Daily Current Affairs 13 October 2026: Top GK News for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways & Defence Exams
Daily Current Affairs 13 October 2026 covers major developments in government schemes, international relations, banking, defence, science, sports, awards and important days. Key topics include the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences, PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, the 57th GST Council Meeting, RBI foreign-exchange measures, Chennai development projects, PM-SETU, AI-based drug discovery, Exercise Tarang Shakti and INS Mangrol. This exam-focused compilation combines important news from Testbook, AffairsCloud and Mahendras, with detailed explanations and quick revision facts for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways and State PSC examinations.
Introduction to Daily Current Affairs 13 October 2026
The Daily Current Affairs for 13 October 2026 bring together important national and international developments relevant to UPSC, SSC CGL, SSC CHSL, Banking, Insurance, Railways, Defence and State PSC examinations. Today's major topics include agricultural development, GST administration, banking regulations, India's diplomatic engagements, indigenous defence technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy and important awards.
This article consolidates overlapping reports from three supplied current affairs sources while retaining distinct developments. Some reports published on 13 October concern events held earlier in October. Important figures, names, dates and institutions are highlighted for quick examination revision. For additional preparation resources, visit thejobsme.com.
National Current Affairs
1. PM Modi Launches Development Projects Worth Over ₹13,000 Crore in Tamil Nadu
Why in News? Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly inaugurated, dedicated and laid foundation stones for infrastructure projects worth more than ₹13,000 crore during a visit to Chennai on 11 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- State: Tamil Nadu.
- Visit date: 11 October 2026.
- Combined project value: Over ₹13,000 crore.
- Sectors: Metro rail, railways, highways, ports, petroleum and education.
- Major metro project: Chennai Metro Rail Phase II, Corridor 4.
- Metro stretch: Poonamallee-Vadapalani.
Key Highlights
- The source reports inauguration of a 14.64-km elevated metro stretch with 11 stations.
- The metro component is valued at approximately ₹4,900 crore.
- It includes a 3.7-km double-decker structure and advanced signalling designed for driverless operations.
- Railway projects worth more than ₹750 crore were inaugurated or dedicated.
- Railway developments included the Karaikal-Peralam line and three rail flyovers around Coimbatore.
- The overall programme seeks to improve mobility, logistics, industrial connectivity and employment opportunities.
Exam Relevance: Infrastructure investment supports economic growth by reducing transport costs and improving connectivity. Metro projects are particularly important for urban mobility and sustainable transportation.
2. PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana Completes One Year
Why in News? The Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana completed one year on 11 October 2026, with a national programme held on 12 October.
Quick Facts
- Scheme: Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY).
- Launch date: 11 October 2025.
- Cabinet approval: 16 July 2025.
- Duration: Six years, 2025-26 to 2030-31.
- Coverage: 100 agricultural districts.
- Nodal ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Key Highlights
- The programme targets districts facing low agricultural productivity, low cropping intensity and limited agricultural credit.
- It brings together 36 central schemes across 11 ministries and departments.
- District implementation is overseen by a committee headed by the District Collector or District Magistrate.
- State-level monitoring is led by the Chief Secretary.
- The source reports monitoring through 121 indicators, including 74 output and 47 outcome indicators.
- District performance scores reportedly improved from 18.85 in April 2026 to 46.89 in August 2026.
- Gaya, Nagaur and Umaria were recognised for performance during the anniversary programme.
Exam Explanation: Cropping intensity measures the number of crops cultivated on the same agricultural land during a year. Improving cropping intensity, irrigation and agricultural credit can raise farm productivity and income.
3. PM-SETU Agreements Signed for Surat and Visakhapatnam ITI Clusters
Why in News? Shareholders' Agreements were signed under PM-SETU to upgrade nine government Industrial Training Institutes in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh with an approved investment of ₹440 crore.
Quick Facts
- Scheme: Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs.
- Clusters: Surat, Gujarat and Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
- Approved funding: ₹440 crore.
- Government ITIs covered: Nine.
- Industry partner: ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India.
- Nodal ministry: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
Key Highlights
- PM-SETU aims to modernise vocational training infrastructure.
- The initiative strengthens cooperation between government institutions and industry.
- Training programmes will be aligned with contemporary industrial skill requirements.
- Upgraded ITIs can improve access to practical training and employment opportunities.
- The Directorate General of Training is an important implementing stakeholder.
4. 57th GST Council Meeting Recommends Compliance and Process Reforms
Why in News? The 57th GST Council Meeting was held in New Delhi under the chairpersonship of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, with recommendations relating to registration, refunds, returns, adjudication and decriminalisation.
Quick Facts
- Meeting: 57th GST Council Meeting.
- Location: New Delhi.
- Chairperson: Nirmala Sitharaman.
- Constitutional article: Article 279A.
- GST implementation date: 1 July 2017.
- Constitutional amendment: 101st Amendment Act, 2016.
