings. Section 17 of the EPF Act, 1952 provides for exemption from the statutory provident fund arrangement when an establishment meets prescribed conditions. The scheme covers establishments whose PF trusts are recognised under the Income Tax Act, 1961 but do not have a formal exemption notification from the Central Government or a State Government. It also applies to cases where trust recognition and exemption status require alignment under the revised compliance framework.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Novo Nordisk Launches Once-Weekly Insulin ‘Awiqli’: Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk has launched Awiqli (Insulin Icodec), the world’s first once-weekly basal insulin for adults with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The therapy reduces the number of basal insulin injections from 365 per year to just 52, aiming to improve treatment adherence and address the fear of daily injections. Awiqli (700-unit pack) is priced at ₹2,611 (₹3.73 per unit), making it around 30–40% cheaper than many currently available daily basal insulin options. Novo Nordisk has partnered with Abbott for the distribution of Awiqli in India, extending their existing collaboration for insulin products.

 

2. Giles Thomson Assumes Charge as FATF President for 2026–2028 Term: Giles Thomson (United Kingdom) assumed office as the President of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on 1 July 2026 for a two-year term (2026–2028). He succeeded Elisa de Anda Madrazo of Mexico, whose tenure as FATF President ended on 30 June 2026.

 

3. South China Sea Arbitral Award Marks 10 Years: The South China Sea Arbitral Award completed 10 years on 12 July 2026. The award was issued on 12 July 2016 by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague under the dispute settlement framework linked to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The arbitration case was filed by the Philippines against China under Annex VII of UNCLOS. The tribunal ruled that China’s Nine-Dash Line claim had no legal basis under international law. The award also dealt with maritime entitlements, artificial islands, and activities in the South China Sea. UNCLOS, adopted in 1982 and in force from 1994, is the main treaty governing the law of the sea. It defines the territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and continental shelf. An EEZ extends up to 200 nautical miles from a coastal state’s baseline.

 

4. India Withdraws 2017 Yemen Travel Restriction: The Ministry of External Affairs withdrew its notification dated 3 October 2017 on 12 July 2026, which had imposed special conditions on Indian citizens travelling to Yemen. The withdrawal order was issued under Section 19(d) of the Passports Act, 1967, and the new gazette notification was dated 10 July 2026. Yemen has faced civil war and armed conflict since 2014, and India had imposed travel restrictions in 2017 because of the precarious security situation. The Ministry of External Affairs continues to advise Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Yemen, and it asks travellers to assess the local security situation before any unavoidable journey. Section 19(d) of the Passports Act, 1967 empowers the Government of India to regulate travel-related matters through official orders. The 2026 notification cancelled the earlier 2017 order that had placed special conditions on Indian citizens travelling to Yemen.

 

5. Soumya Swaminathan inducted as Fellow of the Royal Society: Soumya Swaminathan was formally inducted as a Fellow of the Royal Society of London on 10 July 2026. She was elected to the fellowship in May 2026. The Royal Society is a scientific academy in the United Kingdom and was founded in 1660. The Fellowship of the Royal Society uses the post-nominal letters FRS. The society elects scientists, engineers, and technologists for contributions to knowledge in natural science, mathematics, and applied science. The Royal Society has a 365-year history in 2026. Soumya Swaminathan became the second Indian woman scientist to receive this fellowship. Prof. Gagandeep Kang was elected in 2019 and became the first Indian woman Fellow of the Royal Society. The fellowship includes several Indian scientists across disciplines.

 

