AIIA launches Garbhini Mitra course for Ayurveda maternal wellness.

Dated: 27 August 2026

All India Institute of Ayurveda launched Garbhini Mitra course for 2026-27 academic session on 24 August 2026. The six-month offline skill-development programme will train personnel for Ayurvedic maternal care through antenatal, postnatal and pre-conceptional wellness practices.

Key Highlights:
•   AIIA launched Garbhini Mitra course for Ayurvedic maternal care.
•   Course is a six-month offline skill-development programme.
•   It is conducted at AIIA campus in Sarita Vihar, New Delhi.
•   Curriculum includes Garbhini Paricharya for antenatal care.
•   It includes Sutika Paricharya for postnatal care and Garbhadhana Vidhi for pre-conceptional care.
•   Training covers newborn massage, pregnancy-safe yoga and emotional support during labour.
•   Students will learn basic life support, infection control and biomedical waste management.
•   Classes are held Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 5 PM.
•   Each batch has intake capacity of 20 students.
•   Eligibility is Senior Secondary 10+2 pass and minimum age of 18 years.
•   Graduates can work as Antenatal Wellness Guides, Garbhini Mitras or Maternal Health Support Workers.

Additional Information:
•   AIIA is autonomous premier institute under Ministry of Ayush.
•   AIIA headquarters is in New Delhi.
•   AIIA was formally inaugurated in 2017.
•   Ministry of Ayush was formed on 9 November 2014.
•   Ayush covers Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy.

UPI completes 10 years as world largest real-time payment system.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Unified Payments Interface completed 10 years of operations on 25 August 2026 and emerged as world largest real-time payment system by transaction volume. UPI was launched by National Payments Corporation of India on 25 August 2016 under regulatory oversight of Reserve Bank of India.

Key Highlights:
•   UPI completed 10 years of operations on 25 August 2026.
•   UPI is world largest real-time payment system by transaction volume.
•   NPCI launched UPI on 25 August 2016 under RBI oversight.
•   Annual transaction volume rose from 1.78 crore in FY 2016-17 to over 24,162 crore in FY 2025-26.
•   Transaction value increased from ?0.07 lakh crore to about ?314 lakh crore in the decade.
•   Average daily transactions reached 66 crore by 2026.
•   IMF recognised UPI as world leader in real-time payments.
•   UPI accounted for 49 percent of world real-time payment transaction volume in 2025.
•   UPI operates in 11 countries including UAE, France, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Mauritius and Nepal.
•   Live banks increased from 21 at launch to 741 by July 2026.
•   UPI held 84 percent share in India digital payments ecosystem in FY 2025-26.
•   Monthly transaction volume hit record 2,366 crore in July 2026.

Additional Information:
•   NPCI was established in 2008 as umbrella organisation for retail payment systems.
•   NPCI headquarters is in Mumbai.
•   NPCI was founded jointly by RBI and Indian Banks Association.
•   UPI links multiple bank accounts in single mobile application.
•   UPI supports immediate money transfer through Virtual Payment Address.
•   UPI is a key pillar of India Digital Public Infrastructure.

Third India-Cambodia Joint Working Group meeting held in Phnom Penh.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Third India-Cambodia Joint Working Group meeting on Trade and Investment was held in Phnom Penh on 24 August 2026 to strengthen economic ties. The meeting reviewed growing bilateral trade, digital-payment linkage through UPI and KHQR, investment opportunities and proposed agreements on customs cooperation and investment protection.

Key Highlights:
•   Third India-Cambodia Joint Working Group meeting on Trade and Investment was held in Phnom Penh.
•   India-Cambodia trade grew over 36 percent to USD 406.78 million in FY 2025-26.
•   Total trade was USD 299 million in previous financial year.
•   April-June 2026 quarter saw 63.25 percent year-on-year trade growth.
•   Cambodia is India eighth largest trading partner in ASEAN.
•   UPI acceptance at KHQR-enabled merchants in Phnom Penh was launched on 2 June 2026.
•   Meeting discussed enabling Cambodian payment apps to scan UPI QR codes in India.
•   Both sides discussed early signing of MoU on Customs Cooperation and completion of Bilateral Investment Treaty.
•   Five to seven priority sectors for Indian investment were identified, including Education, Healthcare, IT, Agriculture and Tourism.
•   Meeting was co-chaired by India Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Cambodia Ministry of Commerce.
•   Next JWGTI meeting will be held in India in 2027.

