Daily Current Affairs - Week 24, 2026 (08 Jun 2026 - 14 Jun 2026)

• The UNGA elected Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe as non-permanent UNSC members for the 2027-2028 term, while Germany failed to secure a seat.
• India and the United Kingdom launched the Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory in New Delhi to monitor clean energy supply chains.
• India’s MY Bharat platform set a Guinness World Record for the “Most Users to Take an Online Quiz in One Week” with 390,812 participants.
• The 14th India-Philippines Joint Working Group meeting on Trade and Investment was held in Manila to boost bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
• Scientists identified 14,000-year-old footprints and handprints of five hunter-gatherers in an Italian cave, providing the first fossil evidence of human crawling.
• A new 120-million-year-old four-winged feathered gliding dinosaur species, named Jian changmaensis, was discovered in northwestern China's Changma Basin.
• APEDA facilitates the first export of GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai.
• Indore to host BRICS Agriculture Meeting under India’s presidency from June 9, 2026.
• Saudi Arabia lifted its five-year ban on all imports from Lebanon on 10 June 2026.
• India participated in the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, reaffirming commitment to inclusive growth, gender equality, and skill development.

• India’s GDP grew by 7.8% in Q4 FY26, driving the full-year FY26 economic growth revision upward to 7.7% due to strong performance in services and construction.
• West Bengal signed an MoU to join Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme, becoming the 36th State/UT, with rollout beginning in July 2026 benefiting around 6 crore families.
• Union Minister Piyush Goyal launched the BHAVYA Portal to implement a flagship scheme for developing 100 world-class industrial parks across India with an outlay of ₹33,660 crore.
• India ranked fifth globally in military spending for 2025 with an expenditure of $92.1 billion and remained the world's second-largest arms importer during 2021–25.
• Assam, Nagaland, and Centre signed a tripartite MoU for oil and gas exploration in disputed border fields with 50:50 revenue sharing.
• India announced a $2.5 million contribution to UNRWA for Palestine refugees.

• India’s R Praggnanandhaa became the first Indian to win the Norway Chess tournament 2026, defeating Vincent Keymer and beating Magnus Carlsen twice.
• The Indian women's football team defeated defending champions Bangladesh 3-1 in Goa to lift their record sixth SAFF Women's Championship title.
• Mercedes' Italian driver Kimi Antonelli won the Monaco Grand Prix 2026, securing his fifth consecutive victory of the Formula One season.
• India wins inaugural World Yogasana Championship 2026 with 114 medals.

• Defence Ministry approves 250 MW Solar Power Project with BESS in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh.
• The Ministry of Defence signs ₹449 crore contract for 20 ECGNSS Jammers for the Indian Navy.

• Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the next Vice Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, effective 1 July 2026.
• Saurabh Vijay, CEO of UIDAI and 1998-batch IAS officer, assumed charge as Chief Executive Officer of the IndiaAI Mission, with Sudeep Shrivastava as Chief Operating Officer.
• Swaminathan Janakiraman was reappointed as RBI Deputy Governor for another two years effective from 26 June 2026.
• Kumar Shanker assumes charge as Managing Director of Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL).
• Banwarilal Purohit elected as President of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.
• Rudra Gaurav Shresth appointed as India’s next Ambassador to Türkiye.
• Sanjay Lohiya nominated as a director on the RBI Central Board.

• Jammu & Kashmir Bank won the Gold Award at the Finacle Innovation Awards 2026 for its advanced Data Insights and Analytics Platform.
• Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi honoured 51 distinguished artistes at the SNA Samman Ceremony 2026 in Lucknow for their contributions to music, dance, theatre, and folk arts.
• The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) developed by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj won the Gold Award at the National e-Governance Awards 2026.
• The Department of Consumer Affairs’ e-Jagriti platform won the Silver Award at National e-Governance Awards 2026 for improving consumer dispute resolution.
• Lt Commander Suraj Prashar awarded Shaurya Chakra for bravery in Jammu & Kashmir.
• JSW Infrastructure has secured a ₹832.25 crore project for integrated development of Outer Container Terminal and Berths 1-5 at Kolkata Port under DBFOT model.

• Acclaimed Australian cancer researcher and '2024 Australian of the Year' co-recipient, Professor Richard Scolyer, passed away at the age of 59.
• Veteran Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja passes away at 84 in Chennai.
• Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol passed away at the age of 47 on June 12, 2026.

