September 2026: Important Days Till Today

World Pharmacists Day 2026 Observed Globally on 25 September

• Annual Global Observance: World Pharmacists Day is observed every year on 25 September to highlight the contribution of pharmacists to healthcare, medicine use, prevention and public health. The campaign is led globally by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP).
• 2026 Global Theme: The official FIP theme for World Pharmacists Day 2026 is “Empowering pharmacists for healthier futures.” FIP states that the theme focuses on giving pharmacists the skills, recognition, supportive policies and working environments needed to contribute fully to healthcare systems.
• Historical Background: World Pharmacists Day was adopted by the FIP Council in 2009 in Istanbul, Türkiye, following a proposal from the Turkish Pharmacists Association. The date 25 September was selected because it marks the anniversary of the formal constitution of FIP in 1912. The first World Pharmacists Day was celebrated in 2010.
• FIP Foundation Date: The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) was formally constituted under Dutch law on 25 September 1912. Its head office is in The Hague, Netherlands.
• Observance in India: The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) officially announced the celebration of Pharmacists Day on 25 September 2026 under the theme “Empowering Pharmacists for Healthier Futures”, with “Swastha Bharat: Combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)” as the overarching mission for the 2026 observance/National Pharmacy Week programme.
• Significance: The day highlights the evolving role of pharmacists in medicine safety, appropriate medicine use, patient care, health promotion, vaccination, self-care and strengthening health-system resilience. FIP's 2026 campaign particularly emphasizes access to care, responsible medicine use and integrating pharmacists more fully into health systems.

International Day of Sign Languages 2026 Observed on 23 September

• Annual Global Observance: The International Day of Sign Languages is observed every year on 23 September to raise awareness of the importance of sign languages in realizing the human rights of deaf people and to promote the recognition and preservation of sign languages and Deaf culture.
• 2026 Global Theme: The official 2026 theme is “Declaring Deaf People’s Human Rights.” The United Nations states that the theme calls for action to make deaf people's human rights a reality across all areas of life, including through full access to national sign languages.
• 75th Anniversary of WFD: The 2026 observance marked the 75th anniversary of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), which was established on 23 September 1951 in Rome, Italy.
• Additional 2026 Milestone: The United Nations also notes that 2026 marks 20 years since the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
• UN Mandate: The UN General Assembly proclaimed 23 September as the International Day of Sign Languages through Resolution A/RES/72/161, adopted on 19 December 2017. The first International Day of Sign Languages was observed in 2018.
• Indian Observance: The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, is India's specialized institution for Indian Sign Language research and training. ISLRTC's official 2026 notifications include activities and resources associated with Sign Language Day 2026, including ISL learning and interpretation-related initiatives.

Asad Alam Siam to Become Bangladesh's Next High Commissioner to India

• Diplomatic Appointment: Asad Alam Siam, the Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh, has been designated to become Bangladesh's next High Commissioner to India. India granted formal agrément for his appointment on 22 September 2026.
• Meaning of Agrément: In diplomatic practice, agrément is the receiving state's formal consent to the proposed appointment of a head of mission. India's approval cleared the way for Siam's posting to New Delhi.
• Current Position: Siam has served as Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh since 20 June 2025. Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms his appointment and career history.
• Succession: Siam is expected to succeed M. Riaz Hamidullah as Bangladesh's High Commissioner to India. Hamidullah is scheduled to move to Geneva as Bangladesh's Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
• Diplomatic Career: Siam joined the Bangladesh Foreign Service in 1995 and belongs to the 15th batch of the Bangladesh Civil Service (Foreign Affairs cadre). He previously served as Bangladesh's Ambassador to the United States, Austria and the Philippines.
• Multilateral Experience: During his posting in Austria, he served concurrently as Bangladesh's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Offices in Vienna and to the OPEC Fund. He has also served in diplomatic assignments in Milan, Manchester, Jakarta and Bangkok.
• Current Diplomatic Context: The appointment comes as India and Bangladesh continue diplomatic engagement on bilateral issues. (Specific descriptions of the appointment's “strategic significance” should be treated as analysis rather than as an established fact.)

