Daily Current Affairs 26 September 2026: Important GK Updates for UPSC, SSC, Banking & Railways Exams
This Daily Current Affairs 26 September 2026 article covers major exam-relevant developments including 12 years of Make in India and DDU-GKY, PFRDA's NPS Swasthya guidelines, ADB raising India's FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7%, Delhi Airport's rise in the OAG Megahubs ranking, ISRO-ESA space cooperation till 2032, DRDO's indigenous 20 mK dilution refrigerator project, India's Asian Games shooting gold, and the first green hydrogen plant of Maruti Suzuki. It also covers banking, environment, awards, state news and important days for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, Insurance and State PSC exams. Pasted text (3)
Introduction to Current Affairs 26 September 2026
The Current Affairs of 26 September 2026 cover important developments across National Affairs, Economy, Banking, Science, Environment, Awards and Sports. Major exam topics include the 12th anniversary of Make in India, operational guidelines for NPS Swasthya, the ADB's revised 7% India GDP growth forecast, and extension of the ISRO-ESA cooperation agreement until 2032.
Other important developments include India's first high-value DRDO-TDF deep-tech project, Delhi Airport's improved global connectivity ranking, India's Asian Games shooting gold and the discovery of Begonia neelamorum in Arunachal Pradesh. Aspirants can use this consolidated daily current affairs coverage for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, Insurance and State PSC examinations.
National Current Affairs
Make in India Initiative Completes 12 Years
Why in News: The Make in India initiative completed 12 years on 25 September 2026. Launched in 2014, the initiative seeks to strengthen India's manufacturing, investment, innovation and export capabilities.
Quick Facts
- Launch date: 25 September 2014.
- Make in India 2.0 covers 27 sectors.
- Manufacturing sectors covered: 15.
- Services sectors covered: 12.
- Major objective: Develop India as a global manufacturing, design and innovation hub.
Key Highlights
- Electronics production increased nearly seven times between 2014-15 and 2025-26, according to the supplied source.
- Domestic defence production reached ₹1.78 lakh crore in FY2025-26.
- The broader manufacturing ecosystem is supported by initiatives such as Production Linked Incentive (PLI), PM GatiShakti, National Single Window System and India Industrial Land Bank.
- Key sectors include electronics, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, steel, railways and defence.
DDU-GKY 2.0 Marks 12th Anniversary
Why in News: The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya-Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) marked its 12th anniversary on 25 September 2026. Around 70,000 rural youth across 24 States and Union Territories are expected to begin skill training under DDU-GKY 2.0 from October 2026.
Quick Facts
- Launched: 25 September 2014.
- Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development.
- Budget allocation for 2026-27: ₹750 crore.
- Expected October 2026 batches: 2,015.
- Expected trainees: Around 70,000 across 24 States/UTs.
Key Highlights
- The programme provides placement-linked skill development for rural youth.
- The minimum training duration under the revised framework is 576 hours.
- It mandates coverage targets of 50% for SC/ST candidates, 33% for women and 5% for persons with disabilities.
- Minimum placement duration has been extended from three to six months.
- Candidates remaining employed for 365 days are eligible for ₹5,000 retention support.
- 10% of the total budget is earmarked for North-Eastern States.
PFRDA Issues Operational Guidelines for NPS Swasthya
Why in News: The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) issued operational guidelines for NPS Swasthya, a health-linked pension scheme combining retirement savings with access to healthcare benefits under the National Pension System.
Quick Facts
- Regulator: PFRDA.
- Entry age: 18-70 years.
- Renewal permitted up to a maximum age of 85 years, subject to applicable terms.
- Family floater: Subscriber, spouse and maximum two dependent children.
- Parents are excluded from the stated family-floater coverage.
Key Highlights
- The scheme comprises an NPS Swasthya Investment Account and a Super Top-up.
- Minimum investment contribution at the initial stage includes ₹1,000 towards the NPS Swasthya account.
- Minimum subsequent contribution is ₹10.
- Family-floater sum-insured options mentioned in the guidelines include ₹1 lakh, ₹5 lakh, ₹10 lakh and ₹30 lakh.
- The guidelines came into effect immediately upon notification.
