Daily GK Update- 27th July, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. HCLTech to Set Up First AI Data Centre in Odisha: HCLTech will establish its first AI Data Centre in Odisha with a planned investment of ₹14,257 crore at the upcoming Odisha Sovereign AI Park.

The project will be developed through a collaboration between HCLTech, Indian AI startup Sarvam, and the Government of Odisha to strengthen India’s AI infrastructure. The Odisha Sovereign AI Park is envisioned as a state-level AI infrastructure hub, integrating high-performance computing, Indian AI models, and real-world AI applications to provide AI services as a public utility.

 

2. Killai Becomes Tamil Nadu’s First Fully Operational Climate-Resilient Village: Killai has become Tamil Nadu’s first fully operational Climate-Resilient Village (CRV) under the Tamil Nadu Climate Change Mission (TNCCM), serving as a model for sustainable coastal development. The project includes solar-powered e-boats, hybrid solar power systems, scientific beekeeping, and Buckingham Canal restoration, enhancing renewable energy use, biodiversity, and ecosystem health. Implemented at a cost of ₹230.15 lakh through the District Climate Change Mission (DCCM) and Corporate Environmental Responsibility (CER) funds, Killai is now a benchmark for coastal climate adaptation and resilience against cyclones, sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and saline intrusion.

 

3. Pralhad Joshi Takes Charge as Union Education Minister: Pralhad Joshi assumed charge as the Union Education Minister after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, while continuing to hold the portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and New & Renewable Energy. He chaired a review meeting of the Education Ministry to assess the implementation of various schemes and key initiatives, attended by Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary and senior officials.

 

4. Sarnath Gets UNESCO World Heritage Tag: Sarnath, an ancient Buddhist site in Uttar Pradesh, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on 25 July 2026 during the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea. The inscription makes Sarnath India’s 45th World Heritage Site and Uttar Pradesh’s fourth World Heritage Site. The UNESCO World Heritage List includes cultural, natural, and mixed properties of outstanding universal value. UNESCO adopted the World Heritage Convention in 1972, and the World Heritage Committee examines nominations for inscription each year. India has multiple sites on the list across categories such as monuments, archaeological sites, and natural landscapes.

 

5. Pralhad Joshi Takes Charge as Education Minister: Pralhad Joshi was appointed Union Education Minister on 25 July 2026 after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan from the Union Council of Ministers. He took charge of the Ministry of Education at Kartavya Bhavan on 26 July 2026 and continued to hold the portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy. The Ministry of Education is a Union ministry under the Government of India and is responsible for school education, higher education, literacy, and related policy matters. The ministry functions through departments such as the Department of School Education and Literacy and the Department of Higher Education. Pralhad Joshi is a five-time Bharatiya Janata Party Member of Parliament from the Dharwad constituency in Karnataka. He served as Union Minister for Coal, Mines, and Parliamentary Affairs from 2019 to 2024.

 

6. Nandan Nilekani to Lead Exam Reforms Task Force: India has constituted a high-powered task force on examination reforms to review the National Testing Agency (NTA) examination system and recommend measures for reliability, transparency, and technology use. The task force is chaired by Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys and founding chairman of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). The National Testing Agency was established in 2017 as an autonomous testing organisation under the Ministry of Education. It conducts major entrance examinations in India, including the Joint Entrance Examination and the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, which are centralised computer-based or pen-and-paper assessments for higher education admissions. 

 

7. INSAT-3DR Remains Crucial for Weather Forecasting: INSAT-3DR is an Indian meteorological satellite launched on 8 September 2016 aboard GSLV-F05. It operates in geostationary orbit and provides real-time data for weather forecasting, cyclone tracking, disaster management, and search and rescue services over India and adjoining regions. INSAT-3DR carries a 6-channel multi-spectral imager, a 19-channel atmospheric sounder, a Data Relay Transponder, and a Search and Rescue Transponder. The imager provides half-hourly multispectral images over the Indian region, while the sounder measures the vertical structure of the atmosphere. The satellite also measures ocean surface temperature and cloud characteristics. Its imaging system includes middle infrared capability for night-time low clouds and fog, along with thermal infrared bands for Sea Surface Temperature estimation.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin Resigns: Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin resigned, citing health reasons, nearly two years before the completion of his five-year term. His resignation was accepted by Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, who will serve as Acting President until a new president is elected. Shahabuddin, a former judge and a veteran of Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War, assumed office as the President of Bangladesh in April 2023.

 

2. 26 July – International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem: The International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem is observed every year on 26 July to raise awareness about the importance of mangroves in protecting coastal ecosystems and supporting biodiversity. Theme 2026 – Healthy Mangroves for Sustainable Blue Economy and Climate Resilience The observance was adopted by UNESCO in 2015, recognising the vital role of mangrove forests in climate change mitigation, coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and disaster risk reduction.

 

3. 25 July – World Embryologist Day: World Embryologist Day is observed every year on 25 July to recognise the vital contributions of embryologists in the fields of reproductive medicine, in vitro fertilisation (IVF), and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). The day commemorates the birth of the world’s first “test-tube baby,” Louise Brown, who was born on 25 July 1978, marking a historic milestone in fertility treatment.

 

4. 25 July – World Drowning Prevention Day: World Drowning Prevention Day is observed every year on 25 July to raise awareness about drowning as a major but preventable cause of death and to promote life-saving water safety measures. The day was declared by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2021 and is led globally by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to encourage action on drowning prevention.

 

5. UNESCO Adds Mount Olympus, D-Day Beaches to World Heritage List: UNESCO added Mount Olympus in Greece and the D-Day Landing Beaches in northern France to the World Heritage List on 26 July 2026. The decision was taken at the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea. Mount Olympus is Greece’s highest mountain and rises to 2,918 metres. UNESCO inscribed it as a mixed cultural and natural heritage site, a category used for places with both natural and cultural value. The mountain is linked to ancient Greek mythology as the home of the Olympian gods and has rich biodiversity and a long historical association with Greek civilisation.