6. ONGC Drills Second Geothermal Well in Ladakh: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) completed drilling its second geothermal well, Puga-OEC-GT#03, in Puga Valley in Ladakh around July 2026. The well was drilled by the ONGC Energy Centre to a depth of 1,000 metres at an altitude of more than 14,000 feet. Geothermal energy is heat derived from the Earth’s interior and is used for electricity generation and direct heating. Geothermal power plants use steam or hot water from underground reservoirs, and the resource is classified as a renewable energy source. Puga Valley in Ladakh is one of India’s known geothermal fields. Geothermometric studies in the valley have indicated subsurface temperatures above 240 degrees Celsius, a level suitable for geothermal power generation. The field is associated with hot springs and geothermal manifestations in the Himalayan region.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Ex-Servicemen Outreach Event Held in Kohima: Military Station Zakhama conducted an Ex-Servicemen Outreach Programme on 9 July 2026 in Kohima district, Nagaland. The programme covered welfare issues of ex-servicemen, war widows, and dependents, and included sessions on the SPARSH pension system and veteran-related welfare measures. Ex-servicemen are former personnel of the Indian Armed Forces who receive pension, medical, and welfare support through institutional mechanisms such as the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare and State Rajya Sainik Boards. The SPARSH system is a digital pension disbursement platform used for defence pension administration in India. On 17 and 18 March 2026, the Red Shield Division under Spear Corps organised a mega Ex-Servicemen rally at Kisama Heritage Village in Kohima. Around 700 veterans, Veer Naris, and Next of Kin attended the rally, which was graced by Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Indian Team Wins Five Golds at International Physics Olympiad: India won five gold medals at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) 2026 held in Bucaramanga, Colombia, from 5 to 12 July 2026. The Indian team finished joint World No. 1 with China, Kazakhstan, Russia, South Korea, and Taiwan in a competition that included 381 students from 87 countries. The five Indian gold medallists were Kanishk Jain of Pune, Riddhesh Anant Bendale of Indore, Rishit Garg of Delhi, Shresth Suraiya of Mumbai, and Svarit Joshi of Ahmedabad in Gujarat. This was only the second time after 2018 that all five members of the Indian team won gold medals at the IPhO. The Indian delegation was led by Prof. Anwesh Mazumdar of the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education and Prof. Leena Joshi of St Xavier’s College, Mumbai. The Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, under the Department of Atomic Energy, manages India’s Olympiad programme and is responsible for student identification, training, and mentoring.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Japan Tests Experimental Reusable Rocket RV-X: The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) completed the first lift-off and landing test of its prototype reusable rocket, RV-X, on 11 July 2026 at the Noshiro Rocket Testing Center in the Akita region of northeastern Japan. The test flight lasted about 40 seconds, with the rocket reaching an altitude of around 10 to 11 metres, moving horizontally for about 16 metres, and landing safely. Reusable rockets are launch vehicles designed to return to Earth and fly again after recovery. The RV-X is 7.3 metres tall and 1.8 metres in diameter, and its engine is designed for about 100 launches. The prototype has already undergone more than 160 combustion tests. JAXA uses the RV-X project to test technologies linked to lower launch costs and improved launch efficiency. Takashi Ito serves as the project manager for the reusable rocket programme. JAXA plans future RV-X tests at higher altitudes, with a target of around 100 metres.

 

2. ISRO Conducts Three Crew Module Tests for Gaganyaan: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) completed three qualification tests for the Gaganyaan Crew Module systems on 12 and 13 July 2026. Gaganyaan is India’s first human spaceflight mission, and the tests covered splashdown recovery, module separation, and structural loads on the crew capsule. The first test was the Float Inflation Test for the Crew Module Up-righting System (CMUS). CMUS is designed to turn the crew capsule upright after sea splashdown, and it uses cold-gas technology for inflation and stabilisation. The second test was the Umbilical Separation Test for the Crew Module–Service Module Connect & Disconnect System (CS-CDS). The test demonstrated the separation of the CSU-2 umbilical from a simulated crew module and validated the structural stability of the crew module panel and its interfaces.

 

3. China’s Brahmaputra Dam Faces Fault Line Risk: China’s mega hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet has been linked to the active Paizhen Fault, which lies directly beneath the dam site in Medog County. The project is also known as the Yarlung Tsangpo downstream hydropower station and the Medog Hydropower Station, and construction formally began in July 2025. The Paizhen Fault has remained active since the Pleistocene, which is the geological epoch commonly called the Ice Age. The fault continues to show seismic activity, and the study linked this activity to risks for the dam foundation, roads, bridges, tunnels, and other associated infrastructure. Geologists stated that prolonged fault movement has fractured and weakened local rock formations. The same geological conditions increase the possibility of landslides, collapses, and damage under regional seismic action and long-term water immersion.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Centre Expands PM-SETU Scheme to 200 ITI Clusters, Approves ₹1,237.58 Crore Investment Plans: The Central Government has approved the nationwide expansion of the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme to 200 Industrial Training Institute (ITI) clusters, along with investment plans worth ₹1,237.58 crore.

The approvals were cleared at the 4th meeting of the National Steering Committee (NSC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), with implementation based on states’ readiness and industry participation. Five ITI clusters across Odisha, Gujarat, and Telangana were approved, with Jindal Naveen Avasar Ltd., ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India, Apollo MedSkills Ltd., Siddharth Infratech & Services, and Neuland Foundation serving as anchor industry partners. PM-SETU, approved by the Union Cabinet in May 2025, aims to upgrade 1,000 government ITIs through 200 hub-and-spoke clusters and received a budget allocation of ₹6,140.50 crore in the Union Budget 2026–27.