• World Oceans Day 2026 was observed on June 8 under the theme “Reimagine: Beyond the World We Know, a New Relationship with Our Ocean” to promote marine conservation.

• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s seventh Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu to provide specialized weather forecasts for the Himalayan region.
• Kerala Agricultural University released a new green chilli variety ‘KAU Thejaswini’ suitable for year-round cultivation with high yield and disease tolerance.
• Kerala Forest Department launched HAWK, India’s first digital judiciary-integrated system for faster wildlife crime prosecution and tracking.
• Kerala launched the Priyadarshini scheme offering free bus travel for women and transgender persons on KSRTC ordinary services from 15 June 2026.
• Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation launches QR-code feedback system for over 3,500 street food vendors.
• Madhya Pradesh government withdraws two-child norm for government jobs and employees.
• Gujarat Police traced 1,470 missing persons under ‘Operation Milap’, with 852 women and 234 minor girls among those recovered.

• The FSSAI has introduced a standardised vegan logo featuring a stylized “V” and leaf, which will become mandatory from 1 July 2027.
• India is set to launch E85 fuel (85% ethanol blend) to boost energy security, reduce imports, and promote sustainable mobility, starting from select stations in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur.
• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s seventh Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu on 5 June 2026 to provide specialized weather services for Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh.
• The National Zoological Park in New Delhi launched the "NZP Saathi App" and self-ticketing kiosks to provide interactive digital navigation and hassle-free cashless transactions for visitors.
• PM Narendra Modi becomes India’s longest-serving continuously elected Prime Minister on June 10, 2026.
• Amit Shah launches VINIMAY – Land Port Management System in New Delhi.
• Major breakthrough achieved in Zojila Tunnel Project in Ladakh on 9 June 2026.
• India’s indigenous Truenat HR-HPV-Plus test validated for cervical cancer screening, set to boost affordable early detection.
• India and Nepal launched UPI-NPI cross-border remittance service for instant, low-cost transfers.

• Researchers from AIIMS New Delhi, ICMR, and WHO’s IARC have validated India’s indigenous Truenat HR-HPV-Plus test, meeting international standards for cervical cancer screening. Developed by Molbio Diagnostics, it detects eight high-risk HPV types responsible for nearly 95% of cervical cancers.
• The test is affordable, point-of-care, and suitable for district-level facilities. While vaccination prevents future infections, screening remains crucial for women above 30. This breakthrough reduces dependence on expensive imports and supports India’s cervical cancer elimination goals through accessible early detection.

• Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment and MSME, Shobha Karandlaje, led the Indian delegation at the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva on June 9, 2026. The ILC, the highest decision-making body of the ILO, is known as the “World Parliament of Labour.”
• India reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive growth, gender equality, social dialogue, and workforce welfare. Key focus areas included skill development, digital transformation in employment services, and international cooperation. India also held bilateral meetings with Nepal, Angola, Mauritius, France, UK, South Korea, US, and Canada to enhance labour mobility and skill recognition.

India announced a $2.5 million contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) on June 11, 2026 — the first tranche of its annual $5 million assistance. UNRWA, established in 1949, provides education, healthcare, and relief to Palestine refugees. India supports a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict and has also provided humanitarian aid, including medicines and 135 metric tonnes of supplies since October 2023.

On June 11, 2026, India, Assam, and Nagaland signed a tripartite MoU for joint exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas in six disputed fields along their border, covering over 1,000 sq km. Signed in the presence of Amit Shah, Hardeep Singh Puri, Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Neiphiu Rio, the agreement includes 50:50 revenue sharing. It aims to resolve long-pending territorial issues and boost production significantly, potentially generating over Rs 15,000 crore from one field alone.

On June 11, 2026, the Central Government nominated Sanjay Lohiya, Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (Ministry of Finance), as a director on the RBI Central Board. He replaced Nagaraju Maddirala. The RBI Central Board is the apex governing body under the RBI Act, 1934. The Department of Financial Services oversees banking, insurance, and pension sectors. This nomination strengthens government representation in the central bank’s decision-making process.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, eldest daughter of Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn, passed away on June 12, 2026, at age 47. She had been in a coma since collapsing in December 2022 while training dogs and was treated at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok. A member of the Chakri dynasty, she previously served as Thailand’s Ambassador to Austria and UNODC goodwill ambassador, actively working on women’s rights in prisons. Her death has saddened the Thai royal family and public.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the establishment of an Advanced Quantum Computing and Quantum Communications Lab at MNIT Jaipur under MeitY’s Electronics and ICT programme. The lab will focus on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), quantum computing simulation, and sensing for national security and post-quantum cryptography. Students will also access Lam Research’s Semiverse platform for semiconductor training. The Minister highlighted India’s growing semiconductor design ecosystem and encouraged use of EDA tools under the Chips to Startup programme.

