August 2026

1. 31 Aug2026
   Sports

   6th World Nomad Games held in Kyrgyzstan¹²

   The 6th World Nomad Games opened in Bishkek on 31 August 2026 and ran to 6 September, with 43 traditional sports such as kok-boru and wrestling; main competition was planned for Cholpon-Ata on Lake Issyk-Kul.

   • 31 August to 6 September 2026, Kyrgyzstan; opening ceremony in Bishkek on 31 August
   • 43 sports including kok-boru (kokpar) and several wrestling styles
   • Main events and closing at Cholpon-Ata, Issyk-Kul
   • Participation reported as 89 to over 100 countries
2. 31 Aug2026
   International

   Turkiye becomes 71st signatory of the Artemis Accords³⁴⁵

   Turkiye became the 71st signatory of the Artemis Accords on 31 August 2026 when Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir signed at NASA headquarters, hosted by NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman.

   • Signed 31 August 2026 at NASA HQ, Washington
   • 71st signatory (the US plus 69 others joined before it)
   • Signed by Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir
   • Accords launched in 2020 as non-binding principles for civil space activity
3. 31 Aug2026
   Defence

   Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan hold first defence committee meeting in Istanbul⁶⁷⁸

   The first meeting of the Strategic Political and Defence Committee under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement was held in Istanbul on Monday 31 August 2026, with the foreign and defence ministers and military chiefs of Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

   • Held 31 August 2026, Istanbul
   • Turkiye: Hakan Fidan, Yasar Guler; Pakistan: Ishaq Dar, Khawaja Asif, Field Marshal Asim Munir
   • Agenda: defence cooperation, interoperability, defence industry and counter-terrorism; framework for a General Secretariat
   • Pact was signed 7 August 2026 in Makkah
4. 31 Aug2026
   States

   Bihar and Jharkhand sign Sone River water-sharing MoU⁹¹⁰

   Bihar and Jharkhand signed an MoU in New Delhi on 31 August 2026, in the presence of Amit Shah and Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil, splitting undivided Bihar's 7.75 MAF Sone share: 5.75 MAF to Bihar and 2 MAF to Jharkhand, ending a dispute of about 26 years.

   • Signed in New Delhi, reported as Monday 31 August 2026
   • Undivided Bihar's share under the 1973 Bansagar agreement: 7.75 MAF; split 5.75 MAF (Bihar) and 2 MAF (Jharkhand)
   • Consensus first reached at the 27th Eastern Zonal Council, Ranchi, 10 July 2025
   • Expected to support the Indrapuri Reservoir Project
5. 31 Aug2026
   Sports

   Messi announces retirement from Argentina duty after World Cup final loss¹¹¹²¹³

   Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on 31 August 2026, saying he had 'nothing more to give', weeks after Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final to Spain (around 19 July).

   • Announced via Instagram on 31 August 2026; the message was written on 21 July, two days after the final
   • Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final to Spain (about 19 July)
   • Quote: 'I have given everything, I have nothing more to give'
   • Retired once before in 2016 after the Copa America final and reversed it
6. 31 Aug2026
   Defence

   Navy commissions INS Nipun, second Nistar-class diving support vessel, at Mumbai¹⁴¹⁵¹⁶

   The Navy commissioned the Hindustan Shipyard-built INS Nipun, the second Nistar-class diving support vessel, at Naval Dockyard Mumbai on 31 August 2026; it supports saturation diving to 300 m and can mother the Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle.

   • Commissioned 31 August 2026, Naval Dockyard Mumbai, presided by Admiral Krishna Swaminathan
   • Second Nistar-class DSV, based on the west coast; sister INS Nistar commissioned in July 2025
   • About 119.4 m long; supports diving to 300 m including saturation diving; ROVs and submarine-rescue support
   • Built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Visakhapatnam; delivered 30 July 2026
7. 31 Aug2026
   Science and tech

   BRIC-NABI Green Forge genome engineering facility opens in Mohali¹⁷

   Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated the Green Forge Complex at BRIC-NABI, Mohali, reportedly on 31 August 2026 during the National Conclave on BioE3, a facility for genome and trait engineering and controlled testing of GM crops.

   • Inaugurated about 31 August 2026 at BRIC-NABI, Mohali (Punjab)
   • Facility with simulation chambers varying light, humidity and temperature to test GM crops before field trials
   • Opened at the National Conclave on BioE3
   • Exact date: 31 August (GKToday) or 1 September (Drishti)
8. 31 Aug2026
   Economy

   GIFT IFSC banks disburse USD 52.8 bn under RBI's FCNR(B) swap window¹⁸¹⁹²⁰

   IFSCA said that as of 31 August 2026 GIFT IFSC's International Banking Units had sanctioned USD 54.02 billion and disbursed about USD 52.82 billion under the RBI's FCNR(B) swap facility (circular of 8 June 2026); banks also listed USD 11.12 billion of bonds in April to August.

   • Sanctioned USD 54.02 bn; disbursed about USD 52.82 bn (data as of 31 August 2026, released 2-3 September)
   • 20 IBUs participated; sanctions rose from USD 28.6 bn on 14 Aug to USD 37.26 bn on 21 Aug
   • RBI facility introduced by circular dated 8 June 2026
   • ECB mobilisation USD 11.62 bn and bond listings USD 11.12 bn in April to August
9. 30 Aug2026
   International

   China and Bangladesh begin preparing a 2+2 dialogue²¹²²²³

   Bangladesh's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir said on 30 August 2026 that groundwork is under way for a first China-Bangladesh '2+2' diplomacy and defence dialogue, an idea from PM Tarique Rahman's June 2026 Beijing visit; no date is fixed.

   • Kobir's statement on 30 August 2026; no date finalised
   • Idea comes from the June 2026 joint declaration after PM Tarique Rahman's Beijing visit
   • Declaration reaffirms Bangladesh's commitment to the one-China principle
   • Meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen also covered the Teesta project and Mongla Port modernisation
10. 30 Aug2026
    Science and tech

    NASA launches Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope on Falcon Heavy²⁴²⁵²⁶

    NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope launched on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy from Launch Complex 39A, Kennedy Space Center, on 30 August 2026 at 7:26 a.m. EDT, heading for Sun-Earth L2 about a million miles away; first images are expected by early 2027.

    • Launch 30 August 2026, 7:26 a.m. EDT, Falcon Heavy, LC-39A
    • Released about 30 minutes after launch toward Sun-Earth L2 (about a million miles away)
    • Infrared survey telescope studying dark energy, dark matter and exoplanets
    • Images expected by early 2027
11. 30 Aug2026
    Awards

    Modi receives Uzbekistan's Order of Highest Friendship during state visit²⁷²⁸²⁹

    PM Modi was conferred Uzbekistan's Oliy Darajali Do'stlik (Order of Highest Friendship), its highest honour for foreign leaders, by President Mirziyoyev on 30 August 2026 in Tashkent; the two countries agreed to raise ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

    • Order presented 30 August 2026 at Kuksaroy Presidential Residence, Tashkent
    • Two-day visit
    • Ties elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership
    • Talks covered trade, clean energy, connectivity and a possible long-term uranium supply
12. 30 Aug2026
    Economy

    Trump announces Venezuela oil arrangement needing about USD 100 billion investment³⁰³¹³²

    President Trump announced a deal giving a US-backed private venture rights over 17 Venezuelan oilfields said to hold about 65 billion barrels; acting president Delcy Rodriguez said it could draw USD 100 billion, but the funding source, lease length (25 vs 100 years) and text were not disclosed.

    • Announced around 29-30 August 2026 (Boston Globe report of 31 August)
    • 17 fields with proven potential of about 65 billion barrels (Rodriguez)
    • Rodriguez said it could draw USD 100 billion in investment; White House did not explain the source
    • Lease term disputed: 25 years (Rodriguez) vs 100 years (US official to Bloomberg)
    • No agreement text released; Rubio called it a huge win
13. 29 Aug2026
    Sports

    National Sports Day marks Major Dhyan Chand's 121st birth anniversary³³³⁴

    National Sports Day was observed on 29 August 2026 on Major Dhyan Chand's 121st birth anniversary; PM Modi paid tribute, and a three-day campaign ran under the pillars Tribute, Play and Move.

    • 29 August 2026, 121st birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand (born 1905)
    • PM Modi paid homage on social media
    • Three-day nationwide campaign: Tribute, Play and Move
    • State events such as Telangana's at all 33 district headquarters
14. 28 Aug2026
    International

    Trump orders US federal use of 'Lake America' for Lake Ontario³⁵³⁶³⁷

    Trump signed an executive order directing US federal agencies to call Lake Ontario 'Lake America', as US-Canada trade talks collapsed; it covers only US federal usage, and PM Mark Carney and New York Governor Kathy Hochul rejected the name.

    • Executive order reported in late August 2026; applies to US federal usage (US geographic naming service)
    • Carney: the name 'Lake Ontario' predates both countries
    • Hochul: 'New York won't be calling it that'
    • Follows the 2025 renaming of the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America
15. 28 Aug2026
    Defence

    Army signs LoA with US for Javelin anti-tank missiles³⁸³⁹

    India signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance on 28 August 2026 to buy Javelin anti-tank guided missiles from the US through Foreign Military Sales, India's first purchase of US-made Javelins; the US Embassy announced it.

    • LOA signed 28 August 2026, announced by the US Embassy
    • Route: US Foreign Military Sales
    • First Indian purchase of US-made Javelins
    • US Embassy said the signing opens talks on co-production
    • Value and quantity reported differently (about 60 rounds, Rs 2.92 billion in one report)
16. 27 Aug2026
    Sports

    US Open 2026 announces record USD 108 million player compensation⁴⁰⁴¹

    The USTA announced record player compensation of USD 108 million for the 2026 US Open (up about 20% from roughly USD 90 million), with men's and women's singles champions each receiving USD 5.5 million.

    • Total player compensation USD 108 million, a record; about 20% above 2025
    • Singles champions USD 5.5 million each (up from USD 5 million); equal for men and women
    • Singles main-draw entry payment USD 140,000 per player
    • Announcement date reported as a Thursday (27 August likely); outlets differ
17. 27 Aug2026
    Sports

    Praggnanandhaa becomes first Indian to win Grand Chess Tour⁴²⁴³⁴⁴

    R. Praggnanandhaa beat Fabiano Caruana 15-13 in the Grand Chess Tour Finals at St. Louis (late August 2026) to become the first Indian Grand Chess Tour champion, winning USD 200,000.

    • Beat Fabiano Caruana 15-13 in the final, after trailing early
    • First Indian to win the Grand Chess Tour title
    • Prize USD 200,000; semi-final win over Vincent Keymer
    • Final-day score details differ between reports
18. 27 Aug2026
    Economy

    NABARD and NaBFID sign MoU for rural infrastructure financing⁴⁵⁴⁶⁴⁷

    NABARD and NaBFID signed an MoU in Mumbai on 27 August 2026 to jointly finance rural infrastructure (irrigation, cold chains, rural roads, warehousing, compressed biogas) and agri value chains, with advisory and capacity-building cooperation.

