Daily GK Update- 4th Aug, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. New Delhi hosts GI & Beyond 2.0 Summit: The Ministry of Textiles has organised the GI and Beyond 2.0 Summit in New Delhi to showcase India’s GI-tagged Handloom and Handicraft Products and promote them in domestic and international markets. The event featured displays of more than 100 GI-registered handloom and handicraft products, along with thematic exhibitions and live demonstrations of weaving and handicraft techniques.

 

2. Varsha Ashok Aglawe Becomes First Woman Director General of Geological Survey of India: Varsha Ashok Aglawe has assumed charge as the 54th Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), becoming the first woman to lead GSI in its 176-year history. She succeeded Asit Saha. A palaeontologist with over 30 years of experience, Ms Aglawe joined GSI in 1992 and succeeded Asit Saha, who served as the Director General for two years.

 

3. Glaw Lake Becomes Arunachal Pradesh’s First Ramsar Site, India’s 101^st: Glaw Lake in Arunachal Pradesh was designated as India’s 101st Ramsar site on 3 August 2026. It became Arunachal Pradesh’s first Ramsar wetland and is located in the Kamlang Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary in the Eastern Himalayas, in Lohit district. Ramsar sites are wetlands listed under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran. The convention covers wetlands of international importance, including lakes, marshes, peatlands, mangroves, and artificial wetlands. India joined the Ramsar Convention in 1982. With Glaw Lake, India’s Ramsar site count reached 101, up from 26 in 2014. Wetlands are ecosystems where water covers the land permanently or seasonally. They support groundwater recharge, flood control, fish breeding, and habitat for birds and aquatic species.

 

4. Government Proposes Mandatory Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication from 2028: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways issued a draft notification in August 2026 proposing mandatory Vehicle-to-Vehicle communication systems in new vehicles in India. The proposal covers vehicle categories L, M and N, and it links the rollout to the AIS-230 standard and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. The draft proposal uses a two-stage implementation schedule for vehicles manufactured in India. From 1 October 2027, vehicles in categories L, M and N manufactured with V2V systems are required to comply with AIS-230. From 1 October 2028, all newly manufactured vehicles in these categories are required to be fitted with AIS-230-compliant V2V communication systems.

 

5. Tea Board Launches Professional Tea Tasting Courses: Tea Board India launched National Council of Vocational Education and Training-approved skilled courses on tea tasting at the Darjeeling Tea Research and Development Centre in Kurseong, West Bengal, on 3 August 2026. The courses are designed to train tea tasters and tea sommeliers for quality assessment, value addition, and market competitiveness in the Indian tea sector. Two programmes have been introduced under the initiative. The first is a 60-hour certificate course titled Essentials of Tea Sommelier, and the second is a 210-hour course. The inaugural batch began with the 60-hour programme, which includes tea appreciation, professional tasting techniques, blending, and future-oriented practices. The Agriculture Skill Council of India assisted in developing the curriculum. A formulation committee with representatives from the Department of Commerce, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and industry professionals prepared the syllabus.

 

6. 19 Ministers Inducted into Karnataka Cabinet: On 3 August 2026, 19 MLAs were sworn in as ministers in the first expansion of the Karnataka Cabinet led by Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar. The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru. After the expansion, the Karnataka ministry reached 33 members, with one berth remaining vacant against the sanctioned strength of 34, including the Chief Minister. The new ministry includes seven ministers from the Lingayat community, six Vokkaligas, seven Scheduled Caste ministers, three Scheduled Tribe ministers, and four ministers from the Muslim community.

 

7. India Crosses 20,000 Organ Transplants in 2025: India recorded 20,138 organ transplants in 2025, which was the first time the annual total crossed 20,000 in India. The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) compiled the annual figures, and the 2025 total was higher than 18,911 transplants in 2024 and 4,990 transplants in 2013. NOTTO functions under the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and coordinates organ donation and transplantation activities in India. The national digital pledge portal launched in 2023 has recorded over five lakh Aadhaar-verified organ donation pledges. Delhi-NCR recorded 4,564 transplants in 2025, which was the highest among Indian regions. Tamil Nadu recorded 2,796 transplants, Maharashtra 2,136, Telangana 1,523, and Kerala 1,489.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Australia’s UNSW Sydney Inaugurates First International Campus in India: The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), Australia, has inaugurated its first international campus in India at Embassy Manyata Business Park, Bengaluru, Karnataka. UNSW Sydney received the Letter of Approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC), enabling it to establish and operate its campus in India under the UGC’s regulations.

 

2. 1 – 7 August – World Breastfeeding Week: World Breastfeeding Week is observed every year from 1 to 7 August to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding for infants’ health and development. Theme 2026 : Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works The week promotes exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life and highlights its benefits for both mother and child health. It is coordinated globally by organisations including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) to support breastfeeding-friendly environments.

