Daily GK Update- 7th Aug, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Har Ghar Tiranga 2026 to Be Celebrated from 9–17 August Across India: Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launched the Har Ghar Tiranga 2026 campaign to be observed from 9–17 August 2026 across India and among the Indian diaspora. Har Ghar Tiranga was first launched in 2022 under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, and the 2026 edition marks its fifth edition. The campaign encourages citizens to hoist the National Flag and participate in activities promoting patriotism, national unity, and India’s cultural heritage. The 2026 campaign coincides with the 150th anniversary of India’s National Song, “Vande Mataram,” composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay. The government also launched SURYAPATH TIRANGA, a symbolic global relay of the Indian National Flag to strengthen patriotic participation worldwide.

 

2. Cabinet Approves GOBARdhan National Circular Bioenergy Scheme: The Union Cabinet approved the GOBARdhan (National Circular Bioenergy Scheme) with a total outlay of ₹23,731 crore, to be implemented from 2026–27 to 2035–36. The scheme aims to increase domestic Compressed Biogas (CBG) production nearly ten-fold, establish CBG as a key pillar of India’s energy mix, and create 1.5 lakh jobs. GOBARdhan will convert agricultural residue, cattle dung, press mud, municipal organic waste, and other biomass into clean fuel, organic manure, rural income, and economic value.

 

3. Ministry of Tourism Launches ‘As Seen on Netflix’ Initiative on Incredible India Platform: The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Netflix, organised a special event at the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), New Delhi, to mark 10 years of Netflix in India. The Ministry of Tourism has integrated the ‘As Seen on Netflix’ section with the Incredible India digital platform. The initiative enables travellers to explore real Indian destinations featured in popular Netflix films and web series, promoting tourism through screen-inspired travel.

 

4. Government Extends Tenure of Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan and Home Secretary Govind Mohan by One Year: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved a one-year extension in the tenure of Dr. T.V. Somanathan as Cabinet Secretary, allowing him to continue in office beyond 30 August 2026. The ACC has also approved a one-year extension in the tenure of Govind Mohan as Home Secretary.

 

5. Tewolde Gebremariam Appointed as Air India’s New CEO and MD: The Board of Directors of Air India has appointed Tewolde Gebremariam as the airline’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD), succeeding Campbell Wilson. The appointment follows a global leadership search conducted by a dedicated Board committee, which evaluated both internal and international external candidates.

 

6. India Marks Seven Years Since the Abrogation of Article 370: 5 August 2026 marks seven years since the process to make the provisions of Article 370 inoperative began in 2019, ending the special status of the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir. The process commenced on 5 August 2019, when the Presidential Order and the resolution related to Article 370 were introduced in Parliament. Parliament approved the proposal on 6 August 2019, while 5 August is widely observed as the anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370.

 

7 August – National Handloom Day: National Handloom Day is observed every year on 7 August to celebrate India’s rich handloom heritage and honour the contribution of handloom weavers to the country’s cultural and economic development. The day commemorates the Swadeshi Movement, which was launched on 7 August 1905, encouraging the use of indigenous products, including handwoven textiles. National Handloom Day was first observed in 2015, with the objective of promoting the handloom sector, generating employment, and supporting the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission Recognised as WHO-SEARN Regional Centre of Excellence: The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) participated in the 10th Anniversary Meeting of the South-East Asia Regulatory Network (SEARN) held in Kathmandu, Nepal. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced that the IPC has been recognised as the WHO-SEARN Regional Centre of Excellence in Pharmacovigilance. The IPC has also been designated as the WHO-SEARN Technical Centre in Quality, strengthening its role in promoting medicine quality standards. These recognitions establish the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) as a key regional institution for enhancing the quality, safety, and pharmacovigilance of medicines across South-East Asia.

 

2. Prashant Agrawal’s Bringing the Cheetah Back to India Chronicles the Story of Project Cheetah: Bringing the Cheetah Back to India, authored by Prashant Agrawal, narrates the story of Project Cheetah, highlighting the diplomatic, ecological, and administrative efforts behind the reintroduction of cheetahs to India after 70 years. Written from the perspective of India’s former High Commissioner to Namibia, the book provides an insider’s account of the India–Namibia collaboration that made the historic cheetah translocation possible.

 

3. World Marks 81st Anniversary of Hiroshima Atomic Bombing: 6 August 2026 marks 81 years since the United States dropped the first atomic bomb, “Little Boy,” on Hiroshima, Japan, during World War II. The bombing of Hiroshima (6 August 1945) was followed by the bombing of Nagasaki (9 August 1945) with the “Fat Man” atomic bomb. The atomic bombings caused massive destruction and loss of life, leading to Japan’s surrender on 15 August 1945 and the end of World War II.

