Ministry of Textiles Holds 2nd Coordination Committee Meeting of Textile Research Associations
The Ministry of Textiles convened the 2nd Coordination Committee Meeting of Textile Research Associations at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, under the chairpersonship of Secretary Neelam Shami Rao. The meeting focused on making textile research more coordinated, industry-driven, outcome-oriented and commercially useful.
Key facts
The meeting was chaired by Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles.
It was held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
Participants included representatives of Textile Research Associations, the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, Department of Science and Technology, CSIR and IITs.
Discussions covered research priorities, technology development, innovation, industry linkages, commercialisation of R&D outcomes and institutional strengthening.
The meeting reviewed initiatives including the i-TRAMS portal, Centres of Excellence, New Age Fibres and emerging areas of technical textiles.
Other focus areas included technology readiness assessment, startup and innovation support, a common e-library, external funding, skill development, governance reforms and KPI-based performance evaluation.
The Ministry emphasised industry participation from the conceptualisation stage and greater focus on technologies, patents, prototypes, commercialisation, import substitution and solutions for MSMEs.
The Five-Year Plans and Annual Action Plans for 2026–27 of Textile Research Associations are expected to provide a strategic roadmap for research, testing, standardisation, capacity building and collaboration.
The meeting highlighted the implementation of projects under the National Technical Textiles Mission.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on the Ministry of Textiles, textile research institutions, technical textiles, the National Technical Textiles Mission, i-TRAMS, Centres of Excellence, innovation ecosystems and government efforts to promote industry-oriented R&D.
Vice President Attends Birth Centenary Celebrations of Ramakrishna Hegde in Bengaluru
Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan paid tribute to former Karnataka Chief Minister Ramakrishna Hegde at his birth centenary celebrations in Bengaluru. He highlighted Hegde’s contributions to decentralisation, local governance, accountability and institution-building.
Key facts
The event was held at Vidhan Soudha in Bengaluru.
Ramakrishna Hegde was remembered on his 100th birth anniversary.
Hegde’s contribution to decentralisation was associated with the Karnataka Zilla Parishads, Taluk Panchayat Samitis, Mandal Panchayats and Nyaya Panchayats Act, 1985.
The Vice President noted that the 73rd Constitutional Amendment later gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions.
The strengthening of the Lokayukta in Karnataka was highlighted as part of Hegde’s emphasis on accountability.
The programme was attended by Karnataka Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on Karnataka’s political history, Ramakrishna Hegde, decentralisation, Panchayati Raj Institutions, the 73rd Constitutional Amendment and the Lokayukta.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, launched on 18 February 2016, provides crop insurance against losses caused by natural calamities, adverse weather, pests and diseases. It covers risks from pre-sowing to post-harvest stages and includes eligible loanee, non-loanee, tenant and sharecropper farmers. The Union Budget 2026–27 allocated ₹12,200 crore for the scheme.
Key facts
PMFBY was launched on 18 February 2016.
Coverage includes prevented or failed sowing, widespread mid-season adversity, localized calamities such as hailstorms, inundation and landslides, and specified post-harvest losses.
Maximum farmer premium is 2% for Kharif foodgrain and oilseed crops, 1.5% for Rabi foodgrain and oilseed crops, and 5% for commercial and horticultural crops.
The remaining premium is subsidised by Central and State Governments in a 50:50 ratio.
For North-Eastern and Himalayan States/UTs, the Central and State Government subsidy contribution is shared in a 90:10 ratio.
Eligible tenant farmers and sharecroppers may receive coverage subject to prescribed documentation and state-specific requirements.
The scheme uses digital platforms and tools including NCIP, DigiClaim, CCE Agri App, CLAP, YES-TECH and WINDS to improve enrolment, loss assessment and claim settlement.
The Union Budget 2026–27 allocated ₹12,200 crore for PMFBY.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on government schemes, agricultural insurance, farmer welfare, premium subsidies, climate-risk management and digital governance in agriculture.
Prabudh Matri Shakti Sammelan Highlights Mothers’ Role in Early Disability Identification
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted the importance of empowering mothers and families for the early identification, prevention and support of disabilities in children. Speaking at the Prabudh Matri Shakti Sammelan organised by SAKSHAM, he stressed antenatal care, timely screening, early intervention and the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Key facts
The Prabudh Matri Shakti Sammelan was organised by SAKSHAM to create awareness among women about preventing avoidable disabilities and empowering Divyang persons.