 

3. Boeing 737 MAX 7 Gets FAA Certification: The Boeing 737 MAX 7, also called the 737-7, received an amended type certificate from the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on 3 August 2026. The aircraft is the smallest and longest-range variant in the Boeing 737 MAX family and is cleared for commercial service after a certification process that lasted nearly a decade. A type certificate is an official approval issued by an aviation regulator for an aircraft design. In the United States, the FAA grants type certification under federal aviation rules after review of design, testing, safety analysis, and compliance with airworthiness standards. An amended type certificate is issued when an existing certified aircraft design receives approved changes. The Boeing 737 MAX 7 certification covered the 737-7 model within the broader 737 MAX programme. The Boeing 737 MAX family is a narrow-body commercial aircraft series developed from the Boeing 737 platform. The 737-7 has a seating capacity of about 135 to 160 passengers and offers around 10% more range potential than its sibling variants. 

 

4. BEL signs MoU with Esri India for defence GIS projects: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Esri India signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 3 August 2026 in New Delhi for collaboration in Geographic Information System, Location Intelligence, and GeoAI solutions for the defence sector. The agreement covers joint work on geospatial capabilities, defence electronics, systems integration, and training support for in-house development using the Indo ArcGIS platform. Geographic Information System is a computer-based framework for capturing, storing, analysing, and displaying spatial data. In defence applications, GIS is used for mapping, terrain analysis, asset tracking, mission planning, and operational coordination.

 

5. India, Uzbekistan Target $3 Billion Bilateral Trade: India and Uzbekistan have set a target to double bilateral trade to about $3 billion within three years. The target was discussed at the India-Uzbekistan Business Forum in New Delhi on 3 August 2026, along with proposals to explore a Free Trade Agreement and expand cooperation in multiple sectors. Bilateral trade between India and Uzbekistan grew by 30% in the previous year and crossed 1.3 billion for the first time. In 2025, bilateral trade stood at 1.32 billion, with Indian exports to Uzbekistan at 1.15 billion and Uzbekistan’s exports to India at more than 164 million. Uzbekistan is a landlocked Central Asian republic and a member of the Commonwealth of Independent States. India and Uzbekistan established diplomatic relations in 1992 after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

 

6. India Targets 874 GW Power Capacity by 2031-32: India’s installed power generation capacity is projected to reach 874 GW by 2031-32. As of 30 June 2026, the total installed capacity stood at 548,858 MW, or about 548.86 GW. Non-fossil fuel sources accounted for 54.18% of the installed capacity on the same date, above the Nationally Determined Contribution target of 50% for 2030. Installed power capacity is the maximum electrical power that generating stations can supply at a given time. India’s capacity mix includes thermal, hydro, nuclear, solar, wind, and other renewable sources. The expansion plan for 2031-32 covers generation, storage, and transmission assets across these categories. India plans to add at least 80 GW of coal-fired thermal power capacity by 2031-32. Between April 2023 and June 2026, 21,080 MW of coal-based capacity was commissioned, and 47,545 MW remained under construction. Thermal power continues to provide firm baseload supply in the national grid.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Air Marshal Tejpal Singh Takes Charge as Deputy Chief of the Air Staff of Indian Air Force: Air Marshal Tejpal Singh has assumed charge as the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff (DCAS) of the Indian Air Force (IAF). He has succeeded Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti as the new Deputy Chief of the Air Staff. Air Marshal Tejpal Singh brings extensive experience as a fighter pilot, Experimental Test Pilot, and senior IAF officer with over 3,500 hours of flying experience.

 

2. Indian Air Force Concludes Counter-Drone Exercise ROTOR CLAP III in Rajastha: The Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully concluded Exercise ROTOR CLAP III at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The exercise focused on the theme “Counter-UAS”, aimed at enhancing capabilities to detect, track, and neutralise Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)/drones.

 

3. Vice Admiral Manish Chadha Assumes Charge as DGNO: Vice Admiral Manish Chadha, AVSM, VSM, assumed charge as the Director General Naval Operations (DGNO) on 3 August 2026. The Director General Naval Operations is a senior operational appointment in the Indian Navy linked with maritime security, fleet deployment, and naval operational planning. Vice Admiral Chadha is a Communication and Electronic Warfare specialist with more than 35 years of service in the Indian Navy. He was commissioned on 1 July 1991 after graduating from the 78th course of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla. His command appointments include Coast Guard Ship CGS-05, INS Veer, INS Kirpan, and the guided missile destroyer INS Mysore. He also served as the Naval Attaché at the Embassy of India in Moscow and commanded the Maharashtra Naval Area and the Gujarat, Daman and Diu Naval Area.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Cabinet Approves ₹36,441 Crore for Expanded Khelo India Scheme and Sports Development: The Union Cabinet has approved an expanded Khelo India Scheme and enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs) with a combined outlay of ₹36,441 crore for the period 2026–27 to 2030–31. The initiative aims to strengthen sports infrastructure and athlete development from the grassroots level to the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), providing a clear pathway for talented youth to achieve excellence in sports.

 

2. Ramkumar Ramanathan and Vijay Sundar Prashanth Win Bonn Open 2026 Doubles Title: Ramkumar Ramanathan and Vijay Sundar Prashanth won the doubles title at the Bonn Open 2026 by defeating Scott Duncan (England) and Adam Heinonen (Sweden) in the final. The victory marked Ramkumar Ramanathan’s 13th ATP Challenger title and his second ATP Challenger doubles trophy of 2026 after winning the Texas Spine and Joint Challenger Men’s Championship in June.