 

4. Shah Rukh Khan Becomes India’s Most Valued Celebrity Brand in 2025: Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan emerged as India’s most valued celebrity brand in 2025, according to the India Celebrity Brand Valuation Report released by global financial and risk advisory firm Kroll. Shah Rukh Khan moved from the third position in 2024 to the first position in 2025, with an estimated brand value of $177.9 million.

 

5. Muthoot Finance Appoints Alexander George as Managing Director : Alexander George has been recommended by the Board of Directors as the Managing Director of Muthoot Finance, effective October 1, 2026, subject to shareholders’ approval at the upcoming AGM. George Alexander Muthoot, the current Managing Director, will transition to the role of Executive Vice Chairman.

 

6. 6 August – International Day of Awareness of the Special Development Needs and Challenges of Landlocked Developing Countries : International Day of Awareness of the Special Development Needs and Challenges of Landlocked Developing Countries is observed annually on 6 August to raise awareness about the unique development challenges faced by 32 Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs). The day highlights issues such as lack of direct access to the sea, high transport and trade costs, geographical isolation, and limited connectivity, which hinder sustainable economic growth and development. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed this international observance in 2025, with the first observance held on 6 August 2025, to promote global partnerships and support for the sustainable development of LLDCs.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Hiroshima Marks 81st Anniversary of Atomic Bombing: Hiroshima marked the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing on 6 August 2026, which occurred during the Second World War on 6 August 1945. The annual Peace Memorial Ceremony was held at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and the city observed a minute of silence at 8:15 AM, the exact time when the bomb was dropped in 1945. Hiroshima Mayor Kazumi Matsui delivered the Peace Declaration during the ceremony. He referred to nuclear weapons as tools of intimidation and called for their abolition. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi attended the ceremony for the first time as prime minister and reaffirmed Japan’s Three Non-Nuclear Principles.

 

2. France Submits Proposal for 114 Rafale Fighter Jets to India: France submitted a techno-commercial proposal to India for 114 Rafale fighter jets on 29 July 2026. The proposed government-to-government deal is valued at about ₹3.25 lakh crore, or around $39 billion, and it is linked to India’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft procurement plan. The Defence Acquisition Council cleared the Acceptance of Necessity in February 2026. India sent the formal Letter of Request to France in May 2026, and the Ministry of Defence began examining the proposal through its Acquisition Wing in August 2026. Rafale is a twin-engine, multirole combat aircraft developed by Dassault Aviation of France. It is used for air defence, deep strike, reconnaissance, and nuclear deterrence roles, and it operates from both land bases and aircraft carriers in naval variants.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. India Finishes 4th at 2026 Commonwealth Games with 39 Medals, Including 13 Gold: India finished 4th in the 2026 Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow, winning a total of 39 medals — 13 Gold, 17 Silver, and 9 Bronze. Indian boxers delivered an outstanding performance, winning 10 medals on the final day, including 7 gold medals, significantly boosting India’s overall medal tally. Mirabai Chanu won India’s first gold medal in the women’s 48 kg weightlifting event, while para-powerlifter Jhandu Kumar secured India’s first medal of the Games with a bronze. India’s 13 gold medals came from Weightlifting (1), Para-athletics (2), Judo (2), and Boxing (7), highlighting the country’s dominance in combat sports and para-events.

 

2. Arunachal’s Boleng to Host Asian Rafting Championships 2026: Boleng in Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh will host the Asian Rafting Championships 2026 from 5 October to 9 October 2026. The five-day event will take place on the Simang River, a Class III+ tributary of the Siang River, and will bring paddlers from across Asia to compete in white-water rafting events. Boleng is a town in Siang district, which lies in central Arunachal Pradesh. The Siang River is the name used for the Brahmaputra in Arunachal Pradesh, and the Simang River is one of its tributaries with strong currents and technical rapids. Rafting championships commonly include Sprint, RX and Slalom disciplines. Sprint events test speed over a short course, RX refers to knock-out racing between teams, and Slalom requires boats to pass through a series of gates on moving water.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Tamil Nadu Launches Vetri Vaanmagal Drone Training Scheme: Tamil Nadu announced the Vetri Vaanmagal scheme on 6 August 2026 in the 2026-27 Agriculture Budget. The scheme is designed to train women farmers in operating agricultural drones and to support drone pilot licensing in the state. The state government has allocated Rs 1.50 crore for drone training under the scheme. Training will be conducted through the Remote Pilot Training Organisation of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, which functions as a state agricultural institution in Tamil Nadu. An additional Rs 2.50 crore has been earmarked from state funds to provide drones at a 50% subsidy to 50 trained women. The scheme links skill training with equipment support for agricultural use.

