Daily GK Update- 20th April, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. FSSAI Bans Use of Ashwagandha Leaves in Supplements Over Safety Concerns: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has banned the use of ashwagandha leaves and their extracts in health supplements due to safety concerns, allowing only root-based usage. The regulator has directed states to act against violations, amid the rapidly growing nutraceutical market, with ashwagandha valued at $928.5 million in 2026.

 

2. BECIL Signs MoU with Centre for Development of Advanced Computing to Boost Advanced Tech Collaboration: Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited signed an MoU with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing to collaborate on advanced technologies, digital transformation, and capacity building. The partnership will focus on AI, Machine Learning, 5G, and IoT, along with joint project implementation, consultancy, and development of innovative, turnkey tech solutions. The initiative aims to boost innovation, enable technology transfer, and strengthen India’s digital ecosystem in line with the Digital India vision.

 

3. Union Cabinet Approves 2% Hike in DA and DR for Central Government Employees and Pensioners: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a 2% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for Central government employees and pensioners, effective from 1 January 2026. With this revision, DA and DR increase from 58% to 60% of basic pay and pension to offset rising inflation. The decision will benefit around 50.46 lakh employees and 68.27 lakh pensioners, with an estimated annual financial impact of ₹6,791.24 crore, as per the 7th Central Pay Commission formula.

 

4. Manohar Lal Launches Urban Challenge Fund Guidelines to Boost ₹4 Lakh Crore Urban Infrastructure Push: Union Minister Manohar Lal launched the Operational Guidelines for the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) along with the Credit Repayment Guarantee Sub-Scheme (CRGSS) to strengthen urban infrastructure financing in In The Urban Challenge Fund, with ₹1 lakh crore Central Assistance, aims to mobilise nearly ₹4 lakh crore investment, promoting market-driven and sustainable urban development. The fund will support key sectors such as urban mobility, redevelopment of old city areas, water and sanitation, non-motorised transport, and climate-resilient infrastructure. The CRGSS will help Tier-II, Tier-III and hilly/North-Eastern cities access market-based financing through credit guarantees, while the scheme will run from FY 2025–26 to FY 2030–31.

 

5. Cabinet Extends PMGSY-III Till March 2028: The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) beyond March 2025 till March 2028, reinforcing the government’s focus on rural connectivity and infrastructure development. Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the decision aims to ensure the completion of key road and bridge projects that connect villages with agricultural markets, schools and hospitals. The revised total outlay of the scheme has been increased to Rs 83,977 crore from the earlier Rs 80,250 crore. The Cabinet has extended the timeline till March 2028 for completion of roads and bridges in plain areas and roads in hilly regions. For bridges in hilly areas, the deadline has been further extended till March 2029. Projects sanctioned before 31 March 2025 but not yet awarded can now be taken up for tendering and execution. This step is expected to remove delays and improve project implementation.

 

6. India-Sri Lanka Ties Deepen During Vice-President Visit: Vice-President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan visited Sri Lanka on April 19, 2026, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Vice-President to the island nation. During his two-day visit to Colombo, he met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and discussed key bilateral issues, including housing projects, Cyclone Ditwah rehabilitation, and the long-pending fishermen dispute between the two neighbours. Mr. Radhakrishnan highlighted India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, which places priority on strong relations with neighbouring countries. He stressed the importance of development-focused cooperation and stronger people-to-people ties. Officials stated that both leaders held productive discussions aimed at deepening the multifaceted India–Sri Lanka partnership, built on shared history, civilisational links, and regional cooperation.

 

7. Jonnagiri Gold Mine to Boost India’s Domestic Production: India is set to witness a major milestone in its mining sector with the launch of the Jonnagiri gold project in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district. This will be the country’s first large-scale private gold mine since Independence. The project marks an important step towards reducing India’s heavy dependence on imported gold and strengthening the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the mineral sector. India imports more than 800 tonnes of gold every year, creating continuous pressure on foreign exchange reserves. Domestic production has remained very low for decades. The state-run Hutti Gold Mines in Karnataka remains the only major producer, yielding around 1.5 tonnes annually. The closure of the historic Kolar Gold Fields in 2000 created a major gap in large-scale domestic gold mining. This made India heavily dependent on global markets for its gold demand.

