๐ฐ Current Affairs
๐
29 Jul 2026, 04:37 PM
โข ๐๏ธ 2 reads
Daily Current Affairs 26 and 27 July
DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS
26 & 27 JULY 2026
Comprehensive, exam-oriented daily compilation featuring analysis of key national and international developments.
Polity, Governance & Social Issues
Heritage Inscription
26 July 2026
Uttar Pradesh's Sarnath Becomes India's 45th UNESCO World Heritage Site
- UNESCO Inscription: The ancient Buddhist site of **Sarnath** in Uttar Pradesh was officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on **July 25, 2026**.
- 48th Session: The landmark decision was taken during the **48th Session of the World Heritage Committee** held in Busan, South Korea.
- Holiest Pilgrimage: Sarnath is globally revered as the place where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon (*Dharmachakra Pravartana*). The serial site includes the Dhamekh Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, and the Ashokan Pillar site.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India: With this 45th addition, India ranks 6th globally and 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region for the total number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
State Honours
26 July 2026
Bucharest University Honors President Droupadi Murmu with Honorary Doctorate
- Doctor Honoris Causa: The **Bucharest University of Economic Studies** in Romania conferred an Honorary Doctorate upon the President of India, **Droupadi Murmu**, on **July 24, 2026**.
- Bilateral Milestone: Conferred during her state visit, marking the first state visit by an Indian President to Romania in nearly three decades.
- Cooperation Expansion: The visit highlighted expanding academic exchange, establishing an Indian Studies Chair at the University of Bucharest, and boosting technical cooperation under the ITEC programme.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Romania: Capital is Bucharest. It borders Ukraine, Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Hungary, with a coastline along the Black Sea. Currency is the Romanian Leu.
Governance Reforms
26 July 2026
High-Powered Task Force on Examination Reforms Constituted Under Nandan Nilekani
- Task Force Formed: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a high-powered task force on examination reforms, led by Infosys co-founder **Nandan Nilekani**, on **July 26, 2026**.
- Core Mandate: Tasked with recommending systemic, tech-driven changes to national testing systems to prevent malpractices, paper leaks, and streamline security protocols.
- Ministerial Charge: Follows Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's administrative transitions, placing emphasis on rebuilding confidence in the public testing apparatus.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Nandan Nilekani: Known as the chief architect of Aadhaar (UIDAI). Previously headed key panels including the Technology Advisory Group for Unique Projects (TAGUP).
Legislative Updates
26 July 2026
Government Drafts Public Examinations Amendment Bill with Strict Penalties
- Stricter Penalties: The Union Cabinet approved a draft bill to amend the **Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024**.
- Key Provisions: Proposes stringent punishments including imprisonment up to 10 years and fines of up to Rs. 10 crore for organized paper leaks.
- Systemic Overhaul: The legislation aims to introduce digitised tracking, secure question-paper vaulting, and centralized server-based test delivery to minimize leak vulnerabilities.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
The principal Act: The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act was passed in early 2024 to make unfair practices in public examinations a cognizable, non-bailable offense.
Infrastructure
26 July 2026
FM Nirmala Sitharaman Inaugurates Income Tax Complex 'Aaykar Sindhu' in Mumbai
- complex Inaugurated: Union Finance Minister **Nirmala Sitharaman** inaugurated **Aaykar Sindhu**, the new 13-story office complex for the Income Tax Department at Nariman Point, Mumbai.
- Name Symbolism: The name represents taxes collected from across India joining the Consolidated Fund of India for national development, much like rivers flowing into the sea (Sindhu).
- FM Mandate: The FM urged tax officials to empathize with citizens, improve administrative efficiency, and avoid forcing taxpayers to run from pillar to post for services.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Consolidated Fund of India: Established under **Article 266(1)** of the Constitution, it holds all revenues received, loans raised, and money received by the government. No money can be withdrawn without parliamentary approval.
National Days
26 July 2026
India Observes Kargil Vijay Diwas to Honor Armed Forces
- Observance: The nation observed Kargil Vijay Diwas on **July 26, 2026**, paying tribute to the heroes of Operation Vijay.
- Historical Conflict: Commemorates India's victory in the 1999 Kargil War, where Indian troops recaptured strategic heights occupied by Pakistani infiltrators in the Kargil-Drass sector.