 

3. Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh Win India’s First-Ever Judo Gold Medals at Commonwealth Games 2026: Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh created history by winning India’s first-ever judo gold medals at the Commonwealth Games 2026 held in Glasgow, Scotland. Asmita Dey won the women’s 48kg judo gold medal by defeating Canada’s Heidi Quach 2-1 in a golden score contest, becoming the first Indian judoka to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal. Harsh Singh secured the men’s 60kg judo gold medal after defeating Australia’s Joshua Katz 10-0 by waza-ari, becoming the first male Indian judoka to win Commonwealth Games gold. Before these victories, India had won 11 judo medals at the Commonwealth Games (5 silver and 6 bronze) but had never won a gold medal in the sport.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. IBM and Sarvam Partner to Advance Sovereign AI Solutions in India: IBM and Indian AI startup Sarvam have partnered to accelerate the development and adoption of Sovereign Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions for the Government of India and regulated enterprises. The collaboration will integrate IBM Sovereign Core with Sarvam’s India-first AI stack, enabling secure, locally governed, multilingual, and voice-enabled AI solutions. The partnership will focus on citizen services, grievance redressal, document processing, and administrative workflows, aiming to enhance secure and efficient government-to-citizen service delivery.

 

2. Government Launches National Technothon by NIOT: The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, launched a National Technothon on 3 August 2026. The initiative seeks technologies for the sustainable collection of deep-sea polymetallic nodules and supports India’s Deep Ocean Mission. NIOT was established in 1993 in Chennai and functions under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. The institute works on ocean technology, marine engineering, and deep-sea systems for Indian conditions. Polymetallic nodules are potato-shaped mineral concretions found on the deep ocean floor. They contain nickel, cobalt, copper, and manganese, which are used in electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and advanced batteries.

 

3. India Achieves Near-Universal Banking Coverage of Inhabited Villages: India achieved near-universal banking coverage of inhabited villages by 3 August 2026, with 99.92% of inhabited villages served by a banking outlet within a 5-km radius. The coverage data were uploaded by banks on the Jan Dhan Darshak App and included bank branches, Business Correspondents, and India Post Payments Bank centres. The objective of the banking access framework is to provide a banking outlet within 5 km of every inhabited village. The Reserve Bank of India permits commercial banks, small finance banks, payments banks, local area banks, and regional rural banks to open branches anywhere in India without prior approval, subject to a 25% branch requirement in unbanked rural areas.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. GST Collections Rise 15.4% to ₹2.11 Lakh Crore in July 2026: Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections reached ₹2,11,205 crore in July 2026, registering a 15.4% year-on-year growth from ₹1,83,065 crore in July 2025. Gross domestic GST revenue stood at ₹1,44,695 crore, reflecting a 10.1% increase compared to the corresponding month last year. GST revenue from imports rose sharply by 28.8% to ₹66,511 crore, significantly contributing to the overall GST collections for the month.

 

2. Centre Releases Additional ₹1.09 Lakh Crore as Tax Devolution to States: The Union Government released an additional tax devolution instalment of ₹1,09,019 crore to State Governments, over and above the regular monthly transfer scheduled for 10 August. The additional release aims to provide states with greater fiscal space to accelerate capital expenditure and development projects. Uttar Pradesh received the highest allocation of ₹19,208 crore, followed by Bihar (₹10,845 crore) and Madhya Pradesh (₹8,010 crore).

 

3. Maldives Launches Real-Time Fund Transfers to India via UPI: The Maldives has launched real-time cross-border fund transfers to India by integrating its Favara instant payment system with India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI). Under the new facility, users can send money in Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), which is credited directly in Indian Rupees (INR) to UPI-enabled bank accounts in India. The service is initially available to customers of Bank of Maldives Plc and Maldives Islamic Bank Plc, and was implemented through collaboration between the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL).

Daily GK Update- 3rd Aug, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. ADB Approves USD 850 Million Loan to Boost PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved an USD 850 million loan to support the Government of India’s Prime Minister Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG-MBY) and accelerate the adoption of rooftop solar systems across the country. The financing aims to expand clean energy access, promote renewable energy generation, reduce electricity costs for households, and strengthen India’s transition towards sustainable energy. PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, launched in February 2024, seeks to install rooftop solar systems in 1 crore households, enabling eligible families to receive up to 300 units of free electricity per month.

 

2. Chhattisgarh Government Launches ‘DWEEPTI Yojana’ for Women-Led Solar Entrepreneurship.: The Government of Chhattisgarh launched the DWEEPTI (Decentralised Women Empowerment on Energy and Policy for Transformative Inclusion) Yojana in July 2026 to promote women-led solar entrepreneurship across the state. DWEEPTI Yojana is India’s first women-led distributed renewable energy policy, designed to empower Self-Help Groups (SHGs) as solar entrepreneurs while promoting clean energy adoption and women’s economic empowerment.

