Daily GK Update- 29th July, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Keshav Chandra Assumes Charge as Mines Secretary: Keshav Chandra has assumed charge as the Secretary, Ministry of Mines, succeeding Piyush Goyal, who has been appointed as the Secretary General of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Chandra is a 1995-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the AGMUT cadre and previously served as the Chairperson of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC).

 

2. AstraZeneca India to Sets Up Genomic Solutions Centre in Amaravati: AstraZeneca India announced an Integrated Genomic Solutions Centre in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, on 28 July 2026. The centre is part of India’s first Integrated Precision Oncology programme and focuses on genetic research for cancer diagnosis and therapy. Precision oncology is a cancer treatment approach that uses genetic and molecular information to match diagnosis and therapy with a patient’s disease profile. Integrated genomic centres use next-generation genetic testing, bioinformatics, and clinical data for cancer screening and treatment planning. The centre will primarily target lung cancer and breast cancer. These two cancers are among the most commonly diagnosed malignancies in India and are major areas of screening, early detection, and treatment research.

 

3. GMR Aero Technic signs Honeywell MRO licence agreement: GMR Aero Technic signed a licence agreement with Honeywell Aerospace on 28 July 2026 for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul services in Hyderabad, India. The agreement covers seven Honeywell Aerospace Line Replaceable Units installed on LEAP engines used in commercial aviation. Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul, or MRO, is an aviation support activity that includes inspection, repair, overhaul, and restoration of aircraft components and systems. In aviation, depot-level maintenance refers to deeper repair work carried out at specialised facilities rather than at the aircraft line station. LEAP is a family of turbofan engines developed by CFM International for narrow-body aircraft. The engine powers the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX, which are among the most widely used single-aisle aircraft in global airline fleets. Line Replaceable Units are modular aircraft components that can be removed and replaced quickly during maintenance.

 

4. India Becomes World’s Second-Largest Supplier of Seafarers: India became the world’s second-largest supplier of seafarers as of 28 July 2026, with 311,936 maritime professionals in the global workforce. India accounted for 12.16% of the world’s seafaring workforce and ranked behind the Philippines in the BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report 2026. Seafarers are maritime professionals who work on merchant ships, cargo vessels, tankers, and other commercial ships. India ranked fifth globally in 2015 with 5.2% of the global seafaring workforce and rose to 6% in 2021 before reaching 12.16% in 2026. India supplied 140,718 ship officers, which formed 13.41% of the global officer workforce. India also supplied 171,218 ratings, which formed 11.29% of the global ratings workforce.

5. President Murmu marks four years in office with new initiatives at Rashtrapati Bhavan: President Droupadi Murmu launched multiple public-centric and green initiatives at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 28 July 2026 to mark four years in office. The initiatives included an e-Audio Guide, the third edition of e-Upahaar, Bachpan Bal Parisar, the Rashtrapati Bhavan Access and Heritage Interconnector, and a new service block under the Net Zero Energy Strategy. The application-based e-Audio Guide for Rashtrapati Bhavan is available in Hindi, English, and 14 other Indian languages. It also includes a sign-language module, which is used for accessibility for visitors with hearing-related needs. The Rashtrapati Bhavan Access and Heritage Interconnector, or RAAHI, is a fare-free electric bus service for staff and residents. It is operated by women drivers and conductors and connects the estate with the nearest Metro station.

 

6. Maharashtra Cabinet Approves New NDPS and SC-ST Courts: The Maharashtra Cabinet approved new courts on 28 July 2026 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The decision was taken in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The package also included two additional courts in Karjat and Kurduwadi. A special court under the NDPS Act was approved for Pune district. Around 1,425 NDPS cases were pending in Pune at the time of the decision. The Cabinet sanctioned Rs 1.26 crore for the court, one district and additional sessions judge, and seven support staff. Five exclusive special courts were approved for cases under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. These courts will function in Ahilyanagar, Parbhani, Solapur, Nanded, and Yavatmal. The Cabinet sanctioned Rs 4.51 crore for these courts, and each court will have one judge.