Kurukshetra ITI Cluster Gets ₹320 Crore Under PM-SETU
Why in News: The National Steering Committee under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship approved a ₹320 crore Strategic Investment Plan for the Kurukshetra ITI Cluster in Haryana under the PM-SETU Scheme.
Quick Facts
- Scheme: PM-SETU.
- Approved investment: ₹320 crore.
- Location: Kurukshetra, Haryana.
- Cluster comprises 7 Government ITIs.
- Cumulative investment across 10 ITI clusters: ₹2,491 crore.
Key Highlights
- PM-SETU stands for Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs.
- The Kurukshetra cluster follows a Hub-and-Spoke model.
- Jindal Naveen Avsar Limited serves as the Anchor Industry Partner.
- The partnership aims to improve practical training, apprenticeships, industry linkages and employment opportunities.
ICAI Issues SSA 5000 for Sustainability Assurance
Why in News: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) issued SSA 5000 - General Requirements & Framework for Sustainability Assurance Engagements to align Indian sustainability-assurance practices with global standards.
Quick Facts
- Standard: SSA 5000.
- Effective from: 1 April 2027.
- Aligned with: IAASB's ISSA 5000.
- ICAI established: 1949.
- ICAI headquarters: New Delhi.
Key Highlights
- The framework covers areas such as climate, labour practices and biodiversity.
- India-specific carve-outs cover joint audits and forward-looking statements.
- SSAE 3000 and SAE 3410 are to be withdrawn from April 2027.
- The framework seeks to increase consistency and stakeholder confidence in sustainability disclosures and address risks such as greenwashing.
FSSAI Proposes Restrictions on Non-Milk Products Being Sold as Paneer
Why in News: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) proposed draft regulations restricting analogue products made from non-milk constituents from using the word "Paneer" in their nomenclature, labelling or marketing.
Quick Facts
- Regulator: FSSAI.
- Proposal: Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Amendment Regulations, 2026.
- Products affected: Analogue products not derived from milk.
- Objective: Prevent consumers from being misled.
Key Highlights
- A new provision has been proposed under Regulation 2.1.1.
- Products registered under the "Analogue in Dairy Context" category would have to stop using "Paneer" if the proposal becomes effective.
- The proposal distinguishes traditional dairy paneer from analogue substitutes.
7th Nadi Utsav Focuses on Yamuna River
Why in News: The 7th Nadi Utsav was inaugurated in New Delhi with a special focus on the history, culture, environment and biodiversity of the Yamuna River.
Quick Facts
- Edition: 7th.
- Organiser: Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
- Venue: New Delhi.
- Focus river: Yamuna.
- Number of exhibitions: 6.
Key Highlights
- The festival explores the Yamuna's history, environment, biodiversity and living heritage.
- The six exhibitions remain open until 30 September 2026.
4th UP International Trade Show Begins in Greater Noida
Why in News: The 4th Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS) 2026 is being organised from 25-29 September 2026 at the India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida.
Quick Facts
- Edition: 4th.
- Venue: India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida.
- Dates: 25-29 September 2026.
- Organisers: Government of Uttar Pradesh and IEML.
Key Highlights
- The trade show showcases Uttar Pradesh's industrial capabilities and indigenous products.
- It connects exporters, buyers, investors, entrepreneurs and trade organisations.
- Major focus areas include trade, investment and exports.
International Current Affairs
Delhi Airport Rises to 28th in OAG Megahubs 2026 Ranking
Why in News: Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport rose 11 places to rank 28th in the OAG Megahubs 2026 international airport connectivity ranking.
Quick Facts
- Delhi Airport's 2026 rank: 28th.
- 2025 rank: 39th.
- World's most connected international airport: Istanbul Airport.
- Second: London Heathrow Airport.
- Third: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.
Key Highlights
- Istanbul Airport was connected with 337 global destinations.
- Asia-Pacific contributed eight airports to the world's top 20 megahubs.
- Kuala Lumpur Airport topped the Low-Cost Megahubs index.
- The ranking evaluates scheduled international-flight connection opportunities and destinations served.
IEA Projects India's Electrification Rate at 32% by 2035
Why in News: The International Energy Agency (IEA), in its Electrification Special Report 2026, projected India's electrification rate to increase from 19% to 32% by 2035.
Quick Facts
- Current/base rate cited: 19%.