    • MoU dated 27 August 2026, signed by NABARD chairman Shaji K. V. and NaBFID MD Rajkiran Rai G.
    • Joint financing, knowledge sharing and project advisory (structuring, modelling, debt syndication)
    • Sectors include water and sanitation, irrigation, storage and cold chains, rural roads, warehousing, compressed biogas
    • No funding amounts disclosed
19. 27 Aug2026
    Legislation

    Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules 2026 notified⁴⁸⁴⁹

    The Department of Consumer Affairs notified the Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules 2026 under Section 52 of the Legal Metrology Act 2009, making IST the mandatory single time reference, with CSIR-NPL as national custodian; the rules take effect 180 days after gazette publication.

    • Notified 27 August 2026 per most reports (one report gives Gazette publication as 29 August)
    • Made under s 52 of the Legal Metrology Act 2009
    • CSIR-NPL is the national custodian of IST; dissemination via NPL, ISRO and RRSLs, with NavIC use mandated
    • Use of any alternative time reference barred unless expressly permitted
    • Effective 180 days after Gazette publication
20. 27 Aug2026
    Legislation

    President promulgates regulation for High Court sittings in Ladakh⁵⁰⁵¹⁵²

    The President promulgated the Union Territory of Ladakh (Sitting of Bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh in Ladakh) Regulation 2026 on 27 August 2026, under Article 240 read with Section 58(2) of the J&K Reorganisation Act 2019; no separate High Court is created.

    • Promulgated and published in Gazette Extraordinary on 27 August 2026
    • Place of sitting fixed by the Chief Justice with the Lieutenant Governor's approval
    • Chief Justice may direct Ladakh cases to be heard at Srinagar or Jammu
    • Comes into effect on a date to be notified by the Administrator of Ladakh
21. 27 Aug2026
    International

    India's BRICS chairship: 18th summit set for New Delhi, 12-13 September 2026⁵³⁵⁴⁵⁵

    India chairs BRICS in 2026, its fourth chairship after 2012, 2016 and 2021, under the theme Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability; the 18th summit was scheduled for New Delhi on 12-13 September 2026, with more than 350 meetings across 25-plus cities.

    • Chair since 1 January 2026; theme 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability'
    • 18th summit at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, 12-13 September 2026
    • More than 350 meetings and engagements in over 25 cities
    • BRICS has 11 full members per Brut's list
22. 26 Aug2026
    Disasters

    Glacier collapse near Nepal-Tibet border triggers deadly flood and debris flow⁵⁶⁵⁷⁵⁸

    A glacier collapse on 26 August 2026 near the Nepal-Tibet border (a USGS-recorded M5.2 seismic event) triggered a flood and debris flow that hit a border post and downstream Nepal; reports cited 359 deaths in Nepal and three in Tibet, with many missing, and the toll was still rising.

    • Event on 26 August 2026 near the Nepal-Tibet border
    • USGS reclassified a seismic event first reported as M4.4 to M5.2, linked to glacial collapse
    • Nepal Police reported 359 deaths in Nepal; China confirmed three in Tibet; missing counts range to over 1,300
    • A debris-blocked river formed a lake with a burst risk
    • Cause not officially settled; described as distinct from a classic GLOF
23. 26 Aug2026
    States

    Meghalaya Assembly unanimously opposes uranium mining⁵⁹⁶⁰⁶¹

    The Meghalaya Assembly unanimously passed a government resolution on 26 August 2026 opposing uranium mining and ore processing, naming the Kylleng-Pyndengsohiong-Mawthabah (KPM) project in West Khasi Hills; it urges the Centre and UCIL not to proceed (non-binding).

    • Resolution passed Wednesday 26 August 2026 during the Autumn Session, supported across parties including the BJP
    • Names the KPM project in West Khasi Hills
    • Cites the Sixth Schedule and the 2019 State of Meghalaya v All Dimasa Students Union judgment on sub-soil rights
    • Urges the Centre, DAE and UCIL not to permit uranium mining; it does not itself ban mining
24. 26 Aug2026
    Defence

    HAL and Safran sign contract for Aravalli helicopter engine via SAFHAL⁶²⁶³⁶⁴

    HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines signed the final contract with their joint venture SAFHAL on 26 August 2026 to develop and produce the Aravalli engine (3,500 to 4,000 shp) for the 13-tonne Indian Multi-Role Helicopter and its naval variant.

    • Final contract dated 26 August 2026 (Safran release)
    • Aravalli engine class 3,500 to 4,000 shp
    • For the 13-tonne IMRH and naval DBMRH
    • Development expected to take at least 48 months
    • First time Safran co-develops an engine of this power class
25. 26 Aug2026
    International

    Bishkek readies SCO summit as organisation turns 25⁶⁵⁶⁶⁶⁷

    The 26th SCO Council of Heads of State met at Yrys Ordo, Bishkek on 31 August to 1 September 2026 under Kyrgyz chairmanship, and signed the Bishkek Declaration; the SCO turned 25 in 2026.

    • 26th SCO summit, Bishkek, 31 August to 1 September 2026, chaired by President Sadyr Japarov
    • SCO Plus session on 1 September
    • Leaders signed the Bishkek Declaration and over 20 decisions
    • Attendance counts differ between pre- and post-summit reports
26. 25 Aug2026
    Defence

    Rajnath Singh permits transfer of DRDO missile technologies to private companies⁶⁸⁶⁹⁷⁰

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the transfer of DRDO-developed technology for conventional missile systems to Indian companies, announced by the Defence Ministry on 25 August 2026; firms will be picked by competitive bidding as development-cum-production partners.

    • Announced Tuesday 25 August 2026
    • Firms selected through competitive bidding as development-cum-production partners
    • Subject to qualifications, certifications and regulatory requirements
    • No list of covered missiles published; Astra and Pralay reported as likely
27. 25 Aug2026
    Legislation

    Kerala officially renamed Keralam from 25 August 2026⁷¹⁷²⁷³

    The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Act 2026, passed by Lok Sabha on 11 August and Rajya Sabha on 12 August, got assent on 14 August and commenced on 25 August.

    • Kerala officially became Keralam from 25 August 2026
    • Union Home Ministry notified the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Act, 2026 into force
    • Lok Sabha passed the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill on 11 August and Rajya Sabha on 12 August
    • Notification came just before Onam
28. 25 Aug2026
    Reports and indices

    Mumbai debuts at 77 in IWG Work From Anywhere Index 2026⁷⁴⁷⁵⁷⁶

    IWG's Work From Anywhere Index 2026 ranked Bangkok first (106.5), ahead of Tokyo (96.5) and Barcelona (95.5); Mumbai debuted at 77, ranking 50th and the only Indian city listed.

    • Bangkok 106.5, Tokyo 96.5, Barcelona 95.5
    • Mumbai debuted in the fourth edition with 77 points, 50th globally; the only Indian city
    • Mumbai scored well on transport costs, accommodation, climate and co-working space; lower on broadband and happiness
29. 25 Aug2026
    International

    India and China hold 25th Special Representatives talks in Beijing; agree to hold 26th round in India in 2027⁷⁷⁷⁸

    Ajit Doval and Wang Yi held the 25th round of Special Representatives talks in Beijing on 25 August 2026, reaffirmed the 2005 political parameters, and committed to seek a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable package solution on the boundary; the 26th round will be in India in 2027.

    • 25th SR round, Beijing, 25 August 2026: Ajit Doval and Wang Yi
    • Discussed boundary delimitation, border management, mechanisms and cross-border cooperation
    • Reaffirmed 2005 Political Parameters and Guiding Principles
    • Border trade through three designated passes cited as a sign of resumed exchanges
    • 26th round to be held in India in 2027
30. 25 Aug2026
    International

    Bihar raises concerns over renewal of 1996 Ganga Water Treaty⁷⁹

    In late August 2026 JD(U) MP Sanjay Jha and the Bihar government pressed the Centre over renewal of the 1996 India-Bangladesh Ganga Water Treaty, which expires in December 2026, citing flooding and siltation linked to Farakka.

    • Treaty signed 12 December 1996; governs Farakka lean-season flows (1 January to 31 May)
    • Expiry reported as 12 December 2026 (The Hindu summary says 31 December)
    • JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha said it should not be renewed as is; Bihar sought safeguards on flood, siltation and dry-season flows
    • EAM Jaishankar assured Bihar's concerns would be considered
31. 25 Aug2026
    International

    India-China 25th Special Representatives talks: Doval meets Wang Yi in Beijing⁸⁰⁸¹

    NSA Ajit Doval held the 25th round of Special Representatives talks with Wang Yi in Beijing on 25 August 2026 (see the consensus event for outcomes).

    • 25th SR round held 25 August 2026, Beijing
    • Participants: Ajit Doval and Wang Yi
32. 24 Aug2026
    International

    US launches Operation Economic Outcast sanctions campaign on Iran⁸²⁸³

    On 24 August 2026 US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced Operation Economic Outcast, a sanctions campaign on Iran targeting digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping; OFAC designated over 60 entities, individuals and vessels.

    • Announced Monday 24 August 2026 by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent
    • Five sectors targeted: digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, shipping
    • OFAC designated over 60 entities, individuals and vessels
    • Timeline and further targets unclear at announcement
33. 24 Aug2026
    International

    Thailand's amnesty law for political offences takes effect⁸⁴⁸⁵

    Thailand's political amnesty law, the 'Promoting a Peaceful Society Act', took effect on 24 August 2026 after publication in the Royal Gazette; it covers offences from 1 January 2005 to 15 July 2025, excludes lese majeste (Section 112), corruption and crimes causing death or serious injury, and could help about 6,000 people.

    • In force 24 August 2026
    • Covers offences from 1 January 2005 to July 2025 (end date 15 or 16 July in reports)
    • Excludes lese majeste, corruption and crimes causing death or serious injury
    • A committee chaired by the PM decides eligibility; first meeting within 30 days
    • Parliament estimated about 6,000 beneficiaries
34. 24 Aug2026
    States

    Tamil Nadu to introduce TN-ARIVU curriculum from 2027-28⁸⁶⁸⁷

    Tamil Nadu said it will roll out the TN-ARIVU curriculum in government schools from 2027-28 as part of its State Education Policy: ARIVU Foundation (Classes I-V), Discovery (VI-VIII) and Edge (IX-XII), plus an AI-based TN-PAL pilot in 500 government middle schools.

    • Rollout from the 2027-28 academic year
    • ARIVU stands for Analytical thinking, Reasoning, Innovation, Venture and Upskilling
    • Stages: Foundation (I-V), Discovery (VI-VIII), Edge (IX-XII); earlier reports said Classes 1-8 only
    • TN-PAL AI adaptive learning for Classes 6-8 in 500 government middle schools; daily PLAY period
35. 24 Aug2026
    Science and tech

    VP launches India's first non-GMO high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid⁸⁸⁸⁹

    Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan launched India's first non-GMO, high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed on 24 August 2026 at Gourmet Popcornica, Musunuru, Eluru district (Andhra Pradesh), developed with ICAR-IIMR to cut dependence on imported seed.

