Daily GK Update- 26th April, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. France Allows Visa-Free Airport Transit for Indian Nationals : France has granted permission for Indian citizens traveling through French airports to undertake airport transit without a visa, thereby making international travel even easier. This facility applies only to passengers transiting by air through mainland France; it does not apply to other types of entry or travel.

 

2. Supreme Court Sets Minimum ICU Standards for Hospitals: The Supreme Court-appointed expert committee has framed minimum standards for Intensive Care Units (ICUs) across hospitals in India, creating a uniform benchmark for infrastructure, staffing and patient care. The move aims to ensure that hospitals claiming to have ICU facilities meet essential clinical and safety requirements, especially for critically ill patients. The guidelines were endorsed by the Supreme Court as “practical, implementable and necessary” and are expected to improve intensive care delivery across both urban and rural healthcare systems. The framework requires every ICU to have a dedicated space with easy access to emergency services, operation theatres and laboratory facilities. Hospitals must ensure uninterrupted power backup, sanitation systems and a proper internal layout to support emergency care. Each ICU bed must be equipped with oxygen supply, suction facilities and electrical points. Essential equipment listed includes multiparameter monitors, ventilators, defibrillators, crash carts, infusion pumps, syringe pumps, glucometers and ECG machines. These measures aim to standardise the minimum functional capacity of ICUs across all hospitals.

 

3. Raghu Rai, India’s Iconic Photographer, Dies at 83: Raghu Rai, one of India’s most celebrated photographers and among the finest visual chroniclers of independent India, has passed away at the age of 83. His family announced his death on Sunday, describing him as “our beloved”. Rai’s work documented some of the most defining moments in India’s modern history, preserving national memory through powerful visual storytelling. Born in a village in present-day Pakistan’s Punjab province before the 1947 Partition, Raghu Rai was originally trained as a construction engineer. His journey into photography began after being inspired by his photographer brother. His first published photograph, featuring a donkey looking directly into the camera, appeared in The Times of London and marked the beginning of a remarkable career.

He later entered photojournalism and worked with some of India’s leading media houses during the 1960s and 1970s before choosing to work independently.

 

4. India-New Zealand FTA to Boost Duty-Free Trade: India and New Zealand will sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on April 27, 2026, marking a major step in strengthening bilateral economic ties. The agreement will provide Indian exporters with 100% duty-free access to the New Zealand market, while tariffs on 95% of imports from New Zealand will either be removed or significantly reduced. The deal is expected to improve trade flows, create export opportunities, and deepen strategic cooperation between the two countries. The India-New Zealand FTA is among the quickest trade agreements negotiated by India. Talks were formally announced in March 2025 and concluded by December 2025, completing the process within less than a year. This reflects the strong political commitment on both sides to finalise the pact and expand economic engagement. The agreement is expected to serve as a model for faster future trade negotiations.

 

5. Safe Travel on National Highways Under Article 21: The Supreme Court has held that the right to safe travel on National Highways is part of the fundamental Right to Life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. The ruling highlights that road safety is not merely an administrative concern but a constitutional obligation of the State. The Court emphasised that citizens have the right to travel without facing preventable dangers caused by poor road conditions, illegal parking, or unauthorised roadside structures. A Bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Atul S. Chandurkar observed that National Highways cover only about 2% of India’s total road network, yet they account for nearly 30% of all road accident deaths. The Court stated that highways, especially high-speed expressways, should not become dangerous zones due to negligence or lack of enforcement. It stressed that every avoidable death caused by blackspots, unsafe parking, or encroachments reflects a failure of governance.

 

6. NITI Aayog Gets New Leadership Faces: The Union government is set to appoint former Chief Economic Adviser Ashok Lahiri as the new Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, replacing Suman Bery. Alongside him, Gobardhan Das, Director of Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, is expected to be appointed as a member of the government’s top policy think tank. The appointments come during the ongoing West Bengal Assembly elections and are being seen as politically significant. Ashok Lahiri is currently a BJP MLA from Balurghat in West Bengal and is not contesting the 2026 Assembly elections. He has a long academic and administrative career. Lahiri taught at Delhi School of Economics and worked with global institutions such as the World Bank and the IMF before returning to India’s finance ministry in the late 1990s. He later headed the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy and served as Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India.

