Current affairs

World Lake Day 2026: Why Lakes Matter, History, Significance and Facts

World Lake Day 2026 is observed on August 27 to highlight the ecological, economic and social importance of lakes and promote their conservation, restoration and sustainable management. Lakes are vital freshwater ecosystems that support biodiversity, livelihoods, agriculture, tourism and regional...

Operation Economic Outcast: US Economic Pressure Campaign Against Iran

The United States has launched “Operation Economic Outcast”, a major economic pressure campaign aimed at cutting Iran off from global financial and trading networks. Announced by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on August 24, 2026, the campaign seeks to target...

Vaishya Tekri Excavation: Tracing Ashoka’s History in Ujjain

The fresh excavation at Vaishya Tekri in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, has renewed interest in the city's association with Mauryan Emperor Ashoka and the spread of Buddhism in ancient Malwa. The site is believed to contain a large stupa-like mound, but...

Political Clearance for Foreign Visits: Rules for CMs and Ministers

Context The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) denied political clearance for Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s proposed US visit, leading to the cancellation of that part of his foreign tour. Read Also: UPSC Daily Current Affairs 2026 About Political...

Thermal Protection System (TPS): Gaganyaan Re-entry Technology

Context As ISRO prepares for the Gaganyaan uncrewed flight tests, the crew module’s Thermal Protection System (TPS) will protect it during atmospheric re-entry. Read Also: UPSC Daily Current Affairs 2026 About Thermal Protection System Nature: External protective layer that shields...

8.7 Crore Indian Youth Not in Education or Work: NITI Aayog’s Skilling Plan

India’s demographic dividend is often described as one of the country’s biggest development opportunities. However, the large number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) highlights a critical challenge: India must convert its young population...

US–India Trade Tensions: The Great Transshipment Scam and Tariff Allegations

The latest phase of US–India trade tensions has brought the issue of Chinese goods being routed through third countries into sharp focus. In August 2026, the White House released a report titled “The Great Transshipment Scam”, alleging that Chinese exporters...

National Space Day 2026: Theme, History, Significance and Chandrayaan-3 Legacy

National Space Day, observed annually on 23 August, commemorates the historic soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon in 2023. For UPSC Mains, the occasion is significant not merely as a celebration of a scientific achievement but as a lens...

Sugar Prices Surge in India 2026: Why Sugar Prices Rose, Ethanol Debate & Government Response

The sharp rise in sugar prices in India in 2026 highlights the complex interplay between agricultural production, climate variability, food security, market dynamics and energy policy. Retail sugar prices reportedly increased from around ₹45/kg in July to nearly ₹65/kg in...

Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) – 6th List, Objectives and SRIJAN Portal

India has been steadily strengthening its domestic defence manufacturing capabilities as part of its broader Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. A key instrument in this effort is the Positive Indigenisation List (PIL), which identifies defence items that will progressively be procured from...