- Tributes: PM Modi addressed the nation, highlighting that the bravery shown by Indian soldiers in 1999 remains an inspiration, and emphasized India's self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Operation Vijay: Launched in May 1999, it successfully concluded on July 26, 1999. Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed annually on this date to honor the sacrifices.
Judiciary
27 July 2026
Supreme Court Emphasizes Right to Protest; May Frame Uniform Guidelines
- Right to Protest: The Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, stated that the right to peaceful protest is constitutionally protected under Article 19.
- Uniform Guidelines: The apex court indicated that it might frame uniform guidelines for police conduct, crowd control, and use of non-lethal forces during public demonstrations.
- Siwan Incident: Sparked by action taken against police personnel in Bihar who fired an AK-47 assault rifle during student protests.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Article 19(1)(b): Guarantees all citizens the right to assemble peaceably and without arms, subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order and sovereignty.
Social Activism
27 July 2026
Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk to Pay Homage at Rajghat Following Hospital Discharge
- Hospital Discharge: Prominent educationist and Ladakh climate reformer **Sonam Wangchuk** was discharged from Medanta Hospital, Gurugram.
- Rajghat Tributes: He announced plans to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat before heading back to Ladakh to continue advocating for constitutional safeguards.
- Sixth Schedule Demands: His fast and march demand Sixth Schedule status for the Union Territory of Ladakh to preserve its fragile ecology and indigenous culture.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Sixth Schedule: Under Article 244 of the Constitution, it provides for the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram through Autonomous District Councils (ADCs).
Legislative Updates
27 July 2026
Draft Public Examinations Bill Moved in Parliament to Counter Paper Leaks
- Bill Introduced: The government introduced the draft **Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026**, in Parliament on **July 27, 2026**.
- Strict Mandate: Formulated in the wake of student protests and exam irregularities, introducing harsh punitive measures for coaching centers and organized exam mafias.
- Nilekani Committee Tie-in: The bill acts in tandem with the Nilekani task force, integrating IT-based audits, biometric verification, and end-to-end question paper encryption.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Public Examinations: Under the Act, this includes examinations conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), Staff Selection Commission (SSC), Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs), and National Testing Agency (NTA).
International Relations, Economy & Business
Banking Awards
26 July 2026
State Bank of India Honored as 'World's Best Consumer Bank' for 2026
- Prestigious Award: **State Bank of India (SBI)** was named the **"World's Best Consumer Bank" for 2026** by *Global Finance* magazine.
- Core Strengths: The award recognizes SBI's massive financial scale, commitment to grassroots financial inclusion, and successful digital transformation through platforms like YONO.
- Vast Footprint: Serving over 520 million customers, the bank operates a global network of over 22,500 branches and 63,500 ATMs.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
State Bank of India (SBI): Formed on **July 1, 1955**, under the State Bank of India Act, replacing the Imperial Bank of India (which was founded in 1921). Headquartered in Mumbai.
Global Trade Law
26 July 2026
New Delhi Hosts International Conference Marking 60th UNCITRAL Anniversary
- Anniversary Event: India hosted a three-day international conference (July 24-26, 2026) in New Delhi to mark the **60th anniversary of the UN Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL)**.
- Inauguration: External Affairs Minister **Dr. S. Jaishankar** delivered the keynote address, focusing on the need for predictable legal frameworks amid global supply chain volatility.
- Global South Focus: Discussions revolved around digital trade rules, cross-border insolvencies, and international commercial arbitration with an inclusive approach for developing nations.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
UNCITRAL: Established by the UN General Assembly in **1966** to harmonize and unify international trade laws. It has 70 member states, with India as an active participant. Headquartered in Vienna, Austria.
International Trade
26 July 2026
US Imposes additional 10% Section 301 Tariff to Counter Imports of Forced Labor Goods
- Trade Penalties: The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) announced additional **10% Section 301 tariffs** on imports from 60 economies, including **India**, effective July 24, 2026.
- India Tier: India was placed in the lower 10% tariff bracket (down from proposed 12.5%) after notifying domestic bans on importing goods produced with forced labor.