 

7. Supreme Court Allows Minor’s 31-Week Pregnancy Termination: In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court allowed a 15-year-old girl to medically terminate her 31-week pregnancy, stressing that reproductive autonomy is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Court said forcing a minor to continue an unwanted pregnancy would violate her dignity, privacy and personal liberty. A bench of Justice B.V. Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan ruled that a woman’s right to make decisions concerning her own body is an essential part of personal liberty. The Court stated that no woman, especially a minor, should be compelled to carry a pregnancy to term against her will.

 

8. Noida Airport Appoints Nitu Sarma as Interim CEO: Noida International Airport has appointed Nitu Sarma as its interim Chief Executive Officer following directions from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The change comes as airport CEO positions in India are required to be held by Indian nationals. Nitu Sarma, who has been serving as the Chief Financial Officer since October 2021, has now taken charge as interim CEO with immediate effect. She will lead the airport until the Board of Directors completes the formal process of selecting a permanent Chief Executive Officer.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Allows Ethanol Blending in Aviation Fuel; Sets SAF Targets for International Flights: Government of India has allowed blending of ethanol and synthetic hydrocarbons in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) to promote cleaner aviation fuel.SAF blending targets: 1% by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030; currently applicable only to international flights.Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is made from non-petroleum sources like ethanol and helps reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.

 

2. 24 – 30 April – World Immunisation Week: World Immunisation Week is observed from 24 to 30 April every year to promote vaccination awareness.It aims to highlight the importance of vaccines in protecting people of all ages from diseases.Theme 2026 – For every generation, vaccines workThe World Health Organisation (WHO) works with countries to raise awareness and support effective immunisation programmes.

 

3. WHO Approves First Malaria Drug for Newborns: The World Health Organization (WHO) has granted prequalification approval to the first malaria treatment specifically designed for newborns and infants. The medicine, artemether-lumefantrine, marks a major step in reducing malaria deaths among the youngest and most vulnerable children, especially in Africa where the disease remains a major public health challenge. Artemether-lumefantrine is the first antimalarial formulation created specifically for newborns and infants. Until now, babies were treated using medicines designed for older children, which increased the risk of dosage mistakes, side effects, and toxicity. The new formulation is expected to improve treatment safety and effectiveness for infants suffering from malaria.

 

4. Rajnath Singh to Attend SCO Defence Meet: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on April 27–28 to participate in the Defence Ministers’ meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The high-level gathering is expected to focus on regional security challenges, terrorism, extremism, and the changing geopolitical environment across Eurasia and Asia. Rajnath Singh will head the Indian delegation at the meeting, which will include defence ministers from all SCO member states. The forum serves as an important platform for strategic dialogue among member countries, especially at a time of growing uncertainty in global politics. India is expected to underline its commitment to regional peace, stability, and collective security.

 

India’s Forex Reserves Rise to $703.3 Billion: India’s foreign exchange reserves increased by $2.36 billion to reach $703.31 billion for the week ended April 17, 2026, according to the latest data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The rise reflects stronger foreign currency assets and continued external sector stability. The latest increase follows a previous rise of $3.825 billion in the week ended April 10, when reserves had reached $700.946 billion. This shows a consistent recovery in India’s reserve position over recent weeks after temporary declines caused by global uncertainties.

 

China to Send Giant Pandas to Atlanta Again: China has announced that it will send two giant pandas to Zoo Atlanta in the United States, continuing its long-standing panda diplomacy programme. The move comes despite ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing and ahead of a planned visit by US President Donald Trump to China in May 2026. The China Wildlife Conservation Association said male panda Ping Ping and female panda Fu Shuang from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding will begin a ten-year conservation partnership with Zoo Atlanta. The agreement was signed in 2025 and aims to strengthen wildlife conservation cooperation between the two countries.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Kathua Border Villages Added to Vibrant Village Programme-II: The Central Government has included six border villages in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district under the Vibrant Village Programme-II to improve infrastructure and ensure full delivery of welfare schemes. These villages are located along the International Border and hold strategic importance for border security as well as rural development. The move aims to strengthen connectivity, public services, and socio-economic opportunities for residents living in sensitive frontier areas. The selection of these villages was finalised during a review meeting chaired by Kathua Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma. He directed officials to ensure timely implementation of development plans through regular monitoring and better coordination among departments. He stressed that infrastructure projects and welfare measures should be completed without delay to achieve visible improvement on the ground.