 

2. IT Rules Cut Unlawful Content Removal Deadline to 3 Hours: India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology notified the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2026 on 10 February 2026. The amended framework reduced the time limit for intermediaries to remove unlawful content from 36 hours to 3 hours after receiving a valid court order or government notice. The amended rules also reduced the time limit for action on sensitive user grievances, including nudity and impersonation, from 24 hours to 2 hours. The standard time limit for intermediaries to resolve general user complaints was reduced from 72 hours to 36 hours. The rules came into force on 20 February 2026 across India. The framework applies to valid notices issued by a court or by the government under the applicable legal process.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Proposes Fresh Licensing of Urban Co-operative Banks After 20 Years: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed to resume issuing fresh licences for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) after a gap of 20 years, following an ‘on tap’ licensing approach. Only existing multi-state Credit Co-operative Societies (CCSs) with at least 10 years of operations, ₹10,000 crore in deposits, and a minimum net worth of ₹300 crore will be eligible to apply. Eligible CCSs must have maintained a CRAR of at least 12%, a Net NPA ratio of not more than 3%, and demonstrate a positive financial and operational track record over the previous five years. Conversion of a Credit Co-operative Society into a UCB will require approval by at least two-thirds of the shareholders, both in number and value, at a specially convened meeting.

 

2. EPFO to Launch ‘E-PRAAPTI’ Portal for Tracking and Activating Inoperative EPF Accounts : The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) will launch the EPF Aadhaar-Based Access Portal for Tracking Inoperative Accounts (E-PRAAPTI) to help members identify, track, link, and activate old EPF accounts. The portal will use Aadhaar-based authentication to enable secure access to old EPF accounts, allowing members to update their profile and seamlessly link and activate their Universal Account Number (UAN). E-PRAAPTI is expected to reduce manual intervention, minimise documentation, and improve the transparency, efficiency, and ease of accessing inactive EPF accounts.

 

3. Andhra Pradesh Targets ₹9.5 Lakh Crore Investment in Visakhapatnam Region : The Andhra Pradesh government has set an investment target of up to ₹9.5 lakh crore for the Visakhapatnam Economic Region (VER). The plan covers eight districts and spans 36,000 sq km in north coastal Andhra Pradesh and adjoining areas. The Visakhapatnam Economic Region includes Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, Anakapalli, Kakinada, East Godavari, Alluri Sitarama Raju, and Parvathipuram Manyam. The region is linked to the ‘Bay City’ project, which uses micro-level planning for regional development.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. IIT Bombay Professor Karthikeyan Lanka Selected for NASI Young Scientist Award 2026: Professor Karthikeyan Lanka of the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay has been selected for the NASI Young Scientist Award 2026. He is an Associate Professor at the Centre of Studies in Resources Engineering and an associate faculty member in the Interdisciplinary Programme in Climate Studies at IIT Bombay. The award presentation is scheduled during the 96th Annual Session and Symposium of the National Academy of Sciences, India, at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, on 4–5 December 2026. The National Academy of Sciences, India is one of the oldest science academies in the country and was established in 1930. It is based in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, and it conducts annual sessions, symposia, and academic recognitions for scientists in India.

 

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 6th Aug, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. President Murmu Inaugurates Jagadguru Kripalu University in Odisha: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated Jagadguru Kripalu University in Cuttack district, Odisha, marking the establishment of a new higher education institution in the state. The university is situated at Banara in Damapada tehsil, near Cuttack, and aims to strengthen educational opportunities in the region.

 

2. GVMC, Moscoaw Government Sign MoC to Boost Smart Mobility and Urban Development in Visakhapatnam: Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) and the Government of Moscow signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to enhance urban development and smart mobility initiatives in Visakhapatnam. The agreement was signed during the 5th International Transport Summit in Moscow by GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg and Maksim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow, in the presence of Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat. The partnership will focus on Integrated Urban Transport Planning, Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), AI-based traffic management, digital ticketing, autonomous transport technologies, and sustainable infrastructure, supporting Visakhapatnam’s vision of becoming a technology-driven global city.

 

3. 3 August – Cloves Syndrome Awareness Day: Cloves Syndrome Awareness Day is observed annually on 3 August to raise awareness about CLOVES Syndrome, a rare congenital overgrowth disorder caused by mutations in the PIK3CA gene. The day aims to promote early diagnosis, research, improved treatment options, and support for individuals and families affected by the disorder. CLOVES stands for Congenital Lipomatous Overgrowth, Vascular Malformations, Epidermal Nevi, and Skeletal/Spinal Abnormalities, describing the key features of the syndrome.

 

4. 3 August – National Watermelon Day: National Watermelon Day is observed annually on 3 August to celebrate the watermelon, one of the world’s most popular and refreshing summer fruits. The day promotes the nutritional and health benefits of watermelon, which is rich in water, vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and lycopene, helping support hydration and overall health.

 

5. Indian Statistical Institute Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha: The Indian Statistical Institute Bill, 2026, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 3 August 2026. The Bill seeks to repeal and replace the Indian Statistical Institute Act, 1959, and to convert the Indian Statistical Institute into a statutory body corporate. The Indian Statistical Institute, or ISI, is headquartered in Kolkata, West Bengal. It functions at present as a registered society under the West Bengal Societies Registration Act, 1961. The proposed law provides a statutory framework for the institution’s governance, administration, and academic functions. The Bill expands the definition of Statistical Sciences for the purposes of the institution. The definition includes theoretical statistics, applied statistics, mathematics, economics, data science, computer science, cryptology, and other quantitative sciences. This wider definition covers disciplines used in statistical research, computation, and quantitative analysis.