Dr Jitendra Singh said mothers are often the first to notice developmental or health-related concerns in children.
The Minister emphasised antenatal check-ups, recommended screening, maternal health, nutrition, infection prevention, safe use of medicines and timely medical consultation.
Women, teachers, healthcare workers and community leaders were identified as important participants in disability prevention and empowerment.
The Government is setting up cross-disability early treatment centres to support early identification and assistance for children with disabilities.
The first high-tech Sports Training Centre for Divyangjan was inaugurated in Madhya Pradesh.
India won 29 medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, according to the excerpt.
Support measures mentioned for government employees with Divyang children include exemption from rotational transfer, Children Education Allowance up to 22 years, posting near medical facilities and two years of paid Child Care Leave, subject to applicable provisions.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on disability welfare, early intervention, inclusive development, antenatal care, Divyangjan empowerment, sports infrastructure and government support measures for families of children with disabilities.
Foundation Laid for 110 PMGSY-IV Road Projects Worth Rs 1,503.53 Crore in Jammu and Kashmir
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh laid the foundation stone for 110 roads under PMGSY-IV, Batch-I of 2026-27, in the Udhampur-Kathua-Doda-Kishtwar region of Jammu and Kashmir. The projects cover 598.455 km, have a sanctioned cost of Rs 1,503.53 crore and are expected to benefit 46,972 people. Several projects will use waste plastics in road construction.
Key facts
Scheme: Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), Phase IV, Batch-I of 2026-27.
The projects aim to provide all-weather, last-mile road connectivity in remote and hilly areas.
Waste plastics will be incorporated in road construction in several project packages.
The projects are also expected to improve access to education, healthcare, markets and employment, besides supporting security-force mobility.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on PMGSY, rural infrastructure, last-mile connectivity, Jammu and Kashmir development, sustainable road construction and district-wise project data.
PM Modi Appreciates Uzbek Youth’s Hindi Expression Ahead of Uzbekistan Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed happiness over the enthusiasm of young people from Uzbekistan ahead of his visit to the country. He particularly appreciated their Hindi-language expression in a video shared on X.
Key facts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video showcasing the enthusiasm of young people from Uzbekistan.
The Uzbek youth expressed themselves in Hindi.
The Prime Minister was preparing to begin a visit to Uzbekistan.
Exam relevance: Relevant to international relations, India–Uzbekistan ties and cultural diplomacy.
The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) MP Unit seized 66,79,980 psychotropic tablets and arrested one person during an inter-state enforcement operation on the Chandigarh–Baddi route on 27–28 August 2026. The consignment, transported without required documents, included Alprazolam, Tramadol, Nitrazepam and Clonazepam.
Key facts
Agency: Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN), Madhya Pradesh Unit.
Operation: Operation Vajra 2.0.
Location and corridor: Chandigarh–Baddi interstate route along the Punjab–Himachal Pradesh corridor.
Seizure: 66,79,980 psychotropic tablets in 120 master cartons.
Medicines seized: Alprazolam, Tramadol, Nitrazepam and Clonazepam.
One person was arrested and one SML Isuzu Sartaj truck bearing Uttar Pradesh registration was seized.
The consignment was seized under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
During 2026, CBN reported booking 197 cases, arresting 272 persons, busting 6 clandestine laboratories and seizing approximately 51,000 kg of NDPS drugs along with 12,72,00,000 psychotropic tablets and capsules.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on the Central Bureau of Narcotics, the NDPS Act, 1985, psychotropic substances, anti-drug enforcement, inter-state drug trafficking and the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
DRI Seizes Over 18 kg of Suspected Synthetic Drugs in Bengaluru and Pune
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence conducted two intelligence-led operations on 25 August 2026, seizing approximately 14.9 kg of suspected amphetamine in Bengaluru and 2.53 kg of suspected amphetamine along with 878 grams of suspected MDMA tablets in Pune. Four persons were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
Key facts
The operations were conducted by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).
Approximately 14.9 kg of suspected amphetamine was seized at KSR Bengaluru Railway Station.