 

2. 33,000 Indian WWI Soldiers Added to Basra Memorial: The names of 33,000 Indian Army soldiers who died during the First World War but were missing from the Basra Memorial in Iraq have now been commemorated through new digital panels. The initiative by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) aims to correct a long-standing historical omission and restore recognition to Indian soldiers who served and died in the Mesopotamia Campaign. The Basra Memorial in Iraq honours Commonwealth personnel who died during the Mesopotamia Campaign, one of the British Empire’s largest military operations outside Europe in the early twentieth century. However, nearly 33,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives were not individually named on the memorial. Their sacrifice was often recorded only numerically or through registers rather than by name, creating a major inequality in remembrance.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Pakistan Exit SAFF Women’s Championship 2026: The 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship, scheduled to be hosted by India in Goa, will now be played with six teams after Pakistan officially withdrew from the tournament. The Pakistan Football Federation confirmed the decision on April 23, reducing the expected participation from seven member nations. The event remains one of South Asia’s key women’s football competitions and will run from May 25 to June 6 at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao. The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) had earlier announced that all seven member associations would participate, strengthening the tournament’s regional importance. However, Pakistan’s withdrawal has changed the competition structure. The Pakistan women’s team had been seeking more international exposure after facing administrative disruptions and limited match opportunities in recent years.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Maharashtra CM Inaugurates Heat Resilience Centre at IIM Nagpur to Combat Climate Change: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Heat Resilience and Sustainable Cooling (COE-HRSC) at IIM Nagpur to tackle climate change and heatwaves. The centre has been developed in collaboration with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to promote sustainable cooling solutions.

 

2. Sperm Whales May Use Human-Like Language Patterns: A new scientific study has suggested that sperm whales may use communication structures similar to human language. Researchers studying their vocal sounds, known as codas, found organised patterns and variations that indicate a more complex communication system than previously understood. Sperm whales communicate through rapid bursts of clicks called codas. These clicks are produced in repeated patterns and are mainly recorded when whales come to the ocean surface to breathe. Scientists have observed that these codas may contain rhythm and spacing variations similar to vowel-like sounds in human speech.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Cancels Paytm Payments Bank Licence; Assures Full Repayment to Depositors : The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the banking licence of Paytm Payments Bank Limited, prohibiting it from conducting any business with immediate effect.The action follows earlier restrictions imposed in March 2022 and 2024, including a ban on onboarding new customers and accepting deposits or credits.RBI has assured that the bank has sufficient liquidity to repay all depositors during the winding-up process.

 

2. Government Extends Tenure of Bank of Baroda & Bank of India MDs by 3 Years: The Government of India has approved a 3-year extension for Debadatta Chand as MD & CEO of Bank of Baroda, ensuring leadership continuity.Rajneesh Karnatak, MD of Bank of India, has also received a 3-year tenure extension from the government.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Guntur Municipal Corporation Wins UNIDO GEM Award: Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) has won the 4th Gender Equality Mobilisation (GEM) Award presented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Vienna. The recognition was given during the International Day of Women in Industry 2026 celebrations for GMC’s work in combining women’s empowerment with sustainable waste management. The award was given for GMC’s initiative of deploying more than 200 women as electric auto drivers for door-to-door garbage collection. These women were earlier engaged in informal waste collection and were identified, trained and formally employed under the programme.

 

2. General Upendra Dwivedi Gets US Hall of Fame Honour : Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi has been inducted into the International Hall of Fame of the US Army War College in Pennsylvania. He became only the third Indian Army chief to receive this distinction, highlighting the growing defence cooperation between India and the United States. The International Hall of Fame honours military leaders who have made outstanding contributions to national security and global military cooperation. General Dwivedi, an alumnus of the institution, received the honour during his official visit to the United States, making the event both professional and personally significant.

 

Daily GK Update- 25th April, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Government Notifies New Recruitment Rules for DCGI: The Government of India has notified new recruitment rules for the post of Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). The upper age limit has been increased from 56 to 58 years, with a maximum tenure of 5 years. The DCGI serves as the head of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

 

2. India Allows Ethanol Blending in Aviation Fuel; Sets SAF Targets for International Flights: Government of India has allowed blending of ethanol and synthetic hydrocarbons in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) to promote cleaner aviation fuel. SAF blending targets: 1% by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030; currently applicable only to international flights. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is made from non-petroleum sources like ethanol and helps reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.

 

3. Maharashtra CM Inaugurates Heat Resilience Centre at IIM Nagpur to Combat Climate Change: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Heat Resilience and Sustainable Cooling (COE-HRSC) at IIM Nagpur to tackle climate change and heatwaves. The centre has been developed in collaboration with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to promote sustainable cooling solutions.