 

7. Centre Notifies Seventh Draft of Western Ghats ESA: The Union Environment Ministry reissued the seventh draft notification for an Ecologically Sensitive Area across the Western Ghats on 27 July 2026. The proposed Ecologically Sensitive Area covers 56,825.7 sq. km across six states: Karnataka, Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa and Gujarat. The Western Ghats is a mountain chain along the western edge of India and is recognised as one of the world’s major biodiversity hotspots. The range extends through six states and includes forests, grasslands, rivers and hill ecosystems. An Ecologically Sensitive Area is a notified region under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, where activities are restricted to protect fragile ecosystems. In the finalised ESA, mining, quarrying, sand mining, new thermal power plants, certain industries and large construction projects are prohibited, while hydel power generation is regulated.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, Romania Sign Three Agreements; Target to Double Bilateral Trade in Three Years: India and Romania signed three agreements to strengthen cooperation in Science & Technology, Education, and Sports during delegation-level talks between President Droupadi Murmu and Romanian President Nicușor Dan in Bucharest. Both countries reaffirmed their 70+ years of friendship and agreed to deepen collaboration across key sectors, including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, renewable energy, green hydrogen, agriculture, digital public infrastructure (DPI), and artificial intelligence (AI). India and Romania have set a target to double bilateral trade within the next three years, with both leaders highlighting the potential benefits of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement for industries and skilled professionals.

 

2. Ministry of Tourism Signs MoU with Air India to Boost Global Promotion of Incredible India: The Ministry of Tourism signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Air India to promote India as a preferred global tourism destination under the ‘Incredible India’ brand. The partnership will leverage Air India’s extensive domestic and international network along with the Ministry’s tourism promotion initiatives through joint destination campaigns, co-branded marketing, stopover tourism promotion, and the proposed ‘Visit India Pass’. The MoU aims to enhance India’s global tourism visibility, attract more international travellers, and showcase the country’s diverse cultural, heritage, and tourism offerings through integrated digital and offline promotional campaigns.

 

3. Venezuela Announces Withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC): Venezuela formally notified the United Nations on 24 July 2026 of its decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC). Under Article 127 of the Rome Statute, a country’s withdrawal from the ICC becomes effective one year after the UN receives the formal notification. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez alleged that the ICC is politically influenced and disproportionately targets countries of the Global South, particularly those in Africa and Latin America.

 

4. 25 July – International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent: International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent is observed every year on 25 July to recognise the achievements, leadership, and contributions of women and girls of African descent worldwide. The day aims to promote gender equality, combat racism and discrimination, and advance the rights, empowerment, and inclusion of women and girls of African descent. The observance was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2024, following the recommendation of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent.

 

5. 25 July – International Day on Judicial Well-being: International Day on Judicial Well-being is observed every year on 25 July to promote the mental health, well-being, and resilience of judges and judicial officers worldwide. The day highlights the importance of a healthy, independent, and efficient judiciary, recognizing that judicial well-being is essential for ensuring fair and effective justice delivery. The observance was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2024, acknowledging the need to support the well-being of judicial professionals and strengthen the rule of law.

 

6. 28 July – World Hepatitis Day: World Hepatitis Day is observed every year on 28 July to raise awareness about viral hepatitis, promote prevention, early diagnosis, and improve access to treatment and care. The day marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg, Nobel Prize-winning scientist who discovered the Hepatitis B virus and developed the first Hepatitis B vaccine. Theme 2026 – Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down

 