 

6. Ministry Launches ‘As Seen on Netflix’ on Incredible India Portal: The Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Tourism launched the ‘As Seen on Netflix’ section on the Incredible India portal on 5 August 2026. The feature was developed with Netflix India to connect films and series with real locations, cultural traditions, and travel experiences in India. The Ministry of Tourism signed a non-commercial Memorandum of Understanding with Netflix Entertainment Services India. A Memorandum of Understanding is a formal agreement used by institutions to define cooperation without creating a commercial contract. The partnership aims to promote Indian tourism destinations through cinematic storytelling. The initiative is Netflix’s first collaboration with a tourism body in South Asia. Similar tourism-linked initiatives have been associated with France, Indonesia, and Korea. The partnership seeks to place Indian travel destinations within original content on the Netflix platform.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Esri India and BEL Sign MoU to Boost Defence Capabilities with GIS and GeoAI: Esri India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Navratna CPSE Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to collaborate on defence projects involving Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Location Intelligence, and GeoAI. The partnership builds on the successful execution of earlier projects for the Indian Armed Forces and aims to strengthen the use of advanced geospatial technologies in defence. According to Esri India Managing Director Agendra Kumar, geospatial intelligence has become a strategic capability that enables defence forces to analyse, plan, and respond with greater speed, accuracy, and precision.

 

2. Pacific Island Nation Nauru Officially Renamed as the Republic of Naoero: The Pacific Island nation of Nauru has officially changed its name to the Republic of Naoero, aligning with the spelling and pronunciation in its national language. As part of the change, the country’s international code will change from NRU to NRO, and its citizens will now be known as dei-Naoero instead of Nauruan. Naoero is the world’s third-smallest country by population (around 12,000 people), after Tuvalu and Vatican City, and gained independence from Australia in 1968.

 

3. Willie Walsh Assumes Charge as CEO of IndiGo: Willie Walsh has officially assumed charge as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IndiGo, India’s largest airline. Walsh replaced Pieter Elbers, who resigned from the CEO position on 10 March 2026.

 

4. Pawan Hans signs MoU with Noemi Aerospace on electric seaplanes: Pawan Hans Limited signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Norway-based Noemi Aerospace on 5 August 2026 in New Delhi to explore electric seaplane technology and other sustainable aviation solutions. The agreement was signed in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha. The MoU covers technical knowledge sharing, workshops, feasibility studies, skill development, and capacity building. Pawan Hans Chairman and Managing Director Sunil Kumar Nagdawne and Noemi Aerospace Chief Executive Officer Eric François Lithun signed the agreement.

 

5. China Harvests First Rice Crop Grown in Space: Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station harvested the first batch of rice grown in orbit on 5 August 2026. The harvest formed part of the Shenzhou-23 mission, which launched on 24 May 2026, and the rice samples were collected for further scientific study. The experiment aims to achieve the first continuous cultivation of two generations of rice in orbit. It is designed to complete two consecutive life cycles and to study how prolonged microgravity affects genetic stability, plant development, and seed reproduction. Two types of japonica rice seeds are used in the experiment. One set consists of ordinary seeds that have never been to space, and the other set consists of “space lineage” seeds descended from rice grown aboard Tiangong in 2022 and bred on Earth for three generations.

 

6. Massachusetts Declares August 15 as India Day: Massachusetts declared August 15, 2026, as India Day across the state, and Boston issued a similar proclamation for the same date. The observance coincides with the 79th anniversary of India’s independence from British colonial rule in 1947. Governor Maura Healey issued the Massachusetts proclamation on August 1, 2026. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu also declared August 15 as India Day in the city in 2026. The Indian diaspora in the United States comprises over five million people of Indian origin. Indian-Americans have a presence in medicine, science, technology, education, business, and public service. The 2026 proclamation in Boston welcomed the opening of the new Indian Consulate in Boston. It also referred to the visit of INS Sudarshini at the SAILBOSTON-250 event.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Massachusetts Declares August 15 as India Day: Massachusetts declared August 15, 2026, as India Day across the state, and Boston issued a similar proclamation for the same date. The observance coincides with the 79th anniversary of India’s independence from British colonial rule in 1947. The Indian diaspora in the United States comprises over five million people of Indian origin. Indian-Americans have a presence in medicine, science, technology, education, business, and public service.