 

6. Indians, Nepalese Allowed to Carry ₹200 and ₹500 Notes Across Border: Nepal Rastra Bank has permitted Indian and Nepalese citizens to carry Indian currency notes of ₹200 and ₹500 denominations across the India-Nepal border. The permitted notes must have been issued on or after 9 November 2016, the date linked with India’s demonetisation exercise. Indian currency notes of ₹500 and ₹1,000 denominations issued before 9 November 2016 remain prohibited in Nepal. Nepalese citizens can carry Indian currency into Nepal only from India, and they cannot take such currency from Nepal to any third country other than India. Nepali citizens and foreign visitors can bring up to USD 5,000, or its equivalent in other foreign currencies, into Nepal without a customs declaration. Amounts above this limit must be declared on arrival under Nepal’s customs rules.

 

7. Great Indian Bustard Chicks Enter Rewilding Tunnel in Rajasthan: Three chicks of the Great Indian Bustard were released on 26 July 2026 into a specially designed rewilding tunnel at the Godawan Conservation Centre in Ramdevra, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The birds, identified as R9, R10 and R11, are one month old and include two males and one female. The Great Indian Bustard is a critically endangered bird species found in arid and semi-arid grasslands of India. It is one of the heaviest flying birds in the world and is closely associated with the Thar Desert ecosystem. India’s Great Indian Bustard conservation programme includes captive breeding, habitat protection and planned release into natural landscapes. The current rewilding step marks a shift from captive breeding towards reintroduction into wild habitats.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile ‘Kusha’: DRDO successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the indigenous Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) Kusha from APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha, successfully intercepting a high-speed aerial target. Project Kusha is India’s indigenous air and missile defence programme, aimed at building a multi-layered national air defence shield by 2035 to counter aircraft, UAVs, cruise missiles, and other aerial threats. The Kusha missile system, along with its radars and command-and-control centre, has been developed by DRDO and Indian industry partners, strengthening India’s indigenous defence capabilities.

 

2. Indian Navy Inducts INS Malvan, Second Mahe-Class ASW Shallow Water Craft: The Indian Navy inducted INS Malvan, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) of the Mahe class, at Karwar, Karnataka, marking a major milestone in India’s indigenous warship-building programme. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, INS Malvan is equipped with over 80% indigenous equipment and technology, showcasing India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Armed with RBU-6000 rockets, DRDO-developed torpedoes, and a German-Indian sonar suite, INS Malvan will strengthen India’s coastal maritime security and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

 

3. 26 July – Kargil Vijay Diwas: Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on 26 July to commemorate India’s victory in the Kargil War (1999) against Pakistan and to honour the bravery and supreme sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces. The Kargil War was fought between May and July 1999 in the Kargil-Dras-Batalik sector of Ladakh, and concluded with Operation Vijay, through which India successfully recaptured all infiltrated positions. 26 July 2026 marks the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, with tributes paid to the martyrs at the Kargil War Memorial, Dras (Ladakh) and across the country.

 

4. INS Sudarshini Sails from Boston after SAIL 250: INS Sudarshini, an Indian Naval Ship and sail training ship, departed from Boston, United States, on 26 July 2026 for Ponta Delgada in the Azores, Portugal. The movement formed part of the transoceanic Lokayan 26 expedition, which began from Kochi on 20 January 2026. SAIL 250 and Sail Boston 2026 marked the 250th anniversary of the United States in 1776. The event included the International Naval Review 250 and the Grand Parade of Sails. Lokayan 26 is a 10-month transoceanic expedition of INS Sudarshini. The ship made port calls at Norfolk, Baltimore, New York, and Boston before sailing to the Azores.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. 23rd Commonwealth Games 2026 Begins in Glasgow: The 23rd Commonwealth Games commenced in Glasgow, Scotland, with a grand opening ceremony, featuring participation from 74 nations in a 10-day sporting event. India’s 125-member contingent, led by Mirabai Chanu (flag bearer) and Lovlina Borgohain (ceremonial baton bearer), received a warm welcome during the opening ceremony. The Games feature 10 sports across four venues, with India aiming to improve on its 61-medal haul from the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games despite a reduced sporting programme.

 

2. Mirabai Chanu, Rishikanta Singh Win CWG 2026 Medals: The Commonwealth Games 2026 are being held in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026. On 26 July 2026, Mirabai Chanu won gold in the women’s 48kg weightlifting event, and Rishikanta Singh won silver in the men’s 60kg category. Mirabai Chanu won her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal and her fourth overall Commonwealth Games medal. She lifted 85kg in snatch, 105kg in clean and jerk, and 190kg in total, and each of these marks set a new Commonwealth Games record. Rishikanta Singh won India’s first silver medal at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2026. He recorded a personal best total of 264kg and set a new Commonwealth Games snatch record with a lift of 121kg in the men’s 60kg weightlifting event.