7. China Completes Testing of World’s Largest Fusion Magnet: China completed expert acceptance and full-parameter testing of two domestically developed superconducting magnets on 27 June 2026 at the Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, in Hefei, Anhui Province. The tested systems were a toroidal field superconducting magnet and a high-temperature superconducting central solenoid coil for fusion research. The toroidal field superconducting magnet is a D-shaped structure that measures 21 metres in length, 12 metres in width, and 582 tonnes in weight. It is described as the largest fusion reactor superconducting magnet built so far. The toroidal field magnet is used to confine plasma inside a vacuum chamber with a strong magnetic field. In fusion devices, plasma is heated to about 100 million degrees Celsius and must remain stable for controlled operation.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Iran to Receive Chinese Shoulder-Launched Missile Systems: Iran is expected to receive a first shipment of Chinese-made shoulder-fired air-defence missile launchers within weeks in 2026. The reported deal covers 300 to 400 man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS), including QW-12 and FN-16 missiles, and is valued at about US60 million to US70 million. MANPADS are short-range, shoulder-launched surface-to-air missile systems used against low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles. These systems are designed for portability and are operated by small teams or a single soldier. QW-12 and FN-16 are Chinese-made MANPADS associated with short-range air defence. Such systems generally use infrared or other seeker technologies to track airborne targets at low altitude.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. U Mumba TT Defends Ultimate Table Tennis Season 7 Title with Thrilling Comeback Victory: U Mumba TT successfully defended their Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) Season 7 title by defeating Dempo Goa Challengers 8–5 in a thrilling final, ending Goa’s unbeaten run in the tournament. Trailing 4–2 after the first two matches, U Mumba TT staged a remarkable comeback, led by captain Manush Shah and Anna Hursey, whose mixed doubles victory and Manush’s singles win over Alvaro Robles proved decisive.

 

2. Hockey India Junior Men Championship Begins in Coimbatore: The 16th Hockey India Junior Men National Championship 2026 began on 28 July 2026 in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The tournament features 30 teams and is organised across three divisions, namely Division A, Division B, and Division C. The Hockey India Junior Men National Championship is an annual national-level field hockey competition for junior men’s teams in India. The event uses a divisional format, which places teams in different competitive groups based on performance and ranking. Division A, Division B, and Division C are the three competitive tiers in the championship. Division A generally includes the stronger teams, while Division B and Division C provide promotion and relegation pathways within the tournament structure.

 

3. Ladakh Lieutenant Governor’s Cup Polo Tournament: The 6th LG Cup Horse Polo Championship concluded on 27 July 2026 in Drass, Ladakh. Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena attended the final, and the Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre won the title by defeating the Animal Husbandry Department, Leh. The LG Cup Horse Polo Championship is a regional equestrian tournament held in Ladakh. Horse polo is played on horseback with a ball and mallets, and it remains associated with high-altitude regions where equestrian traditions are part of local sports culture. Vinai Kumar Saxena announced an increase in the prize fund for the LG Horse Polo Cup on 27 July 2026. The winners received Rs one lakh and the runners-up received Rs 50,000 in 2026, compared with Rs 50,000 and Rs 25,000 in the previous edition. The winner’s purse is scheduled to rise further to Rs two lakh in the next season.

 

4. Harjinder, Gulveer Win Silver at Commonwealth Games 2026: India won two silver medals at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow on 29 July 2026. Gulveer Singh finished second in the men’s 10,000m race with a timing of 27:49.78, and Harjinder Kaur won silver in the women’s 69kg weightlifting event with a combined lift of 227kg. Gulveer Singh became the first Indian man to win a Commonwealth Games medal in the 10,000m event. The 10,000m race is a long-distance track event in athletics and is held over 25 laps of a standard 400m track. Harjinder Kaur recorded a career-best total of 227kg in the women’s 69kg category. In weightlifting, the total score is the sum of the best snatch and clean and jerk lifts, and Commonwealth Games records can be set separately in both lifts.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Develops First Indigenous 350 kg Thrust Expendable Turbo Jet Engine: India has successfully developed its first indigenous Expendable Turbo Jet Engine in the 350 kg thrust class, designed by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), marking a major milestone in indigenous aerospace propulsion technology. The engine was manufactured and assembled by Hyderabad-based Azad Engineering, GTRE’s industry partner, and was successfully delivered on 22 July 2026, showcasing strong collaboration between India’s scientific and industrial sectors.

 

2. Cabinet Approves DISHA 2.0 Scheme to Expand Technology-Driven Access to Justice: Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice (DISHA) 2.0 is a Central Sector Scheme with an approved outlay of ₹255 crore for 2026–31, aimed at improving access to justice across India through technology-driven legal services. DISHA 2.0 comprises four key components: Tele-Law: Reaching the Unreached, Nyaya Bandhu (Pro Bono Legal Services) Programme, Legal Literacy and Legal Awareness Programme (LLLAP), and VIDHI (Vision for Integrated Delivery of Harmonised Legal Initiatives)-Sanjeevani. Under Tele-Law, citizens can receive free pre-litigation legal advice through the Tele-Law mobile app, toll-free number 14454, and video/teleconferencing facilities at Common Service Centres (CSCs), with Nyaya Sahayaks assisting service delivery in Aspirational Blocks. The Nyaya Bandhu programme encourages advocates to provide free legal assistance to marginalized and disadvantaged groups. Pro Bono panels have been established in 23 High Courts, while Pro Bono Clubs are functioning in law schools and colleges across the country.