Inaugural V4+India Foreign Ministers' Meeting Held in New York

• Historic Multilateral Engagement: The first V4+India Foreign Ministers' Meeting was held on 21 September 2026 on the margins of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The meeting marked the first foreign-minister-level engagement between India and the Visegrád Group in the V4+India format.
• Indian Leadership: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar participated in the meeting and described it as a “new historic occasion.” He said the meeting was productive and emphasized the potential for closer engagement between India and the V4 countries.
• Visegrád Four Representation: The meeting was held under the Slovak Presidency of the V4 and was attended by:
  • Juraj Blanár — Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia
  • Radosław Sikorski — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland
  • Petr Macinka — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Czechia (Czech Republic)
  • Anita Orbán — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hungary
• Institutionalisation of the Format: India and the V4 agreed to establish annual meetings of Foreign Ministers and an Annual Business Forum to deepen political and economic engagement.
• UN Security Council Reform: The four V4 countries expressed support for India's permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár stated that India should have a place as a permanent member of the reformed Security Council.
• Areas of Cooperation: The discussions covered trade and investment, technology and innovation, resilient supply chains, defence and security, connectivity, education, mobility, cultural cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, research and multilateral cooperation.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar Chairs 2nd FIPIC Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New York

• High-Level Ministerial Forum: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar chaired the second Foreign Ministers' Meeting of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) in New York on 23 September 2026, on the margins of the 81st UN General Assembly.
• Participation (11 Pacific Island Countries + PIF): The meeting included senior representatives from 11 Pacific Island Countries:
  • Samoa
  • Fiji
  • Republic of the Marshall Islands
  • Palau
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Solomon Islands
  • Tuvalu
  • Tonga
  • Federated States of Micronesia
  • Vanuatu
  • Nauru
  The Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) also participated.
  Important Correction: The meeting did not include representatives from all 14 Pacific Island Countries (11 PICs participated alongside the PIF Secretary-General).
• Review of FIPIC Cooperation: The ministers reviewed the outcomes of the previous FIPIC Summits and welcomed progress in India–Pacific Island Countries cooperation, including implementation of the 12-Point / 12-Step Action Plan announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023.
• Areas Discussed: The meeting discussed further cooperation in renewable energy, climate action, disaster resilience, education, healthcare and capacity building. The participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the FIPIC partnership and cooperation in regional and multilateral forums.
• 2023 FIPIC Action Plan: The 12-step Action Plan announced at the 3rd FIPIC Summit included initiatives such as Jaipur Foot camps, a specialised cardiology hospital in Fiji, dialysis units, sea ambulances, yoga centres, support for IT and solar projects, assistance to SMEs and scholarships. A Regional IT and Cybersecurity hub was also agreed to be established at the University of Papua New Guinea.

24th Edition of India–France Bilateral Naval Exercise VARUNA 2026

• Exercise: The 24th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise VARUNA between the Indian Navy and the French Navy (Marine Nationale) is being conducted in connection with the Indian Navy's deployment to Toulon, France.
• Indian Naval Ship: INS Trishul arrived at Toulon, France, on 22 September 2026 to participate in the 24th edition of VARUNA.
• Exercise Engagements: According to the latest Ministry of Defence release, VARUNA 2026 includes professional engagements in harbour and at sea, including cross-deck visits, operational interactions and sporting engagements. These activities are intended to facilitate the exchange of experiences and best practices, enhance interoperability and strengthen mutual understanding between the two navies.
• Exercise Location: The current official release confirms Toulon, France, as the location of INS Trishul's arrival and the exercise's harbour/sea engagements.
• Historical Evolution: Bilateral naval exercises between India and France were initiated in 1993 and the exercise was formally christened VARUNA in 2001. The exercise has subsequently developed into an important component of India–France strategic and maritime cooperation.

UK Launches First Dedicated No. III Space Effects Squadron to Counter Hostile Threats in Space

• Major Space-Defence Development: The United Kingdom's Royal Air Force (RAF) has launched No. III Space Effects Squadron, the UK's first dedicated unit specifically established to counter hostile threats to UK satellites and interests in space. The announcement was made on 23 September 2026 by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth at the first UK Space Power Conference.
• Core Mission: No. III Space Effects Squadron is designed to disrupt, degrade and deny hostile activity in space. It will use advanced capabilities, including electronic warfare, to counter hostile actions and support both offensive and defensive space operations.
• Difference from Existing Space Units: The new squadron complements the RAF's existing space units:
  • No. I Space Operations Squadron: Provides space-domain monitoring and operational capabilities.
  • No. II Space Warning Squadron: Provides early warning of threats in space.
  • No. III Space Effects Squadron: Intended to act directly against identified hostile threats.
• Protection of Critical Space Services: The squadron will help protect satellites and space services that support military and civilian activities, including navigation, communications, intelligence gathering and missile warning, alongside critical civil services such as mobile communications, emergency response and energy infrastructure.
• Anti-Satellite and Electronic-Warfare Countermeasures: The formation of No. III Space Effects Squadron contributes to the UK's developing space-warfare capabilities, including electronic warfare and countermeasures against anti-satellite weapons. The UK has also formally ruled out destructive anti-satellite missile testing.
• UK Space Strategy & Investment: The squadron forms part of the UK's broader objective of maintaining freedom to operate in space while denying adversaries the ability to exploit space against UK interests. The UK Government's September 2026 Space Strategy identifies space control as an important defence requirement. The UK Government has announced £880 million for 2026/27–2029/30 for space-based Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and space-control activities.
• International Cooperation: The UK continues to cooperate with allies through Operation OLYMPIC DEFENDER (multinational coalition) and the Combined Space Operations (CSpO) Initiative with Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway and the United States.