    • Launched 24 August 2026 at Musunuru, Eluru district; AP CM N. Chandrababu Naidu attended
    • Developed by Gourmet Popcornica with ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research (collaboration since February 2021)
    • VP said more than 17,500 farmers in eight states farm about 40,000 acres in the popcorn chain
    • ThePrint names two hybrids, Krisna459 and Godari234; other outlets say a single seed
36. 23 Aug2026
    Defence

    First 100% indigenous AK-203 'Sher' rifle made and test-fired at Korwa⁹⁰⁹¹⁹²

    IRRPL's Korwa plant in Amethi produced and test-fired the first AK-203 'Sher' rifle built entirely from Indian components, with reports dated 23-25 August 2026; prototypes are to go to Army trials, and the rifle is meant to succeed the INSAS.

    • Reports dated 23-25 August 2026 describe automatic and burst firing tests at Korwa, Amethi
    • IRRPL contract: 6,01,427 rifles for about Rs 5,200 crore
    • Deliveries targeted to finish by December 2030
    • Chambered in 7.62 x 39 mm
    • Prototypes to go to the Army for trials, reportedly in September 2026
37. 23 Aug2026
    Science and tech

    National Space Day 2026: third edition, theme Towards Viksit Bharat⁹³⁹⁴⁹⁵

    The third National Space Day was held at Ahmedabad on 23 August 2026 with the theme 'Towards Viksit Bharat: Innovating, Collaborating and Aspiring to Global Space Leadership'; it marks Chandrayaan-3's landing on 23 August 2023.

    • Third National Space Day, Ahmedabad, 23 August 2026
    • Theme: Towards Viksit Bharat: Innovating, Collaborating and Aspiring to Global Space Leadership
    • Chief guest Gajendra Singh Shekhawat; ISRO chairman V. Narayanan presided
    • Date marks Chandrayaan-3 soft landing on 23 August 2023
38. 23 Aug2026
    Polity

    Karnataka SIR flags 16.38 lakh deceased electors; 1.08 crore in ASDDO list⁹⁶⁹⁷⁹⁸

    Karnataka's SIR enumeration closed with 1.08 crore electors (19.54%) in the ASDDO category, including 16.38 lakh dead, 65.61 lakh shifted and 15.28 lakh absent; the draft roll was published on 24 August with claims and objections until 23 September.

    • ASDDO: about 1.08 crore (1,08,31,945), 19.54%
    • Shifted 65.61 lakh; dead 16.38 lakh; absent or untraceable 15.28 lakh
    • ASDDO does not mean permanent deletion, the CEO said
    • Draft roll published 24 August 2026; claims and objections to 23 September
    • Dead count varies slightly by date (16.37 to 16.40 lakh)
39. 22 Aug2026
    Polity

    FIR against Cockroach Janta Party convener Abhijeet Dipke in Latur^99100101

    Latur police (Ausa police station) registered an FIR against Cockroach Janta Party convener Abhijeet Dipke and party worker Ajinkya Shinde on a teacher's complaint that they entered a Zilla Parishad Urdu school at Jawali on 20 August 2026 without permission during the party's 'School Thik Karo' campaign.

    • FIR at Ausa police station, Latur district, reported 22 August 2026
    • Complainant: a 53-year-old teacher at a Zilla Parishad Urdu school in Jawali
    • Allegation: entered the school on 20 August without permission and obstructed work during the 'School Thik Karo' campaign
    • Dipke responded on social media with a Kishore Kumar song video
40. 21 Aug2026
    Awards

    48 teachers selected for National Teachers' Awards 2026^102103104

    On 21 August 2026 the Education Ministry announced 48 school teachers (26 men, 22 women) for the National Teachers' Awards 2026, to be conferred by President Droupadi Murmu at Vigyan Bhawan on 5 September, Teachers' Day.

    • 48 teachers from 27 states, 7 UTs and 6 central organisations
    • 26 male and 22 female teachers
    • Selected in three stages (district, state, national) from online nominations 15 June to 20 July
    • Ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on 5 September 2026
41. 21 Aug2026
    International

    Turkiye to seek Interpol Red Notice for Netanyahu over flotilla case^105106107

    On 21 August 2026 Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gurlek said Ankara had asked Interpol for Red Notices against Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Afek Moskovitch over Israel's interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla; Istanbul's 11th High Criminal Court had issued arrest warrants on 14 July.

    • Announced Friday 21 August 2026 by Justice Minister Akin Gurlek
    • Istanbul 11th High Criminal Court warrants of 14 July; case has 35 defendants
    • Interpol has not said whether it will issue the notices
    • Netanyahu's office dismissed it as an attempt at intimidation
42. 21 Aug2026
    Supreme Court

    Supreme Court cuts mandatory bar practice for civil judge exam from three years to one^108109110

    On Friday 21 August 2026 the Supreme Court (CJI Surya Kant, Justices A. G. Masih and K. Vinod Chandran, 2:1 with Justice Chandran dissenting) cut the mandatory prior practice for the Civil Judge (Junior Division) exam from three years to one, adding a year of judicial academy training and a year of clerkship.

    • Judgment of 21 August 2026 in All India Judges Association v Union of India, modifying the May 2025 ruling
    • One year of practice for notifications issued on or after 1 April 2027
    • Selected candidates get one year at the State Judicial Academy plus a one-year structured law clerkship
    • Notifications issued between 20 May 2025 and 31 March 2027: candidates deemed to have completed one year of practice
    • Revised scheme to stay in force for five years
43. 21 Aug2026
    Awards

    Ashutosh Parida selected for 47th Sarala Puraskar¹¹¹¹¹²

    Odia poet Ashutosh Parida, a former CSIR-IMMT scientist, was named the 47th Sarala Puraskar recipient for his poetry collection 'Bishwas De Pruthwi'; the Rs 7 lakh award from the Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT) will be presented at Bhubaneswar on 25 October 2026.

    • 47th Sarala Puraskar, announced around 21 August 2026
    • Book: Bishwas De Pruthwi (Prabha Publication, 2024)
    • Citation, copper plaque and Rs 7 lakh from IMPaCT, the charitable arm of IMFA
    • Presentation in Bhubaneswar on 25 October 2026; chosen from a shortlist of seven books
44. 21 Aug2026
    Schemes

    PM-AASHA allocated Rs 7,200 crore for 2026-27¹¹³

    A government document of August 2026 reports PM-AASHA's budget at Rs 7,200 crore for 2026-27 (Rs 6,941.36 crore in 2025-26; Rs 5,437.99 crore actual in 2024-25); the scheme was launched in September 2018.

    • Allocation Rs 7,200 crore for 2026-27
    • Rs 6,941.36 crore budgeted for 2025-26; Rs 5,437.99 crore spent in 2024-25
    • Components: Price Support Scheme, Price Deficiency Payment Scheme, Private Procurement and Stockist Scheme, Market Intervention Scheme
    • Procurement through NAFED and NCCF
45. 21 Aug2026
    Science and tech

    IN-SPACe chief says ISRO will stop making launch vehicles; private sector to build them^114115116

    IN-SPACe chairman Pawan Goenka said on 21 August 2026 at a Business Today summit that ISRO would eventually stop making launch vehicles, with production moving to private firms and PSUs while ISRO focuses on R&D and missions; later reports described it as a trend, not a formal policy.

    • Remark made 21 August 2026 at a Business Today summit
    • ISRO to focus on R&D, advanced technology and scientific missions
    • SSLV technology is already being transferred to HAL; PSLV and LVM3 reported as likely next
    • Nine ISRO employee associations wrote to ISRO chairman on 4 September seeking clarity
46. 20 Aug2026
    Economy

    Sugar prices surge; Centre allows 10 lakh tonnes duty-free raw sugar imports^117118119

    Domestic sugar prices rose sharply ahead of the festive season, prompting the Centre to allow duty-free import of 10 lakh tonnes of raw sugar under a tariff rate quota for the first time in about a decade and to cap stocks held by dealers and bulk users.

    • DGFT notification of 20 August 2026 allows duty-free import of 10 lakh tonnes of raw sugar under a tariff rate quota until 31 October 2026
    • First such opening of sugar imports in about a decade, as stocks fell and prices rose
    • Bulk consumers using more than 10 tonnes a month may hold only 15 days' consumption, from 1 September to 30 November
    • Dealers and wholesalers may hold at most 4,000 quintal for not more than 30 days
47. 20 Aug2026
    Obituaries

    Sajjan Kumar, convicted in 1984 riots case, dies at 80^120121122

    Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar, serving a life term for the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, died on 20 August 2026 at Safdarjung Hospital, Delhi, after being brought from Tihar Jail; most reports give his age as 80.

    • Died 20 August 2026 at Safdarjung Hospital after being taken from Tihar
    • Life term from Delhi High Court on 17 December 2018 (killing of five Sikhs, gurdwara burning); another life term in February 2025
    • Cause of death not clarified by the hospital at the time
    • Age 80 in most reports; one report gives 84
48. 20 Aug2026
    Awards

    Pakistan to posthumously honour two Mumbai doctors who treated Jinnah^123124125

    Pakistan announced it will confer the Nishan-e-Imtiaz posthumously on two Mumbai Parsi doctors, Dr Jal Ratanji Patel and Dr Jal Deboo (spelling varies), who examined Jinnah in 1946 and kept his illness confidential; the honour is to be presented at the March 2027 investiture.

    • Announced by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal (chair of the Awards Committee); reported 20-21 August 2026
    • Doctors said to have diagnosed advanced tuberculosis from X-rays in 1946 and kept it confidential
    • Investiture expected on 23 March 2027 (Pakistan Day)
    • The 'one or two years to live' detail traces to the book Freedom at Midnight
49. 20 Aug2026
    International

    Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir elected President of Bangladesh^126127128

    Bangladesh's parliament elected ruling-party veteran Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir as President on 20 August 2026, defeating Oli Ahmed 255 to 88, in the first contested presidential election since 1991.

    • Parliamentary vote on 20 August 2026: 255 to 88 over Oli Ahmed (opposition alliance candidate)
    • 343 of 349 lawmakers voted
    • First contested presidential election since 1991; 23rd President
    • Vacancy followed President Mohammed Shahabuddin's resignation
    • Oath scheduled for 21 August
50. 20 Aug2026
    Defence

    India and Japan sign maritime security Memorandum of Arrangement^129130131

    On 20 August 2026 Defence Ministers Rajnath Singh and Shinjiro Koizumi signed a Memorandum of Arrangement on Maritime Security Cooperation in New Delhi, covering maritime domain awareness, search and rescue, HADR and mine countermeasures.