 

3. Anahat Singh Wins World Junior Squash Title: Anahat Singh won the World Junior Squash Championships 2026 women’s singles title on 25 July 2026. She became the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championships title in any category. The 18-year-old Indian top seed defeated Egypt’s second seed Ruqayya Salem in the final at Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada. The World Junior Squash Championships is the annual world championship for junior squash players. The event includes men’s and women’s individual events and is organised under the global squash framework for age-group competition. Anahat Singh won the women’s singles final by 3-0. She beat Ruqayya Salem with game scores of 11-3, 11-7, and 11-9. She dropped only two sets in six matches during the tournament.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Kerala Launches Digital Square Education Initiative: Kerala launched the Digital Square education initiative as part of its 100-day action plan for the education sector. The programme was inaugurated on 26 July 2026 by General Education Minister N. Samsudheen at a statewide orientation workshop in Malappuram, Kerala. The initiative is implemented by the Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE) for lower primary and upper primary classes in government schools. More than 4,000 headmasters and headmistresses from all 14 districts of Kerala participated in the inaugural workshop through interactive video conference. Other measures under the 100-day action plan include the Cyber Safety Protocol 2026, Tharapadham digital academic monitoring platform, and the School Wiki-thon campaign. The state also announced the ARISE project for high schools and the expansion of Little KITEs IT clubs to upper primary and high school levels.

 

2. AI Holobox of Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The AI Holobox of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was inaugurated at the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya in New Delhi on 26 July 2026. The installation uses a hyper-realistic 3D avatar and interactive dialogue features to present factual material on Vajpayee’s life, public career, and political legacy. The Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya is a museum dedicated to the Prime Ministers of India. It is located in New Delhi and includes digital and interactive exhibits on national leadership and governance. The AI Holobox allows visitors to ask questions and receive responses based on historical research and documented writings. Similar interactive AI avatars at the museum include Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Viyona Gets BBPS COU Approval: Viyona, a Hyderabad-based fintech infrastructure start-up, has received approval from the Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS) to operate as a Customer Operating Unit (COU). The approval enables Viyona to provide BBPS-powered bill payment services for electricity, water, gas, broadband, mobile recharges, DTH, insurance premiums, loan EMIs, educational fees, and other approved bill payments. The certification strengthens Viyona’s ability to help banks, fintechs, enterprises, and billers deliver secure, reliable, and seamless digital bill payment solutions at scale.

 

2. NSE Launches Electronic Gold Receipts (EGRs) to Formalise Gold Market: The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) has launched Electronic Gold Receipts (EGRs) to bring greater transparency, efficiency, and formalisation to India’s gold market by providing a regulated trading platform. EGRs are dematerialised securities representing ownership of physical gold stored in SEBI-accredited vaults, with each receipt fully backed by physical gold and tradable on the stock exchange. The new system enables investors to hold gold electronically, allows seamless conversion between physical and digital gold, and supports investment in smaller quantities, improving liquidity and accessibility.

 

3. Glomo Becomes India’s First Non-Bank Acquirer to Receive Visa Principal Membership: Glomo, a regulated payment service provider operating from GIFT IFSC, has become India’s first non-bank acquirer and the first GIFT IFSC-licensed payment service provider to receive Visa Principal Member status. The membership enables Glomo to directly process Visa-powered card payments for merchants, facilitating secure cross-border payment acceptance and settlement through GIFT City while reducing dependence on multiple intermediaries.

 

4. EnKash Launches India’s First UPI-Enabled Meal Card: EnKash has launched India’s first Meal Card with UPI payment capability, allowing employees to pay directly from their meal benefit balance by scanning eligible UPI QR codes at food and grocery merchants. With this launch, EnKash becomes the first provider in India to enable UPI payments directly from a meal benefit balance, expanding its prepaid payment infrastructure. Under the revised Income-tax rules, employees can receive tax-free meal benefits of up to ₹200 per meal, with an annual tax-free benefit of up to ₹1,05,600, making employee meal benefits more flexible and accessible.

 

Daily GK Update- 26th July, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Pralhad Joshi Takes Charge as Education Minister: Pralhad Joshi was appointed Union Education Minister on 25 July 2026 after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan from the Union Council of Ministers. He took charge of the Ministry of Education at Kartavya Bhavan on 26 July 2026 and continued to hold the portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy. The Ministry of Education is a Union ministry under the Government of India and is responsible for school education, higher education, literacy, and related policy matters. The ministry functions through departments such as the Department of School Education and Literacy and the Department of Higher Education. Pralhad Joshi is a five-time Bharatiya Janata Party Member of Parliament from the Dharwad constituency in Karnataka. He served as Union Minister for Coal, Mines, and Parliamentary Affairs from 2019 to 2024.

 

2. Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns as Union Education Minister Amid Massive Student Protests: Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister on 25 July 2026 amid nationwide student protests linked to alleged irregularities in competitive examinations. The resignation followed protests over the alleged paper leak in NEET-UG 2026 and demands for action on examination-related misconduct. The Union Council of Ministers is the executive body that assists the Prime Minister under Article 74 of the Constitution of India. It includes Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State, and Ministers of State with independent charge. NEET-UG stands for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate courses. It is a national-level entrance examination for admission to undergraduate medical and allied health courses in India.

 

3. SEBI Proposes Overhaul of Portfolio Management Services Norms: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) released a consultation paper on 23 July 2026 for a comprehensive review of the SEBI (Portfolio Managers) Regulations, 2020. The proposal covers Portfolio Management Services (PMS), mutual fund schemes, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs), and investment limits for portfolio managers. SEBI has proposed a dedicated mutual fund-only PMS framework. Under this category, portfolio managers may manage client funds only through direct plans of mutual fund schemes, including ETFs and SIFs. The minimum client investment requirement for this category is proposed to fall from ₹50 lakh to ₹25 lakh, and the minimum net worth for applicants is proposed to fall from ₹5 crore to ₹2 crore. The consultation paper also proposes wider investment flexibility for portfolio managers. 

 

4. 20% Local Content Rule for Private FM Radio: India has 386 operational private FM radio channels as of 24 July 2026. The Private FM Radio Policy requires each broadcaster to ensure that at least 20% of daily broadcast content is in the local language of the city. Private FM radio services in India operate under licences issued by the Union government. FM stands for frequency modulation, and private FM broadcasting is used for local entertainment, news-based programming, and community-oriented content. The 20% local content rule applies to daily broadcasts on private FM channels. The policy links local language programming with regional culture, traditions, folklore, and folk music. The rule also supports community engagement through city-specific content.