Approximately 2.53 kg of suspected amphetamine and 878 grams of suspected MDMA tablets were seized at Pune Junction.
Four persons were arrested in the two cases under the NDPS Act, 1985.
The DRI stated that the seizures were part of efforts to disrupt synthetic-drug trafficking networks.
The source states that DRI seized around 150 kg of amphetamine-type stimulant drugs in five operations over a fortnight.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, psychotropic substances, synthetic-drug trafficking and enforcement agencies.
Vice President Highlights Research and Industry-Academia Collaboration at KVIT Event
Vice President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan called on educational institutions to become global centres of knowledge, research and innovation. Speaking at the Kongu Vellalar Institute of Technology Trust’s Founders’ Day celebrations in Perundurai, Erode, he stressed research, patents, emerging technologies and stronger industry-academia partnerships.
Key facts
The event was held at the Kongu Vellalar Institute of Technology Trust in Perundurai, Erode.
The Vice President inaugurated ‘Arivukoodam’, described as a research park and centre for knowledge creation.
He said nearly one lakh people had received education through KVIT institutions.
He encouraged students to pursue research, innovation and patents.
Emerging fields highlighted included artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, quantum technology, biotechnology and digital technology.
MoUs were exchanged between Anchor Industries and Arivukoodam to strengthen industry-academia collaboration.
The event was attended by Tamil Nadu and Kerala Governor Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Supreme Court Judge Justice M. M. Sundresh, among others.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on higher education, research and development, emerging technologies, industry-academia collaboration and Tamil Nadu state current affairs.
Rajnath Singh Urges Youth to Pursue Social Change Through Constitutional and Democratic Means
At the convocation of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh explained Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s message of “Educate, Agitate and Organise” as acquiring knowledge, questioning injustice through constitutional means and working collectively for democratic change. He urged students to contribute to Viksit Bharat by 2047 through innovation, ethical conduct, continuous learning and nation-building.
Key facts
Rajnath Singh addressed students at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, on August 29, 2026.
He said social and economic objectives should be pursued through constitutional methods rather than violence, anarchy or unconstitutional means.
He highlighted justice, equality, liberty and fraternity as key values for universities and young citizens.
He encouraged youth to become job creators, problem-solvers and contributors to the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
He referred to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, semiconductor manufacturing, digital public infrastructure, start-ups and manufacturing as areas where challenges are being converted into opportunities.
He highlighted India’s progress in human spaceflight, an Indian space station, space start-ups, launch vehicles and satellite technology.
He stated that research and development expenditure has doubled and that the National Education Policy was introduced after 34 years.
He said India has risen in the Global Innovation Index and become the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s constitutional vision, democratic methods, youth development, Viksit Bharat 2047, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, innovation, start-ups, space-sector development and education policy.
National Sports Day Celebrated with ‘Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein’ Initiative
National Sports Day was observed at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi to mark the 121st birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya led the celebrations, which promoted the Fit India Movement and encouraged citizens to spend time in sports and physical activity.
Key facts
National Sports Day commemorates the birth anniversary of legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand.
The 2026 celebrations were held at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, India Gate, New Delhi.
Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Union Minister of Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal attended the event.
The nationwide ‘Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein’ initiative encouraged citizens, especially young people, to devote time to sports and physical activity.
Cricket, football and tug of war were among the activities organised.
A cricket competition featured Ministry XI, SAI XI, Media XI and Influencers XI.
The Ministry XI won the opening cricket match against Media XI.
The initiative was presented as supporting the Fit India Movement and the ‘Hum Fit Toh India Fit’ initiative.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on National Sports Day, Major Dhyan Chand, the Fit India Movement, government initiatives promoting physical fitness, and sports-related current affairs.
Revised CBG Pricing under GOBARdhan Scheme Aims to Protect Producers and Consumers
The revised pricing framework for Compressed Biogas (CBG) under the GOBARdhan Scheme seeks to provide producers with a stable and viable price while limiting any material impact on CNG and household PNG consumers. Government-funded affordability support and a wider gas pool are cited as safeguards for consumers.
Key facts
The issue concerns revised pricing of Compressed Biogas under the GOBARdhan Scheme.
The framework aims to support the sustainable operation of CBG plants through stable and viable producer prices.