 

4. Government Extends Tenure of Bank of Baroda & Bank of India MDs by 3 Years: The Government of India has approved a 3-year extension for Debadatta Chand as MD & CEO of Bank of Baroda, ensuring leadership continuity. Rajneesh Karnatak, MD of Bank of India, has also received a 3-year tenure extension from the government.

 

5. Srikanth Velamakanni Appointed as NASSCOM Chairperson: NASSCOM has appointed Srikanth Velamakanni, Co-founder & Group CEO of Fractal, as its new Chairperson. He succeeds Sindhu Gangadharan, whose tenure as NASSCOM Chairperson ended in April. Kishor Patil, Co-founder, CEO & MD of KPIT, appointed as Vice Chairperson.

 

6. RBI Approves Vivek Tripathi as Whole-time Director of AU Small Finance Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved Vivek Tripathi’s appointment as Whole-time Director (Executive Director) of AU Small Finance Bank for a 3-year term. Currently serving as Chief Credit Officer, Tripathi has been associated with the bank since 2014 and will join the board during its next growth phase.

 

7. Ashok Lahiri Appointed NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman : Economist Ashok Lahiri will become the Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, while scientist Gobardhan Das will be appointed as a member.

Ashok Lahiri is a former Chief Economic Advisor and has also served as a member of the 15th Finance Commission.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. France Allows Visa-Free Airport Transit for Indian Nationals: France has granted permission for Indian citizens traveling through French airports to undertake airport transit without a visa, thereby making international travel even easier. This facility applies only to passengers transiting by air through mainland France; it does not apply to other types of entry or travel.

 

2. China Selects First Foreign Astronauts from Pakistan for Tiangong Mission: China has selected Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud of Pakistan as part of its first batch of foreign astronauts. As per the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), they will undergo training in China as reserve astronauts. One of them will join a mission to the Tiangong space station as a payload specialist, making Pakistan the first country to send a citizen onboard Tiangong.

 

3. 23 April – International Girls in ICT Day : International Girls in ICT Day is observed every year on 23rd April to promote gender equality in the tech sector. Theme 2026 – Al for Development: Girls shaping the digital future The day encourages girls and young women to pursue careers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

 

4. 24 – 30 April – World Immunisation Week: World Immunisation Week is observed from 24 to 30 April every year to promote vaccination awareness. It aims to highlight the importance of vaccines in protecting people of all ages from diseases. Theme 2026 – For every generation, vaccines work The World Health Organisation (WHO) works with countries to raise awareness and support effective immunisation programmes.

 

5. 24 April – International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace: International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is observed on 24 April to promote the peaceful resolution of global issues through cooperation. Established by the United Nations in 2018 (Resolution A/RES/73/127), it encourages multilateral decision-making over unilateral actions.

 

6. India-Japan Data Pact for AI Smart Cities: The partnership will help cities use construction data in AI-based planning systems and digital twins. This can improve decision-making in transport, utilities and urban services. Both organisations also plan to explore joint AI applications and international funding opportunities for wider global adoption. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed during the inaugural Japan-India AI Strategic Dialogue, a bilateral platform created to expand cooperation in AI and digital infrastructure. The event highlighted the growing focus on trusted data systems and technology partnerships between the two countries.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Defence Ministry Signs ₹975 Crore Tank Equipment Deals: The Defence Ministry has signed contracts worth nearly ₹975 crore to strengthen the Indian Army’s minefield breaching capability for its T-72 and T-90 tanks. The procurement focuses on TRAWL assemblies, a specialised system designed to help tanks safely cross minefields laid with anti-tank mines. The move is aimed at improving battlefield mobility and enhancing operational readiness along sensitive frontiers. TRAWL assembly is a critical minefield breaching equipment developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is mounted on T-72 and T-90 tanks and helps create safe lanes for armoured vehicles by neutralising anti-tank mines, including those fitted with proximity magnetic fuses. This significantly improves the Army’s ability to conduct offensive and defensive operations in mined zones.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. ICC Confirms Trial Against Rodrigo Duterte: Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will stand trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) after judges confirmed charges of crimes against humanity linked to his controversial “war on drugs.” The case is considered one of the most significant international criminal proceedings involving a former Asian head of state in recent years. Duterte is accused of extrajudicial killings carried out between 2011 and 2019, during his tenure as mayor and later as president of the Philippines. Prosecutors allege that thousands of people were killed as part of his anti-drug campaign, which human rights groups describe as systematic and unlawful. The ICC’s pre-trial judges stated that there were “substantial grounds” to believe Duterte committed crimes against humanity. More than 500 victims have been authorised to participate in the proceedings.