 

5. Rajasthan State Water Plan 2047 Launched: Rajasthan launched the Rajasthan State Water Plan 2047 on 24 July 2026 with a long-term framework for river-linking projects, groundwater conservation, and public participation. The state also listed major drinking water and irrigation works, including the Ramjal Setu Link Project, the Yamuna Water Agreement, and urban water supply projects under AMRUT 2.0. Rajasthan is a north-western Indian state with a large arid and semi-arid region, and water management in the state depends on canal systems, groundwater recharge, and rainwater harvesting. The Indira Gandhi Canal Project is one of the major irrigation and drinking water systems in the state, and it supplies water to districts in western Rajasthan.

 

6. Weaves of India Festival Showcases Handloom Heritage: The Weaves of India Festival is being held from 24 July to 7 August 2026 in New Delhi. The festival is organised by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handlooms) under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, at the Central Cottage Industries Emporium on Janpath. The festival displays 116 heritage weaves from different regions of India. The showcased textiles include Banarasi, Jamdani, Kanchipuram Silk, and Sambalpuri Ikat, which are among the best-known handloom traditions in the country. Handloom refers to cloth woven on a loom operated by hand, without the use of power-driven machinery. India has one of the largest handloom sectors in the world, and the sector is linked to rural employment, traditional skills, and regional textile identities.

 

7. Two Lakh Anganwadi Centres Approved for Saksham Upgradation: The Ministry of Women and Child Development has approved the upgradation of two lakh Anganwadi Centres across India into Saksham Anganwadis for improved nutrition and Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) activities. The upgradation is part of Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, which combines Anganwadi services, Poshan Abhiyaan, and the Scheme for Adolescent Girls. Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 is a centrally sponsored scheme for nutrition support, ECCE, and service delivery through Anganwadi Centres. The scheme covers children under six years of age, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and adolescent girls aged 14-18 years in Aspirational Districts and the North-Eastern region.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Becomes the World’s Second Most Electrified Major Railway Network with 99.6% Broad Gauge Electrification: India has electrified 99.6% of its broad gauge railway network, making it the second most electrified major railway system in the world after Switzerland (100%). The remaining routes are currently under electrification. Railway electrification has accelerated significantly since 2014, with 48,072 route km electrified between 2014–2026, compared to 21,801 route km electrified over nearly six decades before 2014. India now surpasses several major railway networks in electrification, including China (82%), Spain (67%), Japan (64%), France (60%), and the United Kingdom (39%). Railway electrification has promoted sustainable transport, as rail emits only 11.5 grams of CO₂ per tonne-km, nearly 89% lower than road transport (101 grams). Diesel consumption has also declined from 293 crore litres (2015–16) to 108 crore litres (2024–25). Indian Railways is expanding renewable energy use, with 1,161 MW of solar power and 103 MW of wind power commissioned by June 2026, taking the total renewable energy capacity to over 1,260 MW.

 

2. Sarnath Gets UNESCO World Heritage Tag: Sarnath, an ancient Buddhist site in Uttar Pradesh, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on 25 July 2026 during the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea. The inscription makes Sarnath India’s 45th World Heritage Site and Uttar Pradesh’s fourth World Heritage Site. The UNESCO World Heritage List includes cultural, natural, and mixed properties of outstanding universal value. UNESCO adopted the World Heritage Convention in 1972, and the World Heritage Committee examines nominations for inscription each year. India has multiple sites on the list across categories such as monuments, archaeological sites, and natural landscapes.

 

3. Google Fined €890 Million Under EU Antitrust Rules: The European Commission fined Google €890 million on 23 July 2026 for breaches of European Union online competition rules. The penalty was imposed under the European Union’s 2022 Digital Markets Act, which regulates large digital platforms designated as gatekeepers. The fine was divided into two parts. Google was fined €460 million for self-preferencing its own services in search results, and €430 million for anti-steering restrictions in Google Play. Self-preferencing refers to the practice of giving a platform’s own products or services better placement than rival offerings. Anti-steering restrictions limit app developers from directing users to cheaper payment or purchase options outside the platform’s own store.

 

4. India Gets Lower US Tariff Rate Under Section 301: The United States imposed new Section 301 tariffs on 60 countries on 24 July 2026 under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974. India was placed in the lower 10% additional tariff bracket instead of the initially proposed 12.5% rate, and the tariffs took effect on 25 July 2026. India’s lower tariff rate followed a policy change in June 2026, when the Directorate General of Foreign Trade amended the Foreign Trade Policy to prohibit imports of goods manufactured using forced labour. India is among 17 economies in the 10% bracket, along with Canada, the United Kingdom, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Mexico. China, Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, and South Korea face the higher 12.5% tariff rate. The United States linked the action to investigations on whether trading partners were preventing the import of goods made using forced labour.

 

5. India Launches First Domestic Natural Gas Futures: India’s first domestic benchmark-based natural gas futures contract will launch on 27 July 2026 on the National Stock Exchange. The contract has received approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India and will trade under the ticker symbol NATGASIND. Natural gas futures are exchange-traded derivative contracts that derive value from an underlying natural gas price benchmark. The new NSE contract is linked to the Indian Gas Exchange’s Gujarat (Dahej) hub price and is quoted in Indian Rupees per mmBtu, a standard unit used for gas pricing. The contract is cash-settled, which means no physical delivery of natural gas takes place at expiry. The trading unit is 250 mmBtu, and NSE Clearing will handle clearing, settlement, daily mark-to-market adjustments, and initial margin collection.