Key Highlights
- The Council recommended reforms to GST registration procedures.
- Proposals covered returns, refunds and adjudication.
- The meeting considered measures to simplify tax compliance and improve trade facilitation.
- Clarifications were discussed for the GST treatment of specified goods and services.
- Decriminalisation-related recommendations were also reported.
- The preceding 56th meeting had focused on GST rate rationalisation.
Exam Explanation: The GST Council is a constitutional forum representing the Union and states. Its recommendations must be distinguished from subsequent legislative amendments or notifications required for implementation.
5. Government Approves ₹65-Crore DRISHTI Project for Delhi Property Rights
Why in News? The Government of India reportedly approved the DRISHTI Project to accelerate property surveys and ownership documentation in Delhi's unauthorised colonies under PM-UDAY.
Quick Facts
- Project: Delhi Revenue and Imaging Survey, Spatial Technology Initiative.
- Short name: DRISHTI.
- Total allocation: ₹65 crore.
- Central funding: ₹52 crore, or 80%.
- Delhi government contribution: ₹13 crore, or 20%.
- Associated scheme: PM-UDAY.
Key Highlights
- The project uses Geographic Information System mapping for property surveys.
- It covers PM-UDAY cells across Delhi's 13 districts.
- The Urban Development Fund of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs provides the central share.
- Delhi's Revenue Department is responsible for implementing the project.
- GIS-based surveys can improve transparency, reduce documentation delays and support property-rights verification.
6. Shinzo Abe Memorial Corridor Inaugurated in Varanasi
Why in News? The Shinzo Abe Memorial Corridor was inaugurated at the Rudraksh Convention Centre in Varanasi on 8 October 2026 to commemorate the former Japanese Prime Minister's contribution to India-Japan relations.
Quick Facts
- Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Venue: Rudraksh Convention Centre.
- Inauguration date: 8 October 2026.
- Inaugurated by: Akie Abe and Yogi Adityanath.
- Commemorated leader: Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe.
Key Highlights
- Shinzo Abe received the Padma Vibhushan in 2021.
- He visited Varanasi with PM Narendra Modi in December 2015.
- The Rudraksh Convention Centre was constructed with Japanese assistance.
- The source mentions a proposed 500-acre Japan City near Jewar Airport.
- A Yamanashi Desk at Invest UP aims to assist Japanese investors.
- India and Japan are expected to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2027.
7. India Post and Blue Dart Sign Parcel Delivery Partnership
Why in News? The Department of Posts and Blue Dart Express signed a partnership agreement on 9 October 2026 to strengthen parcel delivery and e-commerce logistics.
Quick Facts
- Agreement date: 9 October 2026.
- Partners: India Post and Blue Dart.
- Nodal ministry: Ministry of Communications.
- Postal network: More than 1.64 lakh post offices.
- Focus: Parcel services and last-mile delivery.
Key Highlights
- The partnership aims to expand parcel access in rural and underserved regions.
- Services include prepaid and cash-on-delivery parcels.
- OTP-based delivery authentication will improve parcel verification.
- Real-time shipment tracking will improve customer visibility.
- India Post's extensive network can help private logistics partners reach smaller towns and villages.
8. Multilingual Science Ministry Websites Launched in 22 Languages
Why in News? Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh launched redeveloped websites of the Department of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Science and Technology on 9 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Launch date: 9 October 2026.
- Ministry: Ministry of Science and Technology.
- Language coverage: 22 languages.
- Language platform: BHASHINI.
- Technical partner: National Informatics Centre.
- Standards: DBIM 3.0 and GIGW 3.0.
Key Highlights
- The websites provide information on research grants, fellowships and government schemes.
- BHASHINI supports access to digital services in Indian languages.
- Accessibility features include screen-reader compatibility and adjustable text size.
- Security measures include SSL/TLS encryption and relevant CERT-In guidelines.
- The portals use a content delivery network for improved loading and availability.
- The initiative supports digital inclusion in scientific information.
9. MeitY Selects CoRover for Unified Agentic AI Platform
Why in News? The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology awarded a ₹3.63-crore contract to CoRover.ai to develop a reusable AI assistant platform for government services.
Quick Facts
- Ministry: MeitY.
- Implementing division: National e-Governance Division.
- Company: CoRover.ai.
- Contract value: ₹3.63 crore.
- First implementation: DigiLocker.
- Selection method: Quality-and-Cost-Based Selection.
Key Highlights
- The platform will support the model of “ask, do and escalate”.
- It is designed to answer citizen queries and assist with government-service tasks.
- Complex cases can be escalated to human support.
- The project includes safeguards against prompt injection and other misuse.
- The source reports four months of development followed by 12 months of operations and maintenance.
- CoRover is associated with the BharatGPT conversational AI platform.
Exam Explanation: Agentic AI refers to systems designed not only to generate responses but also to plan or execute permitted tasks. Human oversight and security controls are especially important in public-service applications.