- 2035 projection: 32%.
- Report: Electrification Special Report 2026.
- Major driver: Transport electrification and EV adoption.
Key Highlights
- Accelerated electrification could reduce global energy-import bills by more than USD 400 billion by 2035.
- India could save nearly 30% of its 2025 energy-import expenditure.
- Southeast Asia's electrification rate is projected to rise from 25% to 37%.
14th EAS and 23rd ASEAN-India Economic Meetings Held in Manila
Why in News: An Indian delegation participated in the 14th East Asia Summit Economic Ministers' Meeting and 23rd ASEAN-India Economic Ministers Consultation in Manila, Philippines, on 24 September 2026.
Quick Facts
- Venue: Manila, Philippines.
- Indian delegation led by: Nitin Kumar Yadav, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce.
- India-ASEAN trade in 2025-26: USD 128.38 billion.
- ASEAN share of India's global trade: 10.55%.
Key Highlights
- Discussions focused on the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).
- The review seeks to address trade asymmetries and improve business facilitation.
- The ASEAN-India Business Forum 2026 was organised on 23 September.
UK Launches No III Space Effects Squadron
Why in News: The United Kingdom launched the No III Space Effects Squadron on 23 September 2026 to protect satellite infrastructure and counter hostile activities in space.
Quick Facts
- Unit: No III Space Effects Squadron.
- Service: Royal Air Force.
- Parent structure: UK Space Command.
- UK Space Command established: 2021.
Key Highlights
- The squadron will support protection of satellites used for communications, navigation and missile-warning functions.
- Its responsibilities include electronic-warfare capabilities against hostile space activity.
- It complements No I Space Operations Squadron and No II Space Warning Squadron.
Banking & Finance
RBI Revises REIT and InvIT Valuation Norms
Why in News: The Reserve Bank of India issued revised directions on 22 September 2026 governing valuation of units of REITs and InvITs held by regulated financial institutions.
Quick Facts
- Directions issued: 22 September 2026.
- Effective: Immediately.
- REIT: Real Estate Investment Trust.
- InvIT: Infrastructure Investment Trust.
Key Highlights
- The revised framework seeks to eliminate ambiguity and create uniform valuation practices.
- It applies to categories including commercial banks, AIFIs, Small Finance Banks, Payment Banks and Local Area Banks.
- The source notes that India's REIT market reached USD 17.7 billion.
Samvriddhi Inclusive Secures RBI In-Principle Approval as PA-Online
Why in News: Samvriddhi Inclusive Growth Network (SIGN), a subsidiary of MOS Utility Limited, secured RBI's in-principle authorisation to operate as an Online Payment Aggregator (PA-Online).
Quick Facts
- Company: Samvriddhi Inclusive Growth Network Pvt. Ltd.
- Abbreviation: SIGN.
- Regulator: RBI.
- Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal.
Key Highlights
- Following final authorisation, SIGN can offer online payment aggregation to merchants.
- Proposed payment modes include UPI, QR payments, cards and net banking.
- The service particularly targets rural, semi-urban and underserved markets.
PayGlocal Gets IFSCA In-Principle Approval for GIFT City PSP
Why in News: Cross-border payments company PayGlocal secured in-principle approval from IFSCA to establish a Payment Service Provider in GIFT City, Gandhinagar.
Quick Facts
- Regulator: International Financial Services Centres Authority.
- Location: GIFT City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
- Company founded: 2021.
- Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Key Highlights
- The proposed entity can undertake account issuance, e-money accounts, merchant acquisition and cross-border money transfers.
- PayGlocal already holds RBI authorisation as a Payment Aggregator-Cross Border for inward and outward transactions.
- The company supports payments in more than 130 countries.
SBI Card Launches FD-Backed Advantage SBI Card on YONO
Why in News: SBI Card launched a fully digital facility through the SBI YONO platform enabling eligible customers to obtain an Advantage SBI Card backed by a fixed deposit.
Quick Facts
- Platform: YONO.
- Product: Advantage SBI Card.
- Type: Fixed Deposit-backed secured credit card.
- Approximate digital application time: 10 minutes.
Key Highlights
- The FD serves as collateral for the credit facility.
- Four card variants are covered: SBI Card ELITE, SBI Card PRIME, SimplyCLICK SBI Card and SimplySAVE SBI Card.