    • Signed 20 August 2026, New Delhi
    • Covers maritime domain awareness, information sharing, SAR and HADR
    • Mine countermeasures cooperation; possible equipment transfer and shipbuilding cooperation
    • Working Group to be set up; two-plus-two preparations to be sped up before year-end
51. 20 Aug2026
    Science and tech

    DRDO and University of Hyderabad get patent for BAM-H24 rocket fuel¹³²¹³³

    The Indian Patent Office granted Patent No. 599900 on 20 August 2026 to DRDO and the University of Hyderabad's ACRHEM for BAM-H24, a boron-rich energetic compound for solid rocket propellant (filed 21 December 2022).

    • Patent No. 599900 (application 202211074244), granted 20 August 2026
    • Compound: hexaethylbut-2-yne-1,4-diaminium dodecaborane, designed as solid rocket fuel or burn-rate accelerator
    • Inventors Dr Muddamarri Hanumantha Rao and Prof. Muralidharan Krishnamurthi (ACRHEM, UoH)
    • Performance benefits are projections; GKToday gives 2 September as the date
52. 20 Aug2026
    Polity

    Cabinet approves permanent Ladakh bench of J&K and Ladakh High Court^134135136

    On 20 August 2026 the Union Cabinet approved a Ladakh bench of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court, announced by Home Minister Amit Shah; Leh becomes the court's third location.

    • Cabinet approval 20 August 2026, announced by Amit Shah on X
    • Ladakh cases were earlier heard at Jammu or Srinagar
    • The President's regulation followed on 27 August 2026
53. 19 Aug2026
    Legislation

    Home Ministry notifies Citizenship (Third Amendment) Rules 2026 empowering Collectors^137138139

    The Home Ministry notified the Citizenship (Third Amendment) Rules 2026 on 19 August 2026, making district collectors in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam and Tripura (excluding tribal areas) and the UTs of J&K and Ladakh the authority to decide citizenship applications.

    • Notified 19 August 2026
    • Collectors replace Empowered Committees and Designated Officers in listed regions
    • Tribal areas of Assam and Tripura excluded
    • Covers registration (s 5) and naturalisation (s 6); pending applications transfer to the collector
    • Applications can be filed electronically
54. 19 Aug2026
    Disasters

    Hotel fire in Kolkata kills nine^140141142

    A fire at a budget hotel in central Kolkata around 2:50 a.m. on 19 August 2026 killed at least nine people including a child; reports say several victims were Bangladeshi nationals, and the cause (AC explosion or short circuit) was unconfirmed.

    • At least nine dead; about 30 evacuated; fire started on the second floor
    • Cause unconfirmed: possible air-conditioner explosion or electrical short circuit
    • Victim nationality reported differently (some or all Bangladeshi); Bangladesh mission said five
    • Safety lapses under examination by West Bengal authorities
55. 18 Aug2026
    International

    US sanctions ICC President Tomoko Akane and lawyer Abdoulaye Seye^143144145

    On 18 August 2026 the US sanctioned ICC President Tomoko Akane (Japan) and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye (Senegal), announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio under a February 2025 executive order; the ICC called it a flagrant attack on its independence.

    • Announced 18 August 2026; both added to the Treasury SDN list
    • Rubio cited ICC efforts against officials of states that have not accepted its jurisdiction
    • Seye was on the team that sought an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu
    • Sanctions take effect for US entities from 17 September
    • UN rights chief Volker Turk urged that they be lifted
56. 18 Aug2026
    Science and tech

    Sophie Adenot becomes first French woman to spacewalk^146147148

    French ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot became the first French woman to spacewalk on 18 August 2026, working with NASA's Anil Menon for about six hours to remove a failed ISS communications antenna; the replacement was installed in a second spacewalk on 25 August.

    • Spacewalk on 18 August 2026; Adenot is 44
    • Removed a broken ground-communications antenna; the replacement could not be installed that day
    • Second spacewalk on 25 August installed and connected the spare antenna (about 6 h 30 min)
    • Second European woman to spacewalk after Samantha Cristoforetti (2022)
57. 18 Aug2026
    Polity

    NTA introduces four-tier question paper scrutiny, removes 600 experts^149150151

    On 18 August 2026 the Education Ministry announced an NTA overhaul after the NEET-UG and UGC-NET lapses: about 600 experts removed, four-tier checking of question papers, new experts and CISF security for NTA offices.

    • Announced 18 August 2026 after a meeting chaired by Education Minister Pralhad Joshi
    • About 600 experts removed from NTA panels; new experts onboarded
    • Four-tier question paper checking planned
    • CISF to secure NTA offices; office relocation reported from unnamed sources
58. 18 Aug2026
    Awards

    National Sports Awards 2025: no Khel Ratna, 17 Arjuna awardees¹⁵²¹⁵³

    The sports ministry announced the National Sports Awards 2025 on 18 August 2026 with no Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna recipient. Seventeen sportspersons got the Arjuna Award and five coaches the Dronacharya Award.

    • National Sports Awards 2025 announced on Tuesday 18 August 2026
    • No recipient named for the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna
    • 17 sportspersons selected for the Arjuna Award, including Vidit Gujrathi and Tejaswin Shankar
    • Five coaches selected for Dronacharya honours
    • Arjuna Award carries Rs 15 lakh; Khel Ratna Rs 25 lakh
59. 18 Aug2026
    Defence

    India-Thailand exercise MAITREE-XV begins^154155156

    The 15th edition of the India-Thailand army exercise MAITREE was held 18 to 31 August 2026 at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp, Surat Thani, Thailand, with 85 personnel from each army (9 Gorkha Rifles for India), focused on counter-terrorism in jungle and semi-urban terrain.

    • MAITREE-XV, 18 to 31 August 2026, Surat Thani, Thailand
    • 85 personnel each; Indian side mainly 9 Gorkha Rifles
    • Joint counter-insurgency and counter-terror training under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter
    • Exercise dates to 2006; 14th edition was at Umroi, Meghalaya in September 2025
60. 17 Aug2026
    Supreme Court

    Supreme Court orders nationwide survey of elephant corridors^157158159

    On 17 August 2026 a Supreme Court bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana ordered a nationwide survey of elephant corridors, said states cannot obstruct them citing crop damage, and barred fireballs and mashaals to drive elephants away.

    • Order of 17 August 2026
    • Environment Ministry to survey whether states have built obstacles in corridors
    • States cannot block corridors because of crop damage
    • Fireballs and mashaals barred; report sought in about six weeks
    • Wildlife Institute of India identified 150 corridors in 2023
61. 17 Aug2026
    Disasters

    Crowd crush at Ashokdham temple in Lakhisarai kills seven^160161162

    Seven people died and about 12 to 14 were injured in a stampede-like crush at Ashok Dham temple, Lakhisarai, Bihar, around 6:30 a.m. on Monday 17 August 2026 (third Monday of Sawan); the Bihar CM announced Rs 4 lakh ex gratia.

    • Seven dead, 12 to 14 injured, mostly women
    • Around 6:30 to 6:45 a.m. on 17 August 2026
    • Trigger reported as a rumour of a fallen power pole (a wire had snapped) and a crowd rush; barricade failure also cited
    • Rs 4 lakh ex gratia per deceased announced
62. 17 Aug2026
    Environment

    India launches first Guide to Grasslands and Open Natural Ecosystems at UNCCD COP17^163164165

    On 17 August 2026 India launched its first Guide to Grasslands and Other Open Natural Ecosystems at UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav addressed it by video.

    • Launched 17 August 2026 at UNCCD COP17, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia (Down to Earth gives a different date, 25 Aug)
    • Covers grasslands, savannas, deserts and other open ecosystems
    • Supported by MoEFCC with ATREE, IUCN, CoE-SLM, ICFRE and SAC-ISRO
    • A reference guide, not a law or scheme
63. 17 Aug2026
    Polity

    BJP announces new national team under president Nitin Nabin^166167168

    On 17 August 2026 BJP president Nitin Nabin announced his national team: 13 national vice presidents (including Vasundhara Raje, Ram Madhav, Baijayant Jay Panda), eight general secretaries (including Smriti Irani, Vinod Tawde, Biplab Deb) and 16 national secretaries, with Piyush Goyal as treasurer.

    • Announced Monday 17 August 2026
    • 13 national VPs, 8 general secretaries, 16 national secretaries (per The Quint)
    • B. L. Santhosh continues as general secretary (organisation); Shivprakash and Saudan Singh joint general secretaries (organisation)
    • Piyush Goyal treasurer; Deepak Mhaske replaces Amit Malviya as IT cell head
64. 17 Aug2026
    Defence

    Army chief Gen Dhiraj Seth gets honorary General rank of Nepali Army^169170171

    President Ram Chandra Paudel conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army on Indian Army chief Gen Dhiraj Seth on 17 August 2026 at Sheetal Niwas, Kathmandu, under the reciprocal tradition since 1950.

    • Conferred Monday 17 August 2026, Sheetal Niwas, Kathmandu
    • Reciprocal honorary rank tradition between the two armies dates from 1950
    • Seth visited at the invitation of Nepal Army chief Gen Ashok Raj Sigdel and handed over military and medical equipment
65. 17 Aug2026
    Defence

    210 Indian peacekeepers receive UN Medal in Juba^172173174

    On 17 August 2026, 210 Indian peacekeepers serving with UNMISS received the UN Medal in Juba, South Sudan, including six women and seven staff officers.

    • UN Medal ceremony in Juba on 17 August 2026
    • 210 Indian peacekeepers; six women and seven staff officers
    • UNMISS publicised the honour on X
    • India is the largest troop contributor to UNMISS (1,775 as of April 2026)
66. 16 Aug2026
    International

    Iran and Oman agree map of shipping transit route through Strait of Hormuz^175176177

    Iran said on about 15-17 August 2026 that it and Oman had agreed a shipping route map through the Strait of Hormuz after weeks of technical talks; a joint statement was still to follow and a temporary route was announced on 25-26 August, with full reopening tied by Iran to US actions.

    • Iran's foreign ministry spokesman announced agreement on a route map, about 15-17 August 2026
    • Reported design: ships enter close to Iran and exit close to Oman, no fees in the interim
    • Joint statement and joint management arrangements still being finalised
    • Temporary route announced by Deputy FM Gharibabadi around 25-26 August
    • Iran links full reopening to an end to the US naval blockade
67. 16 Aug2026
    International

    Iran's Majlis approves framework of bill criminalising interviews with US and Israeli media^178179180

    On 16 August 2026 Iran's Majlis approved the general principles of a bill criminalising interviews and other contacts with media hostile to Iran, including US and Israeli outlets, with six months to two years in prison; individual articles still need debate and Guardian Council approval.

    • Vote on 16 August 2026 approved only the bill's general principles (183 votes in favour, per Reuters)
    • Interviews with US- or Israeli-linked media would carry six months to two years in prison
    • Other contacts with foreign media or embassies would need intelligence ministry notice, with fines for breaches
    • Needs further votes and review by the Guardian Council before becoming law
68. 15 Aug2026
    Polity

    Modi's 80th Independence Day speech: Sapt Dhara framework, AI skilling for one crore youth, 2036 Olympics preparation^181182183

    From the Red Fort on 15 August 2026 the PM outlined seven 'streams of strength', announced AI training for 1 crore youth within a year and free online coaching for competitive exams, and said India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympics.