10. Supreme Court Constitutes Committee on Judicial Well-Being
Why in News? Chief Justice of India Surya Kant reportedly constituted a Standing Committee on Judicial Well-being on 11 October 2026, chaired by Justice K. V. Viswanathan.
Quick Facts
- Committee: Standing Committee on Judicial Well-being.
- Chairperson: Justice K. V. Viswanathan.
- Constituted by: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant.
- Date: 11 October 2026.
- Focus: Health, occupational stress and welfare of judicial officers.
Key Highlights
- The committee aims to identify challenges affecting the well-being of judicial officers.
- Its work is linked to concerns about workload, staffing and infrastructure.
- Members include specialists in psychology, medicine and legal administration.
- The source refers to the Nauru Declaration on Judicial Well-being.
- International Day for Judicial Well-being is observed on 25 July.
International Current Affairs
11. Swiss President Guy Parmelin Visits India
Why in News? Swiss President Guy Parmelin visited India from 5 to 7 October 2026 to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, research and technology.
Quick Facts
- Visiting leader: Guy Parmelin.
- Country: Switzerland.
- Visit dates: 5-7 October 2026.
- Major event: Second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit.
- Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
- Agreements reported: Five.
Key Highlights
- The visit reviewed India-Switzerland cooperation in science, mobility and investment.
- It marked the first anniversary of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement entering into force.
- The agreement reportedly became operational on 1 October 2025.
- India and Switzerland unveiled an Indo-Swiss Research Flagship initiative.
- EFTA members are Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
- India and Switzerland discussed research collaboration and people-to-people exchanges.
12. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar Visits Three African Countries
Why in News? External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire and Ethiopia from 6 to 10 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Minister: S. Jaishankar.
- Ministry: Ministry of External Affairs.
- Visit dates: 6-10 October 2026.
- Countries: Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire and Ethiopia.
- Purpose: Strengthen trade, investment and development cooperation.
Key Highlights
- In Ghana, the two sides reviewed cooperation in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, defence and technology.
- Two MoUs were formalised in agriculture and zoological research.
- In Côte d'Ivoire, discussions covered trade, infrastructure, agriculture and healthcare.
- In Ethiopia, the minister visited scientific and historical institutions.
- India announced plans for another Jaipur Artificial Limb Fitment camp in Ethiopia.
- The visit reflects India's growing engagement with African countries through development partnerships.
Economy & Banking
13. Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences 2026 Awarded to Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford
Why in News? The supplied Mahendras report identifies Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford as recipients of the 2026 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for work on the microeconomic foundations of macroeconomic stabilisation.
Quick Facts
- Award: Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences 2026.
- Recipients reported: Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford.
- Research field: Macroeconomic stabilisation.
- Hall's institution: Stanford University, USA.
- Woodford's institution: Columbia University, USA.
- Prize amount reported: 12 million Swedish kronor.
Key Highlights
- The research explores how household and business decisions influence economic fluctuations.
- Macroeconomic stabilisation policies seek to manage inflation, unemployment and economic instability.
- Monetary policy influences interest rates, credit conditions and aggregate demand.
- Microeconomic foundations help explain economy-wide outcomes using the decisions of individual economic agents.
- The Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel was established in 1968 and first awarded in 1969.
Publication Caution: The laureate names and prize amount above are reproduced from the supplied source and should be checked against the official Nobel announcement before publication.
14. September 2026 Retail Inflation Reported at 5.54%
Why in News? The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released provisional Consumer Price Index data for September 2026 using a revised base year of 2024 = 100.
Quick Facts
- Index: Consumer Price Index.
- Base year reported: 2024 = 100.
- Overall retail inflation: 5.54%.
- Rural inflation: 6.08%.
- Urban inflation: 4.88%.
- Food inflation: 7.74%.
- Releasing ministry: MoSPI.
Key Highlights
- CPI measures changes in the prices consumers pay for a representative basket of goods and services.
- The reported rural inflation rate was higher than the urban rate.
- Food inflation exceeded overall retail inflation.
- Changing a price index's base year updates the reference period and may reflect changes in consumption patterns.
- CPI is an important indicator for monetary policy and household purchasing power.
15. RBI Announces Special Dollar Window for Oil Marketing Companies
Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India reportedly introduced a special foreign-exchange window from 12 October 2026 for three public-sector oil marketing companies.
Quick Facts
- Regulator: Reserve Bank of India.
- Effective date: 12 October 2026.
- Beneficiaries: Indian Oil Corporation, HPCL and BPCL.
- Purpose: Meet daily US-dollar requirements.
- Sector: Petroleum imports and foreign exchange.
Key Highlights
- Oil imports create substantial demand for US dollars in the foreign-exchange market.
- A dedicated facility may reduce the impact of large dollar purchases on ordinary market trading.
- The source also reports restrictions on rebooking cancelled rupee-related foreign-exchange derivative contracts.