- Exemptions: Approximately 45% of India's exports to the US, including generic pharmaceuticals, smartphones, and items already subject to Section 232 duties, are exempt.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Section 301 of Trade Act of 1974: Authorizes the USTR to investigate and respond to foreign government practices that violate trade agreements or burden US commerce.
Government Schemes
27 July 2026
Government Launches Enrollment for 'Corporate Mitra Scheme' to Empower MSMEs
- Cadre Creation: Enrollment commenced for the **Corporate Mitra Scheme**, a Union Budget 2026-27 initiative designed to build a cadre of certified compliance professionals.
- MSME Support: Certified 'Corporate Mitras' will provide accounting, bookkeeping, and GST filing advisory services to small businesses in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
- Collaborators: Supported by the ICAI, ICSI, and ICMAI, the academic program consists of online training hosted on the SWAYAM Plus platform.
GOVERNMENT SCHEME FOCUS
SWAYAM Plus: An extension of the Ministry of Education's SWAYAM portal, launched in collaboration with industry giants to offer employment-focused, industry-vetted certification courses.
Border Development
27 July 2026
PM Interacts with Volunteers of 'Viksit Vibrant Village Programme'
- Youth Program: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted virtually with the youth volunteers of the **Viksit Vibrant Village Programme (VVVP)** on **July 26, 2026**.
- Himalayan Visits: Over 400 youth selected via the MY Bharat platform visited 74 border villages in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand to engage with local communities.
- Youth Action: Volunteers carried out Swachhata drives, organized career counseling sessions for village kids, and cataloged local cultural traditions.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat): Launched on **October 31, 2023** (National Unity Day), it is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to serve as a one-stop digital platform for youth development.
Environment, Science, Technology & Defence
Sports Achievements
26 July 2026
Anahat Singh Wins Women's Singles Title at World Junior Squash Championship
- Historic Victory: Top-seeded Indian **Anahat Singh** won the women's singles title at the **World Junior Squash Championship** in Canada on **July 25, 2026**.
- First Indian: This marks the first time an Indian squash player has ever clinched the girls' singles crown at the prestigious tournament, breaking decades of Egyptian dominance.
- The Final: She defeated Egypt's Ruqayya Salem in straight games (11-3, 11-7, 11-9) in the final match in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
World Junior Squash Championships: Organized annually by the World Squash Federation (WSF). WSF was founded in **1967** and is headquartered in Hastings, England.
Commonwealth Games
26 July 2026
Mirabai Chanu Clinches India's First Gold Medal at Glasgow 2026
- Gold Medal: Weightlifter **Mirabai Chanu** won the gold medal in the women's 48kg category at the **2026 Commonwealth Games** in Glasgow, Scotland.
- Lifting Stats: Secured the top spot with a combined lift of **190 kilograms** (85 kg snatch and 105 kg clean & jerk).
- Triple Gold Streak: Represents her third consecutive CWG gold medal, following gold medals at Gold Coast 2018 and Birmingham 2022.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Weightlifting Federation of India (WFI): The national governing body overseeing weightlifting in India, affiliated to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF).
Natural Disasters
26 July 2026
Spain Declares National Emergency Amid Uncontrolled Forest Fires
- Wildfire Crisis: The Government of Spain declared an "Emergency of National Interest" on **July 24, 2026**, as massive forest fires raged across Madrid, รvila, and Toledo.
- Devastating Scale: Driven by erratic winds and a record-breaking heatwave, over 119,000 hectares burned within days, triggering the evacuation of approximately 100,000 citizens.
- Global Aid: Spain activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, leading to deployment of international water-bombing aircraft and firefighting crews from Greece, Italy, and Portugal.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
EU Civil Protection Mechanism: Established in **2001** by the European Commission to coordinate responses to natural and man-made disasters across member states and participating nations.
Art & Culture
27 July 2026
NFDC Opens Submissions for 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI)
- Entries Open: The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) officially opened movie submissions for the **57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI)**.
- Festival Schedule: The flagship cultural festival is scheduled to be held in Goa from **November 20 to November 28, 2026**.
- Feature Elements: Features standard awards including the Golden Peacock for Best Film and Silver Peacock for Best Director, celebrating world cinema.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
IFFI: Conducted annually in Goa since **2004** (previously held across different cities). First held in **1952** in Mumbai, it is one of the oldest film festivals in Asia.