Google Announces 'Project Suncatcher' for Orbital Space-Based AI Computing

• Announcement of 'Project Suncatcher': Tech giant Google (Alphabet Inc.) officially unveiled 'Project Suncatcher' (प्रोजेक्ट सन कैचर), a revolutionary initiative aimed at establishing space-based artificial intelligence (AI) computing infrastructure powered by orbital solar constellations.
• Harnessing Unlimited Solar Radiation: Project Suncatcher seeks to deploy specialized satellite clusters equipped with Google's custom-engineered Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Sun-synchronous orbits, taking direct advantage of continuous, uninterrupted 24/7 solar radiation free from atmospheric attenuation or weather disruptions.
• Eliminating Terrestrial Water and Cooling Strain: Terrestrial hyperscale data centers require millions of liters of fresh water and substantial electricity for cooling systems. By operating in the vacuum of space, orbital AI servers utilize passive radiative heat dissipation into deep space, drastically minimizing environmental overhead and conserving precious terrestrial water and power resources.
• Mitigating Earth Power Grid Constraints: With exponential growth in generative AI models and massive power consumption straining ground-based electrical grids, space-based computing clusters offer a scalable path toward truly zero-emission, off-grid hyperscale computing.
• On-Orbit Data Processing & Reduced Downlink Bottlenecks: In addition to training general AI models, Suncatcher satellites will provide edge AI computing directly in orbit, enabling real-time on-board analysis of high-resolution Earth observation, climate modeling, and astronomical data before transmitting optimized results down to ground stations, thereby overcoming severe satellite downlink bandwidth limitations.
• Synergy with Commercial Space Sector: Google plans to partner with leading commercial launch providers and satellite bus manufacturers to deploy pilot demonstrator payloads, testing radiation-hardened TPU architectures and optical laser inter-satellite cross-links for orbital compute mesh networks.

President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates Global Spiritual Palace Retreat Centre in Vadodara

• Presidential Inauguration: President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the Global Spiritual Palace Retreat Centre of the Brahma Kumaris in Vadodara, Gujarat, on 23 September 2026.
• Campaign Launch: On the same occasion, President Murmu launched the Brahma Kumaris' campaign “Spiritual Awakening for World Renewal.” She also virtually launched the Brahma Kumaris Nadiad campaign “Youth for Viksit Bharat: Awakening Inner Strength for Nation Building.”
• Message on Human Development: In her address, President Murmu emphasized that development should include human development in addition to economic development. She said education should develop not only intellect but also wisdom, and that progress should remain sensitive to nature.
• Self-Transformation and Social Transformation: The President emphasized the potential of individuals to transform their thoughts and actions and said that self-transformation is the foundation of societal transformation. She expressed confidence that the Global Spiritual Palace could become a place where people from diverse sections of society could come together in peace and harmony.
• Youth and Nation Building: In connection with the Nadiad campaign, President Murmu highlighted the role of young people in nation-building and emphasized the importance of empowering youth to become self-reliant, peace-loving and responsible citizens.
• Gujarat Visit: President Murmu was in Gujarat from 21 to 23 September 2026. During the visit she also presented the 72nd National Film Awards at Ekta Nagar and attended the 75th annual convocation of Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda.

Delhi Cabinet Approves DURGA Scheme for 1,300 Pink Electric Autos

• Cabinet Approval: The Delhi Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, approved the DURGA — Upliftment and Rozgar for Women/Transgender Green E-Auto — Scheme on 23 September 2026.
• Core Objective: The scheme aims to provide self-employment and livelihood opportunities to women and transgender persons by enabling them to own and drive electric autos. It also seeks to promote women's safety, participation of transgender persons in the transport sector, last-mile connectivity and clean urban transport.
• First Phase — 1,300 E-Autos: The Cabinet-approved first phase provides for 1,300 pink electric autos:
  • 1,170 for women beneficiaries.
  • 130 for transgender beneficiaries.
• District Allocation: A maximum of up to 90 e-autos for women and 10 for transgender beneficiaries may be allocated in each revenue district.
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Age Limit: Applicants must generally be 20–40 years old and residents of Delhi.
  • Required Documents: Valid Voter ID, Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) driving licence and Public Service Vehicle (PSV) badge.
  • Transgender Applicants: Must additionally provide a valid transgender certificate issued by the District Magistrate's office in Delhi.
  • Income Limit: The applicant's family income for FY 2025–26 must not exceed ₹5 lakh.
  • Vehicle Ownership Restriction: Neither the applicant nor her family may own a registered transport vehicle or three-wheeler.
  • Children Condition: A woman with more than three children is not eligible under the scheme.
• Three-Year Lock-in: The e-autos will have a mandatory three-year lock-in period, during which beneficiaries cannot sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of the vehicles. The vehicles will carry DURGA branding and identification features.
• EV Charging Infrastructure: The scheme integrates e-autos with Delhi's public transport network. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has indicated that space for EV charging facilities is available in parking areas at 70 Metro stations. Applications will be invited through a dedicated online portal.