Additional Information:
•   Cambodia is Southeast Asian country with capital Phnom Penh.
•   Cambodia currency is Cambodian Riel.
•   Cambodia is member of ASEAN.
•   ASEAN was established on 8 August 1967 by Bangkok Declaration.
•   ASEAN headquarters is in Jakarta, Indonesia.
•   India became ASEAN sectoral dialogue partner in 1992 and full dialogue partner in 1995.

India Post upgrades Dak MITRA and Dak Sewa apps.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Ministry of Communications launched upgraded Dak MITRA and Dak Sewa mobile applications on 24 August 2026 and inaugurated 14 renovated post office buildings. The apps strengthen paperless postal and financial services, multilingual citizen access and infrastructure modernisation under DoP IT 2.0 transformation.

Key Highlights:
•   Ministry of Communications launched upgraded Dak MITRA and Dak Sewa mobile applications.
•   Fourteen renovated Post Office buildings were inaugurated.
•   Dak MITRA means Mobile Interface for Transactions and Rural Assistance.
•   Dak MITRA was developed by Centre for Excellence in Postal Technology under DoP IT 2.0 Modernization project.
•   It acts as unified platform for more than 1.4 lakh Branch Post Offices.
•   The app uses Android handheld devices for real-time paperless transactions.
•   It supports Aadhaar-based biometric e-KYC, cash deposits, withdrawals and PLI/RPLI premium collection at doorstep.
•   Dak Sewa is integrated with BHASHINI and provides services in 23 Indian languages.
•   Dak Sewa offers 24x7 tracking, booking, complaints and financial calculators.
•   Forty post offices across 17 states were identified for initial transformation phase.
•   Phase 1 completion deadline is 31 August 2026 and another 60 post offices are planned during current fiscal year.

Additional Information:
•   India Post functions under Ministry of Communications.
•   India Post headquarters is in New Delhi.
•   Postal modernisation aligns with Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
•   Advanced Postal Technology is core platform of DoP IT 2.0 digital transformation.

India launches first non-GMO high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan launched India first non-GMO, high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed at Musunuru in Eluru district of Andhra Pradesh on 24 August 2026. Developed by Gourmet Popcornica, the indigenous hybrid aims to reduce dependence on imported technology and strengthen Aatmanirbhar Bharat in agriculture.

Key Highlights:
•   India first non-GMO high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed was launched at Musunuru, Eluru district, Andhra Pradesh.
•   Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan launched the hybrid seed.
•   Gourmet Popcornica developed the indigenous hybrid.
•   The project aims to reduce dependence on imported hybrid technology.
•   It is expected to conserve foreign exchange and improve global competitiveness.
•   The initiative involves more than 17,500 farmers across eight states.
•   Cultivation area covers around 40,000 acres.
•   Project integrates maize processing, quality control and cold storage.
•   The initiative seeks to improve market access and income for farming families.
•   It supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat in agriculture and expansion of popcorn maize sector.

Additional Information:
•   Andhra Pradesh Governor is S Abdul Nazeer.
•   Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister is N Chandrababu Naidu.
•   Maize scientific name is Zea mays.
•   Maize is called Queen of Cereals because of high productivity.
•   Top maize-producing states include Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
•   PM-KISAN provides ?6,000 annual income support to farmer families.

India reports 21.76 million hectares land restoration at UNCCD COP17.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Union Minister Bhupender Yadav announced at UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia that India restored 21.76 million hectares of land between 2011 and 2020. The restoration efforts generated about 1.22 billion person-days of employment and support India enhanced target of restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.

Key Highlights:
•   India restored 21.76 million hectares land between 2011 and 2020.
•   Announcement was made by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav at UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
•   Land restoration generated about 1.22 billion person-days of employment.
•   India enhanced target is restoration of 26 million hectares degraded land by 2030.
•   Second Progress Report on Bonn Challenge covered 2011-2020 period.
•   Next reporting cycle for 2021-2025 is being conducted by ICFRE Centre of Excellence on Sustainable Land Management.
•   ICFRE is collaborating with International Union for Conservation of Nature.
•   Key schemes include Green India Mission, Nagar Van Yojana and CAMPA.
•   Green India Mission focuses on tree cover and climate resilience.
•   Nagar Van Yojana supports urban greening through forestry.
•   CAMPA uses Compensatory Afforestation Fund for restoration activities.

Additional Information:
•   UNCCD was established in 1994 and is only legally binding international agreement on land management.
•   UNCCD headquarters is in Bonn, Germany.
•   Bonn Challenge was launched in 2011 by Germany and IUCN.
•   Bonn Challenge aims to restore 350 million hectares degraded land globally by 2030.
•   ICFRE is autonomous council under Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
•   ICFRE was established in 1986 and is headquartered in Dehradun.