 

2. Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launches ‘Pragati’ Project to Empower 20,000 Agricultural Entrepreneurs and 20 Lakh Farmers: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the PRAGATI (Promoting Regenerative Agriculture Through Agri-Entrepreneurship Initiative) Project to empower over 20,000 agricultural entrepreneurs and benefit around 20 lakh farmers across the country. Under the initiative, the government will train 26,000 small agricultural entrepreneurs, who will work at the village level and collaborate with 100–200 farmers to improve agricultural productivity. The project aims to promote prosperous farmers, prosperous villages, and sustainable agricultural development, supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat through grassroots agricultural transformation.

 

Daily GK Update- 11th July, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. FSSAI Issues Nine Notices to Swiggy Instamart: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued nine notices to Swiggy Instamart on 11 July 2026 over consumer complaints linked to food safety and labelling issues. The complaints mentioned expired, spoiled, contaminated and unsafe food products sold through the quick-commerce platform. The complaints cited expired whey protein, rotten Akshayakalpa Organic Eggs with a foul smell, contaminated infant formula, spoiled milk products and damaged packaged food items. FSSAI also flagged alleged misleading licensing information, including NOICE Eggs being marketed under a brand category not covered by the existing licence.

 

2. NSE Launches Nifty500 Ahimsa Index: NSE Indices Limited, a subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange, launched the Nifty500 Ahimsa Index on 10 July 2026. The index tracks companies from the Nifty 500 universe that follow Ahimsa, or non-violence, in business practices and exclude firms involved in activities that harm animals. The Nifty500 Ahimsa Index has a base date of 1 April 2016 and a base value of 1000. It is a thematic index, which means it is designed around a specific investment theme rather than the broad market. The index uses free-float market capitalisation for stock weights. Free-float market capitalisation refers to the market value of shares available for public trading, excluding promoter and locked-in holdings.

 

3. Centre Clears ₹3,000-Crore Scheme to Save 15,000 Sacred Groves: The Union government approved a ₹3,000-crore scheme on 10 July 2026 to conserve and restore nearly 15,000 sacred groves across India. The five-year programme, named the Aastha Van Sanrakshan Yojana, will run from 2026-27 to 2030-31 and will use funds from the National CAMPA Fund. The scheme was approved during the 7th Governing Body meeting of the National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management & Planning Authority (CAMPA) in Coimbatore. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav chaired the meeting. The approved plan also includes a landscape restoration programme for land degradation and biodiversity loss. Sacred groves are forest patches protected by local communities for religious, spiritual, and cultural reasons. They are known as Aastha Vans under the new scheme. Such groves are found in several parts of India and are linked to traditional conservation practices.

 

4. Odisha Transfers Rs 20,648 Crore Under Subhadra Yojana: Odisha has transferred more than Rs 20,648 crore to over one crore women beneficiaries under the Subhadra Yojana in four instalments as of 10 July 2026. The fifth instalment of Rs 5,000 per beneficiary is scheduled for Rakhi Purnima in August 2026. The annual assistance under the scheme is credited in two instalments of Rs 5,000 each. The first instalment is linked to Rakhi Purnima, and the second instalment is linked to International Women’s Day on 8 March. About 1.15 crore applications have been registered under the scheme so far. Around 1.01 crore women have been identified as eligible beneficiaries for the fifth instalment after verification.

5. Jayaprakash Narayan Public Library Inaugurated in Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Jayaprakash Narayan Public Library in the NDMC area of Delhi on 11 July 2026. The library is a multimedia and digital knowledge centre developed by the New Delhi Municipal Council and is named after Jayaprakash Narayan, a prominent Indian freedom fighter and political leader. The library has about 32,000 physical books and one crore e-books and digital resources. It has a seating capacity of 200 people and includes a reading hall, a children’s section, and facilities for researchers and students. Public libraries in India function as community institutions that provide access to books, newspapers, reference material, and digital resources. They are used by students, researchers, and general readers for study, reading, and information access.

 

6. Delhi Government Signs MoU for Rainwater Harvesting in 75 Schools: The Delhi Government signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding on 10 July 2026 at the Delhi Secretariat for rainwater harvesting systems in 75 CM Shri Schools. The agreement involves the Directorate of Education, Indraprastha Gas Limited, and Ehsaas NGO under the national Catch the Rain campaign. Rainwater harvesting is the collection, storage, and filtration of rainwater for later use or groundwater recharge. The project includes technical audits, restoration of existing systems, installation of new rooftop rainwater harvesting units, and awareness programmes for students and teachers. The initiative is expected to enable groundwater recharge of about two lakh litres annually in each participating school. Across 75 schools, the estimated annual rainwater harvesting capacity is nearly 50 crore litres.