DoT Hosts Third Investors' Roundtable in Bengaluru for Gwalior Telecom Manufacturing Zone

• Investors' Roundtable: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, organised its third Investors' Roundtable in Bengaluru, Karnataka, on 22 September 2026 to engage technology, telecom, semiconductor and electronics companies on investment opportunities in the proposed Telecom Manufacturing Zone (TMZ) at Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.
• Joint Leadership: The roundtable was jointly chaired by Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, and Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh.
• Core Objective: The meeting focused on strengthening India's domestic telecom manufacturing capabilities, increasing domestic value addition, promoting research and development, encouraging innovation, supporting exports and developing a globally competitive telecom and electronics ecosystem.
• Gwalior Telecom Manufacturing Zone: The TMZ is India's first integrated Telecom Manufacturing Zone and is being established in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The Department of Telecommunications and Government of Madhya Pradesh signed the relevant MoU on 30 July 2026.
• Bengaluru Investment Proposals: The third roundtable resulted in proposed investments of approximately ₹700–800 crore, subject to management approvals. Several participating companies indicated that they would undertake site visits to evaluate investment opportunities.
• Cumulative Investment Interest: Following the earlier Delhi and Mumbai investors' roundtables, companies had assured investment commitments of approximately ₹5,500 crore, with the potential to generate around 18,000 employment opportunities under the TMZ initiative. Nearly 24 companies are already on board.
• Phase-I Infrastructure & Funding: Phase-I of the TMZ will be developed over approximately 170 acres of land provided by the Government of Madhya Pradesh. The Central Government is providing 100% funding support of ₹493 crore for Phase-I.
• Plug-and-Play Industrial Cluster & SPV: The TMZ is envisaged as an integrated plug-and-play industrial cluster covering telecom manufacturing, R&D, innovation and allied activities (mobile devices, optical fibre, telecom equipment, and 5G/6G technologies). A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) has been established with 51% equity held by the Government of Madhya Pradesh and 49% by the Department of Telecommunications.
• Government Support: The MP Government is providing land and investor incentives, with the Union Minister noting a broader state support/incentive framework of around ₹8,000 crore.

4th UP International Trade Show 2026 Begins in Greater Noida

• Fourth Edition: The 4th Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS 2026) is being held from 25 to 29 September 2026 at the India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
• Joint Organisation: UPITS 2026 is jointly organised by the Government of Uttar Pradesh and India Exposition Mart Ltd. (IEML).
• Theme: The official theme of the 2026 edition is “Ultimate Sourcing Begins Here.”
• Business Platform & Scale: The event brings together international buyers, domestic B2B buyers, B2C visitors, manufacturers, exporters, MSMEs, artisans, startups and investors. The 2026 edition features 2,400+ exhibitors, 1.5 lakh+ B2B buyers/visitors, 4.5 lakh+ general visitors and 550+ international buyers from 85 countries.
• Partner Countries (6): The six partner countries for the 2026 edition are Austria, Japan, Russia, Singapore, Belarus and Vietnam.
• Sectoral Coverage: Encompasses agriculture, automobiles, defence, electronics, IT, healthcare, tourism, textiles, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and food processing.
• ODOP & ODOC Focus: Showcases Uttar Pradesh's flagship One District One Product (ODOP) crafts alongside prominent visibility for the One District, One Cuisine (ODOC) initiative celebrating the state's traditional food heritage. (Note: ODOC was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during UP Day celebrations in January 2026).
• Inauguration: Formally inaugurated by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on 25 September 2026.

Premier Energies Commissions India's Largest Solar Cell Manufacturing Facility at Naidupeta, Andhra Pradesh

• Major Solar-Manufacturing Development: Premier Energies Limited has commissioned a 7 GW N-type TOPCon G12R solar cell manufacturing facility at Naidupeta, Andhra Pradesh. The facility raises Premier Energies' total solar-cell manufacturing capacity from 3.6 GW to 10.6 GW.
• India's Largest by Capacity: With total solar-cell manufacturing capacity of 10.6 GW, Premier Energies has become India's largest solar-cell manufacturer by capacity. The newly commissioned 7 GW facility itself is also described as India's largest solar-cell manufacturing plant.
• Location & Area: The new facility is located at Naidupeta in Andhra Pradesh and is spread across approximately 101 acres.
• Investment & Technology: Developed at a capital expenditure of approximately ₹3,293 crore, the plant manufactures high-efficiency N-type TOPCon G12R solar cells (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact).
• Production Status & Capacity: The facility has been commissioned and has started trial production/runs. The digitally enabled facility is designed to produce approximately 88,000 solar cells per hour.
• Efficiency & Digital Manufacturing: Targeting an average solar-cell efficiency of approximately 25.8% following stabilisation, incorporating AI for predictive performance, process control, and automated material handling. Designed for upgrades toward next-generation TOPCon+ technologies.