 

3. Union Cabinet Approves ₹5,070 Crore Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana (PM-SSY): The Union Cabinet has approved the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana (PM-SSY) with a total outlay of ₹5,070 crore to promote floating solar photovoltaic (PV) projects with Energy Storage Systems (ESS). The scheme aims to develop 5,000 MW of floating solar capacity with co-located energy storage of at least 2 hours, totalling 10,000 MWh, over a five-year period. PM-SSY will utilize existing reservoirs, canals, and industrial ponds, eliminating the need for additional land acquisition while promoting clean energy generation and efficient use of water bodies.

 

4. Cabinet Approves Extension of PM-KISAN Till 2030–31; Clears ₹84,084 Crore Samudra Manthan Scheme: The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme from 2026–27 to 2030–31 with a total financial outlay of ₹3.15 lakh crore. Under PM-KISAN, more than ₹4.47 lakh crore has been transferred directly to farmers’ bank accounts through 23 Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) installments, supporting timely investment in agricultural inputs. The Cabinet also approved the National Offshore Exploration Scheme – Samudra Manthan with an outlay of ₹84,084 crore for implementation up to FY 2030–31, aimed at strengthening India’s offshore exploration ecosystem.

 

5. Centre Extends K. Rajaraman’s Tenure as IFSCA Chairperson Till October 2028: The Central Government has extended the tenure of K. Rajaraman as the Chairperson of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) beyond 31 July 2026. Rajaraman will continue in the role until he attains the age of 65 years in October 2028 or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

6. Manish Agarwal Assumes Charge as General Manager of Integral Coach Factory (ICF): Manish Agarwal has assumed charge as the General Manager (GM) of Integral Coach Factory (ICF), succeeding U. Subba Rao, who has taken over as the General Manager of Southern Railway. An Indian Railways Service of Mechanical Engineers (IRSME) 1989 batch officer, Agarwal has over 35 years of service in Indian Railways, holding several key positions across the country.

 

7. 1 August – National Mountain Climbing Day: National Mountain Climbing Day is observed every year on 1 August to celebrate the spirit of mountaineering, adventure, and exploration. The day commemorates the achievements of Bobby Matthews and his friend Josh Madigan, who climbed the 46 High Peaks of the Adirondack Mountains (New York, USA).

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi Inaugurates Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram, Andhra Pradesh, and dedicated development projects worth over ₹17,900 crore to the nation. The Greenfield airport has been developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model at a cost of over ₹5,640 crore and has an annual passenger handling capacity of 6 million. The airport features AI, Building Information Modelling (BIM), Airside 4.0, Airport Predictive Operations Centre (APOC), biometric passenger processing, and automated baggage handling systems, ensuring smart, efficient, and sustainable operations.

 

2. Ngulkham Jathom Gangte Appointed as India’s Next Ambassador to Mexico: Ngulkham Jathom Gangte was appointed as India’s next Ambassador to Mexico. He was serving as Special Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) before this appointment. An Ambassador is the head of a country’s diplomatic mission and represents India in bilateral relations with the host nation. Ambassadors are appointed to countries with which India has full diplomatic relations.

 

3. 1 August – World Wide Web Day: World Wide Web Day is observed every year on 1 August to celebrate the invention and global impact of the World Wide Web (WWW). The World Wide Web was invented by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989, revolutionizing communication, education, and access to information. The day highlights the importance of the internet, digital connectivity, innovation, and the free exchange of information across the world.

 

4. Vishwesh Negi Appointed India’s Next Ambassador to Iran: Vishwesh Negi, an Indian Foreign Service officer of the 2002 batch, was appointed on 3 August 2026 as India’s next Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran. He is serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi and is expected to take up his assignment in Tehran shortly. India and Iran maintain diplomatic relations through embassies in New Delhi and Tehran. The Ambassador of India to Iran heads the Indian mission in Tehran and represents India in bilateral political, economic, and consular matters. West Asia includes countries such as Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman. India’s relations with West Asia cover energy imports, trade, diaspora welfare, maritime security, and connectivity projects.

 

5. India Plans ₹45,000 Crore Railway Upgrade along China, Pakistan and Bangladesh Borders: India plans to invest ₹45,000 crore in railway infrastructure along the borders with China, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The programme covers new tracks, platforms and network strengthening in border states and is scheduled for implementation over the next 18 to 24 months. The project includes railway works in Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam and other north-eastern states. The planned works include construction of new tracks, addition of platforms and strengthening of existing rail links for all-weather operations. The border railway plan is designed as dual-use infrastructure, a term used for facilities that support both civilian transport and military logistics. Such rail lines can carry passengers, freight and defence supplies on the same network.

