Legislative Department Organises Workshop on E-Waste Disposal
The Legislative Department of the Ministry of Law and Justice organised a workshop on e-waste disposal under Special Campaign 6 at Kartavya Bhawan-II, New Delhi. The session focused on the environmental impact of improper e-waste disposal and the need for responsible management of obsolete electronic equipment.
Key facts
The workshop was held on 15 October 2026 at Kartavya Bhawan-II, New Delhi.
It was organised by the Legislative Department, Ministry of Law and Justice, under Special Campaign 6.
The workshop was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Rajiv Mani, Secretary, Legislative Department.
Shri G. Panmei, JS&LC, led the workshop along with departmental officers and staff.
Smt. Archna Srivastava, General Secretary of INDIA-AIDS NGO, and her team highlighted the importance of proper e-waste management.
The session stressed environmental protection, resource conservation and sustainable workplace practices.
Officials were urged to dispose of obsolete electronic equipment according to applicable rules and procedures.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on e-waste management, environmental protection, sustainable practices and government awareness campaigns.
TAKSHANAM Sculpture Exhibition Inaugurated at NGMA, New Delhi
Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated TAKSHANAM, an exhibition showcasing contemporary and established Indian sculptural practices, at the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi.
Key facts
TAKSHANAM features over 250 sculptures by 150 participating artists.
The exhibition was inaugurated at the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi.
It has two sections: Eminent Artists and Open Call Artists.
Approximately 80–90 artists were selected for the Open Call Artists section by a jury.
The exhibition includes artworks from the NGMA collection.
For the first time at NGMA, artworks are being offered for sale.
The exhibition will remain open until 15 November 2026.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on Indian art and culture, the Ministry of Culture, the National Gallery of Modern Art, and contemporary Indian sculpture.
Nirmala Sitharaman Participates in World Bank Development Committee Meeting
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman participated as the Governor of the World Bank in the 114th Development Committee Plenary Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting focused on private capital mobilisation and job creation.
Key facts
The 114th Development Committee Plenary Meeting was held in Bangkok, Thailand.
Nirmala Sitharaman participated as the Governor of the World Bank.
The meeting agenda was 'Private Capital Mobilisation and Jobs'.
She highlighted the role of macroeconomic stability, infrastructure, finance and skills in creating jobs.
She stressed that private enterprises, MSMEs and startups should be central to job creation.
She called for stronger collaboration among IBRD, IFC and MIGA, along with faster operationalisation of the World Bank Group Guarantee Platform.
She sought greater transparency and revision of the methodologies used for Worldwide Governance Indicators.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on the World Bank, its Development Committee, international financial institutions, private capital mobilisation, MSMEs, job creation and Worldwide Governance Indicators.
National Workshop on Strengthening Digital Data Systems under DAY-NRLM
The Ministry of Rural Development conducted a two-day national workshop in Gurugram, Haryana, to strengthen digital data systems, evidence-based learning and outcome monitoring under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM). The workshop focused on improving LokOS, integrating it with banking portals and using reliable data to support rural women’s enterprises and credit access.
Key facts
The workshop was held in Gurugram, Haryana, on 12 and 13 October 2026.
It was organised by the Ministry of Rural Development under DAY-NRLM.
Around 10 crore women are organised into nearly 92 lakh Self-Help Groups.
These women have leveraged formal credit of about ₹14 lakh crore.
The next phase will focus on strengthening around 87 lakh enterprises and tracking Lakhpati Didis.
LokOS was proposed as an operational platform integrated with banking portals for digital credit access.
DAY-NRLM aims to shift from inclusion to prosperity, quality credit and self-reliant institutions.
The workshop reviewed the digitisation of SHG, Village Organisation and Cluster Level Federation profiles and financial transactions on LokOS.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on DAY-NRLM, Self-Help Groups, women-led rural enterprises, financial inclusion, digital governance, LokOS and evidence-based monitoring of government schemes.
India’s Ramsar site tally has reached 103 following the addition of Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh. The announcement was made by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav.
Key facts
India’s total number of Ramsar sites has reached 103.
Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh has been added to the Ramsar list.
Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh has been added to the Ramsar list.