 

7. Indian Potash, Jain Irrigation Sign Drip Irrigation MoU: Indian Potash Limited and Jain Irrigation Systems Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 8 July 2026 at Indian Potash Limited’s corporate office in New Delhi. The agreement covers drip irrigation systems for sugarcane cultivation in Gujarat and includes survey, design, supply, installation, training, and field demonstrations. Drip irrigation is a micro irrigation method that delivers water directly to the root zone of plants through emitters, drippers, or micro-tubes. It is used in crops such as sugarcane, orchards, vegetables, and plantation crops in water-stressed and irrigated regions. Fertigation is the application of fertilisers through an irrigation system, usually drip or sprinkler networks. Micro Irrigation Systems include drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation, and they are designed to reduce water loss through evaporation, runoff, and deep percolation.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, New Zealand Set ₹35,000 Crore Trade Target : India and New Zealand elevated their ties to a strategic partnership on 11 July 2026. The two countries set a target to double annual bilateral trade in goods and services to ₹35,000 crore, or NZ$7 billion, by 2030. The talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon produced 18 outcomes, including 10 agreements. India and New Zealand established diplomatic relations after the independence period, and both countries are members of the Commonwealth of Nations. Bilateral relations cover trade, agriculture, education, skills, innovation, clean energy, and sport. A Strategic Partnership Roadmap to 2030 was adopted for joint action over the next four years. The roadmap covers cooperation in trade, agriculture, skills, innovation, clean energy, and sport.

 

2. Centre of Excellence on Human-Wildlife Conflict Inaugurated at WII-SACON: The Centre of Excellence on Human-Wildlife Conflict was inaugurated on 10 July 2026 at the Wildlife Institute of India–Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History campus in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The inauguration was attended by the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, and the Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh. The Centre of Excellence will work as a national hub for research, innovation, policy support, capacity building, and dissemination of best practices. Its mandate includes scientific and evidence-based management of human-wildlife conflict in India. The establishment of the Centre was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 7th Meeting of the National Board for Wildlife on 3 March 2025. The National Board for Wildlife is a statutory advisory body under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

 

3. India Notifies UK Vehicle Import Rules: India has notified the procedures for quota-based duty concessions on passenger cars and goods vehicles imported from the United Kingdom under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The rules and the agreement are scheduled to come into effect on 15 July 2026, and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued the public notice on 9 July 2026. In the first year, India will allow a quota of 20,000 UK-built internal combustion engine (ICE) passenger cars at concessional duty rates. The duty rate for these vehicles will range from 30% to 50%, depending on engine size. The quota for conventional-engine passenger cars will rise to 37,000 units in the fifth year, when the customs duty will settle at 10%.

 

4. Aero India 2027 to Be Held in Bengaluru: Aero India 2027 will be the 16th edition of Asia’s largest airshow and will be held at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Aero India is a biennial exhibition organised under the Ministry of Defence framework, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited as the nodal agency and Bharat Electronics Limited as a supporting organisation. Aero India is held once every two years and brings together aircraft manufacturers, defence firms, military delegations, and aerospace stakeholders. The 15th edition of Aero India was held from 10 February to 14 February 2025. The Government of India has set a target of defence manufacturing worth ₹3 lakh crore and defence exports worth ₹50,000 crore by 2029-30. Aero India is linked with India’s aerospace and defence industrial ecosystem, which includes public sector undertakings, private manufacturers, and foreign exhibitors.

 

5. World Bank Approves $890 Million for Rooftop Solar Programme: The World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved an $890 million financing package for India’s national rooftop solar programme on 9 and 10 July 2026. The package supports PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, a residential rooftop solar scheme for households in rural and urban India. PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is India’s flagship residential rooftop solar programme. The scheme targets rooftop solar installations for 10 million households across the country. It is linked to household-level solar power generation and grid-connected electricity supply. The 890 million package includes an 820 million loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, a 60 million concessional loan from the Clean Technology Fund, and a 10 million grant from the Livable Planet Fund. The financing is designed to support residential solar deployment and related institutional capacity.