 

6. Exercise ROTOR CLAP III Concludes in Rajasthan: The Indian Air Force concluded Exercise ROTOR CLAP III at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan, on 1–2 August 2026. The rotary-wing exercise was themed Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems and involved multiple helicopter units of the Indian Air Force. The exercise involved AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, Mi-25/35 gunships, HAL Prachand light combat helicopters, and Chinook, Mi-17, and Dhruv transport and utility helicopters. These platforms represent different roles in attack, lift, transport, and utility missions within the Indian Air Force. Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems refers to methods used to detect, track, identify, and defeat drones and other unmanned aerial threats. The exercise tested operational concepts against emerging drone threats and examined tactics and procedures for helicopter-based responses.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy Receives Indigenous Diving Support Vessel ‘Nipun’ from Hindustan Shipyard Limited: ‘Nipun’, the second indigenously built Diving Support Vessel (DSV), was delivered to the Indian Navy by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) at Visakhapatnam. The first DSV, ‘Nistar’, was commissioned into the Navy in July 2025. Built in accordance with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) classification rules, Nipun has around 75% indigenous content, reinforcing the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative in defence shipbuilding. The vessel is equipped to undertake deep-sea diving, submarine rescue, underwater repair, and salvage operations, significantly enhancing the Indian Navy’s underwater operational and rescue capabilities.

 

2. India Launches Fifth Diving Support Craft DSC A24: The Indian Navy launched DSC A24, the fifth and final vessel under its Diving Support Craft Project, on 1 August 2026 at Titagarh Rail Systems Limited shipyard in Kolkata. The five-ship programme was contracted by the Ministry of Defence on 12 February 2021 and was completed in about five and a half years. DSC A24 and the other vessels in the class use a catamaran-hull form. The catamaran design provides greater stability and deck space, and the vessels have a displacement in the range of 300 to 400 tonnes. The craft are fitted with diving systems for operational dives, underwater inspection, salvage assistance, and coastal deployment. The vessel class was built by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited, which was earlier known as Titagarh Wagons Limited.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Ajinkya Rahane Announces Retirement from International Cricket Across All Formats: Former India Test captain Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement from international cricket across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, ending a distinguished international career in which he scored 8,414 runs.

Rahane retired with a 100% winning record as India’s Test captain, never losing a Test match while leading the national team. His greatest captaincy achievement came in the 2020–21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, when he guided India to a historic 2–1 series victory in Australia after the team had lost the opening Test at Adelaide.

 

2. NCC Organises Cyclothon to Mark 79 Years of Independence: The National Cadet Corps organised Cyclothon 2026 on 2 August 2026 in New Delhi to commemorate 79 years of India’s Independence. The event began and ended at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium and included a symbolic 79-kilometre ride by 79 NCC cadets. Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth flagged off the event at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Olympic medalist M.C. Mary Kom, and tennis player Leander Paes were present at the ceremony. The cyclothon was organised under the theme “Clean India, Green India, Fit India”. The event was linked with national initiatives such as TB Mukt Bharat, Swachh Bharat, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and Har Ghar Tiranga.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. TRAI Revamps MyCall App for Call Quality Assessment: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) launched a revamped version of its MyCall mobile application on 3 August 2026. The application allows telecom consumers to rate voice-call quality in real time and to report technical issues linked to call performance. The updated MyCall app includes multilingual support, feedback history, and coverage test options. The application is currently available for Android devices, while TRAI is in discussions with Apple for availability on the App Store. TRAI is the statutory regulator for telecommunications in India under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997. The authority issues regulations and quality-of-service frameworks for telecom networks and service providers. TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti stated on 3 August 2026 that the feedback would help service providers identify network deficiencies and improve customer satisfaction. The collected data will not be used for punitive action against telecom operators.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Delhi High Court Orders Winding-Up of Paytm Payments Bank After RBI Cancels Licence: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cancelled the banking licence of Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) on 24 April 2026 over persistent regulatory non-compliance and concerns that its operations were detrimental to the interests of depositors. The Delhi High Court subsequently ordered the winding-up of Paytm Payments Bank under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 and the Companies Act, 2013, acting on RBI’s application. The Court appointed Girikumar M. Nair, former Chief General Manager of SBI, as the Official Liquidator, who assumed the powers of the bank’s Board to oversee the liquidation process.

 

2. Google Pay and SBI Card Launch ‘Google Pay Flex SBI Card’ with Rewards up to ₹18,000 Annually: Google Pay and SBI Card have launched the Google Pay Flex SBI Card, a co-branded credit card that offers rewards worth up to ₹18,000 annually, flexible bill repayment options, and complete in-app credit card management through Google Pay. The card is designed to reward everyday spending on categories such as groceries, utility bill payments, travel, and shopping, enhancing value for frequent digital payment users.

 

3. IRDAI Grants Licence to ProTec General Insurance, Approves Fourth Insurance Company in 2026: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has granted a Certificate of Registration to ProTec General Insurance Ltd., a joint venture between the M Pallonji Group and True North’s Divya Sehgal, enabling it to commence general insurance business. ProTec General Insurance is the fourth insurance company to receive an IRDAI licence in 2026, following approvals for Kiwi General Insurance, Prudential HCL Health Insurance, and Allianz Jio Reinsurance. IRDAI stated that the approvals reflect strong investor confidence in India’s insurance sector and the impact of reforms under the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (SBSR) Act, including the provision allowing 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in the insurance sector.