 

8. Delhi Semiconductor Policy Targets Jobs and Investment: Delhi government has begun drafting a dedicated semiconductor policy to position the national capital as a major centre for chip design, research and advanced packaging. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the proposed framework is aimed at attracting global investment, expanding youth skilling and building an industry-ready ecosystem in line with the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. The move reflects the rising importance of semiconductors in the global economy. Chips are now central to electronics, telecom, automobiles, defence, artificial intelligence and industrial manufacturing. Delhi is seeking to carve out a role in the higher-value segments of the semiconductor chain rather than in capital-intensive wafer fabrication alone. The focus is expected to remain on design, intellectual property creation, research and development, and advanced downstream activities.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Gautam Adani Overtakes Mukesh Ambani to Become Asia’s Richest: Gautam Adani has overtaken Mukesh Ambani to become Asia’s richest person, with a net worth of $92.6 billion. Ambani’s net worth stands at $90.8 billion, placing him behind Adani in the latest global billionaire rankings. Adani, founder of the Adani Group, is ranked 19th globally on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index and leads businesses across ports, renewable energy, airports, and coal trading.

 

2. 18 April – World Heritage Day: World Heritage Day is observed annually on 18 April to raise awareness about the importance of protecting cultural and natural heritage. Theme 2026 – Emergency Response for Living Heritage in Contexts of Conflicts and Disasters The day was established by UNESCO to promote preservation of monuments, historic sites, and traditions across the world. Each year has a specific theme highlighting conservation challenges and encouraging global participation in safeguarding heritage sites.

 

3. 19 April – World Liver Day : World Liver Day is observed annually on 19 April to raise awareness about liver health and related diseases. Theme 2026 – Solid Habits, Strong Liver The day highlights prevention and early detection of liver conditions such as Hepatitis, fatty liver, and cirrhosis.

 

4. RELIEF Scheme Expanded to Egypt and Jordan: The Government of India has expanded the scope of the Resilience and Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation (RELIEF) scheme by including Egypt and Jordan among the eligible countries. The move comes as geopolitical tensions in West Asia continue to disrupt maritime logistics across the Gulf region and nearby trade corridors. The decision aims to protect Indian exporters from rising freight costs, higher insurance premiums, and war-related trade risks. RELIEF was launched on 19 March 2026 as a targeted support mechanism for exporters affected by disruptions in the Gulf and wider West Asia maritime corridor. Increased geopolitical instability led to extraordinary freight escalation, shipping delays, and higher marine insurance costs. The scheme was designed to provide timely financial and insurance support to ensure uninterrupted export operations and reduce the burden on businesses.

 

5. India-Austria Fast-Track Mechanism for Trade Growth: India and Austria have strengthened their economic partnership by launching a bilateral Fast-Track Mechanism (FTM) during the India-Austria Business Forum held in New Delhi. The initiative aims to improve investment flows, resolve business-related challenges, and deepen bilateral trade ties. The development gains significance as it coincides with the first official visit by an Austrian Chancellor to India in more than 40 years. The Fast-Track Mechanism has been designed as a dedicated platform for Austrian and Indian investors to address operational issues and provide suggestions for improving the ease of doing business. It seeks to ensure quicker resolution of investment-related concerns, enhance investor confidence, and create a more predictable business environment. This reflects both countries’ shared focus on making cross-border investments smoother and more efficient.

 

6. Dinesh Trivedi Named India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh: Former Union Minister Dinesh Trivedi has been appointed as India’s new High Commissioner to Bangladesh, signalling New Delhi’s strong diplomatic focus on its eastern neighbour. The appointment is significant because such posts are usually given to senior Indian Foreign Service officers, but this time the government has chosen an experienced political leader with deep administrative and regional understanding. Dinesh Trivedi’s appointment marks a departure from the conventional system of assigning only career diplomats to major foreign postings. Political observers believe this reflects India’s intention to strengthen direct political engagement with Bangladesh, especially at a time when regional stability, border management, and security cooperation remain crucial. It also shows that India considers ties with Dhaka a top strategic priority.

 

7. PM Modi Holds Talks With South Korean President Lee: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to hold extensive bilateral talks with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in New Delhi on 20 April 2026, aimed at strengthening strategic, economic, and technological cooperation between the two nations. President Lee’s three-day State Visit to India marks his first official trip to the country and is expected to further deepen the India–South Korea Special Strategic Partnership built on shared democratic values and longstanding civilisational ties. The discussions between the two leaders will focus on critical sectors such as shipbuilding, trade, investment, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, clean energy, and other emerging technologies. With both nations seeking stronger supply chain resilience and industrial cooperation, shipbuilding and semiconductor partnerships are likely to receive special attention. South Korea’s expertise in advanced manufacturing and India’s growing industrial base make this partnership strategically significant.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Israel–Lebanon Ceasefire Tested Amid Ongoing Shelling Reports : Tensions in West Asia remain volatile despite the announcement of a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The 10-day truce, declared to begin at 21:00 GMT, follows diplomatic efforts led by the United States. However, developments on the ground indicate continued hostilities, raising doubts over the durability of the agreement and the broader prospects for regional de-escalation. US President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to a short-term ceasefire after consultations with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. The truce is seen as an attempt to create space for further negotiations, including potential talks between Washington and Tehran. The United States has indicated that the ceasefire could be extended if progress is made in ongoing diplomatic engagements.