 

 

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Harshita Jakhar Becomes First Indian Woman to Feature at Tour de France Femmes: Harshita Jakhar of Rajasthan became the first Indian woman cyclist to feature at the prestigious Tour de France Femmes, creating a historic milestone for Indian cycling. She participated in the ceremonial start of Stage 2 of the Tour de France Femmes at Aigle, Switzerland, marking India’s first-ever women’s representation at the event.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Ministry of Ayush and IndiaAI Sign MoU to Promote AI-Driven Innovation in Traditional Medicine: The Ministry of Ayush and IndiaAI (MeitY) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven innovation in the Ayush sector. Under the partnership, the Ministry of Ayush will integrate with the AIKosh platform to share eligible health research datasets, AI models, metadata, toolkits, and use cases, fostering AI-based research and collaboration. The MoU will provide the Ayush sector with access to GPU-based high-performance computing infrastructure through the IndiaAI initiative, supporting advanced AI research and healthcare applications in traditional medicine.

 

2. Department of Posts Releases Commemorative Stamp Honouring Satish Gujral’s Birth Centenary: The Department of Posts released a commemorative postage stamp on 3 August 2026 to mark the birth centenary of Satish Gujral, which was unveiled by Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia at Bikaner House, New Delhi. Satish Gujral (1925–2020) was a renowned Indian painter, sculptor, muralist, and architect, regarded as one of the leading figures of modern Indian art. The stamp features Satish Gujral’s 2010 acrylic self-portrait, one of only four self-portraits created by him, with the design prepared by Anuj Kumar based on a proposal by his daughter Raseel Gujral Ansal.

 

3. Giriraj Singh Inaugurates Centre of Excellence for Handloom Technology at IIT Delhi: Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Handloom Technology (CoE-HT) at IIT Delhi to modernise India’s handloom sector through technology, innovation, and research. The Centre aims to integrate India’s traditional weaving heritage with advanced technologies, promoting digital innovation, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and improved market access for handloom weavers. CoE-HT will serve as a hub for research, skill development, and collaboration among academia, industry, government, startups, designers, and weavers to strengthen the handloom ecosystem.

 

4. Pacific Typhoon Threatens Indian Monsoon: Pacific typhoons and warming in the equatorial Pacific are linked with changes in the Indian southwest monsoon through shifts in atmospheric circulation, rainfall distribution, and cyclone activity over the Bay of Bengal and the North Indian Ocean. In August 2026, Super Typhoon Dolphin was tracked in the Pacific Ocean near Japan, while forecasters monitored its indirect effect on monsoon rainfall over India. Typhoons in the western Pacific can influence the Indian monsoon by altering the monsoon trough, suppressing Bay of Bengal systems, and changing moisture transport over the Indian subcontinent. In July 2026, a strong weather system over the western Pacific was associated with a weak phase of the southwest monsoon and subdued rainfall over central, western, and peninsular India.

 

5. Chhattisgarh Cabinet Approves ₹500 Crore AI Mission: The Chhattisgarh Cabinet approved the Chhattisgarh State Artificial Intelligence (AI) Mission on 5 August 2026 with an outlay of ₹500 crore. The mission will run for five years and is linked to governance, skill development, technology adoption, and digital economy expansion in the state. The AI Mission is a state-level policy initiative for the use of artificial intelligence in public administration and digital services. It is aligned with the Government of India’s IndiaAI Mission, which is the national framework for AI development and adoption. The approval was given in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan in Nava Raipur. The mission includes the creation of 100 AI data labs and five Centres of Excellence within Chhattisgarh.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI MPC Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged at 5.25%, Retains Neutral Stance: The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) voted unanimously to keep the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 5.25%, after a detailed assessment of the evolving macroeconomic and financial developments and the outlook. Consequently, the standing deposit facility (SDF) rate remains at 5%, and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the bank rate remain at 5.50%. The MPC also decided to continue with the neutral stance.

 

2. Government Notifies Rules for Cross-Border E-Commerce Exports: The Government of India operationalised rules for inventory-based cross-border e-commerce exports on 5 August 2026 through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The framework was notified under Notification No. 27/2026-27 and Public Notice No. 25/2026-27 and is part of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023. The framework permits e-commerce companies with foreign investment to undertake export-only inventory operations through a registered Exporter-on-Record (EOR). An EOR can procure goods from Sellers-on-Record (SORs) only against confirmed export orders, and the rules prohibit speculative inventory build-up. The model applies to cross-border e-commerce exports, which are exports of goods sold through digital platforms and shipped directly to overseas buyers. The arrangement is limited to export activity and does not permit domestic retail inventory operations under this framework.

 

3. RBI to Resume Issuing Fresh Licences for Urban Cooperative Banks: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced on 5 August 2026 that it will resume issuing fresh licences for Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) after a pause of more than two decades. The decision was announced during the August Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting and is linked to draft guidelines for on-tap licensing of UCBs. The RBI released draft guidelines for on-tap licensing after a discussion paper dated 13 January 2026. Credit cooperative societies applying for a licence must have at least 10 years of operation, minimum deposits of ₹10,000 crore, and a net worth of at least ₹300 crore as of 31 March of the previous financial year. Applicants must maintain a Capital to Risk-weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of at least 12% and a Net Non-Performing Assets (NPA) ratio below 3%. The RBI will initially give priority to multi-state cooperative societies with operations across several states.