 

3. China Launches Gravity-1 Y4 Rocket, Successfully Places Nine Satellites into Orbit: China successfully launched the Gravity-1 Y4 commercial rocket from the East China Sea, placing nine satellites into orbit and conducting one payload experiment, marking the first far-sea launch by a privately developed commercial rocket. Developed by ORIENSPACE, the 30-metre, 405-tonne Gravity-1 rocket lifted off from a launch vessel operated by the Oriental Aerospace Port under the direction of the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center. The mission deployed nine satellites for remote sensing, AI-powered Earth observation, environmental monitoring, disaster response, agriculture, and urban planning, while Lilac-3 tested next-generation satellite platform and attitude-control technologies.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. DBS Becomes First Southeast Asian Bank Named ‘World’s Best Corporate Bank’ by Global Finance: DBS became the first Southeast Asian bank to be named “World’s Best Corporate Bank” at the 2026 Global Bank Awards by Global Finance, marking the first time a bank from the region has won the award since the category was introduced in 2005. At the 2026 Global Bank Awards, DBS also received the titles of “Asia’s Best Bank” and “Singapore’s Best Bank”, reflecting its strong performance, management excellence, and leadership in corporate banking. Headquartered in Singapore and operating across 19 markets, DBS offers comprehensive corporate banking services to SMEs and multinational companies through its AI-enabled capabilities, global network, and expertise in financing, trade finance, cash management, and advisory services.

 

2. Kerala Cabinet Clears Five Governance Reforms: The Kerala Cabinet approved five governance reforms on 29 July 2026 to strengthen public administration, improve transparency, and reduce revenue leakages linked to project delays. The reforms include a digital asset platform, a GIS-based project registry, a registry of government institutions, legal review measures, and a process re-engineering programme. The Special Asset Management Platform for Administration, Tracking and Harmonisation (SAMPATH) is a centralised digital platform for records of government-owned assets. The platform covers land, buildings, and infrastructure under state ownership. PlanSpace 2.0 is an expanded GIS-enabled project registry for capital projects of government departments. The system records the location, implementing agency, funding, and construction stage of each project.

 

Daily GK Update- 28th July, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Narendra Modi Constitutes High-Powered Task Force on Examination Reforms: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the formation of a high-powered task force on examination reforms, to be chaired by Nandan Nilekani, with the aim of making examinations trustworthy, transparent, and technology-driven. The task force includes former IB Director Tapan Deka, former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath, IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti, former Education Secretary Anita Karwal, and logistics expert Amrit Lal Meena. Based on the task force’s recommendations, the government will take steps to enhance the credibility and integrity of future examinations and strengthen the examination system.

 

2. AI Holobox of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Inaugurated at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya: An AI Holobox of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was inaugurated at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, offering visitors an immersive 3D AI-powered interactive experience showcasing his life, leadership, vision, and legacy. To mark Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Sangrahalaya is hosting a special exhibition featuring microfilms, archival videos, photographs, and personal letters highlighting the courage and sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces during the 1999 Kargil War, fought under Vajpayee’s leadership. The AI Holobox enables visitors to interact with 3D AI avatars of Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, preserving and promoting the legacy of India’s visionary leaders.

 

3. J.P. Nadda Inaugurates Laghu Udyog Bharati Pharma Conclave 2026: Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers P. Nadda inaugurated the Laghu Udyog Bharati Pharma Conclave 2026 in New Delhi, highlighting the pharmaceutical sector’s role in innovation, employment generation, and affordable healthcare. He stated that India is the world’s largest supplier of generic medicines, a leading vaccine producer, and a trusted pharmaceutical exporter to over 200 countries.