 

 

SPORTS

 

1. Viktor Axelsen Announces Retirement from Professional Badminton After Historic Olympic Success: Viktor Axelsen, the Danish badminton star, has announced his retirement from professional badminton after an illustrious career. He is regarded as one of the greatest men’s singles players, winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paris 2024 Olympics, along with a bronze at the Rio 2016 Olympics. Axelsen held the World No. 1 ranking for 183 weeks, making him the third-longest reigning player after Lee Chong Wei and Lin Dan.

 

2. Rubel Hossain Announces Retirement from International Cricket: Rubel Hossain, Bangladesh’s fast bowler, has announced his retirement from international cricket after a decade-long career with 159 matches across formats. He played 27 Tests, 104 ODIs, and 28 T20Is, with his last international match in 2021 against New Zealand national cricket team, and plans to continue in domestic cricket despite injury setbacks.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Forms High-Level AIGEG to Steer AI Governance Strategy: The Government of India has constituted a high-level body named the Artificial Intelligence Governance and Economic Group (AIGEG) to guide the country’s AI governance strategy and policy framework. The group will be chaired by Ashwini Vaishnaw, with Jitin Prasada appointed as the Vice-Chairperson to oversee coordination and implementation.

 

2. Punjab Partners with IIT Ropar to Develop AI-Based Real-Time Crime Tracking System: The Punjab government has partnered with IIT Ropar to develop an AI-based system for real-time crime tracking and analysis to strengthen policing efficiency. The system will use advanced technologies like data analytics, voice recognition, and dashboard monitoring to enable faster crime tracking and quicker decision-making by police.

 

3. Dung Beetles Use Milky Way for Night Navigation: Dung beetles have shown one of the most surprising navigation abilities in the animal kingdom—they use the Milky Way to move in straight lines at night. Scientists found that these tiny insects can orient themselves using the bright band of stars in the night sky, making them the first known animals to use the Milky Way for navigation. This discovery has provided important insights into animal behaviour and celestial orientation. Dung beetles depend on animal droppings for food and reproduction. Once they find dung, they quickly shape it into a ball and roll it away from the dung pile. This behaviour helps them avoid competition from other beetles, many of which try to steal ready-made dung balls instead of making their own. Moving in a straight line is critical. If a beetle gets distracted or loses direction, it risks losing its dung ball and must start again. This wastes time and energy and reduces its chances of successful reproduction.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. DoT–SEBI MoU to Curb Telecom-Linked Financial Frauds : Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) signed an MoU to combat telecom-linked financial frauds and protect investors. The agreement aims to detect suspicious telecom patterns early and prevent scams in digital trading, online onboarding, and mobile-based financial services. By integrating telecom intelligence with market regulation, the initiative will enable faster action against cyber frauds, impersonation scams, and misuse of mobile numbers in financial markets.

 

2. AICTE VAANI Scheme Third Edition Promotes Indian Languages: The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has launched the third edition of its flagship AICTE-VAANI scheme to strengthen the use of Indian languages in technical education. The initiative aims to create a more inclusive academic ecosystem by enabling students to access technical knowledge in their native languages. The launch included the release of the scheme document and an online portal for applications. The AICTE-VAANI (Vibrant Advocacy for Advancement and Nurturing of Indian Languages) scheme seeks to bridge the language gap in higher education. It focuses on encouraging research, learning, and dissemination of technical knowledge in regional languages. The initiative recognises that many students face difficulties transitioning from mother tongue education to English-medium technical courses.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Sayani Gupta Named Harvard South Asian Association’s Person of the Year 2026: Sayani Gupta has been named Person of the Year 2026 by the Harvard South Asian Association for her contribution to film, storytelling, and representation. The award recognises individuals shaping South Asian identity, and she will be formally honoured at Harvard University later this month.