 

2. Pakistan Exit SAFF Women’s Championship 2026: The 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship, scheduled to be hosted by India in Goa, will now be played with six teams after Pakistan officially withdrew from the tournament. The Pakistan Football Federation confirmed the decision on April 23, reducing the expected participation from seven member nations. The event remains one of South Asia’s key women’s football competitions and will run from May 25 to June 6 at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao. The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) had earlier announced that all seven member associations would participate, strengthening the tournament’s regional importance. However, Pakistan’s withdrawal has changed the competition structure. The Pakistan women’s team had been seeking more international exposure after facing administrative disruptions and limited match opportunities in recent years.

 

 

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Rajasthan Recalls Seven Substandard Medicines Immediately: The Rajasthan health department has ordered the immediate withdrawal of seven medicines after laboratory testing found them to be substandard. The action was taken by the Commissionerate of Food Safety and Drugs Control to protect public health and prevent the use of poor-quality medicines that could lead to treatment failure and serious health risks. The recalled medicines include Cefixime Oral Suspension IP sold as Loraxim dry syrup, commonly used for bacterial infections such as throat, ear, bronchitis and urinary tract infections. Albendazole tablets, used to treat worm infestations and parasitic diseases, were also flagged. Other medicines include Istocuf-LS drops containing Ambroxol Hydrochloride, Levosalbutamol and Guaifenesin for cough treatment; Methylprednisolone tablets sold as Methyloactive-4 for inflammation control; Okuff-DX syrup used for cough relief; Cefuroxime Axetil tablets for bacterial infections; and Ciprofloxacin tablets used as a broad-spectrum antibiotic.

 

2. China Finds Rare Moon Mineral for Advanced LED Technology: Chinese researchers have discovered a new lunar mineral named Cerium–Magnesium Changesite, marking the 11th known mineral identified from the Moon. The finding was announced by the China Geological Survey and is considered a major development in extraterrestrial geology. Scientists believe the mineral could help improve high-efficiency LED technology and deepen understanding of lunar formation. The mineral was identified from a 44-gram solid spherical Moon meteorite recovered in China. The meteorite had a dark molten shell, indicating its intense journey through Earth’s atmosphere. Researchers found that the mineral is colourless, transparent and brittle, with crystal grains smaller than 10 micrometres. Its unusual structure and composition suggest that it formed under geological conditions very different from those found on Earth, making it valuable for studying lunar and planetary processes.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Jio Financial Services Partners with Allianz for Insurance JV; Reinsurance Arm Begins Operations : Jio Financial Services has partnered with Germany-based Allianz to form a 50:50 joint venture for expanding insurance business in India, covering general and health insurance. A separate reinsurance joint venture, Allianz Jio Reinsurance Ltd, has already begun operations after receiving approval from IRDAI.

 

2. RBI Cancels Paytm Payments Bank Licence; Assures Full Repayment to Depositors: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the banking licence of Paytm Payments Bank Limited, prohibiting it from conducting any business with immediate effect. The action follows earlier restrictions imposed in March 2022 and 2024, including a ban on onboarding new customers and accepting deposits or credits. RBI has assured that the bank has sufficient liquidity to repay all depositors during the winding-up process.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Padma Shri Awardee Bhagwandas Raikwar Dies: Renowned martial arts expert and Padma Shri awardee Bhagwandas Raikwar, popularly known as ‘Dau’, passed away. He was known for preserving Bundeli Martial Arts, specifically the ‘Akhada’ style.

 

2. Bagalkot University to Honour Nambi Narayanan with Doctorate: Bagalkot University in Karnataka will confer honorary doctorates on noted space scientist S. Nambi Narayanan, religious leader Sri Gurumahanth Swami of Chittaragi Shri Vijaya Mahantesha Samsthana Math, and tech entrepreneur-philanthropist Mahesh Bellad. The honours will be awarded during the university’s first convocation ceremony, marking an important milestone for the young institution established in 2023. The university’s maiden convocation will be held at Darbar Hall on the BLDE Association campus in Jamkhandi, Bagalkot district. The event is scheduled for Friday at 11:30 a.m. and symbolises the formal academic beginning of the university’s journey after its first batch of students graduated in 2025. The institution currently has 72 affiliated colleges and offers postgraduate programmes along with professional courses such as B.Ed and BP.Ed.