The announcement was made by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav.
Wetlands support biodiversity conservation, water security and climate security.
Wetlands also contribute to sustaining local livelihoods.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on Ramsar sites, wetland conservation, environmental governance, biodiversity and India’s environmental commitments.
12th India–Japan Joint Working Group Session on Roads and Road Transportation
The 12th session of the India–Japan Joint Working Group on Roads and Road Transportation was held in New Delhi to strengthen bilateral cooperation in road infrastructure, technology and sustainable development.
Key facts
The 12th JWG session was held on 15 October 2026.
The meeting took place at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways organised the meeting.
Representatives from the governments of India and Japan participated.
Discussions covered construction technologies, tunnel and bridge engineering, sustainable infrastructure and digital road management.
The meeting facilitated the exchange of technical knowledge, experience and best practices.
The Ministry of Railways and the Ministry of Power also participated.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on India–Japan bilateral cooperation, road infrastructure, sustainable development, digital technologies and the role of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
14th High-Level Meeting Between Indian and Korea Coast Guards Held in Incheon
The Indian Coast Guard and Korea Coast Guard held their 14th High-Level Meeting in Incheon, Republic of Korea, on 14 October 2026 to strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation and operational coordination.
Key facts
The 14th High-Level Meeting was held in Incheon, Republic of Korea.
The meeting took place on 14 October 2026.
Discussions covered Maritime Search and Rescue, Marine Pollution Response and Maritime Law Enforcement.
Both sides agreed to strengthen professional exchanges, joint training exercises and bilateral ship visits.
The Coast Guards also agreed to enhance real-time information sharing and operational coordination.
The Indian delegation was led by Inspector General T. Sashi Kumar.
The Korea Coast Guard delegation was led by Senior Superintendent General Im Myeong Gil.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on India’s maritime security cooperation, bilateral defence engagements, coast guard functions and regional maritime safety.
Dr. L. Murugan Resigns from Union Council of Ministers
The President of India accepted Dr. L. Murugan’s resignation from the Union Council of Ministers with immediate effect, on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Key facts
Dr. L. Murugan resigned from the Union Council of Ministers.
The resignation was accepted by the President of India.
The action was taken on the advice of the Prime Minister.
The resignation took effect immediately.
The resignation was accepted under Article 75(2) of the Constitution of India.
The press communiqué was published on 15 October 2026.
Exam relevance: Relevant for questions on the Union Council of Ministers, ministerial resignation, and Article 75(2) of the Constitution of India.
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is organising the nine-day SHILP SAMAGAM MELA 2026 at the Mysuru Dasara Exhibition Grounds in Karnataka from October 11 to October 19, 2026. The fair provides marketing support to artisans and beneficiaries from Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes and Safai Karamcharis.
Key facts
The Mela is organised by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
It is being jointly organised by NSFDC, NBCFDC and NSKFDC.
The exhibition has 83 stalls, including 80 stalls allotted to artisans.
Among the participating artisans, 37 are women.
Artisans from 12 States and Union Territories are participating.
The fair promotes traditional handicrafts, handloom products and market linkages.
The Ministry has organised SHILP SAMAGAM MELAS since 2022, benefiting 975 artisans through 13 fairs.
BHARAT TULIP is being promoted to expand artisans’ market access through digital platforms.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on social justice, welfare initiatives, financial assistance to disadvantaged communities, traditional handicrafts and government efforts to promote artisan livelihoods.
Assam Police Statewide Anti-Drug Operation: 945 Arrests and Narcotics Seizures Worth Over ₹182 Crore
Assam Police conducted a statewide anti-drug operation on 12 October 2026 under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The operation led to 547 cases, 945 arrests, raids at more than 703 drug hotspots and seizures of narcotics and psychotropic substances worth approximately ₹182 crore.
Key facts
The statewide anti-drug operation was conducted in Assam on 12 October 2026.
Narcotics and psychotropic substances worth approximately ₹182 crore were seized.
Raids were conducted at more than 703 drug hotspots.
Properties worth approximately ₹31 crore were processed for seizure, attachment or freezing.