 

4. Bajaj Finserv Approves Entry into India’s Reinsurance Business: Bajaj Finserv has approved its entry into the reinsurance business, subject to approval from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). With this move, Bajaj Finserv becomes the third private player in about a year to announce plans to enter India’s domestic reinsurance market, following Valueattics Re and Allianz-Jio Reinsurance. The growing interest in India’s reinsurance sector is driven by economic growth, regulatory reforms, rising insurance demand, and efforts to retain more risk, premiums, and underwriting capacity within the country.

 

Daily GK Update- 2nd Aug, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. OPEC+ Approves 188,000 BPD Oil Output Increase for September: OPEC+ approved a production increase of 188,000 barrels per day for September 2026 during a virtual meeting on 2 August 2026. The decision involved seven core members: Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman. The September increase completes the phased rollback of 1.65 million bpd in voluntary production cuts agreed in 2023. A separate layer of cuts of about 2 million bpd, introduced in 2022, remains in force until the end of 2026. Saudi Arabia and Russia are set to raise output by 62,000 bpd each for September. Iraq is expected to increase production by 26,000 bpd, taking its output to about 4.4 million bpd.

 

2. Assam Releases ₹160 Crore Interim Flood Relief: Assam released interim flood relief of about ₹160 crore on 3 August 2026 for families affected by recent floods in Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat and Golaghat districts. The assistance was transferred directly to bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer mechanism, and each of nearly 75,000 worst-affected families received ₹15,000. Direct Benefit Transfer is a payment system in India that sends government benefits and subsidies directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts. The DBT system is used for cash transfers, pension payments, scholarships and welfare schemes through Aadhaar-linked or bank-linked accounts. The Assam government used this mechanism for flood relief to provide immediate financial support to affected households. The first phase of assistance covered more than 60,000 families, and the beneficiary count may rise after further assessment.

 

3. Hyderabad to Host BRICS Anti-Corruption Meetings on 4-5 August: Hyderabad will host the second meeting of the BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group and the second meeting of the BRICS Expert Network on Asset Recovery on 4 and 5 August 2026. The meetings are being organised by the Department of Personnel and Training under India’s BRICS Presidency for 2026. The BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group is a forum of the BRICS grouping that deals with cooperation on anti-corruption measures among member countries. BRICS currently has 11 member countries, and the Hyderabad meeting is expected to bring together about 40 delegates from these countries. The BRICS Expert Network on Asset Recovery focuses on tracing, freezing, confiscating, and returning illicit assets across jurisdictions. The Hyderabad meetings will discuss international cooperation for asset recovery, cross-border corruption, illicit financial flows, transparency, and accountability in governance.

 

4. Lok Sabha Passes Supreme Court Judge Strength Bill: The Lok Sabha passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, on 3 August 2026 without debate. The Bill seeks to raise the sanctioned strength of the Supreme Court from 34 to 38 judges, including the Chief Justice of India. The Supreme Court of India was established under Part V, Chapter IV of the Constitution of India. Article 124 provides for the composition of the Supreme Court, and Parliament has the power to regulate the number of judges by law. The sanctioned strength of the Supreme Court was increased to 33 judges, excluding the Chief Justice of India, through the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2019. That change raised the total strength to 34 judges, including the Chief Justice of India.

 

5. NCC Organises Cyclothon to Mark 79 Years of Independence: The National Cadet Corps organised Cyclothon 2026 on 2 August 2026 in New Delhi to commemorate 79 years of India’s Independence. The event began and ended at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium and included a symbolic 79-kilometre ride by 79 NCC cadets. Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth flagged off the event at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Olympic medalist M.C. Mary Kom, and tennis player Leander Paes were present at the ceremony. The cyclothon was organised under the theme “Clean India, Green India, Fit India”. The event was linked with national initiatives such as TB Mukt Bharat, Swachh Bharat, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and Har Ghar Tiranga.

 

6. Maharashtra Anti-Conversion Law Comes into Force: The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, also called the anti-conversion law, came into force on 30 July 2026 after publication in the official gazette. President Droupadi Murmu gave assent to the Bill on 31 July 2026, and the Bill had already been passed by both Houses of the Maharashtra state legislature in the budget session of March 2026. The law makes religious conversion through force, coercion, fraud, undue influence, allurement, misrepresentation, or deception related to marriage a punishable offence. It also requires a person intending to convert to another religion to inform the district magistrate at least 60 days in advance and to follow the prescribed procedure after conversion.