- The product can help customers establish or strengthen their formal credit profile.
Economy & Business
ADB Raises India's FY27 GDP Growth Forecast to 7%
Why in News: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) raised India's GDP growth forecast for FY2026-27 by 40 basis points, from 6.6% to 7%, in its Asian Development Outlook September 2026.
Quick Facts
- FY27 GDP forecast: 7%.
- Previous forecast: 6.6%.
- Revision: +40 basis points.
- FY28 forecast: 7.1%.
- FY27 inflation forecast: 5%.
Key Highlights
- The upgrade reflects stronger-than-expected performance in Q1 FY27.
- Investment, consumption, manufacturing and services were cited as supporting factors.
- The FY28 forecast was lowered from 7.3% to 7.1%.
- Developing Asia-Pacific growth for 2026 was projected at 5%.
India's Semiconductor Demand Projected at USD 150 Billion by 2030
Why in News: India's annual semiconductor demand is projected to reach approximately USD 150 billion by 2030, according to projections cited from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
Quick Facts
- Projected 2030 demand: Around USD 150 billion.
- 2026 market estimate: Around USD 64 billion.
- Earlier 2030 estimate: Around USD 103.4 billion.
- Key ecosystem segments: Semiconductor fabs and OSAT/ATMP facilities.
Key Highlights
- The higher projection reflects rapid growth in electronics manufacturing and semiconductor consumption.
- India is expanding domestic fabrication, packaging and testing capacity.
- Government-supported semiconductor facilities are expected to meet part of future domestic demand.
Maruti Suzuki Commissions First Green Hydrogen Plant at Manesar
Why in News: Maruti Suzuki India commissioned its first 300 kW green hydrogen plant at its Manesar manufacturing facility in Haryana on 25 September 2026.
Quick Facts
- Capacity: 300 kW.
- Location: Manesar, Haryana.
- Technology: Green hydrogen electrolyser.
- Planned green-energy investment by FY31: ₹925 crore.
Key Highlights
- The pilot plant uses surplus solar power generated at the facility.
- Green hydrogen will be blended with natural gas for process-fuel applications.
- The company also plans a 10-tonne-per-day biogas plant at Kharkhoda.
- The initiative aligns with India's National Green Hydrogen Mission.
Microsoft Opens India South Central Cloud Region in Hyderabad
Why in News: Microsoft launched its India South Central cloud region in Hyderabad on 24 September 2026 as Telangana announced a target of 5 GW hyperscale data-centre capacity by 2029.
Quick Facts
- Location: Hyderabad, Telangana.
- India South Central is Microsoft's 4th cloud region in India.
- Telangana 2029 target: 5 GW hyperscale data-centre capacity.
- Potential investment cited: USD 30 billion.
Key Highlights
- The infrastructure is optimised for AI-scale computing and high-density GPUs.
- The state currently has around 300 MW of operational data centres, with another 2 GW under development.
- A 600-hour Data Center Academy has also been launched with IIIT Hyderabad and Young India Skills University.
Science & Technology
DRDO Signs Deep-Tech Pact for Indigenous 20 mK Dilution Refrigerator
Why in News: DRDO signed its first high-value deep-tech project agreement under the Technology Development Fund with Zero mK India Private Limited for indigenous development of a 20 mK dilution refrigerator for quantum applications.
Quick Facts
- Technology: 20 mK Dilution Refrigerator.
- 20 mK equals approximately 0.02 Kelvin.
- Scheme: Technology Development Fund.
- Deep-tech corpus: ₹500 crore.
- Partner: Zero mK India Private Limited.
Key Highlights
- A dilution refrigerator creates extremely low cryogenic temperatures needed for quantum systems.
- The project supports the National Quantum Mission.
- It seeks to reduce dependence on imported cryogenic infrastructure.
- The TDF Scheme is a Ministry of Defence programme implemented by DRDO.
IIEST Shibpur and TCS Establish AI Centre of Excellence
Why in News: IIEST Shibpur and Tata Consultancy Services signed an MoU to establish a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence.
Quick Facts
- Institution: IIEST Shibpur, West Bengal.
- Knowledge Partner: TCS.
- Venue: High-Performance Computing Lab, Electrical Engineering Department.