- The applicable threshold for specified transactions was reportedly reduced from USD 100 million to USD 5 million.
- Foreign-exchange derivatives are contracts whose value depends on currency exchange rates.
16. RBI Raises Minimum Daily CRR Maintenance Requirement to 99%
Why in News? The RBI reportedly increased the minimum daily Cash Reserve Ratio maintenance requirement from 90% to 99%, effective from the reporting fortnight beginning 16 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Regulator: RBI.
- Earlier daily maintenance requirement: 90%.
- Revised requirement: 99%.
- Effective reporting fortnight: 16 October 2026.
- Banking concept: Cash Reserve Ratio.
Key Highlights
- CRR is the portion of a bank's Net Demand and Time Liabilities maintained as cash balance with the RBI.
- The revised daily maintenance rule reduces banks' flexibility to temporarily maintain lower balances.
- The source reports a banking-system liquidity surplus of ₹3.92 lakh crore.
- Variable Rate Reverse Repo auctions and Open Market Operations are important RBI liquidity-management instruments.
- A change in the daily maintenance requirement is not necessarily a change in the headline CRR percentage itself.
17. Tata Power Partners with Norway's Ocean Sun for Floating Solar Project
Why in News? Tata Power partnered with Norway-based Ocean Sun to introduce membrane-based floating solar technology in India.
Quick Facts
- Partners: Tata Power and Ocean Sun.
- Country partner: Norway.
- Agreement date: 7 October 2026.
- Pilot location: Mulshi reservoir, Maharashtra.
- Project capacity: Approximately 300 kWp.
- Technology: Membrane-based floating solar photovoltaic system.
Key Highlights
- The pilot uses solar panels mounted on a floating membrane.
- It will assess power generation, reliability, costs and operational performance.
- The source describes it as Ocean Sun's first installation in India.
- India's floating solar potential is reported as more than 102 GWp.
- Floating solar installations can use water surfaces without requiring equivalent land area.
- Project suitability depends on local environmental, technical and operational conditions.
Defence Current Affairs
18. Indian Navy Commissions Indigenous ASW Shallow Water Craft Mangrol
Why in News? The Indian Navy scheduled the commissioning of INS Mangrol, its third indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, at Naval Dockyard Mumbai on 12 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Vessel: INS Mangrol.
- Commissioning date reported: 12 October 2026.
- Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra.
- Builder: Cochin Shipyard Limited.
- Vessel category: Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft.
- Indigenous content: More than 80%.
Key Highlights
- The vessel is designed for underwater surveillance and anti-submarine operations in coastal waters.
- It uses diesel engines and waterjet propulsion for manoeuvrability.
- Reported equipment includes Abhay hull-mounted sonar and the Maareech torpedo decoy system.
- Its armament includes lightweight torpedoes and an indigenous anti-submarine rocket launcher.
- The craft is named after Mangrol, a coastal town in Gujarat.
- It supports indigenous defence shipbuilding under Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
19. GRSE Launches Third Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel Shreyas
Why in News? Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers launched Shreyas, Yard 3040, the third of four Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels being constructed for the Indian Navy.
Quick Facts
- Ship: Shreyas.
- Yard number: 3040.
- Builder: GRSE.
- Location: Kolkata, West Bengal.
- Vessel class: Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel.
- Displacement: Approximately 3,000 tonnes.
- Maximum speed: 23 knots.
Key Highlights
- The vessel measures approximately 113 metres in length and 14.6 metres in width.
- Its reported endurance is 8,500 nautical miles.
- It will support maritime surveillance and offshore asset protection.
- Potential operations include maritime interdiction and Visit, Board, Search and Seizure missions.
- The Sanskrit word Shreyas conveys excellence or what is best.
- A ship launch is distinct from its formal commissioning into active naval service.
20. INS Sahyadri Participates in India-Russia Exercise INDRA-2026
Why in News? Indian Navy stealth frigate INS Sahyadri arrived in Vladivostok on 10 October 2026 for Exercise INDRA-2026, scheduled from 13 to 18 October.
Quick Facts
- Exercise: INDRA-2026.
- Participating countries: India and Russia.
- Dates: 13-18 October 2026.
- Location: Vladivostok, Russia.
- Indian ship: INS Sahyadri.
- Ship class: Shivalik-class stealth frigate.
Key Highlights
- The exercise includes harbour and sea phases.
- Activities aim to improve maritime interoperability and operational coordination.
- INS Sahyadri was commissioned on 21 July 2012.
- The ship was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited.
- INDRA began as an India-Russia naval exercise in 2003.
- The deployment is associated with India's MAHASAGAR maritime cooperation vision.
21. INS Trishul Joins India-UK Exercise KONKAN-26
Why in News? INS Trishul arrived at Plymouth, United Kingdom, on 11 October 2026 to participate in the bilateral naval exercise KONKAN-26.