 

6. Wildfires Force Mass Evacuations in France and Spain: Wildfires in southwestern France and central Spain led to large-scale evacuations on 24 July 2026. More than 80,000 people left affected areas in both countries, and France and Spain sought assistance from the European Union. A wildfire is an uncontrolled fire that spreads through vegetation such as forests, grasslands, and scrubland. In France, authorities ordered the evacuation of the Cap Ferret peninsula in the Gironde prefecture, where the fire burned more than 12,500 hectares of forest. Cap Ferret lies on the Atlantic coast in south-western France, and evacuations were carried out village by village. More than 44,000 people were moved out in two days, including holidaymakers staying in the area.

 

7. Indian scientists develop low-cost zinc-air battery technology: Indian researchers have developed multiple zinc-air battery technologies in 2024 and 2025, including low-cost electrolytes, catalysts, and mechanically rechargeable systems. Zinc-air batteries use zinc as the anode and oxygen from air as the cathode reactant, and they are studied as alternatives to lithium-ion batteries for stationary storage and electric vehicles. A team led by Dr. S. Devaraj at SASTRA Deemed University developed a nanofluid electrolyte for rechargeable zinc-air batteries with support from the Department of Science and Technology. The electrolyte uses silica and zinc oxide nanoparticles and remained stable for more than three months in laboratory conditions. The same team developed a copper-doped manganese dioxide catalyst and converted discarded household water-filter carbon and surgical face masks into carbon materials for battery use.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Bhargavastra Counter-Drone System: Bhargavastra uses a dual-layer kill mechanism. The first layer uses unguided micro-rockets with a lethal radius of 20 metres, and the second layer uses precision-guided micro-missiles with an interception range of up to 2.5 kilometres. The system can detect larger UAVs up to 10 kilometres and smaller drones up to 6 kilometres. It integrates radar, Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors, and passive radio-frequency detectors for target acquisition. During the demonstration, the sensors detected and tracked a drone swarm, and the C4I suite generated a real-time air picture and assigned targets to the launcher. Actual rocket firing was not carried out at the facility because of safety reasons. SDAL stated that internal trials for Bhargavastra would be completed within two to three months from 24 July 2026. The system is described by its developers as one of the first fully integrated, vehicle-mounted, multi-layer counter-swarm drone systems with dedicated swarm-neutralisation capability.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. The Oval to Host ICC World Test Championship Final 2027: The Oval, London, has been confirmed as the venue for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2027, which will be held from 9–13 June 2027. It will be the second time The Oval hosts the WTC Final after 2023. The ICC has designated England as the host of the 2027, 2029, and 2031 WTC Finals, with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) responsible for selecting the venue for each final. In the current 2025–27 WTC cycle, Australia leads the standings with 87.50% points percentage, followed by South Africa (75%) and New Zealand (72.22%), while India is placed fifth with 48.15%.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Indian Railways pilots AI-based linen stain detection: Indian Railways launched an AI-based stain detection pilot project on 24 July 2026 at mechanised laundries to inspect washed linen. The pilot is being implemented in the Pune Division of Central Railway and the Jaipur and Jodhpur divisions of North Western Railway. Mechanised laundries are railway facilities that wash and process linen used in passenger services. Indian Railways also uses Whito-Meters to assess linen whiteness and CCTV cameras to monitor laundry operations across mechanised laundries. The system uses automated camera technology, computer vision, and machine learning algorithms to detect stains on washed linen. It is designed to work with existing cleanliness checks in mechanised laundries.

 

2. SpaceX Starship Deploys 20 Starlink Satellites: SpaceX launched Starship from Starbase, Texas, on 24 July 2026 for Flight 13, its 13th test mission. The upper stage deployed 20 upgraded Starlink V3 satellites into suborbital space, and the mission included an in-space Raptor engine relight test. Starship is a fully reusable launch system developed by SpaceX for orbital missions, lunar missions, and deep-space transport. The system has two stages, namely the Starship upper stage and the Super Heavy booster, which provides the initial lift-off thrust. Starlink is SpaceX’s satellite internet constellation, and the V3 satellites are the next-generation version designed for higher bandwidth and faster internet speeds. Six of the deployed satellites carried cameras to transmit live views of Starship back to Earth during the test flight.

 

3. India Orders GitHub to Remove Bitchat App: The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs ordered GitHub to remove the Bluetooth-based chat application Bitchat on 23 July 2026. The order was made public on 24 July 2026 by Jack Dorsey, the developer of Bitchat and former Chief Executive Officer of Twitter. The directive invoked Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and Rule 3(1)(d) of the Information Technology Rules, 2021. The order asked GitHub to disable access to three Bitchat repositories, including the Android version, within hours. Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, deals with intermediary liability in India. Rule 3(1)(d) of the IT Rules, 2021, relates to due diligence obligations for intermediaries and content-related compliance.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Centre Approves Two Electronics Manufacturing Clusters in Tamil Nadu Worth ₹1,012 Cr: The Centre has approved two Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMCs) in Tamil Nadu with a combined investment of over ₹1,012 crore to strengthen the state’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem and promote self-reliance. The Manallur EMC will be developed over 474.3 acres at a cost of ₹587.47 crore, while the Pillapaikkam EMC will cover 379.3 acres with an investment of ₹424.55 crore. India’s electronics manufacturing has grown significantly, with production increasing from ₹1.9 lakh crore (2014-15) to ₹13.11 lakh crore (2025-26) and exports rising from ₹38,000 crore to ₹4.24 lakh crore, supported by PLI schemes, liberalised FDI, tax reforms, and labour reforms. India now manufactures 99.2% of the mobile phones sold domestically, with mobile phone production reaching ₹6.27 lakh crore and exports ₹2.59 lakh crore. The sector provides employment to around 25 lakh people, while Tamil Nadu has emerged as a major electronics manufacturing hub.