    • 80th Independence Day, 15 August 2026; Modi's 13th consecutive Red Fort address
    • Shakti Ki Sapt Dhara: manufacturing, agriculture and food processing, technology and innovation, Gati Shakti, Raksha Shakti, green and blue economy, soft power
    • AI skill training for 1 crore youth over the next year
    • Free online coaching for competitive exams
    • Preparing to host the 2036 Olympics; talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15
    • Target of 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047
69. 15 Aug2026
    Books and culture

    Vande Mataram rendered at Red Fort on Independence Day for the first time, before the national anthem^184185186

    At the 80th Independence Day ceremony on 15 August 2026 an Army band played Vande Mataram and guests sang along, reported as the first time it was rendered at the Red Fort ceremony, ahead of the national anthem; the song is in its 150th-anniversary year.

    • 15 August 2026, 80th Independence Day, Red Fort
    • Rendered before the national anthem, a first for the ceremony
    • Army band played the tune; guests sang
    • Flower-shower helicopter carried a banner marking 150 years of the song
70. 14 Aug2026
    Defence

    IAF concludes Exercise Udara Shakti 2026 in Malaysia^187188189

    The IAF's bilateral air exercise Udara Shakti 2026 with the Royal Malaysian Air Force ran at Subang Air Base from 10 to 14 August 2026 and featured the debut of Indian Rafales; the IAF announced its conclusion, along with Pitch Black in Australia, on 23 August.

    • Udara Shakti 2026: 10 to 14 August at Subang Air Base, Malaysia
    • India sent four Rafales (101 Squadron) and two C-17s; RMAF fielded Su-30MKM, F/A-18D and A400M
    • First appearance of Indian Rafales in the exercise
    • Followed Exercise Pitch Black in Australia; both announced concluded on 23 August
71. 14 Aug2026
    Awards

    MHA announces 301 gallantry medals among 1,057 police and fire service honours^190191192

    The Home Ministry announced 1,057 gallantry and service medals for police and fire services on 14 August 2026: 301 Medals for Gallantry (272 police, 29 fire), 92 President's Medals for Distinguished Service and 664 Medals for Meritorious Service.

    • Announced 14 August 2026
    • 301 gallantry medals: 272 police, 29 fire; 197 for Left Wing Extremism areas, 51 J&K, 12 Northeast, 41 elsewhere
    • 92 President's Medals for Distinguished Service
    • 664 Medals for Meritorious Service
    • Chhattisgarh Police got 141 gallantry medals, the most among states
72. 14 Aug2026
    Other

    NCB brings back mephedrone fugitive Virender Basoya from UAE under Operation GLOBAL-HUNT^193194195

    The NCB brought fugitive drug trafficker Virender Singh Basoya back from the UAE on 14 August 2026 under Operation GLOBAL-HUNT; he had been held in the UAE since June on an INTERPOL Red Notice, and is linked to a mephedrone case that began with a Pune seizure in February 2024 and totals about 1,837 kg.

    • Returned on 14 August 2026 and taken into custody at Delhi's IGI Airport
    • Arrested in the UAE in June 2026 on an INTERPOL Red Notice requested by NCB
    • Case began with a 500 g mephedrone seizure in Pune in February 2024; total about 1,837 kg (about 867 kg Pune, 970 kg Delhi)
    • Pune court later remanded him to NCB custody till 21 August
73. 13 Aug2026
    Economy

    White House 'Great Transshipment Scam' report places India in Tier 1^196197198

    A White House (Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy) report, 'The Great Transshipment Scam', released 13 August 2026 places India in Tier 1 ('Diversified Scale Leaders') of countries with elevated Chinese-goods transshipment risk; it imposes no new tariff and GTRI called it 'big allegations, little evidence'.

    • Report released 13 August 2026; 25 pages, over 40 countries flagged
    • India in Tier 1 with Canada, EU, Israel, Japan, Mexico, South Korea and Taiwan
    • Tier placement carries no tariff by itself
    • GTRI: 'big allegations, little evidence'
74. 13 Aug2026
    Economy

    Lucknow-Delhi Tejas Express to run as 'Sprite Tejas Express' from 19 August^199200201

    IRCTC awarded Sprite branding rights on the Lucknow-Delhi Tejas Express (trains 82501/82502), which runs as the 'Sprite Tejas Express' from 19 August 2026, reported as India's first commercially branded passenger train; the deal runs to 11 November 2026 per most reports.

    • Branding from 19 August 2026 on trains 82501/82502
    • IRCTC gave full train-branding advertising rights plus coach-wrap rights to Sprite
    • Term reported as 19 August to 11 November 2026 (another report says six months)
    • Described as commercial branding, not privatisation of railways
75. 13 Aug2026
    International

    Putin visits disputed Iturup island, Japan protests^202203204

    Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Iturup (Etorofu) in the Kuril Islands on 13 August 2026, his first trip to the islands claimed by Japan; Tokyo lodged a strong protest and summoned Russian Ambassador Nikolay Nozdrev, and Russia summoned Japan's ambassador on 18 August.

    • Visit on 13 August 2026 to Iturup (Etorofu), visiting a fish plant, hospital and school
    • Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said Tokyo 'strongly protests'; PM Sanae Takaichi called it unacceptable
    • Japan summoned Russian ambassador Nikolay Nozdrev
    • Russia summoned Japanese ambassador Akira Muto on 18 August
76. 13 Aug2026
    Science and tech

    Pakistan names first lunar rover Jinnah-1 for China's Chang'e-8^205206207

    Pakistan's space agency SUPARCO named its first lunar rover Jinnah-1 (about 35 kg), chosen through a public contest and due to fly to the lunar south pole on China's Chang'e-8 mission, planned for 2029.

    • Name announced around 13 August 2026 by SUPARCO
    • About 35 kg rover for the Moon's south pole
    • Rides on China's Chang'e-8, planned for 2029 (ILRS programme)
    • Name chosen from about 4,000 contest entries by lucky draw; winner a 17-year-old from Bahawalnagar
    • PKR 400 million allocated under PSDP 2025-26
77. 12 Aug2026
    Legislation

    National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Act 2026 enacted^208209210

    Parliament passed the National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill 2026 on 12 August 2026 (Rajya Sabha, after Lok Sabha); it widens NCDC's mandate to general co-operative development, lets it lend directly to co-operatives and, with Centre's approval, take share capital; assent was reported on 16 August.

    • Rajya Sabha passed it 12 August 2026 after the Lok Sabha
    • NCDC mandate widened from specified commodities to general co-operative development
    • Direct loans and grants to co-operatives; share capital participation with Central Government approval
    • Removes the rural-location requirement for industrial co-operatives
    • President's assent reported 16 August (Act No. 19 of 2026, one outlet)
78. 12 Aug2026
    Reports and indices

    Hurun India Most Valuable Family Businesses 2026: Ambani family tops at Rs 25.83 lakh crore^211212213

    The 2026 Barclays Private Clients Hurun India Most Valuable Family Businesses list, released around 12 August with valuations as of 30 June 2026, put the Ambani family first at Rs 25.83 lakh crore, ahead of Birla (Rs 8.14 lakh crore) and Jindal (Rs 8.02 lakh crore).

    • Ambani family (Reliance) Rs 25.83 lakh crore, about three times the second-ranked family
    • Birla Rs 8.14 lakh crore; Jindal Rs 8.02 lakh crore; Bajaj Rs 7.70 lakh crore; Mahindra Rs 5.15 lakh crore
    • Top 300 families worth about Rs 138 lakh crore (USD 1.46 trillion), up 27.5% from 2024
    • Adani Enterprises ranked separately as a first-generation business
79. 12 Aug2026
    Polity

    FCRA Amendment Bill 2026 referred to Joint Parliamentary Committee²¹⁴²¹⁵

    The Lok Sabha referred the FCRA Amendment Bill 2026 to a 31-member Joint Parliamentary Committee on 12 August 2026 by voice vote, after opposition demands for withdrawal.

    • Referred to a 31-member JPC on 12 August 2026 (MoS Home Nityanand Rai moved the motion)
    • JPC has 21 Lok Sabha and 10 Rajya Sabha members
    • Panel constituted 4 September 2026 with BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal as chair (one source)
    • Congress MP K. C. Venugopal demanded withdrawal
80. 11 Aug2026
    Environment

    AIMS: northern Great Barrier Reef coral cover recovers to 35.1%^216217218

    AIMS's 2025-26 annual report, released 11 August 2026, found northern Great Barrier Reef hard coral cover rose from 30% to 35.1% (a 16.7% relative increase), with 28% of surveyed reefs increasing, 56% unchanged and 16% declining.

    • Released 11 August 2026; 121 reefs surveyed between August 2025 and June 2026
    • Northern region 30% to 35.1%; Central 28.6% to 31.6%; Southern 26.9% to 26.4%
    • 28% of reefs increased, 56% unchanged, 16% declined
    • Recovery attributed to a late-summer monsoon that cooled waters; bleaching and cyclones remain threats
81. 11 Aug2026
    Legislation

    Parliament passes Tribunals Reforms Bill 2026 creating National Tribunals Commission^219220221

    Parliament cleared the Tribunals Reforms Bill 2026, which creates a National Tribunals Commission to select chairpersons and members of tribunals. The Lok Sabha passed it on 10 August and the Rajya Sabha on 11 August, and the President assented on 13 August.

    • Lok Sabha passed the Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026 on 10 August and Rajya Sabha on 11 August 2026
    • Creates a National Tribunals Commission (NTC) to select chairpersons and members of tribunals
    • President Droupadi Murmu gave assent on 13 August 2026
82. 11 Aug2026
    Defence

    Navy's NGOPV Shruti launched at GRSE Kolkata^222223224

    The Navy's second GRSE-built Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel, Shruti (Yard 3037), was launched at GRSE, Kolkata on 11 August 2026; GRSE is building four of the 11-ship NGOPV programme.

    • Launched 11 August 2026, GRSE Kolkata; second GRSE NGOPV after Sanghmitra (20 May 2026)
    • Part of the Navy's 11-ship NGOPV programme; Goa Shipyard's first, Shachi, launched 31 March 2026
    • About 113 m long, 3,000 tonnes, up to 23 knots, endurance 8,500 nm
    • Roles: surveillance, SAR, HADR, anti-piracy
83. 11 Aug2026
    International

    Lebanon abolishes death penalty, first in West Asia^225226227

    Lebanon's parliament voted on 11 August 2026 to abolish the death penalty, replacing it with life imprisonment with aggravated hard labour; no execution has been carried out since 2004 and the law still needs the president's signature and gazette publication.