- Focus: Artificial Intelligence.
Key Highlights
- Focus areas include Natural Language Processing, Computer Vision, Image Processing and Data Analytics.
- The centre will support internships, research, innovation and AI startups.
- The initiative aims to bridge academia and industry and build a future-ready workforce.
ISRO and ESA Extend Space Cooperation Until 2032
Why in News: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and European Space Agency (ESA) extended their Cooperative Agreement for five years until 8 January 2032.
Quick Facts
- Extended until: 8 January 2032.
- Agreement in force since: January 2002.
- ISRO signatory: Dr V. Narayanan.
- ESA signatory: Dr Josef Aschbacher.
- Exchange took place in Paris, France.
Key Highlights
- New areas include human and robotic exploration, space weather and sustainable outer-space activities.
- Existing collaboration includes Earth observation, satellite navigation, space science and mission operations.
- The extension builds on agreements reached between the two organisations during 2025 and 2026.
NASA Selects PRIMA as First Probe Explorers Mission
Why in News: NASA selected PRIMA — Probe far-Infrared Mission for Astrophysics — as the inaugural mission under its Probe Explorers class.
Quick Facts
- Mission: PRIMA.
- Target launch: 2033.
- Planned science duration: 5 years.
- Telescope size: 1.8 metres.
- Project cost cap: USD 1.2 billion, excluding specified additional costs.
Key Highlights
- PRIMA will study the universe in far-infrared wavelengths.
- Science goals include studying the formation of planets, stars, galaxies and black holes.
- The mission will also investigate the cosmic origins of water and accumulation of heavy elements.
Environment
New Plant Species Begonia neelamorum Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh
Why in News: A new flowering plant species named Begonia neelamorum was formally reported from Keyi Panyor district in Arunachal Pradesh.
Quick Facts
- Species: Begonia neelamorum.
- Location: Keyi Panyor district, Arunachal Pradesh.
- Habitat area reported: Around 3 sq km.
- Elevation: Around 1,000 metres.
- Conservation status: Provisionally Data Deficient (DD).
Key Highlights
- The species was found along the Keyi River.
- Its type specimen was collected on 24 May 2026.
- The plant is approximately 10-20 cm tall and tuberous.
- It was named after the Neelam clan of the Nyishi community.
- The findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Taiwania.
Awards & Recognition
Mizoram Farmer ZT Lalrithangi Selected Among FAO's 100 Women Heroes
Why in News: ZT Lalrithangi, a strawberry grower from Sangau village in Mizoram's Lawngtlai district, was selected among the FAO's "100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development".
Quick Facts
- Awardee: ZT Lalrithangi, also known as Pi Mari-i.
- State: Mizoram.
- Recognition: FAO 100 Women Heroes.
- Global selections: 100 women.
- Nominations: More than 600 from 131 countries.
Key Highlights
- She is one of two women selected from India.
- She became the first Mizo person to receive this recognition.
- The recognition is linked to the International Year of Women Farmers 2026.
- It will be presented during the World Food Forum at FAO headquarters in Rome from 12-16 October 2026.
- Her work centres on strawberry cultivation and value-added products.
Shantanu Moitra Selected for National Lata Mangeshkar Samman 2026
Why in News: Music composer Shantanu Moitra was selected for the National Lata Mangeshkar Samman 2026 by the Madhya Pradesh Culture Department.
Quick Facts
- Recipient: Shantanu Moitra.
- Award: National Lata Mangeshkar Samman.
- Prize: ₹5 lakh and citation.
- Award instituted: 1984.
- State: Madhya Pradesh.
Key Highlights
- The award recognises excellence in light music and alternates between music direction and playback singing.
- The 2026 honour is for music direction.
- The ceremony is scheduled at Lata Mangeshkar Auditorium in Indore on 28 September.
Sports
Kamaljeet and Suruchi Inder Singh Win Asian Games Shooting Gold
Why in News: Indian shooters Kamaljeet and Suruchi Inder Singh won gold in the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event at the 2026 Asian Games.
Quick Facts
- Event: 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team.
- Gold: India.
- Indian pair: Kamaljeet and Suruchi Inder Singh.
- Final score: 484.6.
- Qualification score: 587.