 

2. Union Cabinet Approves ₹3,030 Crore BHAVYA Rasayan Scheme for Three Chemical Parks: The Union Cabinet approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana Rasayan (BHAVYA Rasayan) scheme with an outlay of ₹3,030 crore to establish three dedicated chemical parks across India during FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31. Under the scheme, ₹3,000 crore has been allocated for common infrastructure development within the chemical parks, while ₹30 crore has been earmarked for administrative expenses. The Centre will provide up to ₹1,000 crore assistance for each park. The chemical parks will be selected through a challenge-based process and developed by state governments. Each park must have at least 2,000 acres (8 sq. km.) of contiguous, encumbrance-free land, with the respective state contributing a minimum of ₹500 crore. The parks will adopt a plug-and-play industrial model and include facilities such as Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs), Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs), water supply systems, and logistics infrastructure to promote sustainable chemical manufacturing.

 

3. NABARD and MAHAPREIT Sign MoU to Promote Green and Climate-Resilient Rural Infrastructure: NABARD and Mahatma Phule Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Technology (MAHAPREIT) signed an MoU to finance and promote green, climate-resilient, and sustainable infrastructure in rural India, with a special focus on Maharashtra. The partnership aims to identify, develop, structure, and finance sustainable projects that enhance rural prosperity, climate resilience, village infrastructure, and strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).

 

Daily GK Update- 25th July, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Centre Approves Two Electronics Manufacturing Clusters in Tamil Nadu Worth ₹1,012 Cr: The Centre has approved two Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMCs) in Tamil Nadu with a combined investment of over ₹1,012 crore to strengthen the state’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem and promote self-reliance. The Manallur EMC will be developed over 474.3 acres at a cost of ₹587.47 crore, while the Pillapaikkam EMC will cover 379.3 acres with an investment of ₹424.55 crore. India’s electronics manufacturing has grown significantly, with production increasing from ₹1.9 lakh crore (2014-15) to ₹13.11 lakh crore (2025-26) and exports rising from ₹38,000 crore to ₹4.24 lakh crore, supported by PLI schemes, liberalised FDI, tax reforms, and labour reforms. India now manufactures 99.2% of the mobile phones sold domestically, with mobile phone production reaching ₹6.27 lakh crore and exports ₹2.59 lakh crore. The sector provides employment to around 25 lakh people, while Tamil Nadu has emerged as a major electronics manufacturing hub.

 

2. India Becomes the World’s Second Most Electrified Major Railway Network with 99.6% Broad Gauge Electrification: India has electrified 99.6% of its broad gauge railway network, making it the second most electrified major railway system in the world after Switzerland (100%). The remaining routes are currently under electrification. Railway electrification has accelerated significantly since 2014, with 48,072 route km electrified between 2014–2026, compared to 21,801 route km electrified over nearly six decades before 2014. India now surpasses several major railway networks in electrification, including China (82%), Spain (67%), Japan (64%), France (60%), and the United Kingdom (39%). Railway electrification has promoted sustainable transport, as rail emits only 11.5 grams of CO₂ per tonne-km, nearly 89% lower than road transport (101 grams). Diesel consumption has also declined from 293 crore litres (2015–16) to 108 crore litres (2024–25). Indian Railways is expanding renewable energy use, with 1,161 MW of solar power and 103 MW of wind power commissioned by June 2026, taking the total renewable energy capacity to over 1,260 MW.

 

3. Union Cabinet Approves ₹3,030 Crore BHAVYA Rasayan Scheme for Three Chemical Parks: The Union Cabinet approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana Rasayan (BHAVYA Rasayan) scheme with an outlay of ₹3,030 crore to establish three dedicated chemical parks across India during FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31. Under the scheme, ₹3,000 crore has been allocated for common infrastructure development within the chemical parks, while ₹30 crore has been earmarked for administrative expenses. The Centre will provide up to ₹1,000 crore assistance for each park. The chemical parks will be selected through a challenge-based process and developed by state governments. Each park must have at least 2,000 acres (8 sq. km.) of contiguous, encumbrance-free land, with the respective state contributing a minimum of ₹500 crore. The parks will adopt a plug-and-play industrial model and include facilities such as Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs), Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs), water supply systems, and logistics infrastructure to promote sustainable chemical manufacturing.

4. Andhra Pradesh Approves State’s First Private Women’s University: The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, has approved the establishment of Vishnu Women’s University, the first private women’s university in the state. The Cabinet approved a proposal to promulgate an ordinance amending the Schedule to the Andhra Pradesh Private Universities (Establishment and Regulation) Act, 2016, to facilitate the university’s establishment. The initiative aims to expand higher education opportunities for women and strengthen the state’s private higher education ecosystem through the establishment of a dedicated women’s university.

 

5. 22 July – National Mango Day: National Mango Day is observed every year on 22 July to celebrate the mango, India’s national fruit, and to highlight its cultural, nutritional, and economic significance. India is the largest producer of mangoes in the world, contributing around 40% of global mango production, with major producing states including Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, Bihar, and Maharashtra.

 

6. Anti-Paper Leak Bill Approved by Union Cabinet: The Union Cabinet approved a new anti-paper leak bill on 24 July 2026. The bill is scheduled for introduction in Parliament on Monday, during the second week of the Monsoon session. The proposed law is linked to measures against paper leaks in public examinations, including cases related to the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test. Public examinations in India include recruitment tests, entrance examinations, and other tests conducted by public authorities. Paper leaks, impersonation, and unauthorised access to question papers are treated as forms of unfair means in examination law. The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, was enacted to address such offences in public examinations.