 

Daily GK Update- 24th April, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IIT Madras Introduces OmegaBall in India; Hosts First Inter-College Tournament on Campus: IIT Madras has introduced OmegaBall in India for the first time, marking the sport’s official entry into the country and proposing the formation of a national-level IIT Madras OmegaBall Club to promote its development and expansion. To celebrate the launch, the Institute Gymkhana and Office of Dean (Students) organized an inter-college OmegaBall tournament at the Campus Football Field on 17 April 2026.

 

2. Ministry of Minority Affairs Signs MoU with IIT Patna to Train 600 Minority Youth in AI & Business Analytics: Ministry of Minority Affairs signed an MoU with IIT Patna under the PM VIKAS scheme to boost skill development among minority youth. Around 600 minority youth from Bihar will be trained in emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics. The initiative is part of Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) scheme aimed at bridging skill gaps and enhancing employability. R. Patil Launches 9th India International Water Week 2026 Focused on Climate-Resilient Water Management Union Minister of Jal Shakti, C. R. Patil, launched the 9th edition of India International Water Week (IIWW-2026), India’s flagship global water event.

 

3. India’s textile sector grows 2.1% in FY 2025-26: India’s textile sector demonstrated resilience in global markets, with total exports (including handicrafts) rising to ₹3,16,334.9 crore in FY 2025–26. The sector recorded a growth of 2.1% compared to ₹3,09,859.3 crore in FY 2024–25

 

4. Atal Pension Yojana Crosses 9 Crore Enrollments, Records Highest-Ever Annual Subscriptions: Atal Pension Yojana (APY) has crossed a major milestone of over 9 crore total enrollments, reflecting its wide reach among citizens as of 21 April 2026. In FY 2025–26, the scheme recorded its highest-ever annual enrollment, with more than 1.35 crore new subscribers added. Atal Pension Yojana (APY) is a government pension scheme for unorganized sector workers. Launched on 9 May 2015 and administered by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA). Eligibility: Age 18–40 years, must be an Indian citizen, and should not be an income taxpayer.

 

5. Jyotiraditya Scindia Unveils Revised TDIP Scheme to Boost 5G, 6G and Indigenous Telecom Innovation: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia released revised guidelines for the TDIP Scheme to boost India’s role in global telecom innovation. The scheme has a total outlay of ₹203 crore and will be implemented from 2026 to 2031. It focuses on developing advanced technologies like 5G Advanced, 6G, and indigenous telecom solutions.

 

6. Rajmohan Gandhi’s “Do You Know Your Hinduism?”: Do You Know Your Hinduism? by Rajmohan Gandhi is a recently highlighted book that explores Hinduism as an evolving, non-monolithic tradition shaped by history, philosophy, and lived experiences. The book encourages readers to question and understand Hinduism deeply through values like Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and examines its meaning in the modern world.

 

7. Shekha Jheel Becomes India’s 99th Ramsar Site: Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, has been designated as India’s 99th Ramsar site, marking another major step in the country’s wetland conservation efforts. With this recognition, Uttar Pradesh now has 12 Ramsar sites, the highest among Indian states, further strengthening its ecological importance. The announcement was made by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, who described the designation as a boost for biodiversity, local livelihoods, climate security, and water conservation. The recognition also brings India closer to reaching 100 Ramsar sites, a major environmental milestone. The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty focused on the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. Wetlands included under this convention are recognised for their ecological, hydrological, and biological significance. Ramsar status helps improve conservation planning, international recognition, and long-term ecological protection. It also supports sustainable development by linking wetland preservation with climate resilience and water security.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 23 April – World Book and Copyright Day: World Book and Copyright Day is observed annually on 23 April to promote reading, publishing, and the protection of intellectual property rights. Theme 2026 – Read, Make Your Star Shine The day was established by UNESCO to encourage people, especially youth, to discover the joy of books and reading.

 

2. 23 April – English Language Day: English Language Day is observed annually on 23 April to promote the use and cultural diversity of the English language. The day is celebrated by the United Nations to highlight multilingualism and linguistic diversity. 23 April marks the birth and death anniversary of William Shakespeare.