Government-funded affordability support is intended to protect consumers from a material price impact.
A substantially wider gas pool is also cited as a consumer-protection measure.
The statement disputes the suggestion that the revised pricing would significantly burden CNG and household PNG consumers.
Exam relevance: Relevant for questions on the GOBARdhan Scheme, compressed biogas, renewable and alternative fuels, gas pricing, and consumer affordability.
Prime Minister Extends Greetings on National Sports Day
Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted sports lovers on National Sports Day and paid homage to legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand. He praised the dedication, passion and determination of sportspersons.
Key facts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to sports lovers on National Sports Day.
He paid homage to Major Dhyan Chand for his brilliance and contribution to Indian hockey.
The Prime Minister said that the dedication, passion and determination of sportspersons make the nation proud.
The message was posted on X.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on National Sports Day, Major Dhyan Chand and important national observances related to sports.
India–Argentina Joint Trade Committee Reviews Trade, Investment and Sectoral Cooperation
The Fourth India–Argentina Joint Trade Committee meeting was held in Buenos Aires on 24 August 2026. Both countries reviewed progress in trade, investment, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, lithium, space technology, telecommunications and digital services, while reaffirming their commitment to deepen bilateral economic relations.
Key facts
The Fourth India–Argentina Joint Trade Committee meeting was held at Palacio San Martín, Buenos Aires.
India's delegation was led by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, while Argentina's delegation was led by Ambassador Fernando Brun.
Bilateral trade crossed USD 6.5 billion in 2025 and recorded annual growth of over 17 percent.
India became Argentina's fifth-largest trading partner.
Investment opportunities were discussed in mining, energy and infrastructure, including KABIL's lithium activities in Catamarca.
KABIL completed Phase II drilling in its first lithium mining initiative in Argentina.
Technical discussions are progressing on market access for Indian onions, milk products, grapes, potatoes, bananas and pulses.
Argentina committed to working towards upgrading India from Annex II to Annex I under its pharmaceutical regulatory framework.
Cooperation under the 2019 ANMAT–CDSCO Memorandum of Understanding is being strengthened through initiatives in Ayurveda and Yoga.
Emerging cooperation areas include 5G, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, aviation, space technology and telecommunications.
The India–MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement and digital certificates of origin were also discussed.
The India–Argentina Business Forum was held on 25 August 2026 with more than 25 Indian business leaders.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on India’s bilateral trade relations, Joint Trade Committees, lithium-sector cooperation, pharmaceutical market access, India–MERCOSUR trade, agricultural exports and emerging cooperation in space and digital technology.
Prime Minister to Visit Uzbekistan and Kyrgyz Republic
The Prime Minister will visit Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic from 29 August to 1 September 2026. The visit will focus on strengthening India’s strategic partnerships in Central Asia, while also including participation in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit and the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games.
Key facts
The Prime Minister will visit Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on 29–30 August 2026 for a State Visit at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
India and Uzbekistan are expected to discuss trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and the visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan.
The Prime Minister will visit the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies.
The Prime Minister will travel to Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, to participate in the 26th SCO Summit.
The SCO Summit will mark 25 years of the organisation.
India has been an active and constructive member of the SCO since 2017.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to meet President Sadyr Zhaparov and attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games.
India’s regional vision at the SCO is anchored in Security, Connectivity and Opportunity.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on India’s relations with Central Asian countries, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, India’s regional diplomatic priorities, and major international events.
Prime Minister Modi to Visit Uzbekistan and Kyrgyz Republic for Bilateral Talks and SCO Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Uzbekistan from 29–30 August 2026 and the Kyrgyz Republic from 31 August to 1 September 2026. He will hold bilateral discussions in Tashkent and participate in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek.
Key facts
The visit to Uzbekistan will take place on 29–30 August 2026 at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Prime Minister Modi will hold delegation-level talks with President Mirziyoyev on trade and investment, defence, digital connectivity, energy, education and people-to-people ties.
This will be Prime Minister Modi’s fourth visit to Uzbekistan.
He will travel to Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, from 31 August to 1 September 2026 at the invitation of President Sadyr Zhaparov.
He will participate in the 26th SCO Summit and highlight India’s priorities of Security, Connectivity and Opportunity.
The summit marks the 25th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation; India has been a full member since 2017.
Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on India’s bilateral relations with Central Asian countries, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, India’s membership of the SCO, and major international visits.
PARIVARTAN Scheme onboards 42 banks/NBFCs and 15 auto OEMs
The PARIVARTAN Scheme aims to replace more than 2 lakh BS-IV or older trucks and buses registered in Delhi-NCR with BS-VI or stricter norm-compliant or electric vehicles. Launched on 14 July 2026, the scheme had registered more than 1,300 beneficiaries by 27 August 2026. It is funded through the National Capital Region Planning Board and implemented by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Key facts
PARIVARTAN stands for Programme for Accelerated Renewal and Incentivization of Vehicle Assets for Reducing Transport Air Pollution and Network Emissions.
The Union Cabinet approved the scheme on 3 June 2026.
The scheme covers the National Capital Territory of Delhi and NCR districts of Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
It targets replacement of over 2 lakh trucks and buses meeting BS-IV or older emission norms.
Eligible replacement vehicles include BS-VI or stricter norm-compliant diesel or CNG vehicles and electric vehicles.
The total financial outlay is ₹9,585 crore, including ₹5,041 crore in Central Government budgetary support.
The scheme is funded through the National Capital Region Planning Board under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is implementing the scheme.
As of 27 August 2026, more than 1,300 beneficiaries had registered on the PARIVARTAN Portal.
Forty-two banks and NBFCs were onboarded to provide interest subvention on vehicle loans.
Memoranda of Understanding were signed with 15 auto original equipment manufacturers to extend discounts to eligible beneficiaries.
Mahendra Singh became the first vehicle owner to purchase a new vehicle under the scheme, in Alwar, Rajasthan, on 19 August 2026.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on government schemes, vehicle emission standards, air-pollution control, ministries, financial outlay and Delhi-NCR environmental policy.
Health Ministry Reviews Progress Towards Malaria Elimination by 2030
The Union Health Ministry reviewed India’s progress towards eliminating malaria by 2030. The review focused on 33 high-burden districts across nine States and Union Territories and stressed stronger surveillance, early diagnosis, complete treatment, data quality, environmental management and community participation.
Key facts
Between 2015 and 2025, malaria cases and deaths in India declined by nearly 80%.
The number of high-burden districts decreased from 155 to 33.
A total of 160 districts reported zero indigenous malaria cases during 2022–2025.
The 33 high-burden districts accounted for 64% of malaria cases and 54% of malaria deaths reported in 2025.
The reviewed States and Union Territories included Mizoram, Odisha, Tripura, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Maharashtra.
The meeting stressed implementation of District Action Plans and Village Action Plans in high-burden areas.
States were advised to strengthen the Test, Treat and Track strategy, active surveillance, diagnostics and uninterrupted availability of anti-malarial drugs.
The review highlighted the need to improve Annual Blood Examination Rate and Annual Parasite Incidence data by excluding asymptomatic mass-screening cases from these calculations.
Coordination with Rural Development, Urban Development and Panchayati Raj institutions was encouraged for environmental and vector-control measures.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on India’s malaria elimination target, National Health Mission, NCVBDC, vector-borne disease control, public-health surveillance, Annual Blood Examination Rate, Annual Parasite Incidence and intersectoral convergence.
NBCFDC Loan Helps Kerala Beneficiary Become Self-Employed Autorickshaw Owner
Sunil Kumar K.P., an OBC Thiyya community member from Kerala, used a term loan under the National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation (NBCFDC) Scheme to purchase an autorickshaw and shift from private driving to self-employment. His reported monthly income rose from ₹5,000 to approximately ₹20,000.
Key facts
Sunil Kumar K.P. belongs to the OBC Thiyya community in Kerala.
He previously worked as a private vehicle driver and earned ₹5,000 per month.
In 2022, he received a term loan of ₹2.69 lakh under the NBCFDC loan scheme through the Kerala State Backward Classes Development Corporation.
He used the loan to purchase an autorickshaw and start working as a self-employed driver.
His monthly income increased to approximately ₹20,000, according to the case study.
The intervention improved his reported household financial security and quality of life.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on NBCFDC, credit-based livelihood support, welfare measures for Other Backward Classes, and the role of state-level backward classes development corporations.