MeitY Startup Hub launches GENESIS EIR Cohort-3 programme.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology launched GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence Cohort-3 programme on 4 August 2026 during a summit in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The programme provides funding, incubation and mentorship support for early-stage startups in emerging technologies, particularly in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

Key Highlights:
•   MeitY launched GENESIS Entrepreneur-in-Residence Cohort-3 programme.
•   GENESIS stands for Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups.
•   Programme offers up to ?10 lakh funding per startup for incubation and mentorship.
•   Eligible projects must be at Technology Readiness Level 1 to 4.
•   It supports Proof of Concept and prototype development.
•   GENESIS scheme has total budget outlay of ?490 crore.
•   Focus sectors include Electronics, IT, DeepTech, AI and Machine Learning, and Quantum Technologies.
•   Other areas include Cybersecurity, Blockchain, Semiconductor/VLSI and Internet of Things.
•   Programme supports startups in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
•   Applicants must be Indian citizens and startups must be less than two years old.
•   Startups should not have received more than ?10 lakh in earlier government aid.
•   Application window is from 4 August to 3 September 2026.

Additional Information:
•   MeitY Startup Hub is national platform under Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
•   Dr Panneerselvam Madanagopal is CEO of MeitY Startup Hub.
•   It enables India startup and DeepTech ecosystem.
•   GENESIS scheme accelerates innovation-led entrepreneurship in emerging regions.

Tamil Nadu announces TN-ARIVU AI and emerging technology curriculum.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Tamil Nadu announced TN-ARIVU Artificial Intelligence and emerging technology curriculum on 25 August 2026 as part of educational schemes with total outlay of ?44,527 crore. The curriculum will begin in academic year 2027-28 and will provide age-appropriate AI learning from Classes I to XII.

Key Highlights:
•   Tamil Nadu announced TN-ARIVU AI and emerging technology curriculum.
•   Implementation will begin in academic year 2027-28.
•   ARIVU Foundation will cover Classes I to V.
•   ARIVU Discovery will cover Classes VI to VIII.
•   ARIVU Edge will cover Classes IX to XII.
•   Vetripathai scheme will provide coaching and mock tests for national-level entrance examinations.
•   Vetripathai covers 172 government higher secondary schools with ?22.36 crore budget.
•   Mathichudar scheme will conduct competency-based assessments for Classes VI to XII in 2026-27.
•   Mathichudar has budget of ?18.01 crore.
•   Tamil Chair at University of Houston will receive ?5.75 crore allocation.
•   PLAY initiative will provide every student daily period for sports and arts.
•   ?81.89 crore has been allocated for sports uniforms for 23.4 lakh students of Classes IX to XII.

Additional Information:
•   Tamil Nadu was formed as Madras State on 1 November 1956.
•   Madras State was officially renamed Tamil Nadu in 1969.
•   Tamil Nadu state animal is Nilgiri Tahr.
•   Tamil Nadu state bird is Emerald Dove.
•   Great Living Chola Temples in Tamil Nadu are UNESCO World Heritage Site.

MoFPI organises PMFME Conclave 2026 and PMFME Bazaar in Delhi.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Minister of Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan inaugurated PMFME Conclave 2026 and PMFME Bazaar at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi on 24-25 August 2026. The event brought together micro-food-processing stakeholders, highlighted success stories and signed institutional MoUs to expand market access, technology support and digital commerce for entrepreneurs.

Key Highlights:
•   Chirag Paswan inaugurated PMFME Conclave 2026 and PMFME Bazaar in New Delhi.
•   Event was held at India Habitat Centre on 24-25 August 2026.
•   More than 500 stakeholders participated in the event.
•   Exhibitors from 25 states and Union Territories showcased unique and processed foods.
•   Coffee Table Book featuring 30 success stories of micro-entrepreneurs was launched.
•   FoodNova quarterly magazine was launched to document food-processing innovations and trends.
•   MoFPI signed MoUs with APEDA, ONDC and NABKISAN.
•   Initiative provides financial assistance, technology transfer and capacity building to micro-enterprises.
•   Sessions focused on sustainability, finance access and SHG-led food enterprises.
•   Operational goal is better branding, packaging and digital-commerce access for grassroots entrepreneurs.

Additional Information:
•   PMFME scheme was launched under Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
•   PMFME nodal ministry is Ministry of Food Processing Industries.
•   PMFME aims to formalise unorganised micro food-processing sector.
•   APEDA was established under APEDA Act, 1985 and is headquartered in New Delhi.
•   ONDC is initiative of Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.