 

7. Supreme Court Seeks Amendment to National Highways Act: The Supreme Court of India on 23 July 2026 stated that it is prima facie unacceptable for bureaucrats to decide land compensation disputes under the National Highways Act, 1956. A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana urged the Union government to amend the law so that judicially trained adjudicators handle such disputes. The National Highways Act, 1956 is a Central law that provides for the declaration, acquisition, and maintenance of national highways in India. It is one of the principal statutes used for land acquisition for highway projects, including widening, expansion, and construction of new road corridors.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Viswanathan Anand Takes Charge as Interim President of FIDE: Five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand has taken charge as the Interim President of FIDE (International Chess Federation) after FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich was placed on the European Union’s sanctions list. Anand will serve as Interim President for as long as Arkady Dvorkovich remains subject to the restrictive measures imposed under the applicable Swiss and European Union laws and regulations.

 

2. 25 July – World Embryologist Day: World Embryologist Day is observed every year on 25 July to recognise the contribution of embryologists in the field of reproductive medicine, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), and fertility treatments. Theme 2026 – Creating Hope, Advancing Fertility, Transforming Lives. The day commemorates the birth of the world’s first “test-tube baby”, Louise Brown, who was born on 25 July 1978 in the United Kingdom through In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) technology. Embryologists play a crucial role in IVF procedures, including the handling of eggs and sperm, embryo development, embryo selection, and improving success rates of fertility treatments.

 

3. Government Bars Telecom Data Sharing Abroad: On 24 July 2026, the Government of India barred communication infrastructure providers from sharing telecommunication data outside India. The Department of Telecommunications issued a notification dated 20 July 2026 and created an authorisation framework for telecom-related data storage and access within India. The directive requires telecommunication data, logs, and information linked to telecom networks to remain stored within India. The rule covers cloud-based telecom networks, mobile towers, and satellite gateways, which are part of the country’s communication infrastructure. The new rules form part of the shift from a licensing regime to a regulatory framework under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. The Act provides the legal basis for authorisation, compliance checks, and oversight of telecom entities operating in India.

 

4. CMFRI Launches DeepDATA App for Deep-Sea Fish Documentation: The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) launched DeepDATA on 23 July 2026 as a mobile application for deep-sea fish documentation. The app provides scientifically verified information on deep-sea fish species and allows users to upload field observations for a national digital repository. DeepDATA is a mobile application available on the Google Play Store. It is designed as both a learning platform and a documentation tool for students, researchers, fishermen, and marine enthusiasts. The app includes species-level information on taxonomy, identifying features, distribution, and conservation status. It also supports the collection of photographs and observations from fishing operations, research cruises, and coastal visits.

 

5. India Concludes Eighth Trade Policy Review at WTO: India concluded its Eighth Trade Policy Review at the World Trade Organization in Geneva on 24 July 2026. The review sessions were held on 21 July and 23 July 2026, and the exercise covered India’s trade policies from 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2025. The Trade Policy Review Mechanism is one of the WTO’s three core functions, along with trade negotiations and dispute settlement. It examines the trade and related policies of WTO members on a regular basis. India is a founding member of the WTO, which came into force on 1 January 1995. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal led the Indian delegation during the review. India received 1,094 written questions from 44 WTO members, and 68 members made interventions across the two sessions. WTO members also noted India’s acceptance of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, which was adopted at the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference in June 2022.

 

6. India Hosts 16th BRICS Health Ministers’ Meeting: India hosted the 16th BRICS Health Ministers’ Meeting in Chandigarh from 22 to 24 July 2026 under its BRICS Chairship 2026. The meeting brought together health ministers, senior officials, and technical experts from the 11-member BRICS grouping, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda chaired the Health Ministers’ Meeting on 23 July 2026. The members unanimously adopted the 16th BRICS Health Ministerial Declaration, which refers to universal health coverage, pandemic preparedness, digital health, and equitable access to medicines. The meeting theme was “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”. The discussions covered health security, digital health, pandemic preparedness, and equitable access to quality healthcare. The agenda also included collaborative research on tuberculosis, prevention and response to mass infectious diseases, and promotion of mental well-being.

 

7. India Sends 4.5 Tonnes Medical Aid to Kenya: India delivered 4.5 tonnes of medical assistance to Kenya on 22 July 2026 for Ebola preparedness and response to other infectious diseases. The first consignment was handed over at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi by Indian High Commissioner Adarsh Swaika to Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale. Ebola virus disease is a severe viral haemorrhagic fever caused by viruses of the genus Ebolavirus. It spreads through direct contact with blood, body fluids, contaminated objects, and infected animals, and it requires strict infection prevention and control measures in health facilities. The shipment contained 279 packages of medical supplies. The consignment included Personal Protective Equipment kits, sample transportation kits, infrared thermometers, face shields, and heavy-duty protective boots. These items are used in disease surveillance, safe sample handling, and frontline worker protection.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Rajnath Singh Hails First-Ever Tri-Services All-Women Global Circumnavigation Expedition ‘Samudra Pradakshina’: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually flagged off the first-ever tri-services all-women circumnavigation expedition, ‘Samudra Pradakshina’, onboard IASV Triveni.

Led by Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar, with Squadron Leader Shraddha P. Raju as Deputy Expedition Leader, the expedition was flagged off from Gateway of India, Mumbai, on 11 September 2025 and successfully completed a 25,500+ nautical mile voyage around the globe.

The crew crossed the Equator twice, rounded the three Great Capes—Cape Leeuwin (Australia), Cape Horn (South America), and Cape of Good Hope (Africa)—and completed the journey via an open-ocean route without using the Panama or Suez Canals.