 

Daily GK Update- 5th Aug, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Odisha Signs ₹3,384.82 Crore BharatNet Pact to Connect All 6,799 Gram Panchayats with Fibre Broadband: The Odisha Government signed a tripartite agreement with Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and BSNL to implement the ₹3,384.82-crore amended BharatNet Programme. The project aims to connect all 6,799 Gram Panchayats in Odisha with a modern fibre-based broadband network over the next 10 years, strengthening rural digital connectivity and digital public infrastructure. BSNL has been designated as the Single Project Management Agency (SPMA), while Creative Newtech Private Limited has been appointed as the Project Implementing Agency (PIA).

 

2. Glaw Lake Becomes India’s 101st Ramsar Site, First for Arunachal Pradesh: Glaw Lake in Arunachal Pradesh has been designated as India’s 101st Ramsar Site, making it the first Ramsar Site in Arunachal Pradesh. The pristine freshwater lake, located within Kamlang Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary, is a biodiversity hotspot with over 150 tree species and 49 orchid species.

India has increased its Ramsar Sites from 26 in 2014 to 101 in 2026, reflecting its commitment to wetland conservation, biodiversity protection, climate security, and sustainable development.

 

3. RBI Appoints Monisha Chakraborty as Executive Director: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Monisha Chakraborty as Executive Director (ED). Before her promotion, she served as Chief General Manager-in-Charge in the Department of Supervision and has over 30 years of experience in supervision, foreign exchange, and government & bank accounts.

 

4. Book Celebrating S.N.N. Sankaralinga Iyer’s Legacy Released: The book “Cementing Legacies: The Life of SNN Sankaralinga Iyer – A Pioneering Polymath” was released, chronicling the life and legacy of S.N.N. Sankaralinga Iyer, founder of Indo Commercial Bank and India Cements. Authored by veteran journalist K. Balakumar, the book highlights Sankaralinga Iyer’s pioneering contributions to India’s banking and cement industries, along with his entrepreneurial vision and legacy.

 

5. Supreme Court Tightens Rules on Digital Arrest Scams: The Supreme Court of India issued nationwide directions on 4 August 2026 to strengthen action against digital arrest scams. The directions were passed in a suo motu case titled In Re: Victims of Digital Arrest Related to Forged Documents, which began in October 2025. The court also directed the Reserve Bank of India to frame a Standard Operating Procedure for mule accounts and accounts linked to cyber-enabled fraud. Digital arrest is a cyber fraud method in which offenders impersonate police, enforcement agencies, or court officials through phone calls, video calls, or messaging platforms. The fraudsters often create fear of arrest, detention, or legal action and then demand money, personal data, or access to bank accounts. Such scams are linked to forged documents, fake warrants, and identity spoofing.

 

6. IARC Classifies Three Medicines as Carcinogenic: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a cancer research agency of the World Health Organization (WHO), classified hydrochlorothiazide, voriconazole and tacrolimus as carcinogenic to humans in Group 1 in Volume 137 of the IARC Monographs. The three medicines are widely prescribed for hypertension, fungal infections and organ transplant rejection, and they are included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. The IARC Monographs programme began in 1970 and assesses whether an agent can cause cancer under some circumstances. The programme classifies agents into groups such as Group 1, which is used for substances with sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in humans.

 

7. RBI Monetary Policy Keeps Repo at 5.25: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) held its bi-monthly meeting from 3 August 2026 to 5 August 2026. On 5 August 2026, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced that the repo rate would remain unchanged at 5.25%, marking the fourth consecutive meeting at this level since December 2025. The Monetary Policy Committee is a six-member statutory body constituted under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. It is responsible for fixing the policy repo rate, which is the rate at which the RBI lends short-term funds to commercial banks against government securities. On 5 August 2026, the MPC retained the Standing Deposit Facility rate at 5% and the Marginal Standing Facility rate and bank rate at 5.5%. The policy stance was kept neutral, which is one of the standard stances used by the RBI in its monetary policy framework.

 

8. Maharashtra Bans Analogue Paneer for One Year: Maharashtra imposed a state-wide one-year ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation and sale of analogue paneer, also called non-dairy paneer, from 30 July 2026. The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration issued the order through a gazette notification under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the penalty for violations includes imprisonment of up to six months and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh. Analogue paneer is a dairy substitute prepared with vegetable oils, starches, emulsifiers and other non-dairy ingredients. Traditional paneer is a milk-based fresh cheese made by coagulating milk with an acid or food-grade coagulant.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IFS Officer Vishwesh Negi Named India’s Ambassador to Iran: Vishwesh Negi, a 2002-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, has been appointed as India’s next Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran. Before this appointment, he was serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), New Delhi, and is expected to assume his diplomatic assignment in Tehran shortly.