The operation included 633 awareness programmes reaching 1,12,532 citizens and students.
Assam Police also seized or destroyed 1,34,539 litres of liquor.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on Assam state current affairs, narcotics control, the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, PITNDPS, COTPA and law-enforcement statistics.
Customs seize 148.67 kg of suspected hydroponic cannabis at IGI Airport
Customs officers intercepted a consignment from Bangkok at the Air Cargo Complex of Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, and seized 148.67 kg of suspected hydroponic weed concealed inside PU tube spools. One person was arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
Key facts
The consignment arrived from Bangkok and was declared as PU tubes packed in 19 cartons.
Customs officers discovered concealed packets in cavities inside plastic spools.
The suspected ganja or marijuana was found in 15 cartons and 120 spools.
The total seized quantity was 148.67 kg.
The seized narcotics were valued at approximately Rs. 52 crore, with an estimated Indian street value of Rs. 150 crore.
The contraband and concealment material were seized under the NDPS Act, 1985.
One person was arrested on 15 October 2026 and produced before a magistrate the same day.
Follow-up searches were conducted at five premises across three states.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on the NDPS Act, 1985, customs enforcement, narcotics smuggling, and the role of the Air Cargo Complex at IGI Airport.
DRI Seizes 6.28 kg Foreign-Origin Gold in Trivandrum Smuggling Case
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence seized 6.28 kg of foreign-origin gold valued at Rs. 9.18 crore at the Air Cargo Complex in Trivandrum. The gold was concealed inside hardware items transported as unaccompanied baggage from Dubai. Three persons were arrested under the Customs Act, 1962.
Key facts
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence conducted the operation based on specific intelligence.
A consignment of unaccompanied baggage was intercepted at the Air Cargo Complex, Trivandrum.
Authorities seized 6.28 kg of foreign-origin gold valued at Rs. 9.18 crore.
The gold was concealed inside a floor spring, metal locks, a grease gun and a door closer.
The trolley containing the items was shipped from Dubai to Trivandrum.
The alleged network involved warehouse personnel, a Customs Broker and a receiver.
Three persons were arrested under the Customs Act, 1962.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Customs enforcement, the Customs Act, 1962, gold smuggling and unaccompanied baggage procedures.
CBN U.P. Unit Holds Public Hearing for Opium Cultivators in Barabanki
The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) U.P. Unit conducted a public hearing on October 12, 2026, at the office of the District Opium Officer in Barabanki to address grievances and suggestions of opium cultivators.
Key facts
The hearing was organised by the Central Bureau of Narcotics U.P. Unit.
It was held at the District Opium Officer's office in Barabanki on October 12, 2026.
Approximately 150 opium cultivators attended the meeting.
Farmers raised concerns about irrigation, climatic uncertainties and single-plot licensing.
They suggested replacing village-wise plot licensing with allocation based on the mean distance from a farmer's residence.
Cultivators requested an increase in the number of licences and the permissible size of individual cultivation plots.
The Deputy Narcotics Commissioner, Lucknow, stated that a helpline would soon be announced for the 2026–27 licensing operation.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on the Central Bureau of Narcotics, regulation of opium cultivation, public grievance redressal and agricultural licensing issues in Uttar Pradesh.
DRI and CBN Destroy Illicit Cannabis Cultivation in Maharashtra Wildlife Sanctuary
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) destroyed illicit cannabis cultivation spread over 2.87 hectares in a wildlife sanctuary near Jamniapani village in Shirpur, Dhule district, Maharashtra.
Key facts
The operation was based on intelligence developed by the DRI.
A joint DRI-CBN team conducted the operation on 14 October 2026.
Illicit cannabis cultivation was found across five land stretches.
The cultivation covered 2.87 hectares, equivalent to 7.08 acres.
The crop was destroyed using a rotavator after legal formalities.
Police and Forest Department officials were present during the destruction.
Further investigation is in progress.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on India's agencies involved in combating illegal narcotics, inter-agency enforcement, and drug-control operations.
Sports Ministry Calls for Stronger Talent Pipeline Ahead of Major Games
At a review meeting on India’s 2026 Asian Games performance, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya urged National Sports Federations to identify and develop a wider pool of high-performing athletes. The meeting also reviewed preparations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2030 Asian Games in Doha.