 

Daily GK Update- 19th April, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. China Becomes India’s Largest Trading Partner in 2025–26: China has overtaken the United States to become India’s largest trading partner in 2025–26, with bilateral trade reaching USD 151.1 billion.India’s trade deficit with China widened significantly to around USD 112 billion, as imports (USD 131.63 billion) far exceeded exports (USD 19.47 billion).While exports to China grew sharply by 36.66%, India’s trade surplus with the United States declined due to slower export growth and rising imports.

 

2. India Plans 100 GW Nuclear Power Capacity by 2047: India has outlined an ambitious plan to expand its nuclear power capacity more than tenfold, from the current 8.8 gigawatt (GW) to 100 GW by 2047. The announcement was made by Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairperson of the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), highlighting the country’s long-term strategy to strengthen clean and stable energy sources as part of its development vision. The proposed expansion represents a significant acceleration in India’s nuclear energy programme. According to the CEA, achieving 100 GW capacity will require rapid infrastructure development and sustained investment over the next two decades. The roadmap focuses primarily on building new nuclear power plants, while existing facilities will continue operating at current capacity levels.

 

3. India Withdraws Bid to Host COP33 Climate Summit 2028: India has officially withdrawn its bid to host the COP33 United Nations climate summit scheduled for 2028, marking a surprising shift in its global climate engagement strategy. The announcement, made on 17 April 2026, comes despite earlier strong diplomatic backing and preparations, raising questions about the country’s climate leadership ambitions. While the government has reiterated its commitment to climate goals, it has not provided detailed reasons for the withdrawal. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the decision, stating that “several factors” were considered before withdrawing the bid. Officials emphasised that India remains committed to climate action and will continue working with international partners. However, the absence of a clear explanation has led to speculation among experts and observers about possible logistical, financial, or strategic constraints behind the move.

 

4. Meghalaya Grants Official Status to Khasi and Garo: Meghalaya has moved to give fuller administrative recognition to its two major indigenous languages, Khasi and Garo. On 16 April 2026, the state cabinet approved the Meghalaya Official Languages Ordinance, 2026, placing both languages on the same official footing as English. The step repeals the Meghalaya State Language Act, 2005, under which English had remained the sole official language while Khasi and Garo functioned only as associate official languages. The decision is politically significant and culturally symbolic for a state where language is closely tied to identity, representation and tribal heritage. Chief minister Conrad K. Sangma described the ordinance as a historic decision. The new framework allows Khasi and Garo to be used in a much wider range of government communication. However, English will continue as the principal link language across the state administration. Inter-district communication, file notings, and several formal procedures are expected to remain in English even as the use of local languages expands.

 

5. AICTE VAANI Scheme Third Edition Promotes Indian Languages: The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has launched the third edition of its flagship AICTE-VAANI scheme to strengthen the use of Indian languages in technical education. The initiative aims to create a more inclusive academic ecosystem by enabling students to access technical knowledge in their native languages. The launch included the release of the scheme document and an online portal for applications. The AICTE-VAANI (Vibrant Advocacy for Advancement and Nurturing of Indian Languages) scheme seeks to bridge the language gap in higher education. It focuses on encouraging research, learning, and dissemination of technical knowledge in regional languages. The initiative recognises that many students face difficulties transitioning from mother tongue education to English-medium technical courses.

 

6. Tipra Motha Retains TTAADC Power in Tripura: The Tipra Motha Party (TMP) has secured a strong victory in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections, returning to power for a second consecutive term. The tribal-based regional party won 24 of the 28 elected seats, improving its performance from the 2021 elections. The result strengthens TMP’s position as the dominant political force in Tripura’s tribal regions and highlights its growing influence in state politics. The TTAADC is the second most important constitutional body in Tripura after the Legislative Assembly. Formed in 1985 under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, it administers nearly 70 per cent of Tripura’s total geographical area of 10,491 sq km. It covers the tribal-dominated regions of the state, where indigenous communities play a major political role. Tribal voters also influence 20 of the 60 Assembly constituencies in Tripura.

 

7. Women’s Quota Law Begins in J&K and Puducherry: The women’s reservation framework has formally come into effect in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Puducherry. The Union government notified April 17, 2026, as the date for implementing provisions related to reservation of seats for women in their legislative assemblies. This follows the earlier notification of April 16, 2026, for the commencement of the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023, which provides one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and the Delhi Assembly. The Constitution (One Hundred and Sixth Amendment) Act, 2023, created the legal framework for reserving one-third of seats for women in the House of the People and state legislatures. It marked a major constitutional reform aimed at increasing women’s political participation. The law also extends to the Legislative Assembly of Delhi.Separate legal amendments were required for Union Territories with legislatures, such as Jammu and Kashmir and Puducherry, because they are governed under different statutory arrangements.