 

7. Rajasthan CM Launches Rs 491-Cr Projects in Rajsamand: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 347 development projects worth over Rs 491 crore in Rajsamand district on 2 August 2026. The event was held at Bhikshu Nilayam in Rajsamand and covered works in roads, water supply, electricity, industry, employment, health, and urban infrastructure. Of the 347 projects, 266 works costing over Rs 369 crore were inaugurated. Foundation stones were laid for 81 projects with a total cost of over Rs 122 crore. The projects included road construction, urban infrastructure in the Rajsamand municipal council area, rural water supply schemes, a community health centre building, and a milk processing unit in Nathdwara. During the function, motorised tricycles were distributed to specially-abled persons. Benefit cheques under various schemes, loan cheques to women self-help groups under Rajeevika, and compassionate appointment letters to COVID-19 orphans were also distributed. Rajeevika is the Rajasthan Rural Livelihoods Development Council, which works with women self-help groups in the state.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Plans ₹45,000 Crore Railway Upgrade along China, Pakistan and Bangladesh Borders: India plans to invest ₹45,000 crore in railway infrastructure along the borders with China, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The programme covers new tracks, platforms and network strengthening in border states and is scheduled for implementation over the next 18 to 24 months. The project includes railway works in Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam and other north-eastern states. The planned works include construction of new tracks, addition of platforms and strengthening of existing rail links for all-weather operations. The programme covers areas linked to the Siliguri Corridor and Himalayan regions, which are important for connectivity between mainland India and the north-east. Border rail links in these regions are used for movement across difficult terrain and for supply chain continuity.

 

2. Vishwesh Negi Appointed India’s Next Ambassador to Iran: Vishwesh Negi, an Indian Foreign Service officer of the 2002 batch, was appointed on 3 August 2026 as India’s next Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran. He is serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi and is expected to take up his assignment in Tehran shortly. India and Iran maintain diplomatic relations through embassies in New Delhi and Tehran. The Ambassador of India to Iran heads the Indian mission in Tehran and represents India in bilateral political, economic, and consular matters. West Asia includes countries such as Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman. India’s relations with West Asia cover energy imports, trade, diaspora welfare, maritime security, and connectivity projects.

 

3. Andhra Pradesh, Australia Sign Four MoUs on Clean Energy: Andhra Pradesh and Australia signed four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in Amaravati on 2 August 2026 for cooperation in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, inclusive education, student mental health, and skill development. The agreements involved institutions and agencies from Andhra Pradesh and Australia, including the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, IIT Tirupati, Samagra Shiksha, the Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education, and the Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation. The first MoU links the Andhra Pradesh government’s Centre of Excellence for Energy Transition (CoEET), IIT Tirupati, and UNSW Sydney. The agreement provides for a Centre of Excellence for Solar Manufacturing at IIT Tirupati. The centre will focus on solar photovoltaic manufacturing, solar panel recycling, circular economy practices, industry-driven research, and specialised training.

 

4. India Approves One Chinese FDI Proposal Under Screening Process: India approved one Chinese Foreign Direct Investment proposal worth ₹1 crore during financial year 2025-26, while 13 proposals from Hong Kong were cleared for ₹610.42 crore in the same period. The approvals were processed under the government route, which requires prior approval for specified foreign investments in India. Press Note 3 was issued in April 2020 by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. It requires prior government approval for investments from countries that share a land border with India, including China, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. The policy was introduced during the COVID-19 period to regulate acquisitions and takeovers of Indian companies by investors from land-border countries. The screening mechanism applies to direct and indirect investment proposals that fall within the notified framework.

 

5. Self-Enumeration Begins for India’s 16th Census in West Bengal: India’s 16th Census is being conducted in two phases during 2026 and 2027 after postponement from 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. West Bengal began its digital self-enumeration phase on 1 August 2026, and the national House Listing and Housing Census phase started on 1 April 2026. The Census of India is conducted under the Census Act, 1948, by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The census is the largest population enumeration exercise in India and covers households, persons, housing conditions, and selected socio-economic details. The 16th Census is India’s first fully digital census. Residents in West Bengal can submit details through a mobile application or the official census portal from 1 August to 15 August 2026. The self-enumeration portal is available in 16 languages for household-level data entry.

 

6. Nauru Becomes Republic of Naoero: The Pacific island nation of Nauru has officially adopted the name Republic of Naoero. The change was confirmed by President David Adeang on 31 July 2026 after a constitutional amendment was passed by the parliament in May 2026. Naoero is the indigenous name of the island and Nauru is a colonial alteration of that name. The government dropped plans for a national referendum and treated Naoero as the existing identity of the people rather than a new name requiring public approval. The official abbreviated name is now Naoero, the country code is NRO, and citizens are referred to as dei-Naoero. The United Nations received formal notification of the change on 26 June 2026 and has begun updating official records.

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Exercise ROTOR CLAP III Concludes in Rajasthan: The Indian Air Force concluded Exercise ROTOR CLAP III at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan, on 1–2 August 2026. The rotary-wing exercise was themed Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems and involved multiple helicopter units of the Indian Air Force. The exercise involved AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, Mi-25/35 gunships, HAL Prachand light combat helicopters, and Chinook, Mi-17, and Dhruv transport and utility helicopters. These platforms represent different roles in attack, lift, transport, and utility missions within the Indian Air Force. Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems refers to methods used to detect, track, identify, and defeat drones and other unmanned aerial threats. The exercise tested operational concepts against emerging drone threats and examined tactics and procedures for helicopter-based responses.