 

2. BRICS Education Ministers’ Meeting to Be Held in Bhubaneswar: The 13th BRICS Education Ministers’ Meeting and the 3rd BRICS Senior Officials’ Meeting are scheduled in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from 5 to 7 August 2026. India is holding the BRICS chairship for 2026 and is hosting the meetings through the Ministry of Education. BRICS is an intergovernmental grouping of eleven countries as of 2025. Its members are Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. The grouping began as BRIC and later expanded to include South Africa and additional members. India’s BRICS chairship for 2026 follows the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”. Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi will participate in the 13th BRICS Education Ministers’ Meeting.

 

3. ICAR Develops First Fully Annotated Pigeonpea T2T Genome: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) developed India’s first fully annotated telomere-to-telomere (T2T) reference genome of pigeonpea variety ‘Asha’. The genome assembly, designated NIPB_CcT2T_4, was released on 20 April 2026 and is available in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database under accession number GCF_000230855.1. A T2T genome is a complete chromosome-level DNA sequence that extends from one telomere to the other. In pigeonpea, the ‘Asha’ genome contains 752.65 million base pairs, 92 contigs, 11 chromosomes, 11 centromeres, and 22 telomeres.

 

4. Himalayan Serow Sighted in Himachal Pradesh After Two Decades: The Himalayan Serow, scientifically known as Capricornis thar, was video-recorded in the Dalhousie catchment forests of Himachal Pradesh on 4 August 2026 after a gap of two decades. The sighting occurred in a forest landscape adjoining the Kalatop-Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary in the Western Himalayas. The Himalayan Serow is a medium-sized ungulate found in the Himalayan region and parts of South and South-East Asia. It belongs to the genus Capricornis, which includes serows, a group of goat-antelopes adapted to rugged terrain and forested slopes. The species is known for its dark coat, short horns, and preference for steep, rocky habitats.

 

5. China Develops Xianglong Tunnel Boring Machine: China unveiled Xianglong, a self-developed boring and blasting machine, in Wuhan on 2 August 2026. The machine has a diameter of 4.5 metres and was developed jointly by Tsinghua University and a subsidiary of the state-owned China Railway Group. It is a hybrid tunnelling system that combines mechanical excavation with drilling and blasting for hard rock conditions. A hybrid tunnelling system combines machine excavation with controlled blasting in the same project or machine design. Such systems are used in complex geological formations where pure mechanical cutting faces limits. Xianglong was designed for extremely hard rock formations and is expected to improve tunnelling efficiency through hard rock by 30 per cent compared with traditional methods.

 

6. US Boosts Patriot and THAAD Interceptor Production: The United States Defence Department announced framework agreements on 3 August 2026 with Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin to expand production of Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptor missiles. The plan covers Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptors and THAAD interceptors, which are used in missile defence systems. Patriot is a surface-to-air missile system developed in the United States for air and missile defence. THAAD is a U.S. missile defence system designed to intercept short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during the terminal phase of flight. PAC-3 MSE is an upgraded interceptor used with the Patriot system and is produced by Lockheed Martin.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Army Launches Indigenous Xtreme Weather Grade Diesel for High-Altitude Operations: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Dhiraj Seth launched the indigenously developed Xtreme Weather Grade (XWG) Diesel in New Delhi, developed jointly by the Indian Army and Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). XWG Diesel is designed to enhance the mobility, safety, and operational readiness of combat and logistics vehicles in extreme weather and high-altitude conditions, reducing the need for special measures to keep vehicles operational during severe winters.

 

2. Former Army Chief General Vishwa Nath Sharma Passes Away: Former Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Vishwa Nath Sharma passed away. He served as the 14th Chief of the Army Staff from 1 May 1988 to 30 June 1990.

 

3. Operation Trishul Brings Back 274 Fugitives: Operation Trishul is an Indian fugitive-tracking and extradition initiative linked to the return of 274 fugitives from 36 countries since 2019. The fugitives were wanted in cases involving terrorism, organised crime, narco-terrorism, sexual offences, financial fraud, murder, and human trafficking. Operation Trishul uses satellite imagery, surveillance inputs, and digital footprints to locate fugitives who change names or identities abroad. The operation involves coordination among the Intelligence Bureau, Central Bureau of Investigation, Research and Analysis Wing, state police forces, and Interpol.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Tanvi Sharma Clinches Maiden BWF World Tour Title, Becomes Youngest Taipei Open Champion: India’s 17-year-old Tanvi Sharma won her maiden BWF World Tour title by defeating Vietnam’s Nguyen Thuy Linh 21-16, 21-16 in the Taipei Open Super 300 women’s singles final. Tanvi became the youngest-ever Taipei Open champion, surpassing Tai Tzu Ying, and the first Indian woman since Saina Nehwal (2008) to win the Taipei Open women’s singles title.