Quick Facts
- Exercise: KONKAN-26.
- Countries: India and United Kingdom.
- Dates: 8-15 October 2026.
- Location: Plymouth, UK.
- Indian vessel: INS Trishul.
- Ship class: Talwar-class frigate.
Key Highlights
- The exercise strengthens cooperation between the Indian Navy and Royal Navy.
- Activities include air-defence drills, seamanship and anti-submarine warfare.
- Harbour-phase events support professional exchanges and familiarisation.
- Sea-phase activities test coordination during complex maritime operations.
- The exercise is linked to the India-UK strategic partnership.
22. Indian Air Force and CAPSS Organise Tarang Shakti Seminar
Why in News? The Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies and Indian Air Force organised a seminar on 9 October 2026 alongside Exercise Tarang Shakti-26.
Quick Facts
- Exercise: Tarang Shakti-26.
- Seminar date: 9 October 2026.
- Venue: Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi.
- Organisers: CAPSS and IAF.
- Theme: The Central Role of Air Power in the Evolving Battlespace.
Key Highlights
- The seminar discussed the changing character of modern warfare.
- Participants included military leaders, academics, industry representatives and partner air forces.
- Topics included air-power strategy and international military cooperation.
- Multinational exercises improve interoperability and professional understanding.
23. IIT Ropar Awards First MTech Defence Technology Degrees
Why in News? IIT Ropar awarded its first batch of MTech Defence Technology degrees to 59 officers of the Armoured Corps Centre and School on 9 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Institution: IIT Ropar.
- Partner: Armoured Corps Centre and School.
- Location: Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra.
- Graduates: 59 officers.
- Date: 9 October 2026.
- Course: MTech in Defence Technology.
Key Highlights
- The programme is tailored to the technological requirements of the Indian Army.
- Research areas include armoured vehicles, advanced materials and armament systems.
- It supports greater collaboration between technical institutes and the armed forces.
- IIT Ropar was established in 2008 and is located in Punjab.
24. Indian Coast Guard Ship ICGS Ajit Commissioned
Why in News? Goa Shipyard Limited reportedly commissioned ICGS Ajit, Yard 1277, in Mumbai on 9 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Ship: ICGS Ajit.
- Yard number: 1277.
- Shipbuilder: Goa Shipyard Limited.
- Commissioning location: Mumbai.
- Date: 9 October 2026.
- Service: Indian Coast Guard.
Key Highlights
- The vessel supports India's maritime-security infrastructure.
- Goa Shipyard Limited is headquartered at Vasco da Gama, Goa.
- The Indian Coast Guard operates under the Ministry of Defence.
- Its motto is Vayam Rakshamah, meaning We Protect.
- The Coast Guard was formally established under the Coast Guard Act, 1978.
25. Indian Army Launches Bharat Rice Initiative for Defence Personnel
Why in News? The Indian Army reportedly launched the Bharat Rice initiative on 12 October 2026 to strengthen food supplies for personnel, including those deployed in remote regions.
Quick Facts
- Initiative: Bharat Rice.
- Launch date: 12 October 2026.
- Organisation: Indian Army.
- Logistics partner: Food Corporation of India.
- Special focus: Ladakh and Northeast India.
Key Highlights
- The initiative aims to provide reliable supplies of quality rice.
- It provides for direct delivery to Army Supply Depots.
- An MoU with FCI supports use of warehousing and material-handling resources.
- Efficient food logistics are essential for operational readiness in remote deployments.
- FCI was established under the Food Corporations Act, 1964.
Science & Technology
26. TDB Signs ₹86-Crore Agreement for AI-Based Drug Discovery
Why in News? The Technology Development Board signed an agreement with Peptris Technologies for ₹86 crore in support of an AI-driven pharmaceutical research project.
Quick Facts
- Government body: Technology Development Board.
- Department: Department of Science and Technology.
- Company: Peptris Technologies, Bengaluru.
- Support amount: ₹86 crore.
- Total project cost: ₹172 crore.
- Project: VIGOR.
Key Highlights
- VIGOR stands for Advancing AI-Discovered Molecules from Bench to Clinic.
- The project focuses on four AI-discovered drug candidates.
- Its objective is to advance the candidates from Technology Readiness Level 4 to Level 6.
- Activities include preclinical validation and preparation for clinical development.
- AI-based drug discovery can assist in identifying and evaluating promising molecular candidates.
- Clinical trials remain necessary to establish safety and effectiveness in humans.
27. DGCA Grants Type Certificate to KOAIR-10L Agricultural Drone
Why in News? The Directorate General of Civil Aviation granted a Type Certificate to the KOAIR-10L drone developed by Chennai-based Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited on 9 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Drone: KOAIR-10L.
- Manufacturer: Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited.
- City: Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
- Regulator: DGCA.
- Certification date: 9 October 2026.
- Tank capacity: 10 litres.