Gujarat State Police traced 1,470 missing persons during ‘Operation Milap’, a month-long statewide campaign launched on May 7, 2026. The drive combined technical intelligence, digital data analysis, field investigations, and interstate coordination to resolve old and new cases. Of those traced, 852 were women, 342 men, 234 minor girls, and 42 minor boys. Surat City Police led with 341 recoveries. The operation focused on family reunification, women and child safety, and strengthening public trust in policing. Many missing persons were traced from neighbouring states.

India and Nepal launched a cross-border peer-to-peer remittance service on June 6, 2026, by integrating India’s UPI with Nepal’s NPI. The system, implemented by NPCI International and Nepal Clearing House, enables instant transfers using mobile numbers or VPAs. Nepal is the second country after Singapore to achieve such connectivity. The corridor supports faster, cheaper remittances between the two nations. Select Nepali banks are live on the platform. This expands UPI’s international footprint to nine countries.

• India achieved a major breakthrough in the main tunnel of the Zojila Tunnel Project on 9 June 2026 at Minamarg, Kargil district, Ladakh. The 14-km tunnel on NH-1 between Baltal and Minamarg, built at 2,900-3,310 metres elevation at ₹6,800 crore, will provide year-round connectivity between Kashmir Valley and Ladakh.
• Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, LG Manoj Sinha, and CM Omar Abdullah attended the event. Features include advanced ventilation, fire detection, CCTV, avalanche protection, and snow galleries. Travel time from Sonamarg to Minamarg will drop from two hours to 30 minutes, boosting tourism, trade, and strategic mobility.

• Saudi Arabia lifted its five-year ban on imports from Lebanon on 10 June 2026. The ban, initially imposed on fruits and vegetables in April 2021 and later extended to all products due to drug smuggling concerns (especially Captagon), has now been removed.
• The decision by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman followed requests from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and PM Nawaf Salam. It reflects improved diplomatic ties and Lebanon’s efforts to strengthen state institutions and curb smuggling. The move is expected to boost Lebanese agricultural exports to Gulf markets.

• The Ministry of Defence signed a ₹449 crore contract with Accord Software and Systems Pvt Ltd (Bengaluru) on 10 June 2026 for 20 Enhanced Capability Global Navigation Satellite System (ECGNSS) Jammers for the Indian Navy. Procured under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category with minimum 75% indigenous content, the jammers will disrupt enemy satellite navigation through signal degradation, spoofing, and interference.
• They enhance maritime security, electronic warfare capabilities, and operational safety. The deal supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat and strengthens naval defence against modern threats reliant on GPS/GLONASS-like systems.

• JSW Infrastructure received a Letter of Award on 9 June 2026 from Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority for the integrated development of the Outer Container Terminal and Berths 1-5 at Netaji Subhas Dock, Kolkata Dock System. Valued at ₹832.25 crore, the 30-year project follows the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model under PPP.
• It includes two new outer container berths and modernisation of five existing ones, adding 0.93 million TEUs (≈13 million tonnes per annum) capacity. The plan features rail-mounted quay cranes replacing older equipment. This is in addition to an earlier award for Berths 7-8.

NASA named the prime crew for the Artemis III mission, scheduled for 2027. The mission will test critical spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and exploration technologies in Earth orbit ahead of future lunar landings.

Prime Crew:

• Randy Bresnik (Commander)
• Luca Parmitano (Pilot, ESA)
• Andre Douglas (Mission Specialist)
• Frank Rubio (Mission Specialist)

Backup: Bob Hines. The crew will train on Orion systems. Artemis III, involving NASA and ESA, validates technologies for Moon and eventual Mars exploration.