Key facts
India finished fourth at the 2026 Asian Games, according to the source.
Mansukh Mandaviya asked National Sports Federations to build a continuous pipeline of champions.
Federations were urged to strengthen talent identification, training, competitions and performance assessment.
The Minister highlighted the need for more sports psychologists, sports science experts and high-performance mental trainers.
The revised Assistance to National Sports Federations guidelines booklet was inaugurated.
The Khelo India Scheme’s convergence with National Sports Federations was discussed.
India aims to finish among the top three at the 2030 Asian Games in Doha.
India is scheduled to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and aims to finish among the top three.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on Indian sports administration, National Sports Federations, Khelo India, the Assistance to National Sports Federations guidelines, and India’s preparation for major international sporting events.
National Strategic Trade Command Centre launched to strengthen trade governance
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal launched the National Strategic Trade Command Centre at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi. Developed by the Department of Commerce, the platform will use integrated data analytics to monitor trade performance, regulatory approvals, scheme utilisation and application processing.
Key facts
The National Strategic Trade Command Centre was launched at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi.
It was developed by the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
The centre is designed to support data-driven and evidence-based trade decisions.
Its dashboards cover IEC, Advance Authorisation, EPCG, Certificate of Origin, SCOMET and restricted trade processes.
The platform will monitor trade indicators, scheme performance, application pendency and processing timelines.
The SCOMET dashboard was reviewed, with emphasis on clearing pending applications promptly.
The NSTCC will leverage DGFT systems and the Trade Connect ePlatform.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on trade governance, DGFT functions, SCOMET, export promotion schemes, digital governance and data-driven policymaking.
Vice-President inaugurates KAUMARACON-2026 at AIIA
Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated KAUMARACON-2026 at the All India Institute of Ayurveda in New Delhi. The international conference focuses on Ayurvedic paediatrics, research and evidence-based child healthcare. Several digital initiatives and an international academic collaboration were also launched.
Key facts
KAUMARACON-2026 is the third international conference on Kaumarabhritya, the Ayurvedic branch of paediatrics.
The conference is being held from 15 to 17 October 2026 at the All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi.
The theme is “Shaping the Future of Child Health: Global Perspectives, Research Innovations, and Clinical Frontiers in Kaumarabhritya.”
The Ayush Start-up Portal, AIIA–iCAINE website and AyuDIVA facility were inaugurated.
The Vamana App and Panchakarma Assessment App were launched to support technology-enabled Ayurvedic clinical practice.
AIIA and Maharishi International University, USA, exchanged an international Memorandum of Understanding.
AIIA operates more than 45 specialised OPDs, offers postgraduate and doctoral education across 12 specialties, and mentors 105 pharmacovigilance centres.
The institute has received NAAC A++ accreditation and NABH quality recognition, according to the excerpt.
Exam relevance: Useful for questions on the Ministry of Ayush, All India Institute of Ayurveda, Kaumarabhritya, traditional medicine, digital health initiatives, accreditation and international cooperation in healthcare.
Special Campaign 6.0 Promotes Cleanliness in Senior Citizen Homes under AVYAY
The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has directed all 764 Senior Citizen Homes supported under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC) to conduct cleanliness, sanitation, waste-management and greening activities under Special Campaign 6.0. The initiative aims to promote safe, accessible and dignified living environments for elderly residents.
Key facts
The initiative is being implemented under Special Campaign 6.0.
The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment is participating in the campaign.
All 764 Senior Citizen Homes supported under IPSrC have been directed to undertake cleanliness activities.
IPSrC functions under the umbrella scheme Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY).
Activities include decluttering, waste segregation, waste disposal and maintenance of common areas.
The campaign also includes plantation, garden maintenance and other greening activities.
The campaign is coordinated by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).
The initiative promotes Jan Bhagidari and the dignity, safety and well-being of senior citizens.
Exam relevance: Important for questions on AVYAY, IPSrC, senior citizen welfare, Special Campaign 6.0, the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, DARPG and government cleanliness initiatives.