Key Highlights
- The drone is a hexacopter designed for agricultural spraying.
- Its Type Certificate was issued under the Drone Rules, 2021.
- Drone technology can support precision agriculture and targeted application of agricultural inputs.
- DGCA operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
- The Digital Sky platform is associated with India's drone regulatory framework.
Environment & Renewable Energy
28. Windergy India 2026 Held in Chennai
Why in News? Union Minister Pralhad Joshi inaugurated the eighth edition of Windergy India 2026 in Chennai on 8 October.
Quick Facts
- Event: Windergy India 2026.
- Edition: Eighth.
- Dates: 7-9 October 2026.
- Venue: Chennai Trade Centre.
- Sector: Wind energy.
- Exhibitors: Approximately 400 from more than 20 countries.
- Reported installed wind capacity: 59.20 GW, September 2026.
Key Highlights
- The event brought together wind-energy manufacturers, policymakers and investors.
- It highlighted technology development and international collaboration.
- The source refers to an ambition of achieving 100 GW wind capacity by 2030.
- Wind energy is a renewable energy source that converts the kinetic energy of moving air into electricity.
- Wind projects contribute to energy diversification and decarbonisation.
Awards, Appointments & Books
29. Achyuta Samanta Elected First President of Indian UniSport Federation
Why in News? Prof. Achyuta Samanta was elected the first President of the Indian UniSport Federation at its inaugural Annual General Meeting in New Delhi.
Quick Facts
- Organisation: Indian UniSport Federation.
- Abbreviation: IUSF.
- First President: Achyuta Samanta.
- Meeting location: New Delhi.
- Established: 2026.
Key Highlights
- The federation aims to provide a common platform for university sports.
- Achyuta Samanta founded KIIT and KISS in Odisha.
- He has served as a Member of Parliament.
- University sports programmes support talent development and competitive opportunities for students.
30. Sunil Gavaskar Releases Book on Sanjay Jagdale
Why in News? Former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar released the book Sanjay Jagdale: Rag-Rag Mein Cricket in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
Quick Facts
- Book: Sanjay Jagdale: Rag-Rag Mein Cricket.
- Authors: Kiran Waikar and Sunil Dudhale.
- Released by: Sunil Gavaskar.
- Release location: Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
- Subject: Sanjay Jagdale.
Key Highlights
- The book describes Jagdale's contributions as a cricketer, selector and administrator.
- He represented Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket.
- He played 53 first-class matches, according to the source.
- He served in various roles within the BCCI, including as a selector and secretary.
- The BCCI was established in 1928.
31. Mridangam Maestro Guruvayur Dorai Passes Away at 91
Why in News? Renowned Carnatic percussionist and Padma Shri awardee Guruvayur Dorai reportedly passed away in Chennai at the age of 91.
Quick Facts
- Personality: Guruvayur Dorai.
- Age: 91 years.
- Instrument: Mridangam.
- Music tradition: Carnatic music.
- Birthplace: Guruvayur, Kerala.
- Padma Shri: 2025.
Key Highlights
- He was known for the Pudukottai style of mridangam performance.
- His career extended over several decades.
- He accompanied prominent musicians, including M. S. Subbulakshmi.
- His honours included the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and Kalaimamani.
- The mridangam is a double-headed percussion instrument central to Carnatic music.
32. NASA Apollo Software Pioneer Margaret Hamilton Reportedly Passes Away
Why in News? The supplied Testbook report states that pioneering computer scientist Margaret Hamilton passed away on 30 September 2026 at the age of 90.
Quick Facts
- Personality: Margaret Hamilton.
- Field: Computer science and software engineering.
- Associated programme: NASA Apollo missions.
- Age reported: 90.
- Death date reported: 30 September 2026.
Key Contributions
- Hamilton led the Software Engineering Division at MIT's Instrumentation Laboratory.
- Her team developed flight software used in the Apollo programme.
- Apollo 11 landed humans on the Moon in July 1969.
- The software's priority-based design helped manage computer overload warnings during the lunar landing.
- She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.
Publication Caution: The reported death and date should be independently confirmed before publication.
Sports Current Affairs
33. Max Verstappen Wins 2026 Singapore Grand Prix
Why in News? Red Bull driver Max Verstappen reportedly won the 2026 Formula One Singapore Grand Prix at Marina Bay Street Circuit on 11 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Event: Singapore Grand Prix 2026.
- Date: 11 October 2026.
- Winner: Max Verstappen.
- Team: Oracle Red Bull Racing.
- Circuit: Marina Bay Street Circuit.
- Race distance: 62 laps.
Key Highlights
- The source describes this as Verstappen's first Singapore Grand Prix victory.
- It reports his 73rd career Grand Prix win.
- Charles Leclerc finished second and Andrea Kimi Antonelli third.
- Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri finished fourth and fifth respectively.
- Singapore hosts a major Formula One night race on a street circuit.