9th National Security Strategies Conference 2026 held in New Delhi.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated 9th National Security Strategies Conference 2026 in New Delhi on 24-25 August 2026. The hybrid conference brought together over 850 participants to discuss AI-enabled intelligence analysis, counter-terrorism, cybercrime, narcotics, proxy warfare, information warfare and bio-security.

Key Highlights:
•   Amit Shah inaugurated 9th National Security Strategies Conference 2026 in New Delhi.
•   Conference was conducted in hybrid format with over 850 participants.
•   Participants included DGSPs of States and UTs, young police officers, and heads of CAPFs and CPOs.
•   Implementation of AI-based analysis on Multi Agency Centre platforms was directed.
•   Conference focused on SOPs to counter national-security challenges.
•   Training under MHA PRAHAAR scheme was emphasised to tackle terrorism and radicalisation.
•   Policy framework was proposed for cybercrime, narcotics and proxy warfare by Pakistan.
•   Trial in absentia provisions were suggested to speed up trial of fugitives.
•   Integrated investigation approach was mandated for UAPA cases.
•   Strategic discussions covered countermeasures for sub-aerial systems, blue economy security, information warfare and bio-security.

Additional Information:
•   National Security Strategies Conference has been held annually in hybrid format since 2021.
•   Conference was initiated on directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
•   It bridges gap between domain experts and ground-level officers.
•   Multi Agency Centre is nodal body for multi-agency intelligence sharing in India.
•   MAC functions under Intelligence Bureau and streamlines intelligence fusion and analysis.

India and Japan strengthen investment partnership in semiconductors and AI.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Union Minister Piyush Goyal held high-level discussions with Japanese financial institutions in Tokyo on 25 August 2026 to accelerate capital flows into India semiconductor and AI sectors. The partnership targets 10 trillion yen of Japanese private investment in India over next 10 years and includes digital infrastructure, green hydrogen, AI and cybersecurity.

Key Highlights:
•   Piyush Goyal held discussions with Japanese financial institutions in Tokyo.
•   Talks focused on semiconductor and AI investment in India.
•   Partnership targets 10 trillion yen Japanese private investment in India over 10 years.
•   India targets USD 30 trillion economy by 2047.
•   India recorded 7.7 percent growth in previous fiscal year.
•   Key sectors include India Semiconductor Mission, green hydrogen, data centres and digital infrastructure.
•   Artificial Intelligence and cybersecurity integration are key areas.
•   MUFG invested about USD 4 billion in Shriram Finance.
•   Mizuho expanded operations through Global Capability Centre in Pune.
•   Morgan Stanley has over 19,000 employees in India.
•   Focus areas include profit repatriation, ease of capital flows and GIFT City as gateway for foreign investment.

Additional Information:
•   GIFT City is India first operational smart city and International Financial Services Centre.
•   GIFT City is located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
•   Capital of Japan is Tokyo.
•   Currency of Japan is Japanese Yen.
•   Ministry of Commerce and Industry is led by Piyush Goyal and formulates FDI policy.

Centre approves privatisation of 11 airports in five bundles.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee approved Ministry of Civil Aviation proposal to privatise 11 airports by grouping them into five bundles on 4 August 2026. The airports will be developed under 50-year PPP concessions, while Airports Authority of India will retain air traffic control and navigation services and AAICLAS will retain cargo operations.

Key Highlights:
•   PPPAC approved privatisation of 11 airports in five bundles.
•   Bundles are Amritsar and Kangra-Gaggal; Varanasi, Gaya and Kushinagar; Bhubaneswar and Hubballi; Raipur and Aurangabad; Tiruchirappalli and Tirupati.
•   Airports will be developed through PPP model with 50-year concession period.
•   Earnings from larger airports will cross-subsidise smaller airports.
•   Government will cap bundles allotted to a single bidder to prevent market dominance.
•   AAI will continue Air Traffic Control and navigation services.
•   AAICLAS will retain all cargo operations.
•   Central sector PPP projects above ?250 crore must be appraised by PPPAC.
•   PPPAC is chaired by Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs.
•   One-year joint management period will operate between AAI and private concessionaires.
•   Private operators must retain 60 percent of existing AAI employees for at least three years.

Additional Information:
•   AAI is statutory body under Ministry of Civil Aviation.
•   AAI was established in 1995 through merger of International Airports Authority of India and National Airports Authority.
•   AAI headquarters is in New Delhi.
•   In 2018-19, six airports were privatised: Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Jaipur, Thiruvananthapuram and Guwahati.
•   All six airports in earlier round were awarded to Adani Group.