2. India Launches Fifth Diving Support Craft DSC A24: The Indian Navy launched DSC A24, the fifth and final vessel under its Diving Support Craft Project, on 1 August 2026 at Titagarh Rail Systems Limited shipyard in Kolkata. The five-ship programme was contracted by the Ministry of Defence on 12 February 2021 and was completed in about five and a half years. DSC A24 and the other vessels in the class use a catamaran-hull form. The catamaran design provides greater stability and deck space, and the vessels have a displacement in the range of 300 to 400 tonnes. The craft are fitted with diving systems for operational dives, underwater inspection, salvage assistance, and coastal deployment. The vessel class was built by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited, which was earlier known as Titagarh Wagons Limited.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Cabinet Approves Rs 36,441-Crore Sports Push Under Khelo India: The Union Cabinet approved a revamped Khelo India Scheme and an enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations Scheme on 31 July 2026. The combined outlay is Rs 36,441 crore for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31. The package covers grassroots talent identification, athlete development, sports infrastructure, and support for national federations. Khelo India is a Government of India programme for sports development at the school, college, district, and elite levels. The revamped scheme is designed to create an integrated sports ecosystem through National Centres of Excellence, Khelo India Centres of Excellence, and Khelo India Accredited Academies. The approved outlay is nearly eight times higher than that of the previous Khelo India Scheme.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Indian Railways Approves Danapur–Fatuha Multitracking Project: Indian Railways approved a ₹976 crore multitracking project for the 29 km Danapur–Fatuha section of the East Central Railway in Bihar on 1 August 2026. The project covers line capacity expansion on the Patna rail corridor and includes third and fourth railway lines on selected stretches between Danapur, Patna, Rajendra Nagar, Patna Saheb and Fatuha. The approved work includes third and fourth lines between Danapur and Patna, a third line between Rajendra Nagar and Patna Saheb, and third and fourth lines between Patna Saheb and Fatuha. The 29 km stretch lies in Bihar and forms part of the busy rail network around Patna. In the first year of operation, the project is expected to support 22 additional passenger trains and 18 additional freight trains daily. It is also projected to enable movement of an additional 5.2 million tonnes of freight annually.

 

2. New Catfish Species Discovered in Odisha Named After Legendary Tigress Khairi: Pseudolaguvia khairii is a new freshwater catfish species discovered in the Budhabalanga river in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. The species was described in the international taxonomic journal Zootaxa on 26 July 2026 and was named after Khairi, an orphaned Royal Bengal tigress. Pseudolaguvia is a genus of small hillstream catfishes found in fast-flowing rivers across India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Myanmar. The genus belongs to the order Siluriformes, which includes all catfishes. Khairi was rescued as an orphaned cub from the Similipal forests in the 1970s. She was raised by conservationist Saroj Raj Choudhury and his wife, Nihar Nalini Swain, and became associated with wildlife conservation and human-animal bonding in Odisha.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IRDAI Tightens Approval Rules for Insurer Ownership Changes: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has amended the rules on transfer of shares and ownership changes in insurers under the IRDAI (Registration, Capital Structure, Transfer of Shares and Amalgamation of Insurers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2026. The revised framework requires prior approval for shareholding changes at key thresholds of 5%, 10%, 25%, 50% and 75%, and also when an investor becomes the single largest shareholder. IRDAI is the statutory regulator for the insurance sector in India under the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act, 1999. The authority regulates registration, capital structure, transfer of shares, amalgamation and other prudential aspects of insurers, including life insurers, general insurers and re-insurers. In the amended framework, prior approval is required when an investor’s holding crosses the specified thresholds or when shares are transferred within promoter groups. Dilution caused by existing shareholders not participating in a fresh issue of shares is also treated as a transfer event for approval purposes.

 

2. Centre Releases ₹1.09 Lakh Crore Tax Devolution: The Union government released an additional ₹1,09,019 crore to state governments as tax devolution on 1 August 2026. The transfer was made before the regular monthly tax devolution due on 10 August 2026. The Finance Ministry linked the early release to state finances and capital and developmental expenditure. Tax devolution is the transfer of a share of the Union government’s net tax proceeds to states under the Finance Commission framework. Under the current formula, states receive 41% of the net tax proceeds collected by the Union government. This transfer is a constitutional mechanism for fiscal federalism in India. Uttar Pradesh received ₹19,208 crore, which was the largest share in the additional instalment. Bihar received ₹10,845 crore, and Madhya Pradesh received ₹8,010 crore. West Bengal received ₹7,866 crore, Maharashtra received ₹7,022 crore, and Rajasthan received ₹6,460 crore.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. NSA Ajit Doval Receives Lokmanya Tilak National Award: National Security Adviser Ajit Doval received the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 on 1 August 2026 in Pune, Maharashtra. The award was presented by the Lokmanya Tilak Smarak Trust on the 106th death anniversary of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Union Home Minister Amit Shah presented the award at the ceremony. Ajit Doval is a 1968-batch Indian Police Service officer and the longest-serving National Security Adviser of India. He has been associated with counter-terrorism operations, strategic intelligence, border security, and diplomatic handling of the Doklam standoff and the Balakot air strike. The National Security Adviser heads the National Security Council Secretariat and advises the Prime Minister on internal and external security matters.