34. Services Athletes Felicitated for Asian Games 2026 Performance
Why in News? Defence Minister Rajnath Singh felicitated Services athletes on 12 October 2026 for their reported performance at the Asian Games in Japan.
Quick Facts
- Event: Asian Games 2026.
- Host country: Japan.
- Services medals reported: 27.
- Gold: 6.
- Silver: 11.
- Bronze: 10.
- Services participants: 92 athletes in 19 disciplines.
Key Highlights
- The source reports India's total as 85 medals: 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze.
- India reportedly finished fourth in the overall standings.
- The Services contingent contributed medals across several sporting disciplines.
- The recognition highlighted discipline, teamwork and athletic excellence.
35. BRICS Traditional and Indigenous Sports Games Held in Ahmedabad
Why in News? India hosted the BRICS Traditional and Indigenous Sports Demonstration Games 2026 at Ahmedabad on 12 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Event: BRICS Traditional and Indigenous Sports Demonstration Games.
- Date: 12 October 2026.
- Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
- Venue: Veer Savarkar Sports Complex.
- Nodal ministry: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
Key Highlights
- The event was a demonstration platform rather than a conventional medal competition.
- Indian sports showcased included Mallakhamb, Yogasana and Kalaripayattu.
- China presented traditional disciplines such as Wushu.
- Brazilian activities included Capoeira.
- The programme aimed to strengthen cultural and sporting exchanges among BRICS participants.
36. BRICS Theatre Festival 2026 Begins in New Delhi
Why in News? The BRICS Theatre Festival 2026 began at the National School of Drama in New Delhi on 12 October 2026 under India's BRICS Presidency.
Quick Facts
- Festival: BRICS Theatre Festival 2026.
- Dates: 12-14 October 2026.
- Venue: National School of Drama, New Delhi.
- Theme: Shared Stories, Shared Futures.
- Organiser: Ministry of Culture.
- Participating countries reported: Nine member and partner countries.
Key Highlights
- The festival showcases classical, traditional and contemporary theatre.
- It encourages people-to-people connections and cultural exchange.
- The source links the programme to the Bhopal Declaration adopted during a BRICS culture meeting in August 2026.
- Cultural cooperation is an important non-economic dimension of international relations.
37. Keya Badugu Wins Southern India Golf Championship
Why in News? Keya Kumar Badugu won the women's title at the IGU Bio-Gen Rotary Southern India Golf Championship in Bengaluru on 9 October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Winner: Keya Kumar Badugu.
- Sport: Golf.
- Venue: Karnataka Golf Association, Bengaluru.
- Winning aggregate: 215, one under par.
- Runner-up: Anaahat Bindra.
Key Highlights
- Badugu won through a playoff after finishing level with Anaahat Bindra.
- The championship covered 54 holes.
- Priya Kumari finished third with an aggregate of 220.
- The Indian Golf Union is a national governing organisation for golf in India.
38. Kisan Cricket League Announced for Rural Sporting Talent
Why in News? Prasar Bharati and In-Dot Sports announced the Kisan Cricket League to identify cricket and singing talent in rural and semi-urban India.
Quick Facts
- League: Kisan Cricket League.
- Partners: Prasar Bharati and In-Dot Sports.
- Inaugural season planned: February 2027.
- Cricketers: 140.
- Singers: 30.
- Teams: Seven.
- Planned matches: 45.
Key Highlights
- The league will use digital auditions and AI-enabled screening.
- Matches are planned in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
- Prasar Bharati intends to broadcast content through Waves OTT, Doordarshan and Akashvani.
- The initiative aims to improve visibility for rural talent.
Important Days
39. World Egg Day 2026 Observed on 9 October
Why in News? World Egg Day 2026 was observed on the second Friday of October to promote awareness of the nutritional benefits of eggs.
Quick Facts
- Day: World Egg Day.
- 2026 date: 9 October.
- Frequency: Second Friday of October.
- Theme: Protein that Powers and Protects.
- First observance: 1996.
Key Highlights
- Eggs provide protein and several essential nutrients.
- The observance originated through the International Egg Commission.
- The day highlights nutrition, food security and dietary awareness.
40. World Day Against the Death Penalty Observed on 10 October
Why in News? The World Day Against the Death Penalty was observed on 10 October 2026 to encourage discussion of capital punishment and human rights.
Quick Facts
- Day: World Day Against the Death Penalty.
- Date: 10 October.
- 2026-27 theme: Stories for Life.
- First observance: 10 October 2003.
- Initiating organisation: World Coalition Against the Death Penalty.
Key Highlights
- The observance promotes awareness of legal and human-rights debates concerning capital punishment.
- It is supported by several civil-society and international organisations.
- The topic is relevant to legal rights, criminal justice and international human-rights frameworks.
41. World Migratory Bird Day 2026 Observed on 10 October
Why in News? The October observance of World Migratory Bird Day took place on 10 October 2026 to highlight migratory bird conservation.