Key Highlights
- The medal was India's second gold of the Games, according to the supplied source.
- South Korea won silver.
- Iran secured bronze.
- The Indian pair had also topped the qualification round.
State Current Affairs
Punjab Notifies 8% Dearness Allowance Hike
Why in News: The Punjab Government notified an 8% increase in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief for state employees and pensioners on 24 September 2026.
Quick Facts
- Previous DA: 42%.
- Revised DA: 50%.
- Effective from: 1 September 2026.
- Approximate beneficiaries: 8 lakh.
Key Highlights
- The revision covers state government employees, pensioners and eligible family pensioners.
- The enhanced allowance is payable with the September salary.
Delhi Launches PM Surya Ghar Portal
Why in News: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched the Delhi PM Surya Ghar portal under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan to facilitate residential rooftop-solar installations.
Quick Facts
- Maximum combined subsidy: ₹1.56 lakh for systems up to 3 kW.
- Central contribution: ₹78,000.
- Delhi Government contribution: ₹78,000.
- National scheme: PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.
Key Highlights
- Domestic consumers using up to 400 units monthly can install eligible systems with zero upfront payment under the mechanism described in the supplied source.
- The portal integrates national and Delhi solar-policy information.
- Delhi's Solar Policy targets 4,500 MW installed solar capacity by 2027.
Mizoram Holds First Pluck & Pay Festival
Why in News: Mizoram organised its first-ever Pluck & Pay Festival in Khawzawl district from 23-25 September 2026.
Quick Facts
- State: Mizoram.
- District: Khawzawl.
- Villages: Tualte and Chawngtlai.
- Dates: 23-25 September 2026.
- Type: Agro-tourism initiative.
Key Highlights
- Visitors harvest fresh produce directly from participating farms and pay producers.
- The festival was jointly organised by Mizoram's Tourism Department and the Deputy Commissioner's office.
- The initiative seeks to link agriculture with tourism and direct farmer income.
West Bengal Makes GeM Mandatory for Government Procurement
Why in News: The West Bengal Government mandated use of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) for procurement of goods and services by state departments and organisations under its administrative control.
Quick Facts
- Platform: Government e-Marketplace.
- GeM launched: August 2016.
- Nodal Union Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- State: West Bengal.
Key Highlights
- The mandate covers state departments, subordinate offices and controlled organisations.
- Its objectives include greater transparency, efficiency and cost savings in public procurement.
Defence Current Affairs
INS Trishul Participates in 24th India-France Exercise VARUNA
Why in News: Indian Navy guided-missile frigate INS Trishul arrived at Toulon, France, on 22 September 2026 to participate in the 24th edition of bilateral maritime exercise VARUNA.
Quick Facts
- Exercise: VARUNA.
- Countries: India and France.
- Edition: 24th.
- Venue: Toulon, France.
- INS Trishul: Talwar-class guided-missile frigate.
Key Highlights
- The exercise includes harbour and sea phases.
- Activities include operational interactions, cross-deck visits and PASSEX drills.
- Exercise VARUNA began in 1993 and received the name "Varuna" in 2001.
- Before reaching France, INS Trishul completed a port call at Alexandria, Egypt.
Books & Authors
Vice-President Releases 'Vishwasanchar Hindutva Ka'
Why in News: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan released the book "Vishwasanchar Hindutva Ka", published by Saptahik Vivek, at Uprashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi on 24 September 2026.
Quick Facts
- Book: Vishwasanchar Hindutva Ka.
- Released by: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan.
- Publisher: Saptahik Vivek.
- Venue: Uprashtrapati Bhawan, New Delhi.
Key Highlights
- The book examines cultural heritage, identity and the movement and exchange of ideas across regions.
- The release coincides with the centenary period of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, founded in 1925.
Important Days
World Rhino Day 2026 - September 22
Why in News: World Rhino Day was observed on 22 September 2026 to raise awareness about rhinoceros conservation.
Quick Facts
- Date: 22 September.
- Origin: WWF South Africa initiative in 2010.
- First international observance: 2011.
- Purpose: Rhino awareness and conservation.
World Rose Day 2026 - September 22
Why in News: World Rose Day, also called the Day for the Welfare of Cancer Patients, was observed on 22 September 2026.