 

4. President Droupadi Murmu Conferred Honorary Doctorate by Romania’s Bucharest University of Economic Studies: President Droupadi Murmu was conferred the honorary title of Doctor Honoris Causa by the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania, in recognition of her distinguished public service, commitment to education, social inclusion, and efforts to strengthen India–Romania relations. Accepting the honour, President Murmu dedicated the award to the 1.4 billion people of India, described education as the greatest equaliser, and urged universities to ensure that advancements in artificial intelligence are guided by wisdom, ethics, and compassion.

 

5. Satya Pal Kumar Appointed Director of Financial Intelligence Unit in Major Bureaucratic Reshuffle: Satya Pal Kumar (2005-batch IRS, Income Tax cadre) has been appointed as Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) during a major Joint Secretary-level reshuffle approved by the Union Government. The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), under the Ministry of Finance, is responsible for receiving, analysing, and sharing information on suspicious financial transactions with enforcement agencies to combat financial crimes.

 

6. Government Approves Polymer ₹10 and ₹20 Banknotes: The Government of India approved a proposal of the Reserve Bank of India to introduce one billion polymer banknotes each in the ₹10 and ₹20 denominations on 27 July 2026. The approval covers field trials, and regular issuance will begin only after successful trials. The proposal was placed under Section 25 of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, after a recommendation from the RBI Central Board. Polymer banknotes are currency notes printed on a plastic-based substrate instead of conventional paper pulp. Countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom have used polymer notes in different denominations. Polymer substrates are known for resistance to moisture, dirt, and tearing, and they generally have a longer circulation life than paper-substrate notes.

 

7. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) Fund Utilisation: Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for agriculture and allied sectors in India. Maharashtra became the first State to qualify for the second instalment under RKVY after utilising about Rs 260 crore out of the Rs 335 crore released in the first instalment, which is above the 75% utilisation benchmark. RKVY was launched to support agriculture and allied sector projects through State-level planning and flexible fund use. The scheme is implemented as Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) in the current financial framework, and Rs. 7553.00 crore was allocated for 2024-25, with Rs. 3075.26 crore disbursed by 25 November 2024.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NFDC Invites Entries for the 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2026: The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) has invited entries for the 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which will be held in Goa from 20–28 November 2026. Asia’s oldest film festival, IFFI 2026 will feature the Indian Panorama section, showcasing 25 feature films and 20 non-feature films, along with awards for debut directors and digital web series. The festival has also opened global entries for international competitions, including the ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal, with 31 August 2026 as the deadline for international submissions via FilmFreeway.

 

2. UNESCO Adds Ancient Buddhist Site of Sarnath to World Heritage List; India’s Total Rises to 45: UNESCO has inscribed the Ancient Buddhist Site of Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh) on the World Heritage List during the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee held in Busan, South Korea. With the inclusion of Sarnath, India’s total UNESCO World Heritage Sites has increased to 45, while Uttar Pradesh now has four World Heritage Sites—Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and Sarnath. India currently has 69 properties on UNESCO’s Tentative List and now ranks 6th globally and 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region in terms of the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sarnath is one of Buddhism’s holiest sites, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and it is also home to the Lion Capital of Ashoka (India’s National Emblem) and the Dharma Chakra, which inspired the Ashoka Chakra on the Indian National Flag.

 

3. NGT Seeks Centre and Bihar Government’s Response Over Deteriorating Condition of Kanwar Lake: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notices to the Union Government and the Bihar Government over the deteriorating ecological condition of Kanwar Lake (Kabartal Wetland/Kabar Taal) in Begusarai district, Bihar. Kanwar Lake is widely regarded as Asia’s largest freshwater oxbow lake. An oxbow lake is a U-shaped water body formed when a meander of a river gets cut off from the main river channel. Kanwar Lake is Bihar’s first Ramsar Site, recognised as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.

 

4. 27 July – World Head and Neck Cancer Day: World Head and Neck Cancer Day is observed every year on 27 July to raise awareness about head and neck cancers and the importance of early detection and timely treatment. The day promotes prevention by encouraging people to avoid major risk factors such as tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and HPV infection. It is supported by global cancer organisations, including the International Federation of Head and Neck Oncologic Societies (IFHNOS), to improve public awareness and patient outcomes worldwide.