US launches Operation Economic Outcast against Iran.

Dated: 27 August 2026

United States Treasury launched Operation Economic Outcast against Iran on 24 August 2026 to isolate Iranian regime from global financial networks. The economic campaign targets five critical sectors and nearly 60 Iran-linked entities, individuals and vessels associated with nuclear, missile, cyber and oil operations.

Key Highlights:
•   US Treasury launched Operation Economic Outcast against Iran.
•   Operation aims to isolate Iran from global financial networks.
•   Campaign targets digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping sectors.
•   Nearly 60 Iran-linked entities, individuals and vessels were targeted.
•   Sanctions cover networks involved in nuclear, missile, cyber and oil operations.
•   Broker companies in UAE, Hong Kong, China, Singapore and Switzerland supporting shadow-fleet vessels were included.
•   Iranian Rial fell to record low of 2.02 million per US Dollar.
•   IMF projected over 5 percent GDP contraction for Iran.
•   Food-price inflation rose sharply, with beef costs increasing by 150 percent.
•   Iran warned of halting oil exports through Strait of Hormuz and Persian Gulf if campaign continues.

Additional Information:
•   Strait of Hormuz links Persian Gulf with Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea.
•   It is world most important oil-transit chokepoint.
•   IMF was established in 1944 at Bretton Woods Conference.
•   IMF headquarters is in Washington, D.C.
•   IRGC is branch of Iranian Armed Forces founded in 1979.

Karnataka suspends food licences of Amazon, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Karnataka government ordered immediate suspension of food licences of Amazon, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket on 25 August 2026 after toxic Dhatura seeds and fruits were found listed for food use or human consumption. The Food Safety and Drug Administration also suspended registrations of third-party sellers and suppliers involved in distribution of toxic products.

Key Highlights:
•   Karnataka suspended food licences of Amazon, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket.
•   Action followed illegal listing of toxic Dhatura fruits and seeds for food use.
•   Food Safety and Drug Administration acted under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
•   Food registrations of third-party sellers and suppliers were also suspended.
•   Platforms were directed to immediately remove listings, advertisements and promotional materials.
•   Dhatura has toxic properties and distribution as food item is prohibited.
•   Suspension will be reconsidered only after compliance report and formal hearing.

Additional Information:
•   Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 consolidated multiple food-safety laws in India.
•   The Act led to establishment of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
•   FSSAI headquarters is in New Delhi.
•   Dhatura is also called Thorn Apple.
•   Dhatura is locally called Umathai in Tamil.
•   It is poisonous plant due to high concentration of tropane alkaloids.

Maharashtra signs MoU with Germany Hessen for economic cooperation.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Maharashtra signed Memorandum of Understanding with German state of Hessen on 21 August 2026 to expand cooperation in investment, innovation and skill development. The agreement was signed in Mumbai by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Hessen Minister President Boris Rhein.

Key Highlights:
•   Maharashtra signed MoU with German state Hessen.
•   MoU was signed in Mumbai by Devendra Fadnavis and Boris Rhein.
•   Agreement focuses on industry and services, Information Technology, skilled manpower and cross-border mobility.
•   Joint Working Group will be established within 90 days to implement objectives.
•   Cooperation will promote Artificial Intelligence and Research and Development partnerships.
•   It will expand business opportunities in pharmaceuticals, healthcare and engineering.
•   Agreement supports cooperation in automotive industry, logistics and digital economy.
•   Hessen is designated Gateway to Europe for Maharashtra.
•   Maharashtra will serve as Gateway to India and Indo-Pacific for Hessen.

Additional Information:
•   Hessen is prominent economic state in Germany.
•   Hessen is major European hub for financial services and logistics.
•   Maharashtra was formed on 1 May 1960.
•   Maharashtra is leading Indian state in industrial output and Foreign Direct Investment.
•   Mumbai is capital and financial hub of India.

Alex Lanier and An Se-young win BWF World Championships 2026 singles titles.

Dated: 27 August 2026

BWF World Championships 2026 concluded in New Delhi on 23 August 2026 with historic victories for France and South Korea. Alex Lanier became first Frenchman to win men singles world title, while An Se-young of South Korea defended women singles crown for her second World Championships title.