Quick Facts
- Date: 22 September.
- Purpose: Support cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.
- The observance is associated with the memory of Melinda Rose.
- The rose symbolises hope and compassion.
National Ayurveda Day 2026 - September 23
Why in News: India observed the 11th National Ayurveda Day on 23 September 2026 with national celebrations organised in Nagpur, Maharashtra.
Quick Facts
- Date: 23 September.
- 2026 Theme: "Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow".
- First observed: 28 October 2016.
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of AYUSH.
Key Highlights
- National Ayurveda Day was originally linked to Dhanvantari Jayanti.
- The Government fixed 23 September as its permanent annual date in May 2025, according to the supplied source.
- The observance promotes the role of Ayurveda in healthcare and disease prevention.
Current Affairs One-Liners
Quick Revision
- Make in India → completed 12 years → launched 25 September 2014.
- Make in India 2.0 → 27 sectors → 15 manufacturing + 12 services.
- DDU-GKY → completed 12 years → placement-linked rural skill programme.
- DDU-GKY 2.0 → around 70,000 youth → training expected across 24 States/UTs.
- NPS Swasthya → guidelines issued by PFRDA → combines pension investment and health benefits.
- PM-SETU → Kurukshetra ITI Cluster → ₹320 crore approved.
- SSA 5000 → issued by ICAI → effective 1 April 2027.
- FSSAI → proposed restriction on non-milk analogue products using the term "Paneer".
- 7th Nadi Utsav → New Delhi → focused on Yamuna River.
- 4th UPITS → Greater Noida → 25-29 September 2026.
- OAG Megahubs 2026 → Delhi Airport ranked 28th globally for international connectivity.
- World's most-connected international airport in OAG report → Istanbul Airport.
- IEA India electrification projection → 19% to 32% by 2035.
- India-ASEAN trade 2025-26 → USD 128.38 billion.
- UK → launched No III Space Effects Squadron → satellite protection and space operations.
- RBI → revised valuation rules → REIT and InvIT units.
- SIGN → RBI in-principle approval → PA-Online.
- PayGlocal → IFSCA in-principle approval → PSP in GIFT City.
- Advantage SBI Card → FD-backed secured credit card → available digitally through YONO.
- ADB FY27 India GDP forecast → 7% → raised from 6.6%.
- India semiconductor demand → around USD 150 billion by 2030.
- Maruti Suzuki → first 300 kW green hydrogen plant → Manesar.
- Microsoft India South Central → Hyderabad → Microsoft's 4th Indian cloud region.
- DRDO-Zero mK India → indigenous 20 mK dilution refrigerator → quantum applications.
- IIEST Shibpur + TCS → Centre of Excellence → Artificial Intelligence.
- ISRO-ESA cooperation → extended until 8 January 2032.
- NASA PRIMA → first Probe Explorers mission → targeted launch in 2033.
- Begonia neelamorum → new flowering plant → Arunachal Pradesh.
- ZT Lalrithangi → FAO 100 Women Heroes → first Mizo recipient.
- Shantanu Moitra → National Lata Mangeshkar Samman 2026 → ₹5 lakh prize.
- Asian Games shooting → Kamaljeet + Suruchi Inder Singh → 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team gold.
- Punjab DA → increased from 42% to 50%.
- Delhi PM Surya Ghar → combined subsidy up to ₹1.56 lakh.
- Mizoram → first Pluck & Pay Festival → Khawzawl district.
- West Bengal → GeM made mandatory → government procurement.
- VARUNA 2026 → 24th edition → India-France naval exercise.
- World Rhino Day → 22 September.
- World Rose Day → 22 September.
- National Ayurveda Day → 23 September → theme "Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow".
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How many years did the Make in India initiative complete in September 2026?
What is NPS Swasthya?
What is ADB's GDP growth forecast for India for FY27?
What was Delhi Airport's rank in the OAG Megahubs 2026 report?
Until when has the ISRO-ESA cooperation agreement been extended?
What is the 20 mK dilution refrigerator project of DRDO?
Who won India's 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team gold at the 2026 Asian Games?
Which new plant species was discovered in Arunachal Pradesh in 2026?
Who was selected among FAO's 100 Women Heroes from Mizoram?
What is the theme of National Ayurveda Day 2026?
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