    • Parliament vote on 11 August 2026 (a majority of 128 MPs; Hezbollah's bloc opposed)
    • Capital punishment replaced by life imprisonment with aggravated hard labour
    • No execution since 2004, though courts kept passing death sentences
    • Needs presidential signature and Official Gazette publication to take effect
    • Described in reports as a first for the Middle East; Djibouti abolished in 1995, so 'first Arab' claims conflict
84. 11 Aug2026
    States

    Himachal Pradesh levies 60 paise per litre Widow and Orphan Cess on fuel^228229230

    Himachal Pradesh began levying a Widow and Orphan Cess of 60 paise per litre on petrol and diesel from midnight of 11 August 2026 under Section 6-A of the HP VAT Act 2005; the VAT amendment allows up to Rs 5 per litre.

    • Effective from midnight of 11 August 2026
    • Rate 60 paise per litre on petrol and high-speed diesel, collected at first sale to a dealer
    • Ceiling under the VAT (Amendment) Bill 2026 is Rs 5 per litre
    • Proceeds fund welfare of widows and orphaned children; opposition and dealers objected
85. 10 Aug2026
    Defence

    India-US Navy EOD exercise held at Kochi^231232233

    The eighth edition of the India-US Navy explosive ordnance disposal exercise was held at Southern Naval Command, Kochi, from 10 to 14 August 2026, with expert exchanges, cross-training and scenario-based diving and EOD practice.

    • 10 to 14 August 2026, Southern Naval Command, Kochi
    • Eighth edition; joint salvage and EOD exercises since 2005
    • Format: subject-matter expert exchanges, cross-training, equipment demos, scenario-based exercises
    • Previous (7th) edition SALVEX ran 26 June to 6 July at Kochi
86. 10 Aug2026
    Awards

    Deepak Dhar shares 2026 ICTP Dirac Medal^234235236

    ICTS-TIFR announced on 10 August 2026 that Deepak Dhar shares the 2026 ICTP Dirac Medal with Bernard Derrida, Marc Mezard and Haim Sompolinsky for work in statistical mechanics; Dhar is known for the Abelian sandpile model.

    • Announced 10 August 2026 (ICTS)
    • Co-recipients: Bernard Derrida, Marc Mezard, Haim Sompolinsky
    • Dhar is a professor at ICTS-TIFR, Bengaluru; known for the Abelian sandpile model
    • One report calls him the second India-based scientist to receive the medal after Ashoke Sen
87. 10 Aug2026
    Other

    India readies 80th Independence Day with Yuva Shakti theme^237238239

    At an 10 August 2026 press conference Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said the 80th Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort on 15 August would follow the theme 'Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047' and mark 150 years of Vande Mataram, which would be sung from the ramparts for the first time.

    • 80th Independence Day, Saturday 15 August 2026, Red Fort
    • Official theme: Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047
    • 150 years of Vande Mataram to be marked; sung from the ramparts on the PM's arrival
    • Red Fort closed to visitors from 15 July to 15 August for preparations
88. 10 Aug2026
    Environment

    World Lion Day: Asiatic lion count rises to 891 in 2025^240241242

    On World Lion Day (10 August 2026) the Environment Minister cited the Asiatic lion population of 891 (16th estimation, May 2025), up from 674 in 2020; lions now range over about 35,000 sq km in 11 Gujarat districts.

    • 891 lions in the 2025 estimation vs 674 in 2020 (+32.2%)
    • Range about 35,000 sq km across 11 districts; about half live outside core Gir
    • Adult females rose from 260 to 330
    • Project Lion announced 15 August 2020
89. 10 Aug2026
    Science and tech

    Indian scientists detect ozone-rich layer at 21-23 km over north Bay of Bengal²⁴³

    ARIES scientists reported an unusually thick, ozone-rich layer about 21 to 23 km above the northern Bay of Bengal that lasted over a day, found during the Phase-I NetRAD-ASMA campaign and published in Earth and Space Science (AGU).

    • Layer at about 21 to 23 km, persisting more than a day, with ozone well above usual for eastern India
    • Part of the Phase-I NetRAD-ASMA campaign; ARIES 206.5 MHz ST radar at Nainital with radars at Haringhata, Gadanki and Kochi plus balloons
    • Satellite data from Aura MLS and INSAT-3DR used
    • Published in Earth and Space Science (AGU)
90. 9 Aug2026
    Other

    International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples: Honouring Indigenous Midwives²⁴⁴

    The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples was observed on 9 August 2026 with the UN theme 'Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Safeguarding Life and Well-being'; the Day was set by the UN General Assembly in 1994.

    • Observed 9 August 2026
    • Theme: Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Safeguarding Life and Well-being (a subtitle variant exists)
    • Established by UNGA in 1994 (resolution 49/214), marking the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982
91. 9 Aug2026
    Schemes

    VB-G RAM G first month: rural jobs nearly halve versus MGNREGS July 2025^245246247

    Official data as of 9 August showed the VB-G RAM G rural jobs scheme, in force since 1 July 2026, generated 7.67 crore person-days in July against 15.33 crore under MGNREGS in July 2025, a 49.94% fall; the rural development ministry said about 9 crore.

    • 7.67 crore vs 15.33 crore person-days (down 49.94%), data as of 9 Aug 2026
    • Ministry claimed about 9 crore person-days in the first month
    • Households with work: 68.94 lakh vs 1.42 crore a year earlier
    • Statutory guarantee raised from 100 to 125 days per household
    • Act commenced 1 July 2026, replacing MGNREGA
92. 8 Aug2026
    Schemes

    Sonowal launches E-Samudra single-window maritime portal²⁴⁸²⁴⁹

    Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched E-Samudra in Mumbai on 8 August 2026, a single-window digital platform for maritime services (online payments, real-time tracking, digital certificates), building on a 2025 first phase.

    • Launched 8 August 2026, Mumbai, at a DGMA seafarer-welfare stakeholder event
    • Single-window platform, end-to-end digital workflows, faceless governance
    • Service count reported as 60+ or 72+ depending on outlet
    • DGMA also showcased e-NAVIK grievance system and Digital Seafarers Employment Agreement
93. 8 Aug2026
    Sports

    Basant Kumar Meghwal wins India's first U20 World high jump silver^250251252

    Basant Kumar Meghwal, 19, from Anupgarh in Rajasthan, won silver in the men's high jump at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Eugene with 2.21 m (silver on countback), the first Indian high jump medal at the event; Algeria's Younes Ayachi took gold.

    • Cleared 2.21 m, equalling his personal best; silver on countback
    • First Indian high jump medal at the World U20 Championships
    • Algeria's Younes Ayachi gold; Great Britain's Otis Poole bronze
    • India's third medal at the meet: Ashish Yadav javelin silver, Shahnavaz Khan long jump bronze
    • Final on 8 August (some reports say 9 August)
94. 7 Aug2026
    Environment

    Parliamentary panel backs National Pine Needle Utilisation Policy²⁵³²⁵⁴

    A parliamentary standing committee report on Himalayan forest fires, presented in early August 2026, recommended a National Pine-Needle Utilisation Policy, a dedicated geostationary satellite for fire monitoring and two regional NDRF centres for the Himalayas.

    • 412th report of the committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate Change, presented in early August 2026
    • Recommends MoEFCC frame a National Pine-Needle Utilisation Policy with states and offer incentives for collection
    • Himalayan regions hold 17% of India's land area but 57% of forest fire cases
    • Suggests pine-needle pellets for co-firing in thermal plants
    • Environment Ministry said existing fire action plans already address the issue
95. 7 Aug2026
    Science and tech

    Astrobase unveils India's first private 800 kN methalox engine 'Everest'^255256257

    Bengaluru startup Astrobase unveiled 'Everest' on 7 August 2026, claimed as India's first privately built 800 kN full-flow staged combustion LOX-methane engine with 50 to 110% throttle; it has not yet been fired at full scale.

    • Unveiled 7 August 2026 by Astrobase Space Technologies (Bengaluru)
    • 800 kN thrust, specific impulse about 340 s, throttle 50% to 110%
    • Full-flow staged combustion, additively manufactured core parts
    • Full-scale hot-fire still to come; first orbital flight targeted for 2028
    • Backed by IN-SPACe Technology Adoption Fund
96. 7 Aug2026
    Defence

    Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan sign Makkah Joint Defence Agreement^258259260

    Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement on 7 August 2026 at Al-Safa Palace, Makkah; an armed attack on any one is treated as an attack on all three.

    • Signed Friday 7 August 2026, Makkah
    • Signatories: Mohammed bin Salman, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Shehbaz Sharif
    • Clause: attack on one is an attack on all three; wider defence cooperation
    • Follows the Saudi-Pakistan Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement of September 2025
97. 7 Aug2026
    Legislation

    Parliament passes MSME Development (Amendment) Bill 2026 on delayed payments^261262263

    The Lok Sabha passed the MSME Development (Amendment) Bill 2026 on 7 August 2026 without debate, after the Rajya Sabha had passed it on 3 August; it tightens time limits for mediation and arbitration of delayed payments and requires CPSEs to settle invoices through TReDS.

    • Lok Sabha passed it 7 August 2026 (Rajya Sabha 3 August)
    • Mediation within 90 days; arbitration referral within 30 days; award within 90 days of pleadings
    • Where an award challenge stays pending over six months, at least 50% of the award is to be paid to the MSE supplier
    • CPSEs to settle procurement invoices through TReDS
    • Decriminalises certain penal provisions; moved by Jitan Ram Manjhi
98. 7 Aug2026
    International

    India publishes official names for 27 Arunachal Pradesh locations²⁶⁴²⁶⁵

    On 7 August 2026 the Home Ministry published official names, on Survey of India maps, for 27 geographical features in Arunachal Pradesh (including four passes, a lake and a monument), countering China's renaming lists; China objected and the MEA rejected the objection on 11 August.

    • 27 names announced 7 August 2026, finalised with Arunachal government on Survey of India maps
    • Includes four mountain passes, one lake and one monument; land-area count differs by report (19 or 21)
    • China called the move 'illegal, null and void'; MEA (Randhir Jaiswal) called Arunachal inalienable on 11 August
    • China has issued rename lists in 2017, 2021, 2023 and later
99. 6 Aug2026
    Polity

    Centre tells Supreme Court creamy layer should not apply to SC/ST quotas^266267268

    The Union Social Justice Ministry told the Supreme Court on 6 August 2026 that the creamy layer doctrine applies to OBCs and should not be extended to SC/ST quotas, opposing a PIL by advocate Ashwini Upadhyay; it said any change needs empirical study and falls to Parliament.

    • Affidavit filed 6 August 2026 in PIL by Ashwini Upadhyay (notice issued 11 Aug 2025)
    • Centre cites Indra Sawhney (1992) and Ashoka Kumar Thakur (2008): creamy layer is for OBCs
    • Says income-based sub-quotas would need a holistic review and empirical study
    • State of Punjab v Davinder Singh (2024) allowed SC sub-classification (6:1) and Justice Gavai suggested a creamy layer for SC/ST
100. 6 Aug2026
     Supreme Court

     Bombay High Court (Goa bench) overturns Tarun Tejpal's 2021 acquittal^269270271

     On 6 August 2026 a Bombay High Court (Goa bench) division bench of Justices Neela Gokhale and Amit Jamsandekar set aside the 2021 Mapusa sessions court acquittal of Tarun Tejpal and convicted him in the 2013 Goa sexual assault case; one report says he was later sentenced to 10 years.