 

6. Scientists Decode Sperm Whale Communication: Scientists using artificial intelligence have identified structured communication patterns in sperm whales, including 156 distinct codas and repeated click sequences that function as a phonetic-like system. The research has been linked to Project CETI, a non-profit international initiative founded in 2020 with a base in Dominica. Sperm whales are toothed whales in the family Physeteridae and are known for producing codas, which are short sequences of clicks used in social communication. Researchers have recorded vocalisations from about 400 sperm whales in the Eastern Caribbean between 2005 and 2018, including data from at least 60 individual whales.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Army to Induct 450 Carl Gustaf M4 Rocket Launchers: The Indian Army issued a Request for Proposal in July 2026 for 450 Carl Gustaf Mark-IV 84mm lightweight rocket launchers. The Carl Gustaf M4 is a shoulder-fired, multi-role weapon system designed for infantry use, anti-armour roles, and other battlefield tasks. The Carl Gustaf is a recoilless rifle system developed by Saab of Sweden. The Indian Army has used earlier M2 and M3 variants since the 1970s, and the M4 is the latest version in the series. The M4 weighs under 7 kilograms, while the M2 weighs about 14 kilograms and the M3 weighs about 10 kilograms. The Carl Gustaf M4 will be manufactured in India at Saab’s facility in Reliance MET City, Jhajjar, Haryana. Saab received approval for 100% Foreign Direct Investment for this unit, and the facility is described as India’s first fully foreign-owned defence manufacturing unit. Construction of the plant began in March 2024, and production was planned to start in 2024.

 

2. Indian Navy to Induct Stealth Frigate Mahendragiri: INS Mahendragiri is an indigenous stealth frigate of the Indian Navy and is scheduled for commissioning on 11 July 2026 at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will preside over the commissioning ceremony. The warship was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai and designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau. Project 17A is a follow-on programme to the Shivalik-class frigates and includes Nilgiri-class stealth frigates for the Indian Navy. INS Mahendragiri is listed as the sixth warship of the Project 17A series in the provided facts, while some references describe it as the seventh and final frigate under the programme. The class is associated with reduced radar cross-section, modern sensors, and improved combat systems.

SPORTS

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NPPA Fixes Retail Prices for 39 Drug Formulations: The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority fixed the retail prices of 39 new drug formulations on 8 July 2026 under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013. The order covered formulations used in hypertension, diabetes, HIV, heart disease, eye infections, cancer, cardiovascular disorders, epilepsy, pain management, and vitamin deficiencies. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority is a regulatory body under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers. It fixes and revises prices of scheduled medicines under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013, and monitors compliance with price control provisions.

 

2. JAXA Launches and Lands Reusable Rocket: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) conducted the first test flight of its experimental reusable rocket, Reusable Vehicle eXperiment (RV-X), on 11 July 2026 at the Noshiro Testing Center in Noshiro, Akita Prefecture, Japan. The rocket lifted off, hovered, moved horizontally, and landed safely during a flight of less than one minute. Reusable rockets are launch vehicles designed to return to Earth and be used again after flight. The RV-X is 1.8 metres in diameter and 7.3 metres long, and it uses an engine built for enhanced durability. The vehicle also has four shock-absorption landing gear units for vertical landing tests. During the test, the RV-X reached an altitude of about 11 metres and moved horizontally for about 16 metres while remaining upright. The flight combined lift-off, hovering, lateral movement, and landing in a single test sequence. JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries co-developed the rocket for reusable launch demonstrations.

 

3. Health Ministry Tightens Rules for Alcohol-Based Drug Formulations: The Union Health Ministry amended the Drugs Rules, 1945, on 10 July 2026 to regulate medicinal products containing high levels of ethyl alcohol. The amendment removes the exemption under Schedule K for certain alcohol-based preparations and brings them under licensing and prescription control. The Drugs Rules, 1945, classify medicines into schedules that determine sale, prescription, and record-keeping requirements. Schedule H1 covers prescription medicines that can be dispensed only against a registered medical practitioner’s prescription, and pharmacies must maintain sale records for such drugs. Schedule K earlier contained exemptions for certain categories of drugs and medicinal preparations from some licensing requirements.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. NABARD Facilitates GI Registration for 28 Products: On 10 July 2026, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development facilitated Geographical Indication registration for 28 new products from across India. With these additions, the number of GI products supported by NABARD reached 176. A Geographical Indication is a sign used on goods that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics linked to that origin. In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, and the registration is administered by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks.

 

2. Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission Crosses 93.95 Crore Health Accounts: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) is India’s national digital health initiative for creating interoperable health records and unique health identifiers. As of 10 July 2026, the mission has created more than 93.95 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) numbers and linked over 105 crore digital health records. The Ayushman Bharat Health Account, or ABHA, is a unique digital health ID used to store and share health records through consent-based systems. The ABHA number is part of the National Digital Health Ecosystem and is designed to support patient-centric record management across healthcare providers.