Oxford Economics Global Cities Index 2026: Delhi Highest-Ranked Indian City; New York Retains Global No. 1

• Global City Benchmark: Oxford Economics released the Global Cities Index 2026, ranking the 1,000 largest cities in the world across 163 countries. The index provides a forward-looking assessment of cities' economic strength, human capital, quality of life, environmental conditions and governance.
• Five Evaluation Categories (27 Indicators): The index evaluates cities across 27 indicators grouped into five categories:
  • Economics: Size of the economy, GDP growth, economic stability, GDP per capita, employment growth and economic diversity.
  • Human Capital: Education, skills and demographic characteristics of a city's population and its ability to attract and retain talent.
  • Quality of Life: Residents' income, health, housing and access to amenities and services.
  • Environment: Environmental conditions and risks, including air pollution, carbon emissions and climate-related risks.
  • Governance: Institutional and political environment, assessed at the national level (meaning cities within the same country receive the same governance score).
• Delhi Leads Indian Cities (268th Globally):
  • Delhi is the highest-ranked Indian city, occupying 268th position globally.
  • Delhi is followed by: Bengaluru (311th), Mumbai (330th), Chennai (381st), Hyderabad (421st), Pune (427th), and Kolkata (496th).
  • Delhi's particularly strong performance is in Human Capital, where it ranks 13th globally. It also performs strongly in Economics, although its Quality of Life and Environment scores remain much weaker.
• Future Growth Contribution: Oxford Economics identifies major Indian cities as important contributors to future global growth, projecting substantial GDP expansion through 2050. (78 of the top 100 cities globally are located in Europe and North America).
• Global Top 10 Cities:
  1. New York, USA
  2. London, UK
  3. Paris, France
  4. Seattle, USA
  5. San Francisco, USA
  6. Dublin, Ireland
  7. Boston, USA
  8. San Jose, USA
  9. Tokyo, Japan
  10. Zurich, Switzerland

India Featured Twice in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2027

• Global Tourism Recognition: Leading global travel authority Lonely Planet released its Best in Travel 2027 list, featuring 50 destinations and experiences (25 destinations and 25 experiences) selected by its writers, editors and travel community.
• Two Indian Selections: India appears twice in the prestigious 2027 list:
  • Darjeeling, West Bengal: Listed among destinations as “Best for a Toy Train journey”.
  • Gujarat: Listed among destinations as “Best for salt flats and wild lions”.
• Gujarat — Best for Salt Flats and Wild Lions:
  • Lonely Planet highlights Gujarat for its vast salt flats, Asiatic lions, traditional crafts, heritage, coastline and cultural diversity.
  • Key attractions include: Rann of Kutch (salt flats), Gir National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary (sole natural habitat of the Asiatic lion), Dholavira (Harappan UNESCO World Heritage Site), Historic City of Ahmedabad (India's 1st UNESCO World Heritage City), Rani-ki-Vav at Patan (UNESCO WHS), Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (UNESCO WHS), Sun Temple at Modhera, and the 182-metre Statue of Unity at Ekta Nagar.
• Darjeeling — Best for a Toy Train Journey:
  • Selected for the world-renowned Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), popularly known as the “Toy Train”.
  • Route & Length: Connects New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Darjeeling over an 88.48-km route passing through tea gardens and the famous Batasia Loop.
  • Gauge: 2 ft (0.610 m) narrow gauge.
  • Highest Station: Ghoom/Ghum at approximately 2,258 metres (7,407 ft).
  • UNESCO Inscription: Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