 

8. Delimitation Bill Defeat Sparks Political Clash: The failure of the Delimitation Bill in Parliament has triggered sharp political reactions, with Congress calling it a victory for democracy and the BJP terming it a setback for women’s political empowerment. The bill, linked to women’s reservation in Parliament and state assemblies, failed to secure the required two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha, intensifying the debate over federalism, representation, and electoral reforms. Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra described the bill’s defeat as a major democratic victory and accused the Centre of attempting to weaken India’s federal structure. She alleged that the government was trying to permanently secure political power by using the issue of women’s reservation for electoral advantage.According to her, the government wanted to present itself as the protector of women while portraying opposition parties as anti-women. She stated that women voters are politically aware and cannot be misled by publicity campaigns without real policy action.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Philippines Joins Pax Silica Chip Supply Initiative: The Philippines has joined a United States-led initiative, “Pax Silica”, aimed at securing global semiconductor and technology supply chains. The move marks a significant step in reshaping industrial partnerships amid rising geopolitical tensions and growing demand for advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and chip manufacturing. “Pax Silica” is a US-led framework designed to secure the full technology supply chain, from extraction of raw materials to advanced manufacturing and data infrastructure. The programme has expanded rapidly, with countries such as India, South Korea, Singapore, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates joining. The Philippines has become the 13th member, reflecting the growing alignment among US partners.

 

2. India-New Zealand FTA to Be Signed April 27: India and New Zealand are set to sign a landmark free trade agreement (FTA) on April 27 in New Delhi, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral economic ties. The agreement, finalised after negotiations concluded in December last year, aims to boost trade, enhance market access and attract substantial long-term investment. The FTA seeks to double bilateral trade between the two nations to USD 5 billion within five years. It is also expected to attract nearly USD 20 billion in investment over the next 15 years. The agreement will be formalised at Bharat Mandapam following deliberations at the India-New Zealand Business Forum, signalling a strategic push to deepen economic cooperation.

 

3. India-China Resume SCO Bilateral Talks After Ladakh Thaw: India and China held their first bilateral consultations under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on April 16–17, 2026, marking another step in the gradual normalisation of ties after the eastern Ladakh military standoff eased in 2024. The discussions reflected both countries’ efforts to strengthen engagement in multilateral forums while maintaining strategic caution.According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), both sides exchanged views on implementing decisions taken by SCO leaders and discussed the future direction of the organisation. They also agreed to continue and deepen cooperation and consultations on SCO-related matters.

The consultations were significant because they were the first formal bilateral SCO talks after India and China managed to resolve the prolonged military standoff in eastern Ladakh. Relations had remained strained for several years following the border tensions.The improvement in ties has led to renewed diplomatic exchanges, especially in multilateral groupings such as SCO and BRICS, where both countries play major roles.

 

4. India-Sri Lanka Ties Deepen During Vice-President Visit: Vice-President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan visited Sri Lanka on April 19, 2026, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Vice-President to the island nation. During his two-day visit to Colombo, he met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and discussed key bilateral issues, including housing projects, Cyclone Ditwah rehabilitation, and the long-pending fishermen dispute between the two neighbours. Mr. Radhakrishnan highlighted India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, which places priority on strong relations with neighbouring countries. He stressed the importance of development-focused cooperation and stronger people-to-people ties. Officials stated that both leaders held productive discussions aimed at deepening the multifaceted India–Sri Lanka partnership, built on shared history, civilisational links, and regional cooperation.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India To Host First High-Level CAPF Conference: India is set to host its first-ever high-level conference dedicated exclusively to the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s internal security framework. The initiative reflects a shift towards structured and institutionalised coordination among key security agencies amid evolving threats. The conference will be chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, making it unprecedented in scale and importance. This direct involvement at the highest political level signals a strong push towards unified strategic direction across CAPFs. Unlike existing platforms, this conference will exclusively focus on CAPFs rather than being part of broader policing discussions.

 

2. Israel–Lebanon Ceasefire Tested Amid Ongoing Shelling Reports: Tensions in West Asia remain volatile despite the announcement of a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The 10-day truce, declared to begin at 21:00 GMT, follows diplomatic efforts led by the United States. However, developments on the ground indicate continued hostilities, raising doubts over the durability of the agreement and the broader prospects for regional de-escalation. US President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to a short-term ceasefire after consultations with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. The truce is seen as an attempt to create space for further negotiations, including potential talks between Washington and Tehran. The United States has indicated that the ceasefire could be extended if progress is made in ongoing diplomatic engagements.