 

Daily GK Update- 10th July, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Kamarajar Port Becomes India’s Second Major Port with 18-Metre Operational Draft: Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL), Tamil Nadu, has become India’s second major port, after Visakhapatnam Port, to achieve an operational draft of 18 metres, enabling it to handle fully laden Capesize vessels carrying up to 1,70,000 DWT. The milestone was achieved after the successful completion of the Capital Dredging Phase VI project, executed at a cost of approximately ₹440 crore, making Kamarajar Port a deep-water, Cape Compliant port. The project deepened the outer approach channel to 23 metres, the inner entrance channel to 22 metres, and increased the berth draft to 18 metres, enhancing the port’s capacity to accommodate some of the world’s largest bulk cargo vessels and strengthening India’s maritime competitiveness.

 

2. RBI Approves Mahesh Muralidhar Pai as MD & CEO of South Indian Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Mahesh Muralidhar Pai as the Managing Director & CEO of South Indian Bank (SIB) for a three-year term, effective October 1, 2026. P R Seshadri, the present Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, has been at the helm at SIB since October 1, 2023.

 

3. Amit Garg Appointed NCRB Director: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of three senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers to head key police organisations: Amit Garg as Director of NCRB, Alok Kumar Mittal as Director General of BPR&D, and Sujeet Pandey as Director of SVPNPA. Amit Garg, a 1993-batch IPS officer of Andhra Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), New Delhi. He will hold the post until October 31, 2027 or until further orders. Alok Kumar Mittal, a 1993-batch IPS officer of Haryana cadre, has been appointed as the Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) and will continue in the role until his retirement on June 30, 2029. Sujeet Pandey, a 1994-batch IPS officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA), Hyderabad, and will serve until July 31, 2028.

 

4. 10 July – National Fish Farmers Day: National Fish Farmers Day is observed annually in India on 10 July to honour the contributions of fish farmers and promote the development of the fisheries and aquaculture sector. The day commemorates the successful induced breeding of Indian Major Carps by Dr. Hiralal Chaudhuri and Dr. K. H. Alikunhi on 10 July 1957, a landmark achievement in Indian aquaculture.

 

5. India Estimates 300 GW Peak Power Demand Next Year: India’s peak electricity demand is projected to reach 300 GW in the fiscal year 2027, after touching 271 GW in May 2026. The country’s available generation capacity has risen to 284 GW, while battery energy storage system capacity has increased to 8.7 GWh in the first half of 2026. India measures peak power demand as the highest electricity load recorded on the grid during a specific period, usually a day, month, or year. The 300 GW estimate for FY2027 places the figure above the 271 GW peak recorded by May 2026. Electricity demand in India is linked to industrial activity, household consumption, commercial use, and the expansion of digital infrastructure. Data centres, artificial intelligence infrastructure, and electric vehicles are among the major sectors associated with the latest demand projection.

 

6. Mee Bhoomi-Mee Hakku Pattadar Passbooks: Andhra Pradesh launched the latest phase of the Mee Bhoomi-Mee Hakku programme on 9 July 2026 in Banaganapalle in Nandyal district. The programme involves the distribution of digitally updated Pattadar Passbooks to farmers and landowners in villages where resurvey has been completed. A Pattadar Passbook is an official land record document issued to a landholder in Andhra Pradesh. It contains ownership-related details and is used in land administration, agricultural transactions, and record verification. The resurvey process is a cadastral exercise used to update land boundaries, survey numbers, and ownership records. In Andhra Pradesh, resurvey has been completed in 6,887 villages, and the government plans to distribute about 72.70 lakh error-free Pattadar Passbooks across 9,833 villages by March 2027.

 

7. Srikakulam to Get Airport Under UDAN Scheme: Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh will get a full-fledged airport under the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagarik) scheme. The proposed airport is planned for Mandasa mandal in the Uddanam region, while Palasa has been earmarked for a domestic airport on 1,261 acres. UDAN is the regional connectivity scheme of the Union Government for improving air links to smaller cities and towns. The modified UDAN scheme has a financial outlay of ₹28,840 crore for 2026-27 to 2035-36, and it aims to develop 100 new airports between 2026 and 2036. The scheme operates through viability gap funding, route concessions, and support for regional air connectivity. It is implemented under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, with the Airports Authority of India playing a major role in airport development and route support.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Inaugurate India-Supported Restoration Project at Prambanan Temple: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto jointly inaugurated the India-supported restoration and conservation project at the Prambanan Temple Compounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Indonesia, highlighting the two countries’ shared civilisational heritage. The initiative reflects the commitment of India and Indonesia to strengthen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through cultural diplomacy, heritage conservation, and deeper people-to-people ties.