Shantanu Moitra Selected for National Lata Mangeshkar Award 2026

• Award Selection: Renowned Indian music composer and background-score composer Shantanu Moitra has been selected for the National Lata Mangeshkar Award 2026 (Rashtriya Lata Mangeshkar Samman) by the Government of Madhya Pradesh for his distinguished contribution to music direction.
• Award Amount: The award carries a tax-free cash prize of ₹5 lakh and a citation. (Omit ‘shawl’ from the formal components as per official reports).
• Award Ceremony: Scheduled to be presented on 28 September 2026 at the Lata Mangeshkar Auditorium in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, as part of a two-day musical programme (beginning 27 September) marking the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar.
• About Shantanu Moitra: Renowned composer, musician and pianist celebrated for film soundtracks including Parineeta, Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, 3 Idiots, Madras Cafe, Piku, October, Sardar Udham and 12th Fail. He has also created acclaimed independent albums including Mann Ke Manjeere and Ab Ke Saawan (with Shubha Mudgal).
• National Film Award Distinction: Shantanu Moitra won the National Film Award for Best Music Direction (Background Score) for the Telugu film Na Bangaaru Talli, at the 61st National Film Awards (announced in 2014 for films of 2013).
• History of the Award: Instituted by the Government of Madhya Pradesh in 1984 and presented annually by the Culture Department for contribution to light music. Past recipients include legends such as Naushad, Kishore Kumar and Asha Bhosle.
  • 2024: Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy
  • 2025: Sonu Nigam
  • 2026: Shantanu Moitra

Mizoram Farmer Z T Lalrithangi Selected Among FAO's 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development

• International Recognition: Z T Lalrithangi, popularly known as Pi Mari-i, a farmer from Sangau village in Lawngtlai district, Mizoram, has been selected among the FAO 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development.
• International Year of Women Farmers: The recognition is part of the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, highlighting the crucial contribution of women to agrifood systems and rural development.
• Global Selection: Over 600 nominations from 131 countries were received, from which 100 women were selected. Lalrithangi is one of two women selected from India.
• Agricultural Work & Strawberry Cultivation: Lalrithangi has gained international recognition particularly for pioneering commercial strawberry cultivation in Mizoram and transforming it into a highly profitable rural livelihood. She commenced strawberry cultivation in 2024 and subsequently scaled up production.
• Farm Size, Production & Value Addition: She cultivates more than 10,000 strawberry plants across approximately two hectares of land, diversifying into value-added products including strawberry wine, dehydrated strawberries, and candy.
• Livelihood Impact: Her strawberry enterprise generated ~₹1.5 lakh in 2024 and surged to over ₹10 lakh in 2025. Earlier, she was named Lawngtlai district's Best Farmer at Horti Fair, Mizoram 2026.
• Award Ceremony in Rome: She has been invited to receive the honour during the World Food Forum at FAO Headquarters in Rome from 12–16 October 2026.

Rajat Sharma Re-elected President of News Broadcasters & Digital Association for 2026–27

• Unanimous Re-election: Veteran journalist Rajat Sharma, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of India TV, was unanimously re-elected President of the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) for 2026–27.
• Meeting Date & Venue: The re-election took place at a meeting of the NBDA Board of Directors in New Delhi on 22 September 2026.
• NBDA Membership & Reach: NBDA currently comprises 29 leading news and current-affairs broadcasters as members, collectively representing 130 news channels and digital platforms across India.
• Board Appointments: During the 19th AGM, Jayant Mammen Mathew (MM TV Ltd.) joined the Board, while Rachna Burman (The Times Group) and Kshipra Jatana (Network18 Media & Investments) were appointed Permanent Directors. M. V. Shreyams Kumar (MD, Mathrubhumi) continues as Vice-President, and Anuradha Prasad Shukla (CMD, News24) serves as Honorary Treasurer.
• About NBDA: Originally established as the News Broadcasters Association (NBA) on 3 July 2007; renamed in August 2021 to News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) to integrate digital news broadcasters.
• Self-Regulatory Framework (NBDSA): The association established the independent self-regulatory body News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA) (originally NBSA in 2008). As of 2026, former Supreme Court judge Justice A. K. Sikri serves as the Chairperson of NBDSA.

Jay Meena Wins India's First-Ever Asian Games Medal in Soft Tennis

• Historic Sporting Achievement: Indian soft-tennis player Jay Meena created history by winning India's first-ever Asian Games medal in soft tennis at the 20th Asian Games (Aichi-Nagoya 2026) in Japan. He secured the medal by reaching the men's singles semifinal.
• Event & Medal: Jay Meena competed in the men's singles soft-tennis event and won the Bronze Medal. Under the competition format, the two losing semifinalists receive bronze medals, so a separate bronze-medal match was not required.
• Tournament Campaign:
  • Quarterfinal: Meena defeated the Philippines' Sherwin Nuguit 4–3 in a closely contested battle to secure a semifinal berth and guarantee India's first-ever Asian Games medal in soft tennis.
  • Semifinal: In the semifinal, Meena faced Japan's Takuya Kurosaka and fought valiantly before conceding a 2–4 defeat (game-by-game score: 3–5, 1–4, 1–4, 4–1, 6–4, 1–4).
• Third Asian Games Appearance: The Aichi-Nagoya Games marked Jay Meena's third consecutive Asian Games appearance, having previously represented India at the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Games, the 2022 Hangzhou Games (held in 2023), and the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Games. He is also a 2022 National Games gold medallist and hails from Dewas, Madhya Pradesh.
• About Soft Tennis: Soft tennis originated in Japan in 1884. It uses soft rubber balls and differs from conventional tennis in equipment and playing characteristics. The International Soft Tennis Federation (ISTF) was established in 1973. Soft tennis was introduced into the Asian Games programme as an exhibition sport at the 1990 Beijing Asian Games and became an official medal sport at the 1994 Hiroshima Asian Games.