 

3. Australia-Japan $7 Billion Warship Defence Deal: Australia and Japan have signed a major $7 billion defence agreement for the supply of advanced stealth warships to the Royal Australian Navy, marking one of Japan’s largest military export deals in recent decades. The agreement reflects deepening strategic cooperation between the two Indo-Pacific partners amid rising regional security concerns and growing Chinese naval presence in the region. Under the deal, Japan will deliver the first three upgraded Mogami-class frigates from 2029, while eight additional warships will be constructed in Australia. The project forms part of Canberra’s long-term naval modernisation plan aimed at strengthening maritime defence capabilities and protecting critical sea lanes.The contract was signed in Tokyo in the presence of Australia’s Defence Minister Richard Marles and Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, both of whom emphasised stronger bilateral defence cooperation.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Vaishali Wins FIDE Women’s Candidates 2026: Vaishali won the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026 in Cyprus, defeating Kateryna Lagno and finishing with 8.5/14 points.With this victory, Vaishali has earned the right to challenge reigning world champion Ju Wenjun for the Women’s World Championship later this year.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. SpaceX to Launch Rosalind Franklin Rover to Mars 2028: Global space exploration is set for a major milestone as Elon Musk’s SpaceX prepares to launch the Rosalind Franklin rover to Mars in 2028. The mission, part of the European-led ExoMars programme, aims to search for signs of past or present life on the Red Planet. After facing multiple delays, the renewed collaboration marks a significant step forward in international space cooperation. A major distinguishing feature of the rover is its ability to drill up to two metres beneath the Martian surface. Unlike surface-level missions, this allows access to protected layers that may contain organic material shielded from radiation and environmental damage. Equipped with advanced instruments such as the Mars Organic Molecule Analyser (MOMA), the rover will study soil samples to detect complex organic compounds.

 

2. Punjab Deploys AI System For Real-Time Crime Tracking: The Punjab government has partnered with Indian Institute of Technology Ropar to develop an advanced Artificial Intelligence-based system for real-time crime tracking and analysis. The initiative aims to modernise policing by transforming scattered data into actionable intelligence, strengthening ongoing anti-crime and anti-drug campaigns in the state. Under the collaboration, IIT Ropar will design a structured data system equipped with capabilities such as data analytics, voice recognition, and dashboard-based monitoring. These tools will enable law enforcement agencies to track criminal activity in real time and generate insights for quicker decision-making. The system is expected to significantly enhance intelligence-led policing in Punjab.

 

3. US Plans Space Nuclear Reactors by 2030: The United States has announced an ambitious plan to deploy nuclear reactors in space orbit by 2028 and on the Moon by 2030. The move follows the successful splashdown of the Artemis-2 mission and reflects Washington’s broader goal of strengthening its leadership in space exploration, commerce, and defence. The initiative is part of a new policy memorandum titled “National Initiative for American Space Nuclear Power”, issued by the White House on April 14, 2026. The memorandum states that the US aims to lead the world in developing and deploying space nuclear power systems. It focuses on using nuclear reactors to support long-term missions in Earth orbit, on the lunar surface, and eventually for human missions to Mars. The plan also seeks stronger partnerships between government agencies and private companies to accelerate development and reduce costs.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. India Achieves Record $860 Billion Exports in FY 2025–26 with 4.2% Growth: India achieved a record export of $860 billion in FY 2025-26, surpassing the previous year’s $825 billion.The exports registered a 4.2% growth, reflecting steady expansion in India’s global trade performance.

 

2. FIU–PFRDA Sign MoU to Strengthen AML & Counter Terror Financing Efforts: Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) signed an MoU to enhance information sharing and coordination between the two agencies. The agreement will facilitate joint outreach and training programmes for regulated and reporting entities to strengthen compliance mechanisms. The initiative aims to boost Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating Financing of Terrorism (CFT) efforts by assessing risks, identifying vulnerabilities, and sharing red flag indicators for suspicious transactions.

 

3. Shriram Finance Gets RBI Nod for Primary Dealer Business; Shares Rise on Positive Market Sentiment: Shriram Finance’s wholly owned subsidiary, Shriram Overseas Investments Ltd, has received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India to start a Primary Dealer business.

The new business will begin after fulfilling the conditions specified by the RBI, and is expected to strengthen Shriram Finance’s position in the financial market.