 

5. India, China to Resume Nathu La Border Trade from August 1: India and China are set to resume border trade through the Nathu La Pass in East Sikkim from 1 August 2026. The trade route remained suspended from 2020 for six years because of the COVID-19 pandemic and border tensions. Nathu La Pass is a mountain pass in East Sikkim on the India-China border. It was reopened for border trade in 2006 after a long closure and is linked to the historic Silk Road. Border trade through Nathu La is usually permitted for about six months each year, from May to November. Nathu La is one of the two designated border trade points between India and China. The second route is Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, which was also suspended in 2020. Both routes are used for limited cross-border trade under bilateral arrangements.

 

6. Government Plans 44 Airports Under Hub-and-Spoke Model: The Central Government has planned a network of 44 airports under the Hub-and-Spoke model, with 4 hub airports and 40 spoke airports. The model is designed to connect Tier-II and Tier-III cities with international destinations through major hub airports in India. The Hub-and-Spoke model is an air transport network in which passengers travel from smaller spoke airports to a larger hub airport before taking international or long-haul flights. Delhi has been identified as a central hub airport in the present plan, while Varanasi and Amritsar have been designated as initial spoke airports. In aviation, a hub airport usually handles higher passenger volumes, more flight connections, and transfer traffic than a spoke airport. The model is used by airlines to consolidate routes and improve connectivity across multiple destinations.

 

7. 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. The rule applies only to Indian currency notes of ₹200 and ₹500 denominations issued on or after 9 November 2016. The maximum limit for carrying these notes into or out of Nepal is ₹25,000 per person. 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.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. 27 July – CRPF Foundation Day: CRPF Foundation Day is observed every year on 27 July to commemorate the raising of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in 1939, originally as the Crown Representative’s Police. After Independence, the force was renamed the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on 28 December 1949 under the CRPF Act, 1949. The day honours the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of CRPF personnel in maintaining internal security, counter-insurgency operations, anti-Naxal missions, election duties, and disaster response across India.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Mirabai Chanu Wins India’s First Gold at Commonwealth Games 2026: Mirabai Chanu won India’s first gold medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, clinching the women’s 48kg weightlifting title with a Commonwealth Games record total lift of 190 kg (85 kg snatch + 105 kg clean & jerk). The victory marked Mirabai Chanu’s third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal, following her triumphs at the 2018 Gold Coast Games and the 2022 Birmingham Games. India added two silver medals in weightlifting through Chanambam Rishikanta Singh (men’s 60kg, total lift 264 kg) and Raja Muthupandi (men’s 65kg, total lift 286 kg).

 

2. Anahat Singh Creates History at World Squash Junior Championships 2026: India’s top-seed Anahat Singh became the first Indian squash player to win the World Squash Junior Championships title, defeating Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem 3-0 (11-3, 11-7, 11-9) in the girls’ singles final at Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada. The 18-year-old ended Egypt’s 16-year dominance in the girls’ singles event by winning the championship without dropping a single game throughout the tournament. Currently ranked World No. 20 on the senior PSA Tour, Anahat’s historic victory comes ahead of squash’s Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, with several Union Ministers congratulating her on the landmark achievement.

 

3. Jhandu Kumar Wins Bronze, Opens India’s Medal Account at Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026: Indian para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar won the bronze medal in the men’s heavyweight para powerlifting event at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026. Jhandu Kumar’s bronze medal also opened India’s medal account at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

 

4. Sarvesh Kushare Wins India’s First CWG High Jump Silver: Sarvesh Kushare won the silver medal in the men’s high jump at the Commonwealth Games 2026 on 27 July 2026 at Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow. He cleared 2.25 metres and finished behind Jamaica’s Romaine Beckford, who won gold on countback after clearing the same height with fewer attempts. Sarvesh Kushare is a 31-year-old Naib Subedar in the Indian Army. He belongs to Deogoan village in Nashik district, Maharashtra, and trained in his early years using agricultural waste for landing practice. In July 2026, Kushare broke Tejaswin Shankar’s eight-year-old national record with a jump of 2.31 metres at the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships in Bhubaneswar. Earlier in the same month, he finished third in Monaco with a 2.26-metre jump and became only the fourth Indian athlete to podium at a Diamond League meeting.