 

2. Neeraj Chopra Wins Silver, Yash Vir Singh Bags Bronze in Commonwealth Games 2026 Javelin Throw: Neeraj Chopra won the silver medal in the men’s javelin throw at the Commonwealth Games 2026, registering his season’s best throw of 85.83 metres. Yash Vir Singh secured the bronze medal with a personal best throw of 85.41 metres on his final attempt, achieving the feat at the age of 24. Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage claimed the gold medal with a record-breaking throw of 89.75 metres, setting a new Commonwealth Games record.

 

3. Ahmedabad Receives Commonwealth Games Flag, Set to Host Centenary Edition in 2030: Ahmedabad officially received the Commonwealth Games Flag and the Host Baton during the closing ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, marking the handover of hosting responsibilities. Ahmedabad will host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, which will be the centenary edition of the Games, celebrating 100 years since the inaugural event. The first Commonwealth Games were held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930, while the Baton Relay tradition began at the 1958 Commonwealth Games in Cardiff, Wales. Ahmedabad 2030 will become the second Commonwealth Games hosted by India, following the successful hosting of the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Heatwaves and Lightning Added to NDRF Protocol: Heatwaves and lightning were added to the list of notified natural calamities under the operational guidelines for the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) on 4 August 2026. The Union Home Ministry informed the Lok Sabha about the inclusion, which follows recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission for the award period 2026-31. Heatwaves and lightning were recommended for inclusion by the 16th Finance Commission in its report submitted on 17 November 2025. The recommendation cited the increasing frequency, intensity, and mortality associated with these hazards, including climate-related changes in weather patterns. The new designation permits the use of SDRF and NDRF resources for relief, assistance, and mitigation measures in affected areas.

 

2. Kerala Launches AI-Led Governance Initiative: Kerala launched an AI-led governance initiative on 4 August 2026 to integrate artificial intelligence, digital public service delivery, and integrated planning systems in state administration. The reforms include a central programme management unit, an AI-enabled business process re-engineering cell, a “once-only” document submission framework through DigiLocker, and digital systems for land, litigation, and public asset management. Artificial intelligence in governance refers to the use of machine learning, natural language processing, and automation tools in administrative functions. In Kerala’s reform package, AI is being used for drafting notes, retrieving government orders, summarising documents, and translation. Such applications are part of e-governance systems used by Indian governments for service delivery and internal administration.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Shivalik Small Finance Bank Enters Affordable Housing Finance with ₹109 Crore ManiBhavnam Merger: Shivalik Small Finance Bank has completed the acquisition and merger of ManiBhavnam Home Finance India Pvt. Ltd. in a deal valued at around ₹109 crore. The merger marks Shivalik’s entry into the affordable housing finance segment, which is expected to grow at a 20% CAGR until 2030. The transaction includes 20% cash payment and the remaining amount through a share swap, with the merger receiving approval from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

 

2. SEBI Imposes ₹1.48 Crore Penalty on ZEEL, Bars Subhash Chandra and Punit Goenka for One Year: SEBI imposed penalties totaling ₹1.48 crore on Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL) and its promoters for violations of securities laws and corporate governance norms. Subhash Chandra and Punit Goenka have been barred from accessing or dealing in the securities market for one year as part of SEBI’s enforcement action.

 

3. HDFC Bank Launches ‘Max for Seniors’ and ‘Max for Her’ Savings Accounts: HDFC Bank has launched two new savings account variants under its Savings Max portfolio — ‘Max for Seniors’ and ‘Max for Her’, designed specifically for senior citizens and women. The new accounts focus on financial security, easy financial management, lifestyle benefits, and enhanced banking convenience, catering to the unique needs of these customer segments. The launch aligns with growing financial inclusion, as India’s senior citizen population is projected to reach 230 million by 2036, while women hold 39.2% of bank accounts and contribute 39.7% of total bank deposits.

 

4. Karnataka Bank Launches ‘KBL Finsurance’ Digital Insurance Portal: Karnataka Bank has launched ‘KBL Finsurance’, a comprehensive digital insurance portal to streamline the creation, tracking, and monitoring of insurance business leads across its branch network. The platform is powered by SprintMoney, a fintech company that provides white-labelled digital solutions to banks and financial institutions.

 

5. Government Launches LIC OFS to Sell Up to 6.54% Stake, Aims to Raise Over ₹31,000 Crore: The Government of India has announced the sale of up to 6.54% stake in Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) through the Offer for Sale (OFS) route, expected to raise over ₹31,000 crore, making it the largest OFS proceeds to date. The OFS includes 2.5% equity with an additional 4% green shoe option, while 50 lakh shares (0.04%) have been reserved for eligible LIC employees. The floor price has been fixed at ₹382 per share. The disinvestment will help LIC achieve the Minimum Public Shareholding (MPS) norm, increasing public shareholding from 3.5% to 10%, ahead of the May 16, 2027 deadline.