 

2. Bhargavastra Counter-Drone System: Bhargavastra is an indigenous, vehicle-mounted, multi-layered Counter-Swarm Drone System developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Ltd. (SDAL) for the Indian Army. It was demonstrated in Nagpur on 24 July 2026 during a Make-II programme status review. Bhargavastra uses a dual-layer kill mechanism. The first layer uses unguided micro-rockets with a lethal radius of 20 metres, and the second layer uses precision-guided micro-missiles with an interception range of up to 2.5 kilometres. The system can detect larger UAVs up to 10 kilometres and smaller drones up to 6 kilometres. It integrates radar, Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors, and passive radio-frequency detectors for target acquisition.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. V.S. Rathanvel Becomes India’s 99th Chess Grandmaster: S. Rathanvel from Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, became India’s 99th Grandmaster (GM) after crossing the 2500 Elo rating mark at the Guwahati Smart City International Open 2026. Although Rathanvel had completed his three Grandmaster norms in 2022, he achieved the GM title only after fulfilling the 2500 Elo rating requirement, overcoming years of perseverance and mental resilience.

 

2. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Becomes Youngest Player to Score a T20I Fifty: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became the youngest player to score a T20I fifty, achieving the feat at the age of 15 years and 118 days against Zimbabwe in Harare on 23 July 2026. Playing only his fourth T20I for India, Sooryavanshi smashed a 19-ball half-century (officially reaching the milestone in 18 balls), hitting 4 fours and 4 sixes, surpassing the previous youngest-record holder. The previous record was held by Gibraltar’s Louis Bruce, who scored a T20I fifty at the age of 16 years and 56 days against Malta in August 2021. Sooryavanshi broke the record by more than 300 days.

 

3. The Oval to Host ICC World Test Championship Final 2027: The Oval, London, has been confirmed as the venue for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2027, which will be held from 9–13 June 2027. It will be the second time The Oval hosts the WTC Final after 2023. The ICC has designated England as the host of the 2027, 2029, and 2031 WTC Finals, with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) responsible for selecting the venue for each final. In the current 2025–27 WTC cycle, Australia leads the standings with 87.50% points percentage, followed by South Africa (75%) and New Zealand (72.22%), while India is placed fifth with 48.15%.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. HCLTech to Invest ₹14,257 Crore in Odisha AI Data Centre: HCLTech announced on 24 July 2026 that it will establish its first AI Data Centre in Odisha with a planned capital outlay of ₹14,257 crore. The project will come up at the upcoming Odisha Sovereign AI Park and will involve HCLTech, Indian AI startup Sarvam, and the Government of Odisha. An AI data centre is a computing facility designed to support artificial intelligence workloads, including model training, inference, storage, and networking. Such facilities usually require high-performance computing systems, large-scale power supply, cooling infrastructure, and low-latency connectivity.

 

2. Karnataka’s Semiconductor Park to Become Operational by December 2026: Karnataka has planned a 200-acre Semiconductor Park at KWIN City near Bengaluru, with operationalisation targeted for December 2026. The park is part of the Knowledge, Wellbeing and Innovation City project and is designed for chip manufacturing, packaging, testing, and electronics production. Semiconductors are materials with electrical conductivity between conductors and insulators, and they are used in integrated circuits, sensors, and electronic devices. Semiconductor parks usually provide shared infrastructure for fabrication, assembly, testing, and related industrial services. The Karnataka park is intended to support the full product cycle from design and development to prototyping, testing, certification, and export. Such industrial clusters are used in electronics manufacturing to reduce logistics costs and improve supply-chain coordination.

 

3. India’s Private Space Investment Crosses $618 Million: Private investment in India’s space sector crossed USD 618.5 million by 31 March 2026. The cumulative funding rose from USD 100.5 million in 2021-22 to USD 618.5 million by 31 March 2026, and USD 187 million was recorded in 2026 alone. The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, informed the Rajya Sabha about these figures on 23 July 2026. India’s space sector includes non-governmental entities, space startups, and private firms engaged in satellite systems, launch services, and downstream applications. The number of active space startups in India increased from one in 2014 to more than 400 by 2026. This growth is linked to policy changes that opened more space activities to private participation.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. PNB Partners with Andhra Pradesh to Set Up India’s First Quantum Finance Innovation Hub: Punjab National Bank (PNB) signed an MoU with the Andhra Pradesh Quantum Mission to establish a Quantum Finance Innovation Hub at the Amaravati Quantum Computing Centre, becoming the first bank in India to partner with a state government for such an initiative. The proposed hub will develop quantum technology-based solutions for the banking sector, focusing on cybersecurity, fraud detection, secure digital banking, and promoting research in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies. The initiative supports the Andhra Pradesh Government’s vision of making Amaravati a global hub for quantum technology and deep-tech innovation, while fostering collaboration among banks, industries, startups, academic institutions, research organisations, and government agencies.

 

2. Kerala Bank Launches ‘Gen Z Tech Loan’ Scheme for Students at 6.99% Interest: Kerala State Cooperative Bank (Kerala Bank) will launch the ‘Gen Z Tech Loan’ scheme on 27 July to help undergraduate and higher-level students purchase laptops and tablets for educational purposes.

Under the scheme, students can avail of loans up to ₹1 lakh at an interest rate of 6.99%, with a 30-month repayment period, while the parent of the student must act as the guarantor. Borrowers under the Gen Z Tech Loan scheme will also receive a 0.5% concession on the interest rate of educational loans, making higher education financing more affordable.

 

3. NABARD and MAHAPREIT Sign MoU to Promote Green and Climate-Resilient Rural Infrastructure: NABARD and Mahatma Phule Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Technology (MAHAPREIT) signed an MoU to finance and promote green, climate-resilient, and sustainable infrastructure in rural India, with a special focus on Maharashtra. The partnership aims to identify, develop, structure, and finance sustainable projects that enhance rural prosperity, climate resilience, village infrastructure, and strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).