 

5. Gyaneshwari Yadav Wins Silver in Commonwealth Games 2026: Indian weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav won the silver medal in the women’s 53kg weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland, on 27 July 2026. The 23-year-old from Chhattisgarh lifted a personal best total of 199kg, with 88kg in the snatch and 111kg in the clean and jerk. Weightlifting at the Commonwealth Games follows the standard Olympic-style format of two lifts, namely the snatch and the clean and jerk. The total score is the sum of the best successful lift in each discipline, and medals are awarded on the basis of the combined total. The women’s 53kg class is a bodyweight division in international weightlifting. Athletes in this category compete within a maximum bodyweight limit of 53 kilograms, and results are recorded separately for the snatch, clean and jerk, and total lift.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Allows Anhydrous Ammonia Use in Agriculture: India approved the manufacture and use of anhydrous ammonia as a fertiliser for a three-year period on 23 July 2026. Anhydrous ammonia contains 82% nitrogen and is used as a direct nitrogen source in agriculture. Anhydrous ammonia is a gaseous fertiliser that is stored under pressure and injected below the soil surface. It requires specialised applicators, sealed storage systems, and trained handling because it can cause burns and inhalation hazards. The Centre plans to procure 7.24 lakh metric tonnes of Green Ammonia annually under the National Green Hydrogen Mission for Green Urea production. The Department of Fertilizers issued an Expression of Interest for Green Urea plants and held a pre-EOI meeting with industry stakeholders in Noida.

 

2. NASA PRAXIS Mission to Study Planetary Rings: NASA proposed the PRAXIS mission on 26 July 2026 for direct study of planetary ring particles. PRAXIS stands for Planetary Rings Autonomous EXploration with In-situ Sampling and is designed to collect and analyse real particles from Saturn’s rings. PRAXIS uses an AI-powered, bio-inspired robotic system with a long deployable boom. The system is designed for touch-and-go sampling, which allows collection of ring particles without direct collision with the ring structure. The mission aims to sample millimetre to centimetre-scale particles, which are larger than dust grains and smaller than pebbles. Onboard instruments will examine particle size, porosity, and composition in space after collection. Planetary rings are disc-shaped collections of dust, ice, and rock that orbit planets within the planet’s Roche limit or near it. Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune have ring systems, and Saturn has the most extensive and visible rings in the Solar System.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Finance Minister Inaugurates ‘Aayakar Sindhu’ Income Tax Office in Mumbai: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the new Income Tax Department office complex, ‘Aayakar Sindhu’, at Nariman Point, Mumbai, stating that the nation’s treasury is strengthened by the taxes contributed by every taxpayer. The Finance Minister urged Income Tax Department officials to simplify administrative processes, reduce unnecessary hurdles for citizens while ensuring compliance with rules, and uphold integrity and public service as their guiding principles.

 

2. BNP Paribas Cardif to Acquire 26% Stake in IndiaFirst Life Insurance from Warburg Pincus: BNP Paribas Cardif has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a 25.96% (around 26%) stake in IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company from Warburg Pincus (Caramel Point Investments India Pvt. Ltd.), subject to regulatory approvals. After the transaction, IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company’s shareholding will be: Bank of Baroda – around 65%, BNP Paribas Cardif – around 26%, and Union Bank of India – around 9%. Bank of Baroda, the promoter of IndiaFirst Life Insurance, informed stock exchanges that the stake transfer was executed through a Share Purchase Agreement dated 24 July 2026, pending necessary regulatory approvals.

 

3. Gujarat Unveils Shipbuilding Policy 2026: Gujarat launched the Gujarat Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Policy 2026 on 27 July 2026 to expand shipbuilding, ship repair, and maritime manufacturing in the state. The policy targets investments of more than Rs 27,000 crore and aims to raise Gujarat’s shipbuilding capacity to over 5 million deadweight tonnage by 2047. The policy provides for two Integrated Mega Shipbuilding Parks. A greenfield shipbuilding cluster at Kuchdi in Porbandar district has already received central approval, and the Gujarat Maritime Board is preparing Detailed Project Reports for the projects. Each park is expected to accommodate two to three shipyards along with ancillary industries. The policy also includes common marine and onshore infrastructure worth about Rs 3,300 crore, including breakwaters, dredging, harbour basin development, and utility services.

 

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.