     • Judgment 6 August 2026 on the Goa government's appeal
     • Convicted under IPC 376(2)(f), 376(2)(k), 354A and 354B
     • Original acquittal in 2021 by the Mapusa sessions court; case dates to 2013
     • Sentence reported as 10 years' rigorous imprisonment (Moneylife); sentencing was initially to be heard separately
101. 6 Aug2026
     Defence

     Sqn Ldr Bhawana Kanth is first IAF woman to complete Fighter Combat Leader course²⁷²²⁷³

     Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth became the first Indian woman fighter pilot to complete the Fighter Combat Leader course at TACDE, Gwalior, the IAF's 'Top Gun' school.

     • First woman to complete the Fighter Combat Leader course at TACDE
     • Course described as about 20 weeks
     • One of the IAF's first women fighter pilots, commissioned June 2016 with Avani Chaturvedi and Mohana Singh
     • First Indian woman cleared for day fighter combat missions (MiG-21 Bison), May 2019
102. 6 Aug2026
     Defence

     India test-fires Agni-4 ballistic missile from Odisha^274275276

     India test-fired the nuclear-capable Agni-4 medium-range ballistic missile on 6 August 2026 from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur (Odisha), under the Strategic Forces Command.

     • Test on 6 August 2026 from ITR Chandipur, Odisha
     • Conducted under the Strategic Forces Command; all operational and technical parameters validated
     • Reported range up to about 4,000 km, two-stage solid-fuel missile
103. 6 Aug2026
     Legislation

     Lok Sabha passes Taxation and Other Laws bill with enabling clause on payment charges^277278279

     The Lok Sabha passed the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill 2026 on 6 August 2026 by voice vote without debate; it amends Section 10A of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act 2007, letting the Centre notify electronic payment modes on which charges may be barred, reopening the door to MDR on UPI.

     • Passed in Lok Sabha 6 August 2026 by voice vote amid protests
     • Amends s 10A of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act 2007
     • Replaces reference to modes under Income-tax Act s 269SU with modes notified by the Centre
     • FM Sitharaman: any MDR would apply to merchants, not users; UPI steering committee yet to decide
104. 6 Aug2026
     Appointments

     SC Collegium recommends four High Court Chief Justices^280281282

     On 6 August 2026 the Supreme Court Collegium led by CJI Surya Kant recommended V. Kameswar Rao (Patna), Ravindra V. Ghuge (Calcutta), Mahesh Chandra Tripathi (Bombay) and Ashwani Kumar Mishra (Punjab and Haryana) as High Court Chief Justices.

     • Collegium meeting 6 August 2026 under CJI Surya Kant
     • Kameswar Rao to Patna, Ravindra Ghuge to Calcutta, Mahesh Chandra Tripathi to Bombay, Ashwani Kumar Mishra to Punjab and Haryana
     • A further set (Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, J&K and Ladakh) followed on 31 August
105. 6 Aug2026
     Legislation

     Lok Sabha passes Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill 2026²⁸³²⁸⁴

     Duplicate of the 6 August 2026 Lok Sabha passage of the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill 2026 (see the other 6 August entry): it extends electronics contract-manufacturing tax exemptions to 2040-41, replaces the Income-tax (Amendment) Ordinance 2026 and exempts FIIs and the BIS on government-securities income.

     • Passed in Lok Sabha 6 August 2026 by voice vote without debate
     • Replaces the Income-tax (Amendment) Ordinance 2026
     • Extends electronics contract manufacturing tax exemptions to 2040-41
     • Exempts FIIs and the Bank for International Settlements on interest and capital gains from government securities from 1 April 2026
106. 6 Aug2026
     Other

     Hiroshima marks 81st anniversary of atomic bombing^285286287

     Hiroshima marked the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing on 6 August 2026; Mayor Kazumi Matsui urged leaders to stop treating nuclear deterrence as realistic, and PM Sanae Takaichi attended for the first time as prime minister.

     • Ceremony on 6 August 2026, 81st anniversary
     • Minute of silence at 8:15 a.m.; about 50,000 attendees; around 120 countries and regions represented
     • Mayor Matsui criticised nuclear deterrence and the failed NPT Review Conference outcome
     • PM Sanae Takaichi attended for the first time as PM
107. 6 Aug2026
     Other

     Centre deploys NJORT as Chandipura virus cases rise in Gujarat and Rajasthan²⁸⁸²⁸⁹

     The Union Health Ministry sent a National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NCDC, ICMR, NCVBDC experts) to Gujarat and Rajasthan in early August 2026 as Chandipura virus cases rose; Gujarat reported 184 suspected cases, 35 confirmed and 22 child deaths.

     • NJORT deployed to Gujarat and Rajasthan (reported 6 August 2026)
     • Gujarat: 184 suspected, 35 confirmed, 22 deaths among children under 15 (a 13 Aug report gave 25 deaths)
     • Rajasthan: three positive cases from Dungarpur and Sirohi
     • Spread by sandflies, mosquitoes and ticks; first identified in 1965 at Chandipur, Maharashtra
108. 5 Aug2026
     Polity

     Meta apologises after briefly restricting PM Modi's Facebook post; parliamentary panel warns on Section 79 safe harbour^290291292

     After Meta's AI moderation briefly restricted a post by PM Modi, the government summoned Meta executives, Meta apologised (reported 5 August), and a parliamentary standing committee chaired by Nishikant Dubey warned of losing Section 79 safe-harbour immunity.

     • Meta's AI-driven moderation briefly restricted the PM's Facebook post (late July 2026)
     • Meta apologised; reports differ on whether Joel Kaplan or Mark Zuckerberg did so
     • Parliamentary panel chaired by Nishikant Dubey gave a three-day ultimatum and warned about Section 79 IT Act immunity
     • Debate covers Section 79 safe harbour and Section 69A blocking
109. 5 Aug2026
     Supreme Court

     Supreme Court extends 10 km mining buffer to wetland conservation reserves nationwide²⁹³

     On 4 August 2026 a Supreme Court bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, hearing a Himachal Pradesh application, orally clarified that its Asan wetland order (14 February 2024) barring mining within 10 km without NBWL Standing Committee or MoEFCC permission applies to wetland conservation reserves generally; the written order was not seen.

     • Oral clarification during hearing of Himachal Pradesh's application (reported 5 August 2026)
     • Original interim order of 14 February 2024: no mining within 10 km of Asan Wetland Conservation Reserve without NBWL Standing Committee or MoEFCC permission
     • Justice Bagchi: directions apply wherever there is a community or wetland conservation reserve
     • Whether the Asan reserve extends into Himachal is a question of fact for the Standing Committee or MoEFCC
110. 5 Aug2026
     Polity

     Government uses Money Bill route for Supreme Court judge-strength bill²⁹⁴

     Parliament passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill 2026 raising sanctioned strength from 34 to 38 including the CJI; it went through the Lok Sabha as a Money Bill, so the Rajya Sabha could only recommend changes within 14 days.

     • Sanctioned strength raised from 34 to 38 judges including the CJI
     • Replaces an Ordinance of May 2026
     • Passed as a Money Bill; Rajya Sabha may only recommend amendments within 14 days
     • Same route was used in 2019 when strength went to 34
     • Money Bill question is pending before a seven-judge bench
111. 5 Aug2026
     Legislation

     FCRA Amendment Bill 2026 lets government vest assets of defunct NGOs^295296297

     The FCRA Amendment Bill 2026, introduced in the Lok Sabha on 25 March 2026, creates a Designated Authority to take over and manage assets of organisations whose FCRA registration is cancelled, surrendered or lapses; it came up in the Monsoon Session in August.

     • Introduced in Lok Sabha 25 March 2026 by MoS Home Nityanand Rai on behalf of Amit Shah
     • Designated Authority for provisional and permanent vesting of foreign contribution and assets
     • If registration is restored in the prescribed period, assets go back to the organisation
     • Referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee on 12 August 2026
112. 5 Aug2026
     Legislation

     Lok Sabha passes Bankers' Books Evidence Bill 2026²⁹⁸

     Introduced 3 August and passed 5 August, the bill replaces the 1891 Act and admits certified electronic bank records.

     • Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 3 August 2026
     • Lok Sabha passed it on 5 August 2026
     • It replaces the 135-year-old Bankers' Books Evidence Act, 1891
     • Where the bank is not a party, a court must record a special cause before summoning bank officials
113. 4 Aug2026
     Science and tech

     ICAR releases India's first fully annotated T2T pigeonpea genome²⁹⁹³⁰⁰

     ICAR's NIPB, New Delhi, produced a telomere-to-telomere reference genome of pigeonpea (variety 'Asha'), reported in early August 2026 as India's first fully annotated T2T pulse genome: about 752.65 Mb across 11 chromosomes with 36,557 genes.

     • Variety Asha, assembly about 752.65 million base pairs, 11 chromosomes
     • 36,557 genes annotated; assembly NIPB_CcT2T_4
     • Reported in early August 2026 (assembly itself dated 20 April 2026 on NCBI per reports)
     • NIPB produced the first pulse crop draft genome in 2011
114. 4 Aug2026
     Awards

     Annapurni Subramaniam wins COSPAR Vikram Sarabhai Medal 2026³⁰¹³⁰²

     IIA director Annapurni Subramaniam was named the 2026 recipient of the COSPAR Vikram Sarabhai Medal, to be presented at the 46th COSPAR Scientific Assembly in Florence.

     • COSPAR 2026 awards press release lists the Vikram Sarabhai Medal for Annapurni Subramaniam
     • Presented at the 46th COSPAR Scientific Assembly, Florence, Italy
     • Medal is awarded jointly by COSPAR and ISRO every two years
     • Reports call her the first Indian woman recipient; a count of Indian winners is not consistent across reports
115. 3 Aug2026
     Polity

     Census 2027: Ladakh and snow-bound areas begin enumeration 1 September^303304305

     The Centre notified on 3 August 2026 that Census population enumeration for Ladakh and snow-bound non-synchronous areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand will run from 1 to 30 September, with a revision round from 1 to 5 October. The Census will include a caste question for the first time since Independence.

     • Gazette notification of 3 August 2026: population enumeration in Ladakh and snow-bound areas of J&K, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand from 1 to 30 September
     • Revision round from 1 to 5 October
     • Census 2027 will include an open-ended caste question for the first time since Independence
     • Centre has released Rs 4,102 crore to states and UTs for Census work
116. 3 Aug2026
     Legislation

     Lok Sabha passes bill raising Supreme Court strength from 34 to 38^306307308

     The Lok Sabha passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill 2026 by voice vote on 3 August, raising the Court's sanctioned strength to 38 including the CJI. The bill replaces an ordinance issued in May and was cleared in under ten minutes without debate.