Key Highlights:
•   Alex Lanier became first Frenchman to win BWF World Championships men singles title.
•   He defeated Japan Kodai Naraoka 21-11, 21-11 in 50-minute final.
•   An Se-young of South Korea retained women singles title.
•   She defeated Akane Yamaguchi of Japan to win second World Championships title.
•   France won first-ever gold medals in tournament history.
•   Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue won mixed doubles title for France.
•   France ended tournament with two gold medals in men singles and mixed doubles.
•   Baek Ha-na and Lee So-hee won South Korea women doubles title after 31 years.
•   China Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang won men doubles title.
•   World Championships was held in New Delhi from 17 to 23 August 2026.

Additional Information:
•   BWF World Championships was established in 1977.
•   Tournament is held annually except in Summer Olympic years.
•   China, Indonesia and South Korea are historically most successful countries.
•   Badminton World Federation was founded in 1934.
•   BWF headquarters is in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Dr Ashutosh Parida wins 47th Sarala Puraskar.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Odia poet and former CSIR-IMMT scientist Dr Ashutosh Parida was selected for 47th Sarala Puraskar on 19 August 2026 for his 2024 poetry collection Bishwas De Pruthwi. The award ceremony will be held in Bhubaneswar on 25 October 2026 and he will receive ?7 lakh, citation and copper plaque.

Key Highlights:
•   Dr Ashutosh Parida was selected for 47th Sarala Puraskar.
•   Award is for 2024 poetry collection Bishwas De Pruthwi.
•   Award ceremony is scheduled on 25 October 2026 in Bhubaneswar.
•   Dr Parida will receive ?7 lakh, citation and copper plaque.
•   Final shortlist included Archana Nayak work Sita and Ramesh Prasad Panigrahi work Kabi Ka Naam Bedbyash.
•   Ila-Bansidhar Panda Kala Samman 2026 was given to Odissi maestro Guru Durga Charan Ranbir for performing arts.
•   Sculptor and art educator Damodar Behera received Kala Samman for visual arts.
•   Both Kala Samman recipients will receive ?2.5 lakh and copper plaque.
•   Awards are instituted by Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust, charitable wing of Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys Ltd.

Additional Information:
•   Sarala Puraskar is one of highest literary honours in Odia literature.
•   It is awarded annually for outstanding contribution to letters.
•   IMFA is India largest fully integrated producer of ferro alloys.
•   IMFA headquarters is in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
•   CSIR-IMMT stands for Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology and is located in Bhubaneswar.

WHO confirms end of polio outbreaks in five African nations.

Dated: 27 August 2026

World Health Organization confirmed official end of circulating poliovirus type 2 outbreaks in Burundi, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Congo and Uganda on 21 August 2026. The declaration followed Independent Outbreak Response Assessment conducted between January and June 2026 to assess laboratory evidence and population immunity.

Key Highlights:
•   WHO confirmed end of cVDPV2 outbreaks in five African nations.
•   Countries are Burundi, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Congo and Uganda.
•   Declaration followed Independent Outbreak Response Assessment from January to June 2026.
•   Assessment examined laboratory evidence and population immunity.
•   cVDPV2 can emerge in under-immunised populations.
•   Republic of Congo last poliovirus detection was in December 2023.
•   Burundi declared type 2 outbreak in March 2023.
•   Uganda intensified surveillance after detection in May 2024.
•   Guinea-Bissau had no detections since July 2021.
•   African Region modernised polio laboratory network in 2025.
•   Focus remains vaccination campaigns and routine immunisation to close immunity gaps.

Additional Information:
•   WHO was established on 7 April 1948.
•   WHO headquarters is in Geneva, Switzerland.
•   WHO Director-General is Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
•   Polio is highly infectious viral disease mainly affecting children below five years.
•   Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine was developed by Jonas Salk in 1955.
•   Oral Poliovirus Vaccine was developed by Albert Sabin in 1961.

India Pharma Archives unveiled at IIM-A Healthcare Summit 2026.

Dated: 27 August 2026

India Pharma Archives was unveiled at third IIMA Healthcare Summit in Ahmedabad on 22 August 2026. The digital initiative of Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance and IIM Ahmedabad features rare media, oral histories and archival documents, while summit focused on Advancing AI in Healthcare under IndiaAI Mission and Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

Key Highlights:
•   India Pharma Archives was unveiled at third IIMA Healthcare Summit in Ahmedabad.
•   It is digital initiative of Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance and IIM Ahmedabad.
•   Archives contain rare media, oral histories and archival documents.
•   Summit theme was Advancing AI in Healthcare.
•   Summit was aligned with IndiaAI Mission and Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
•   A book on India COVID-19 vaccine development and scientific response was released.
•   PRIP scheme allocates ?5,000 crore for Pharma-MedTech research and innovation.
•   Biopharma SHAKTI is ?10,000 crore mission for biologics and biosimilars.
•   AI healthcare Centres of Excellence have been established at AIIMS New Delhi, PGIMER Chandigarh and AIIMS Rishikesh.
•   AIKosh platform provides access to datasets, AI models and toolkits.
•   ABDM achieved 96 crore ABHA IDs and more than 1,000 crore linked digital health records.
•   eSanjeevani has benefited more than 20 crore patients.