 

3. EU Approves €90 Billion Ukraine Aid and Russia Sanctions: The European Union has approved a €90 billion financial assistance package for Ukraine along with its 20th round of sanctions against Russia after Hungary withdrew its opposition. The move reflects renewed unity within the bloc as Brussels continues to strengthen support for Kyiv and increase pressure on Moscow during the ongoing war. The decisions were backed by ambassadors from all 27 EU member states and are expected to be formally adopted through a written procedure. The approval ends months of delay caused by Hungary’s objections linked to oil transit and broader political disagreements. Hungary, led by outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, had blocked both the Ukraine aid package and the new sanctions. Budapest raised concerns over disruptions in Russian oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline, which is a key energy route for Hungary and Slovakia. The issue emerged after damage caused by Russian attacks affected oil transit through Ukraine. Hungary argued that delays in restoring the route threatened its energy security and criticised Kyiv over the matter.

 

4. Finland Builds World’s First Permanent Nuclear Waste Vault: Finland is preparing to operationalise the world’s first permanent underground repository for highly radioactive nuclear waste. Located beneath Olkiluoto Island, the Onkalo facility is designed to safely store spent nuclear fuel for up to 100,000 years. The project marks a major step in solving one of nuclear energy’s biggest long-term challenges—safe disposal of radioactive waste. Since the 1950s, nuclear reactors worldwide have produced nearly 400,000 tonnes of spent fuel. Although this fuel is no longer usable for power generation, it remains dangerously radioactive for thousands of years. Most countries currently store such waste in temporary cooling pools or dry casks, which are safe only for limited periods. The long-term risk lies in radiation leakage, environmental contamination and human exposure. This has remained one of the strongest criticisms against expanding nuclear power despite its low carbon emissions.

 

5. India-Japan Data Pact for AI Smart Cities: India and Japan have strengthened cooperation in artificial intelligence and urban planning through a new data partnership between Japan’s ONESTRUCTION Inc. and India’s DataKaveri Systems. The initiative aims to improve how construction data is used in smart city planning and digital governance. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed during the inaugural Japan-India AI Strategic Dialogue, a bilateral platform created to expand cooperation in AI and digital infrastructure. The event highlighted the growing focus on trusted data systems and technology partnerships between the two countries. The partnership will help cities use construction data in AI-based planning systems and digital twins. This can improve decision-making in transport, utilities and urban services. Both organizations also plan to explore joint AI applications and international funding opportunities for wider global adoption.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Sunayna Reaches Jakarta Under IOS SAGAR: Indian Navy’s INS Sunayna, deployed under the IOS SAGAR initiative, arrived at Jakarta, Indonesia after earlier port calls in Thailand (Phuket) and the Maldives (Malé). The Offshore Patrol Vessel carried a multinational crew from 16 friendly foreign countries and transited the Malacca and Singapore Straits before reaching Indonesia.

 

2. Defence Ministry Signs ₹975 Crore Deal for TRAWL Systems to Boost Army’s Minefield Breaching Capability: The Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth around ₹975 crore with Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) and Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics (India) Pvt. Ltd. for the procurement of TRAWL Assembly for T-72 and T-90 tanks. The TRAWL system is a critical equipment that will enhance the Indian Army’s minefield breaching capability, enabling the creation of safe vehicle lanes through anti-tank minefields.

3. INS Nireekshak Visits Sri Lanka for Joint Naval Training: Indian Naval Ship INS Nireekshak has arrived at Colombo port in Sri Lanka for an operational turnaround and training visit aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation between the two countries. The visit highlights the growing defence partnership between India and Sri Lanka, particularly in naval coordination and regional maritime security. The Sri Lankan Navy formally welcomed the vessel following traditional naval customs. The visit includes specialised diving exercises, humanitarian assistance, and defence cooperation activities that reflect the strategic importance of India-Sri Lanka maritime relations.