Quick Facts
- Day: World Migratory Bird Day.
- 2026 observances: 9 May and 10 October.
- Frequency: Second Saturday of May and October.
- Focus: Migratory birds and habitat protection.
- Associated agreements: CMS and AEWA.
Key Highlights
- Migratory birds travel seasonally between breeding and non-breeding habitats.
- Threats include habitat loss, pollution, climate change and barriers along migration routes.
- Conservation often requires cooperation across international borders.
- The source reports that the 2026 campaign poster was created by Brazilian artist Luisa Lacerda.
Additional Current Affairs One-Liners
Quick Revision - 13 October 2026
- PM Modi's Tamil Nadu infrastructure projects → Over ₹13,000 crore.
- Chennai Metro Phase II reported new stretch → Poonamallee-Vadapalani, 14.64 km.
- PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana → 100 districts.
- PMDDKY launch date → 11 October 2025.
- PMDDKY convergence → 36 schemes across 11 ministries and departments.
- PM-SETU ITI clusters → Surat and Visakhapatnam.
- PM-SETU approved amount → ₹440 crore.
- PM-SETU industry partner → ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India.
- 57th GST Council Meeting → New Delhi.
- GST Council chairperson → Nirmala Sitharaman.
- GST Council constitutional article → Article 279A.
- DRISHTI Project → Delhi property rights and GIS mapping.
- DRISHTI allocation → ₹65 crore.
- Shinzo Abe Memorial Corridor → Varanasi.
- India Post parcel agreement → Blue Dart.
- India Post network → Over 1.64 lakh post offices.
- DST multilingual websites → 22 languages through BHASHINI.
- CoRover agentic AI government platform contract → ₹3.63 crore.
- First CoRover government-service implementation → DigiLocker.
- Judicial Well-being Committee chairperson → Justice K. V. Viswanathan.
- Swiss President visiting India → Guy Parmelin.
- India-EFTA Prosperity Summit → Bharat Mandapam.
- India-Switzerland agreements reported → Five.
- EAM African visit → Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire and Ethiopia.
- Economics Nobel 2026 winners reported → Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford.
- September 2026 CPI inflation reported → 5.54%.
- September food inflation reported → 7.74%.
- Revised CPI base year reported → 2024 = 100.
- RBI dollar window → IOC, HPCL and BPCL.
- RBI daily CRR maintenance requirement → 99% from 16 October 2026.
- Tata Power floating solar partner → Ocean Sun, Norway.
- Floating solar pilot → Mulshi reservoir, Maharashtra.
- INS Mangrol → Third indigenous ASW Shallow Water Craft.
- INS Mangrol builder → Cochin Shipyard Limited.
- INS Shreyas builder → GRSE, Kolkata.
- INS Shreyas yard number → 3040.
- Exercise INDRA → India and Russia.
- INS Sahyadri → Vladivostok.
- Exercise KONKAN → India and United Kingdom.
- INS Trishul → Plymouth.
- Tarang Shakti seminar theme → The Central Role of Air Power in the Evolving Battlespace.
- IIT Ropar Defence Technology MTech graduates → 59 officers.
- ICGS Ajit shipbuilder → Goa Shipyard Limited.
- Indian Army Bharat Rice logistics partner → FCI.
- TDB-Peptris AI drug project → VIGOR.
- TDB project support → ₹86 crore.
- KOAIR-10L agricultural drone → DGCA Type Certificate.
- KOAIR-10L manufacturer → Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited, Chennai.
- Windergy India 2026 → Chennai.
- Windergy India edition → Eighth.
- Indian UniSport Federation first President → Achyuta Samanta.
- Sanjay Jagdale: Rag-Rag Mein Cricket → Kiran Waikar and Sunil Dudhale.
- Guruvayur Dorai → Mridangam maestro.
- Margaret Hamilton → Apollo flight software pioneer.
- Singapore Grand Prix 2026 reported winner → Max Verstappen.
- Services athletes' Asian Games medals reported → 27.
- BRICS Traditional Sports Games → Ahmedabad.
- BRICS Theatre Festival → New Delhi.
- BRICS Theatre Festival theme → Shared Stories, Shared Futures.
- Southern India Golf Championship winner → Keya Badugu.
- Kisan Cricket League → Prasar Bharati and In-Dot Sports.
- World Egg Day 2026 → 9 October.
- World Day Against the Death Penalty → 10 October.
- World Migratory Bird Day 2026 → 9 May and 10 October.
Conclusion
The 13 October 2026 current affairs compilation highlights important developments in public administration, agriculture, banking regulation, defence technology, scientific research and international cooperation. For examinations, focus on the names of schemes, implementing ministries, dates, financial allocations, exercise partners, locations, award recipients and major institutions. Repeated revision of these facts will help with objective questions in SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence and State PSC examinations, while the accompanying explanations support conceptual understanding for UPSC preparation.
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