 

2. MEA Appoints Sanjeev Jain as India’s Next Ambassador to North Korea: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has appointed Sanjeev Jain as India’s next Ambassador to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), commonly known as North Korea. Sanjeev Jain, currently serving as India’s Ambassador to the Republic of Cabo Verde, will succeed Aliawati Longkumer as India’s envoy to North Korea.

 

3. IMF Appoints Silvana Tenreyro as New Chief Economist and Economic Counsellor: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has appointed Silvana Tenreyro as its new Chief Economist and Economic Counsellor, succeeding Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas. Silvana Tenreyro is currently a member of IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva’s External Advisory Group and will now lead the IMF’s economic research and policy analysis.

 

4. India, Kyrgyzstan Launch Manas–Mahabharata Studies Centre: An Indian delegation visited Kyrgyzstan from 4 July to 7 July 2026 for the inauguration of the International Centre for Civilizational Studies “Manas and Mahabharata” in Bishkek. The centre was established through cooperation between the Manas National Academy in Kyrgyzstan and the Centre for Studies of International Relations (CSIR) in New Delhi. The Manas National Academy is a Kyrgyz institution associated with the study of the national epic Manas. The Centre for Studies of International Relations is based in New Delhi and works on academic and policy-oriented international studies. The new centre has been set up as a joint platform for comparative civilisational studies.

 

5. Geneva to Host Global AI Summit in 2027: Switzerland will host a global AI summit in Geneva on June 21-22, 2027. The summit is linked to international discussions on artificial intelligence governance, trustworthy AI, and multilateral cooperation among governments, international organisations, scientists, businesses, and civil society. The Geneva summit is planned as a platform for stable and effective processes for global discussions on AI governance. Its stated themes include the responsible, safe, and human-centred use of artificial intelligence, along with broader questions on prosperity, progress, and public welfare. The host city announcement was made during the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva on July 8, 2026. Federal Councillor Albert Rosti confirmed Switzerland’s role as host during the opening address of that event.

 

6. India Launches World’s First Once-Weekly Insulin Awiqli: India launched Awiqli, the world’s first once-weekly basal insulin, on 9 July 2026. The drug contains insulin icodec and is marketed by Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk. In India, Awiqli is approved for adults with Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. Basal insulin is a long-acting insulin used to maintain blood glucose levels between meals and during sleep. Daily basal insulin regimens usually require 365 injections in a year, while once-weekly insulin reduces this number to 52 injections annually. Awiqli is designed for patients who need long-term insulin therapy and use injectable treatment for diabetes management.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. IAF Ranks Third in WDMMA Global Air Power List: The Indian Air Force (IAF) was ranked third among military aviation powers by country in the World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA) 2026 Global Air Powers Rankings, behind the United States and Russia. In the same ranking, the IAF was placed sixth when individual service branches were assessed. The World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft is a database that ranks air forces using its proprietary TruVal Rating (TVR) system. The TVR assesses overall strength, attack and defence capability, logistical support, modernisation, and the quality and quantity of aircraft inventory. The IAF’s fleet was listed at 1,716 aircraft, including 542 fighter jets, 498 helicopters, 282 transport aircraft, and 374 trainers. A balanced mix of combat, transport, rotary-wing, and training platforms is a standard feature of a modern air force structure.

 

2. Indian Navy to Induct Stealth Frigate Mahendragiri: INS Mahendragiri is an indigenous stealth frigate of the Indian Navy and is scheduled for commissioning on 11 July 2026 at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will preside over the commissioning ceremony. The warship was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai and designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau. Project 17A is a follow-on programme to the Shivalik-class frigates and includes Nilgiri-class stealth frigates for the Indian Navy. INS Mahendragiri is listed as the sixth warship of the Project 17A series in the provided facts, while some references describe it as the seventh and final frigate under the programme. The class is associated with reduced radar cross-section, modern sensors, and improved combat systems.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Telangana to Host 8th Khelo India Youth Games 2026 in November: Telangana will host the 8th Khelo India Youth Games 2026, scheduled to be held in November 2026, as announced by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya. The multi-sport grassroots event is expected to witness the participation of over 8,000 athletes, coaches, support staff, and officials, making it one of India’s largest youth sporting events.