Additional Information:
•   ABDM was launched in September 2021.
•   ABDM is implemented by National Health Authority.
•   ABHA is 14-digit unique health ID.
•   IIM Ahmedabad was established in 1961 and is located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
•   IndiaAI Mission is under Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

Territorial Army launches Terrier Cyber Quest 2026 hackathon.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Territorial Army in collaboration with CyberPeace launched third edition of national-level Terrier Cyber Quest 2026 hackathon on 21 August 2026. The hackathon seeks indigenous solutions for AI, cybersecurity and information-domain challenges relevant to national security.

Key Highlights:
•   Territorial Army and CyberPeace launched Terrier Cyber Quest 2026 or TCQ 3.0.
•   Hackathon focuses on indigenous AI, cybersecurity and information-domain solutions.
•   Bug Hunting track has Capture-the-Flag qualifier and live sandbox finale for vulnerability detection in critical infrastructure.
•   AI Kavach uses machine learning for predictive threat intelligence, automated defence and anomaly detection.
•   Creators Challenge is digital storytelling competition against deepfakes, phishing and online scams.
•   Registration deadline is 31 August 2026.
•   Online shortlisting will take place from 1 to 10 September 2026.
•   Grand finale will be held in New Delhi from 6 to 8 October 2026.
•   Award ceremony is scheduled on 9 October 2026.

Additional Information:
•   Territorial Army is volunteer reserve force that functions as part of Indian Army.
•   Territorial Army was formally established on 9 October 1949 by C Rajagopalachari.
•   Territorial Army Day is observed on 9 October.
•   CyberPeace is global non-profit organisation and think tank focused on cybersecurity and policy advocacy.
•   CyberPeace headquarters is in New Delhi.

PNB signs MoU with Indian Army for curated credit cards.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Punjab National Bank and Indian Army signed Memorandum of Understanding on 21 August 2026 to launch specialised credit cards for Army personnel. The partnership introduced PNB LUXURA Metal Credit Card for Army officers and PNB Parakram Credit Card for Junior Commissioned Officers and other ranks.

Key Highlights:
•   PNB and Indian Army signed MoU for specialised credit cards.
•   PNB LUXURA Metal Credit Card is designed for Army officers.
•   PNB Parakram Credit Card is for Junior Commissioned Officers and other ranks.
•   Cards offer 3 percent cashback on purchases at Canteen Stores Department outlets.
•   They offer zero forex markup fee on international transactions.
•   Benefits include access to domestic and international airport lounges.
•   Cards offer complimentary golf lessons and Buy One Get One movie-ticket offers.
•   PNB Parakram Credit Card has biodegradable design to promote environmental consciousness.
•   MoU was signed at Indian Army Headquarters, Delhi.
•   Signatories were Maj Gen VK Purohit and PNB General Manager Deepak Kumar, in presence of PNB MD and CEO Ashok Chandra.

Additional Information:
•   PNB was established in 1894 as first swadeshi bank by Lala Lajpat Rai.
•   PNB headquarters is in New Delhi.
•   PNB is second-largest public sector bank in India.
•   Indian Army was established on 1 April 1895.
•   Indian Army headquarters is in New Delhi and motto is Service Before Self.

VinFast India signs MoU with Federal Bank for inventory financing.

Dated: 27 August 2026

VinFast India signed Memorandum of Understanding with Federal Bank on 25 August 2026 to provide specialised inventory financing solutions for authorised dealer network. The agreement will help dealers optimise working capital, maintain healthy vehicle inventory and support VinFast long-term growth in Indian electric vehicle market.

Key Highlights:
•   VinFast India signed MoU with Federal Bank for dealer inventory financing.
•   MoU provides specialised inventory-financing framework for VinFast authorised dealers.
•   Dealers can optimise working capital under the arrangement.
•   Financing will help maintain healthy vehicle inventory.
•   Partnership supports operational efficiency in nationwide distribution network.
•   Strategic objective is strengthening retail foundation for long-term Indian EV market growth.
•   Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast Asia, was authorised signatory.
•   Kumkum Jain, Additional SVP of Federal Bank, was authorised signatory.