INS Nireekshak is a diving support and submarine rescue vessel of the Indian Navy. It plays an important role in underwater operations, salvage missions, submarine rescue support, and specialised naval diving tasks. Commanded by Commander Sailesh Kumar Tyagi, the vessel is currently in Sri Lanka to conduct a training programme with diving professionals of the Sri Lanka Navy. The mission focuses on improving technical coordination and operational preparedness between the two naval forces.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Suraj Kumar Chand Wins Men’s Title at HCL Squash PSA Challenger in Chennai: India’s Suraj Kumar Chand won the men’s title at the HCL Squash PSA Challenger Tour in Chennai, defeating South Korea’s Jeongmin Ryu in the final at the Indian Squash Academy. This victory marked the fourth PSA Tour title of Suraj Kumar Chand’s career. In the women’s final, Egypt’s Ruqaiya Othman defeated Malaysia’s Harleen Tan, while squash is set to make its Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Turkey Tightens Social Media Access for Children: Türkiye’s Parliament has passed a new Bill aimed at restricting access to social media platforms for children under the age of 15. The move reflects a growing global trend where governments are introducing stricter digital safety laws for minors. The legislation comes amid rising concern over harmful online content, cyberbullying, addiction and exposure to unsafe digital spaces. The Bill was passed shortly after a tragic school shooting in Kahramanmaras in southern Türkiye, where a 14-year-old student killed nine classmates and a teacher before dying himself. Police are examining the boy’s online activity to understand possible motivations behind the attack. This incident intensified public debate over the impact of digital platforms on young minds. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan strongly supported the legislation, stating that some digital platforms are negatively influencing children and harming their mental well-being. He stressed the need to protect children’s privacy and safety in the digital age.

 

2. China Selects Pakistani Astronauts for Tiangong Mission: China has selected two Pakistani astronauts as candidates for a future mission to its Tiangong space station, marking a major step in bilateral space cooperation between the two countries. If the mission proceeds successfully, one of them could become the first foreign astronaut to visit China’s space station and the first Pakistani to travel into Earth’s orbit. The China Manned Space Agency announced that Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud cleared multiple rounds of selection and will soon travel to China for advanced astronaut training. The development reflects growing strategic cooperation between Beijing and Islamabad in the space sector. According to the China Manned Space Agency, both selected candidates will undergo specialised astronaut training in China. After completing all required courses and assessments, one astronaut will be chosen as a payload specialist for a future crewed mission to the Tiangong space station. A payload specialist is responsible for managing scientific experiments, technology testing, and mission-specific research tasks aboard the space station. This role is critical for international collaboration missions involving scientific exchange.

 

3. OGAI to Regulate India’s Online Gaming Sector from May: India’s online gaming sector will come under a new regulatory framework as the Online Gaming Authority of India (OGAI) becomes operational from May 1, 2026. The authority has been established under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, with the aim of creating a structured and transparent system for online gaming in the country. The move comes as India’s digital gaming market continues to expand rapidly, especially in real-money gaming, fantasy sports, esports, and skill-based online platforms. The government aims to ensure better oversight while promoting responsible growth in the sector. OGAI has been tasked with regulating the entire online gaming ecosystem in India. Its primary role includes determining and registering online games, including recognised esports titles and skill-based gaming platforms. The authority will assess whether a game falls within legal and regulatory limits and ensure compliance with national standards. This is expected to bring clarity to a sector that has often faced legal uncertainty across different states.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Pay Point India Becomes First Fintech to Join RBI’s Centralised Payment System: Pay Point India becomes the first private fintech company to join RBI’s Centralised Payment System (CPS), marking a major shift in the fintech sector. It now has direct access to key payment systems like RTGS and NEFT without relying on partner banks. The company has been allotted its own IFSC code and maintains current as well as settlement accounts directly with the RBI.

 

2. Govt May Review Bank Voting Rights Cap: The Union government is likely to review the 26 per cent voting rights cap in banks under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, as part of efforts to attract long-term strategic and foreign capital into the banking sector. The proposed move is expected to be examined by a high-level banking committee formed under the broader Viksit Bharat vision, with the aim of making Indian banks more globally competitive and investment-friendly. At present, even if an investor holds a larger equity stake in a private bank, voting rights are capped at 26 per cent under the Banking Regulation Act. This means ownership and decision-making power are not fully aligned. For example, foreign investors can hold up to 74 per cent aggregate stake in Indian private banks, but their voting power cannot exceed 26 per cent. This restriction has long been seen as a limitation for strategic investors.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Six Women Win 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize, First All-Female Lineup Since 1989: Six women from around the world have been awarded the 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize for their grassroots efforts to combat climate change and protect biodiversity. For the first time since its inception in 1989 by philanthropists Richard and Rhoda Goldman, all recipients of the award are women representing Nigeria, South Korea, the UK, Papua New Guinea, the USA, and Colombia. The winners include Iroro Tanshi (Nigeria), Borim Kim ( South Korea), Sarah Finch (UK), Theonila Roka Matbob ( Papua New Guinea), Alannah Acaq Hurley (USA), and Yuvelis Morales Blanco (Colombia). Often called the “Green Nobel,” the Goldman Prize recognises environmental leaders from six global regions, with each winner receiving $200,000 in prize money.