 

2. Aswath S Becomes India’s 98th Chess Grandmaster: 17-year-old Aswath S from Kanyakumari became India’s 98th Grandmaster (GM) after securing his final GM norm at the 2026 Pune International Grandmaster Round Robin. Aswath earned the title by defeating USA’s FM Kannan Vaidyanathan with the black pieces in the final round, finishing the tournament with 7 points from 9 rounds (6 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss) to secure second place. He had earlier achieved his first GM norm at the Grenke Open and his second GM norm at the First Saturday GM Round Robin in Budapest, where he also crossed the 2500 FIDE rating mark.

 

3. Tammy Beaumont Announces Retirement: England batter Tammy Beaumont has announced her retirement from international cricket, with her final match set to be the first-ever women’s Test at Lord’s against India. Beaumont ends her international career with 7,325 runs and 14 centuries, and is only the second woman to score a century in all three international formats (Tests, ODIs, and T20Is).

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. IIT Madras, C-DAC to Manage National Bridge Health Monitoring Software: The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways plans to centralise the National Bridge Health Monitoring Software by involving the Indian Institute of Technology Madras and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing. The system is linked to the Bridge Health Monitoring System, which uses sensors for real-time monitoring of bridges on the national highway network. The Bridge Health Monitoring System is a sensor-based framework used for continuous observation of structural conditions in bridges. It uses data from instruments fitted on bridge components to track movement, stress, vibration, and other measurable parameters. The ministry has decided that the supply, installation, and maintenance of sensors will be awarded separately through competitive bidding. A new Model Request for Proposal will be used for upcoming projects, and all Bridge Health Monitoring System components in highway contracts where physical work has not started will be removed and re-tendered.

 

2. Gujarat Unveils Data Centre Policy 2026-29: Gujarat launched its first Data Centre Policy 2026-29 on 9 July 2026 in Gandhinagar. The policy targets investment of ₹6 lakh crore and a data centre capacity of 7.5 GW. It covers hyperscale data centres, cloud infrastructure, and AI-powered digital services. The policy includes capital subsidy, interest subsidy, and a power tariff subsidy of ₹1 per unit for 20 years. It also provides 100% reimbursement of SGST and electricity duty for 20 years, stamp duty exemption, and assistance for desalination plants. Non-fiscal incentives include faster approvals, additional Floor Space Index, relaxed building regulations, open access to power, and assured electricity and water supply. These provisions apply to eligible data centre projects under the policy framework.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. New RBI Ombudsman Scheme 2026 Comes into Effect from July 1: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced the Reserve Bank–Integrated Ombudsman Scheme (RB-IOS), 2026, effective July 1, 2026, with revised rules to strengthen customer grievance redressal. Under the new scheme, there is no upper limit on the value of disputes that customers can bring before the RBI Ombudsman against regulated financial entities. The RBI Ombudsman can award compensation of up to ₹30 lakh for consequential financial loss and up to ₹3 lakh for loss of time, expenses incurred, harassment, or mental anguish suffered by the complainant. The revised scheme applies to all banks, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), non-bank prepaid payment instrument (PPI) issuers, and Credit Information Companies (CICs). The RBI may appoint one or more Ombudsmen and Deputy Ombudsmen, with appointments generally made for a three-year term.

 

2. IFSCA Approves Punjab & Sind Bank’s IFSC Banking Unit at GIFT City: Punjab & Sind Bank has received a licence from the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) to establish an International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) Banking Unit (IBU) at GIFT City, Gandhinagar. The IFSC Banking Unit (IBU) will provide foreign currency banking, trade finance, and other international financial services to corporates, financial institutions, importers, and global investors.

 

3. IMF Revises India’s FY2026–27 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.4%: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY 2026–27 downward by 0.1 percentage point (10 basis points) to 6.4%, according to its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO). The IMF has raised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY 2027–28 to 6.7%, indicating stronger medium-term economic growth prospects.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Nepal’s Jestha Varna Mahavihar Wins UNESCO Heritage Conservation Award: Jestha Varna Mahavihar, a 17th-century Buddhist monastery in Lalitpur, Nepal, has received the 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation for its successful restoration. The monastery was damaged in the 2015 Nepal earthquake and later reconstructed with the assistance of the Government of India under its post-earthquake reconstruction programme in Nepal’s cultural heritage sector. India provided Nepalese Rupees (NPR) 13.78 crore for the reconstruction project, which was carried out in coordination with Nepali authorities and the local community.