Additional Information:
•   Federal Bank was established in 1931 as Travancore Federal Bank.
•   Federal Bank headquarters is in Aluva, Kerala.
•   Federal Bank is leading Indian private sector bank.
•   VinFast is Vietnamese multinational automotive company founded in 2017.
•   VinFast is global EV manufacturer and subsidiary of Vingroup.

East Bengal wins record-equalling 17th Durand Cup title.

Dated: 27 August 2026

East Bengal defeated Mohun Bagan 4-1 in Durand Cup final in Kolkata on 25 August 2026 to win record-equalling 17th title. The victory ended East Bengal 22-year title drought and matched Mohun Bagan previous record of 17 Durand Cup titles.

Key Highlights:
•   East Bengal won 17th Durand Cup title after defeating Mohun Bagan 4-1.
•   Final was held in Kolkata, West Bengal.
•   East Bengal equalled Mohun Bagan record of 17 Durand Cup titles.
•   Victory ended 22-year title drought since East Bengal last win in 2004.
•   Bipin Singh opened scoring in 10th minute.
•   Edmund Lalrindika scored hat-trick in 12th, 22nd and 44th minutes.
•   Manvir Singh scored Mohun Bagan only goal in 33rd minute.
•   East Bengal was coached by Antonio Lopez Habas.
•   Mohammed Rashid captained East Bengal.

Additional Information:
•   Durand Cup is Asia oldest and world third-oldest football tournament.
•   First edition was played in Shimla in 1888.
•   Tournament was founded by Sir Henry Mortimer Durand, then Indian Foreign Secretary.
•   Three trophies are awarded: Durand Cup, Simla Trophy and President Cup.
•   Durand Cup is organised by Indian Army on behalf of three Services.

NSTL signs technology-transfer pacts with BDL and Vertex Engineering Systems.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Naval Science and Technological Laboratory signed two Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology with Bharat Dynamics Limited and Vertex Engineering Systems on 22 August 2026. Agreements will enable indigenous industrial production of Submarine Fired Decoy and LM2500 Gas Turbine fabrication, installation and commissioning technology.

Key Highlights:
•   NSTL signed two LAToT agreements with BDL and Vertex Engineering Systems.
•   Submarine Fired Decoy technology was transferred to BDL for indigenous production.
•   LM2500 Gas Turbine technology was transferred to Vertex Engineering Systems, Hyderabad.
•   LM2500 transfer includes fabrication, installation and commissioning capabilities.
•   Agreements were signed by Dr Abraham Varughese, Director NSTL.
•   Signing occurred in presence of Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command.
•   Pacts shift indigenous naval technology from laboratory research to large-scale industrial production.

Additional Information:
•   NSTL was established in 1969.
•   NSTL headquarters is in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
•   NSTL is premier DRDO laboratory for torpedoes, underwater weapons and marine defence systems.
•   BDL is PSU under Ministry of Defence.
•   BDL manufactures guided missile systems and allied defence equipment.

CBN and PHARMEXCIL sign MoU for pharmaceutical export growth.

Dated: 27 August 2026

Central Bureau of Narcotics and PHARMEXCIL signed Memorandum of Understanding on 24 August 2026 at CBN Headquarters in Gwalior to strengthen regulatory cooperation and facilitate legitimate international pharmaceutical trade. MoU includes voluntary code of conduct, faster export authorisations and outreach plan to prevent diversion of controlled products while promoting pharma exports.

Key Highlights:
•   CBN and PHARMEXCIL signed MoU at CBN Headquarters, Gwalior.
•   Signatories were Narcotics Commissioner Dr Dinesh Bisen and PHARMEXCIL Director General Raja Bhanu.
•   MoU strengthens regulatory cooperation and legitimate international trade.
•   Voluntary Code of Conduct sets non-binding recommended practices for pharmaceutical industry.
•   Member companies will nominate Contact Persons for VCC-related matters.
•   Focus includes reducing dwell time for export authorisations.
•   Six-month action plan will conduct pan-India outreach and stakeholder sensitisation.
•   MoU seeks prevention of product diversion and promotion of API, bulk-drug and biologic exports.
•   Initiative aligns with National Roadmap of Ease of Doing Business.

Additional Information:
•   CBN functions under Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.
•   CBN administers Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
•   CBN supervises licit cultivation of opium poppy in India.
•   CBN headquarters is in Gwalior.
•   PHARMEXCIL was set up by Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
•   PHARMEXCIL promotes Indian pharmaceutical exports globally.