Mirabai Chanu Wins Silver Medal in Women's 49 kg Weightlifting at Asian Games 2026

• Silver Medal Achievement & Career Breakthrough: Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won the Silver Medal in the women's 49 kg weightlifting event at the 20th Asian Games (Aichi-Nagoya 2026). This marked Mirabai Chanu's first Asian Games medal of her illustrious career.
• Event Performance & Lifts:
  • Snatch: 87 kg
  • Clean & Jerk: 111 kg
  • Total Lift: 198 kg
  • She finished second behind North Korea's Ri Song Gum, who won gold with 215 kg. Indonesia's Luluk Diana Tri Wijayana secured the bronze medal.
• Asian Games Breakthrough: Chanu had narrowly missed a medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games, where she finished fourth after an injury prevented her from completing her final clean-and-jerk attempt. Her silver in Aichi-Nagoya is her maiden Asian Games medal.
• Olympic & World Achievements:
  • Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held 2021): Silver Medal in women's 49 kg with a total of 202 kg (87 kg Snatch + 115 kg Clean & Jerk).
  • World Championships: Gold at Anaheim, USA (2017) and Silver at Bogotá, Colombia (2022).
  • Commonwealth Games: Silver at Glasgow 2014, Gold at Gold Coast 2018, and Gold at Birmingham 2022.
• National Honours & State: Mirabai Chanu hails from Nongpok Kakching, Imphal East district, Manipur. She was honored with the Padma Shri (2018) and the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2018) (renamed the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021; for historical accuracy, her 2018 honor was the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna).

Naorem Roshibina Devi Wins Silver Medal in Women's 60 kg Wushu at Asian Games 2026

• Outstanding Asian Games Achievement: Indian wushu athlete Naorem Roshibina Devi won the Silver Medal in the women's 60 kg Sanda event at the 20th Asian Games (Aichi-Nagoya 2026) in Japan.
• Final Result: Roshibina Devi reached the final where she faced China's Zhang Xiaoyu and lost 0–2 (with Zhang winning both rounds 5–0), securing the silver medal for India.
• Three Consecutive Asian Games Medals (Historic Feat): Roshibina Devi became the first Indian woman to win medals at three consecutive Asian Games in wushu:
  • 2018 Asian Games (Jakarta-Palembang): Bronze Medal in women's Sanda 60 kg.
  • 2022 Asian Games (Hangzhou, held in 2023): Silver Medal in women's Sanda 60 kg.
  • 2026 Asian Games (Aichi-Nagoya): Silver Medal in women's Sanda 60 kg.
• Major Honours & IWUF Accolade:
  • Arjuna Award 2023: Conferred by the President of India for her achievements in wushu (citation records her 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games silver, 2023 World Wushu Championship silver, and 2023 Moscow Wushu Stars Championship gold).
  • IWUF Athlete of the Year 2023: Named the IWUF Wushu Sanda Female Athlete of the Year 2023 (official IWUF archive records: "Roshibina Devi Naorem, India – Wushu Sanda Female Athlete of the Year 2023").
• Background & State: Roshibina Devi hails from Manipur (Kwasiphai village in Bishnupur district). Her 2026 medal cements her status as one of India's most accomplished martial artists at the continental level.

248th Edition of Traditional Socio-Religious Boat Race Festival 'Heikru Hidongba' Celebrated in Manipur

• 248th Edition Celebrated: The 248th Heikru Hidongba, the traditional socio-religious boat-racing festival of Manipur, was celebrated on 22 September 2026 at the historic Bijoy Govinda Moat (Thangapat) in Sagolband, Imphal West district, Manipur.
• Organisers & Distinguished Guests: The festival was organised by the Bijoy Govinda Sevayet Committee. Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, accompanied by First Lady Jyoti Bhalla, attended the celebrations and witnessed the traditional boat race and associated sacred rituals.
• Timing & Lunar Calendar: Heikru Hidongba is observed annually on the 11th day of Langban, a month of the Meitei lunar calendar (which generally falls in September in the Gregorian calendar). It is celebrated with religious customs, rites, and prayers for peace, prosperity, unity, and a bountiful harvest for the community.
• Religious Significance & Principal Deity: The festival is centred on Shri Bijoy Govinda (a revered form of Lord Krishna). Before the boat race, elaborate religious rituals and offerings are performed, and the deity is ceremonially associated with the boat-racing proceedings.
• Sacred Rituals & Traditional Boat Race (Heiyang Tanaba):
  • The central attraction is the competitive traditional boat race, known as Heiyang Tanaba, featuring two narrow longboats representing the northern and southern provinces.
  • Participants and rowers wear traditional Meitei ceremonial attire.
  • Ritual offerings to Shri Bijoy Govinda historically include gold and silver coins and sacred garlands woven with 108 Heikru (Indian gooseberries / amla) and 108 rice grains.
• Historical Background & Critical Distinction:
  • Heikru Hidongba is an ancient Meitei tradition dating back to the reign of King Irengba in the 10th century.
  • The tradition evolved over subsequent centuries, and its major Vaishnavite elements along with its permanent establishment at the Bijoy Govinda moat occurred under Maharaja Bhagyachandra (Rajarshi Bhagyachandra) in 1779 CE.
  • Exam Note: It is not completely accurate to state that the festival itself originated in 1779 CE; rather, the ancient tradition dates back to the reign of King Irengba, while its establishment at Bijoy Govinda moat and major Vaishnavite development are associated with Maharaja Bhagyachandra in 1779 CE.