     • Lok Sabha passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026 on Monday 3 August 2026 by voice vote
     • Raises the Supreme Court's sanctioned strength to 38 (from 34)
     • Replaces an ordinance issued in May 2026; the Bill has a saving clause for actions taken under the ordinance
     • Passed in less than ten minutes without debate (The Wire)
117. 3 Aug2026
     Legislation

     Indian Statistical Institute Bill 2026 introduced in Lok Sabha³⁰⁹³¹⁰

     The Indian Statistical Institute Bill 2026 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 3 August 2026 by Rao Inderjit Singh; it would repeal the 1959 Act, make ISI a not-for-profit statutory body corporate with an 11-member Board of Governors, and make the President of India Visitor.

     • Introduced 3 August 2026 amid opposition protests; later referred to a parliamentary committee
     • Repeals the ISI Act 1959; converts the registered society into a statutory body
     • 11-member Board of Governors replaces the governing council
     • President is Visitor
     • Faculty and students protested over central control and headquarters wording
118. 3 Aug2026
     Environment

     Glaw Lake becomes Arunachal's first Ramsar site, India's 101st^311312313

     Glaw Lake in Lohit district, inside Kamlang Tiger Reserve, became Arunachal Pradesh's first Ramsar site and India's 101st (106.79 ha), announced around 3 August 2026.

     • India's 101st Ramsar site; Arunachal's first
     • Lohit district, Kamlang Tiger Reserve
     • Area 106.79 ha; sacred to the Mishmi community
     • Announced by Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, about 3 Aug 2026
     • India had 26 Ramsar sites in 2014
119. 3 Aug2026
     Supreme Court

     Delhi court acquits Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in sexual harassment case filed by women wrestlers^314315316

     On 3 August 2026 Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Ashwini Panwar at Rouse Avenue Court acquitted former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and co-accused Vinod Tomar, holding the prosecution failed to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt.

     • Verdict 3 August 2026, Rouse Avenue Court, Delhi
     • Acquitted: Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and Vinod Tomar (former WFI assistant secretary)
     • Complaint by women wrestlers (reports say six); chargesheet filed 15 June 2023 under IPC 354, 354A, 354D, 506(1)
     • Prosecution said it would take 'appropriate action' before higher courts after reading the order
120. 2 Aug2026
     Economy

     OPEC+ approves 188,000 bpd output rise for September^317318319

     Seven OPEC+ countries meeting virtually on 2 August 2026 agreed to raise September output by 188,000 barrels per day, completing the phased rollback of the 1.65 million bpd voluntary cut announced in April 2023.

     • Decision 2 August 2026 by Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria and Oman
     • 188,000 bpd increase for September
     • Completes the unwinding of the 1.65 million bpd cut first announced in April 2023
     • Group may speed up compensation for earlier overproduction; next meeting set for 6 September
121. 2 Aug2026
     Schemes

     PM Modi launches Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan³²⁰³²¹

     PM Modi virtually launched the 100-week Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan on Sunday 2 August 2026, with Sunday activities for youth against substance abuse; it grew from a Kashi pilot.

     • Launched on Sunday 2 August 2026
     • Runs 100 weeks with art, culture, sports, meditation and awareness drives each Sunday
     • Evolved from a Kashi (Varanasi) pilot backed by the Kashi Declaration
     • Participation figures differ: over 1 crore youth at 28,000 locations (PIB via Drishti) vs over 10,000 locations (Outlook)
122. 2 Aug2026
     Sports

     India finish fourth at Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games with 39 medals incl. 13 gold^322323324

     India finished fourth at Glasgow 2026 with 39 medals (13 gold, 17 silver, 9 bronze), driven by a record seven boxing golds; Mirabai Chanu won 48 kg gold.

     • 13 gold, 17 silver, 9 bronze = 39 medals; fourth overall
     • Boxing: 10 medals including seven golds, India's best at a Games
     • Mirabai Chanu 48 kg weightlifting gold
     • Gulveer Singh: silver in 10,000 m and bronze in 5,000 m
     • Reported as India's weakest CWG medal count since 1998 (Esquire India)
123. 2 Aug2026
     Sports

     Australia top Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games medal table with 70 golds; England second^325326327

     Australia won the Glasgow 2026 medal table with 70 gold, 45 silver and 56 bronze (171 medals); England finished second with 29 gold, 45 silver and 36 bronze.

     • Australia 70-45-56 (171 medals), first
     • England 29-45-36, second
     • Games ran 23 July to 2 August 2026
     • Australia's swimmers alone won 37 golds
124. 2 Aug2026
     Sports

     Glasgow hands Commonwealth Games flag to Ahmedabad for 2030 centenary edition^328329330

     Glasgow's closing ceremony on 2 August 2026 handed the Commonwealth Games flag and host baton to India; Neeraj Chopra, IOA president P. T. Usha and Gujarat Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi received them for Ahmedabad 2030.

     • Closing ceremony Sunday 2 August 2026, Glasgow
     • Flag and baton received by Neeraj Chopra, P. T. Usha and Harsh Sanghavi
     • 2030 marks 100 years since the first Games (Hamilton, 1930)
     • India last hosted Delhi 2010; would be second host nation after Australia to host more than once
125. 2 Aug2026
     Defence

     IAF concludes Exercise ROTOR CLAPP-III on helicopter counter-drone operations at Pokhran^331332333

     The IAF concluded the week-long Exercise Rotor Clapp-III at the Pokhran Field Firing Range, Jaisalmer, on 2 August 2026, testing helicopters against drone threats on the theme Counter-UAS.

     • Concluded 2 August 2026 at Pokhran Field Firing Range, Rajasthan
     • Theme: Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems
     • Nearly all IAF helicopter types took part (Apache, Mi-25/35, Prachand, Chinook, Mi-17, ALH)
     • Tasks: strikes, reconnaissance, troop insertion, casevac, countering aerial and ground threats
126. 1 Aug2026
     Sports

     Tejaswin Shankar wins India's first Commonwealth decathlon medal at Glasgow 2026^334335336

     Tejaswin Shankar won decathlon bronze with 7,976 points behind Grenada's Lindon Victor (8,096) and Canada's Damian Warner (8,036), the first Indian CWG decathlon medal.

     • 7,976 points, bronze
     • Gold Lindon Victor (GRN) 8,096; silver Damian Warner (CAN) 8,036
     • First Indian to win a Commonwealth decathlon medal
     • Competed despite knee (patellar tendinitis) trouble
     • Earlier CWG bronze in high jump at Birmingham 2022

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134. Outlook India
135. Bar and Bench
136. Daily Excelsior
137. ThePrint
138. Outlook India
139. Deccan Chronicle
140. Reuters via The Star
141. Khaleej Times
142. Kuwait Times
143. Al Jazeera
144. Human Rights Watch
145. SCMP
146. Euronews
147. Qatar Tribune
148. NASA
149. Deccan Chronicle (PTI)
150. Outlook India
151. Free Press Journal
152. The Bridge
153. Free Press Journal
154. ThePrint
155. All India Radio
156. Free Press Journal
157. Bar and Bench
158. Deccan Chronicle
159. ThePrint
160. Al Jazeera
161. The Wire
162. DT Next
163. All India Radio
164. The Tribune
165. ETV Bharat
166. Deccan Chronicle
167. Business Today
168. The Quint
169. The Kathmandu Post
170. The Himalayan Times
171. IANS
172. The Tribune
173. Free Press Journal
174. ThePrint
175. Al Jazeera
176. Ahram Online
177. Aaj News
178. The National
179. Asharq Al-Awsat
180. Reuters via Internazionale
181. Daily Pioneer
182. Khaleej Times
183. Entrepreneur India
184. ETV Bharat
185. The Week
186. Business Today
187. IANS
188. The Tribune
189. Telangana Today
190. ThePrint
191. All India Radio
192. PIB
193. ThePrint
194. Free Press Journal
195. Narcotics Control Bureau
196. Free Press Journal
197. Outlook Business
198. Business Standard
199. Business Today
200. Impact
201. Packaging South Asia
202. Michigan Public (NPR)
203. Boston Globe
204. AP via Local 10
205. Free Press Journal
206. Gulf News
207. APP
208. All India Radio
209. PRS Legislative Research
210. Indian Cooperative
211. Free Press Journal
212. Business Today
213. Entrepreneur India
214. The South First
215. The Quint
216. Australian Institute of Marine Science
217. Australian Museum (AAP)
218. Eco Magazine
219. Deccan Chronicle
220. Morung Express
221. Bar & Bench
222. Maritime Gateway
223. Aviation and Defence Universe
224. Manorama Yearbook
225. AP via ABC News
226. Ahram Online
227. Libnanews
228. All India Radio
229. Republic World
230. The Week
231. All India Radio
232. Free Press Journal
233. The Tribune
234. ICTS-TIFR
235. The Wire
236. Deccan Chronicle
237. Deccan Herald
238. Outlook India
239. Business Today
240. Republic World
241. Daily Pioneer
242. Business Standard
243. Department of Science and Technology
244. University of Padova Human Rights Centre
245. The Wire
246. Outlook India
247. Outlook Money
248. IANS
249. The Week
250. Open Magazine
251. Outlook India
252. All India Radio
253. Down To Earth
254. Swarajya
255. ThePrint
256. Outlook Business
257. Metal AM
258. Dawn
259. Asharq Al-Awsat
260. APP
261. LiveLaw
262. The Wire
263. Deccan Herald
264. Outlook India
265. The Wire
266. Telangana Today
267. Bar and Bench
268. ThePrint
269. LiveLaw
270. Free Press Journal
271. Deccan Herald
272. The Week
273. Business Today
274. ETV Bharat
275. All India Radio
276. Telangana Today
277. SCC Online
278. The Wire
279. Inc42
280. SCC Online
281. Verdictum
282. LiveLaw
283. SCC Online
284. The Wire
285. Business Standard
286. Deccan Chronicle
287. Prime Minister's Office of Japan
288. Business Standard
289. OdishaBytes
290. Business Today
291. Outlook India
292. The Quint
293. Outlook India
294. Bar and Bench
295. ICNL
296. Business Today
297. The Quint
298. SCC Online
299. FoodOnline
300. Indiagri
301. COSPAR
302. NewsBytes
303. ThePrint (PTI)
304. Business Today
305. Open Magazine
306. SCC Online
307. Bar & Bench
308. The Wire
309. PRS Legislative Research
310. Deccan Herald
311. Deccan Herald
312. Arunachal Times
313. Free Press Journal
314. Bar and Bench
315. The Week
316. IANS
317. The Tribune
318. Arab News
319. Asharq Al-Awsat
320. Outlook India
321. Deccan Chronicle
322. Free Press Journal
323. Deccan Chronicle
324. Esquire India
325. Outlook India
326. Team England
327. SwimSwam
328. Deccan Chronicle
329. ETV Bharat
330. IANS
331. The Week
332. ThePrint
333. Telangana Today
334. Deccan Chronicle
335. IANS
336. Free Press Journal