Sports Rankings
27 July 2026
India Reclaims Top Position in Global T20I Team Rankings
- Top Ranking: India reclaimed the **first position globally** in the ICC Men's T20I Team Rankings in late July 2026.
- Zimbabwe Victory: Reclaimed the spot following a dominant T20I series win against Zimbabwe, overtaking former leaders Australia.
- Roster Highlights: Follows squad adjustments under new developmental leadership, boosting young talents in the international setup.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
ICC (International Cricket Council): Founded in **1909** as the Imperial Cricket Conference. Headquartered in Dubai, UAE. Governs international cricket matches.
Border Initiatives
27 July 2026
Swachhata Drives and Career Counseling Conducted in Border Villages
- Swachhata Drives: Youth volunteers participating in the Viksit Vibrant Village Programme initiated massive cleanliness drives in border villages.
- Career counseling: Student volunteers organized career orientation camps, guiding border village kids on higher education and digital opportunities.
- Eco-Tourism Focus: Encourages community development and micro-entrepreneurship in remote border hamlets to counter depopulation.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM): Originally launched on **October 2, 2014**, to accelerate efforts to achieve universal sanitation coverage and eliminate open defecation.
Weather Alert
26 & 27 July 2026
Monsoon Rain Warnings Persist in Eastern States; IMD Urges Alertness
- Rain Warning: Extremely heavy monsoon rain warnings remained active, causing localized flood warnings in low-lying zones of Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
- Trough Action: The active monsoon trough has kept humidity levels high across Central India, prompting warnings for localized agricultural crop damage.
- Safety Advisory: IMD advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the deep sea along the Odisha-West Bengal coast due to strong gale winds.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): A specialized force established under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to provide specialist response to disaster situations. Headquartered in New Delhi.
Art & Cinema
27 July 2026
NFDC Elevates Cinema Digitization and Archives Project
- Digitization Initiative: The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) expanded its digital archiving program to restore classic Indian cinema films.
- Heritage Preservation: Aims to digitize over 500 rare regional films under the National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM) to make them accessible for future generations.
- Global Festivals: Preserved films are showcase candidates at international film festivals including Cannes, Berlin, and IFFI.
STATIC GK & EXAM FACTS
NFDC: Established in **1975**, it is a central public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to encourage high-quality Indian cinema production.
โก ONE-LINER QUICK REVISION POINTERS (26 & 27 JULY 2026)
- Sarnath Inscription: Sarnath officially added as India's 45th UNESCO World Heritage Site during the 48th committee session in Busan.
- Presidential Honor: President Droupadi Murmu conferred with Honorary Doctorate (Honorary Causa) by Bucharest University in Romania.
- Exam Reform Task Force: High-powered committee on public testing reforms formed under Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani.
- Anahat Singh: Clinches the women's singles crown at the World Junior Squash Championship, becoming the first Indian to do so.
- Mirabai Chanu: Wins weightlifting gold (48kg) at Glasgow 2026 CWG, securing her third consecutive CWG gold medal.
- Aaykar Sindhu complex: Nariman Point IT complex inaugurated by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
- UNCITRAL Conference: Dr. S. Jaishankar inaugurates the 60th-anniversary conference of international trade laws in New Delhi.
- Forced Labor Tariffs: US imposes an additional 10% Section 301 tariff on exports from India to curb forced labor commodities.
- Spain forest fires: Emergency of National Interest declared in Spain as wildfires consume over 119,000 hectares.
- World's Best Consumer Bank: State Bank of India named the best consumer bank of 2026 by Global Finance magazine.
- Right to Protest: Supreme Court emphasizes Article 19 rights and hints at framing uniform police crowd control guidelines.
- Sonam Wangchuk: Activist discharged from hospital, set to pay tributes at Rajghat to highlight Sixth Schedule demands.
- Viksit Vibrant Village: Youth volunteers complete border visits; PM Modi interacts with them via the MY Bharat platform.
- Corporate Mitra Scheme: Union Budget capacity-building scheme starts enrollments for MSME compliance support.
- IFFI Goa 2026: NFDC opens entries for the 57th edition of the film festival, scheduled for November.
- T20I Rankings: India reclaims the number one team ranking in T20I cricket after winning the series against Zimbabwe.