Mizoram Launches First-Ever 'Pluck & Pay' Festival (Lo La, Lei Rawh) to Promote Agro-Tourism and Rural Livelihoods

• First-Ever Pluck & Pay Festival: Mizoram organised its first-ever ‘Pluck & Pay Festival’, locally referred to as ‘Lo La, Lei Rawh’, in Khawzawl district to showcase agro-tourism and empower farming communities.
• Joint Organisers: The festival was jointly organised by the Tourism Department, Government of Mizoram, and the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Khawzawl.
• Dates & Dual Venues (3-Day Event): The festival was a three-day event held from 23 to 25 September 2026 (not 24–25 September) across two prominent farming villages:
  • Inaugural Venue: Vanhnuailiana Hall, Tualte (23 September 2026).
  • Concluding Venue: Nikuala Mual, Chawngtlai (concluded on 25 September 2026).
• Inauguration by Tourism Minister: The festival was formally inaugurated by Chief Guest Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, Hon'ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Mizoram, at Vanhnuailiana Hall, Tualte.
• 'Pluck & Pay' Concept: The event introduced visitors to a participatory, farm-based tourism model where travelers can visit local farms and orchards, pluck fresh fruits and vegetables themselves, and pay the farmers directly on the spot. The initiative promotes direct farm-to-consumer purchasing, community-based tourism, and sustainable rural livelihoods.
• Showcased Crops & Cultural Attractions:
  • Key Crops: Kiwi orchards, passion-fruit orchards, and high-yield tomato farms.
  • Farming Data: In Tualte, tomato farming started around 2019 with over 200 households now engaged. In Chawngtlai, over 120 households cultivate tomatoes, having sold over 8,000 quintals.
  • Activities: Agro-produce stalls, local handicraft/artisan exhibitions, traditional Mizo indigenous sports, cultural music concerts, zipline activities, and visits to local heritage sites.

Renowned Cultural Icon and Former ISRO Scientist Soorya Krishnamoorthy Passes Away at 78

• Passing Away: Eminent cultural organiser, theatre visionary, and former ISRO scientist-engineer Soorya Krishnamoorthy (original name: Nataraja Krishnamoorthy) passed away at the age of 78 on 23 September 2026 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, while undergoing medical treatment.
• Distinguished Career at ISRO (1972–1999): Krishnamoorthy joined the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 1972 and served for approximately 27 years before taking voluntary retirement in 1999. Working at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), he was closely associated with leading scientists including Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who served as an important mentor and lifelong influence.
• Founder of the Soorya Movement: In 1977, he founded the Soorya Stage and Film Society in Thiruvananthapuram:
  • The society expanded internationally across ~40 countries with over 30,000 members.
  • It was recognized by the Limca Book of World Records as the largest cultural society in Asia.
  • He conceptualized the annual Soorya Festival, one of Asia's longest-running cultural festivals celebrating Indian classical dance, music, and theatre (the 48th edition was scheduled to commence on 1 October 2026, spanning 111 days).
• Pioneer of Stagecraft & Light-and-Sound: Krishnamoorthy is credited with pioneering multimedia light-and-sound presentations in Malayalam theatre and cultural productions, seamlessly integrating light, sound, drama, and visual arts into monumental spectacles.
• Leadership & Major Awards:
  • Served as Chairman of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi.
  • Conferred the National Award for Stage Craft and Direction (1996).
  • Conferred the Kalaimamani Award (2006) by the Government of Tamil Nadu.
  • Honoured with the Kerala Prabha Award (2023) — one of the highest civilian honours of the Government of Kerala.

⚡ One-Liner Current Affairs — 25 September 2026

High-yield summary points covering all 23 key events for rapid revision before competitive examinations (UPSC, State PSC, SSC, Banking, Railways & Defence).