• On 10 June 2026, IN-SPACe invited Expressions of Interest for the transfer of ISRO’s LVM3 (Bahubali) launch vehicle technology to private Indian companies. LVM3, India’s heaviest operational launcher used in Chandrayaan-2/3 and OneWeb missions, will be manufactured, operated, and commercialised by selected private entities.
• Eligible firms must be Indian-owned with seven years of operation, five years in aerospace, and meet financial thresholds (₹800 crore turnover or ₹2,000 crore valuation). Support from ISRO will last up to 42 months or until two launches. This advances 2020 space sector reforms.

• Astronomers at the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA), Pune, discovered five new millisecond pulsars on 10 June 2026 using India’s upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (uGMRT). The pulsars were found in globular clusters Messier 69 (two) and Messier 70 (three) in Sagittarius.
• These rapidly spinning neutron stars, formed in binary systems, are key to studying stellar evolution in dense environments. One pulsar, M69A, has a close orbit with a likely white dwarf companion. The discovery highlights uGMRT’s capabilities in exploring the Milky Way’s oldest star clusters.

• In June 2026, Madhya Pradesh withdrew the two-child norm for government job eligibility and serving employees. The General Administration Department was directed to remove the provision from proposed civil services rules. Introduced in 2001 under the Congress government, the norm disqualified candidates with more than two children born after 26 January 2001 and treated a third child as indiscipline.
• The change, directed by CM Mohan Yadav, benefits aspirants and employees (around 30,000 teachers were at risk). It will not apply retrospectively; prior dismissals stand. The 1965 Conduct Rules governed the earlier restriction.

• The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) announced a QR-code-based feedback mechanism for food and beverage outlets in Ahmedabad on 1 May 2026. The system, which began with panipuri vendors, has expanded to over 3,500 street food stalls and vendors across the city by 20 May 2026.
• Customers can scan the QR code to rate outlets on a scale of 1-5 for food quality, water quality, cleanliness, taste, and service. AMC officials review ratings weekly. Vendors’ GPS locations are recorded during registration. Outlets scoring below 3 receive warnings, while failure to display the QR code may attract penalties, including sealing of premises. The initiative strengthens food safety monitoring in line with FSSAI guidelines.

• On 10 June 2026, the Kerala Cabinet approved the Priyadarshini scheme offering free travel for women of all ages and transgender persons on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) ordinary bus services, effective 15 June 2026. The initiative, part of “Indira Guarantees,” will cost over ₹60 crore monthly (annual estimates ₹712-1,300 crore).
• The state government will fully compensate KSRTC for revenue loss. It will run on a 100-day trial basis initially, with possible extension to fast and superfast services based on financial viability. No income or age restrictions apply.

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched VINIMAY, the Land Port Management System (LPMS), in New Delhi on June 9, 2026. This centralized digital platform integrates cargo, passenger, and vehicle processing at India’s land ports through a Single Electronic Window.
• India currently has 15 operational land ports, with 11 more planned. VINIMAY will reduce paperwork by nearly 90%, cut truck waiting times by 40-60%, and gate processing time by 22-35%. It enables real-time coordination among agencies and is part of the Smart Border initiative. Trade through land ports has grown 16-fold since 2014 to ₹83,000 crore.

• On June 10, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi became India’s longest-serving continuously elected Prime Minister, completing 4,399 days in office. He surpassed Jawaharlal Nehru’s record of 4,398 days (1952-1964). Modi first took oath on May 26, 2014, and has won three consecutive terms in 2014, 2019, and 2024.
• He previously surpassed Indira Gandhi’s uninterrupted tenure on July 25, 2025. On March 22, 2026, he became the longest-serving head of an elected government when combining his Gujarat CM and PM tenures. Modi is the first non-Congress leader to secure full majority and win three straight elections as incumbent.

• Indore will host a five-day BRICS Agriculture Meeting under India’s presidency starting June 9, 2026. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that it includes a three-day Agriculture Working Group meeting (June 9-11) followed by a two-day BRICS Agriculture Ministers Meeting (June 12-13).
• Key discussions will focus on food security, farmer welfare, nutrition, climate-resilient agriculture, smart farming, digital agriculture, AI, robotics, and international trade. BRICS nations represent nearly half the world’s population, 42% of agricultural land, and over 42% of global production. The meeting is expected to yield a joint declaration on sustainable agriculture, innovation, and support for smallholder farmers.

• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first-ever export of GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai on June 7, 2026. The one-metric-tonne consignment underscores the rising global demand for India’s premium fruits and highlights the export potential of the North Eastern Region.
• Known for its exceptional sweetness, bright-red colour, rich aroma, and superior quality, Tezpur Litchi features varieties like Bombaya, Bilati, Elaichi, Piyaji, and Sahi. The GI tag has enhanced its authenticity, market value, and buyer confidence. Farmers received nearly 10% higher prices, promoting better income and export-oriented practices. This achievement reflects APEDA’s efforts in connecting Indian farmers to global markets.

• India dominated the inaugural World Yogasana Championship 2026, held at EKA Arena in Ahmedabad from June 4-8, securing the top position with 114 medals, including 102 gold, 9 silver, and 3 bronze. The event featured 522 athletes from 79 countries.
• Japan finished second with 11 medals, while Argentina placed third. Nepal impressed with 52 medals (second-highest total). Competitions included Traditional Yogasana, Artistic Single/Pair/Group, Rhythmic Pair, and specialized events like Forward Bend, Back Bend, Hand Balance, and Leg Balance. The championship highlighted India’s expertise in yoga and strengthened Ahmedabad’s status as a global sporting destination.

• The Defence Ministry approved a 250 MW Solar Power Project with Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Sitapur (ex-cantonment area), Uttar Pradesh, on June 9, 2026. The project will utilize about 850 acres of vacant defence land and will be implemented by NTPC Limited through competitive bidding.
• The initiative supports India’s renewable energy goals. BESS will help manage solar power variability for stable supply. Coordination will involve the Ministry of Defence, NTPC, Army Headquarters, and Directorate General Defence Estates. This marks a significant step in utilizing defence land for green energy generation.

• Banwarilal Purohit has been unanimously elected as the new President of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, with Deepak Parekh appointed as Vice-President. The decision was taken by the Executive Committee and Board of Trustees following the resignation of long-serving President Surendralal Mehta on health grounds.
• Purohit, with over 22 years of association with the institution as Trustee and Vice-President, brings rich administrative experience from roles as Governor of Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Meghalaya, and Member of Parliament. Parekh, a prominent business leader, will strengthen governance. Founded in 1938 by K.M. Munshi, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan promotes India’s cultural heritage and value-based education through schools, colleges, and cultural centres.

• Kumar Shanker assumed charge as Managing Director of Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) effective June 5, 2026, following his nomination by promoter GAIL India Limited. With over 31 years of experience in the natural gas and energy sector, he brings expertise in gas processing, petrochemical projects, corporate strategy, regulatory affairs, and city gas distribution.
• A Chemical Engineering graduate from BITS Pilani, Shanker has contributed significantly to pipeline tariff reforms, open access frameworks, unified tariffs, and national gas grid development at GAIL. Kamal Kishore Chatiwal ceased to be MD and was repatriated to GAIL. IGL is a leading city gas distributor supplying CNG and PNG to households, commercial, industrial, and transport sectors.

• Lieutenant Commander Suraj Prashar of the Indian Navy’s Marine Commando Force (MARCOS) was awarded the Shaurya Chakra by President Droupadi Murmu at the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 (Phase-I) on June 8, 2026, at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• He was honoured for displaying exceptional bravery during Operation Chuntawadi in Bandipora district, Jammu and Kashmir, on the night of November 5/6, 2024. The joint cordon and search operation involved engagement with terrorists. The Shaurya Chakra is India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award for acts of courage and devotion to duty.

• Veteran Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja, known as “Iyakkunar Imayam” (Peak of Directors), passed away on June 10, 2026, in Chennai at the age of 84. He was admitted to MGM Healthcare in December 2025 for breathlessness and lung infection.
• Bharathiraja made his directorial debut with the iconic rural drama 16 Vayathinile (1977). He won six National Awards and significantly contributed to Tamil cinema through direction, production, and screenwriting, often focusing on village themes and social realism. He is survived by his wife Chandraleela and daughter Janani. His son, actor Manoj Bharathiraja, passed away in March 2025.

• The National Zoological Park (NZP), New Delhi, launched the “NZP Saathi App” and Self-ticketing Kiosks. Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, inaugurated these initiatives to enhance visitor convenience.
• Available on Android and iOS, the app offers an interactive digital map, smart navigation, real-time guidance, customizable thematic tours (Express, Family, Grand Zoo, and My Tour), and educational information about animals. Self-ticketing kiosks enable quick UPI-based payments with free Wi-Fi support, reducing queues and promoting cashless transactions.
• Established in 1959, NZP focuses on wildlife conservation, education, and public awareness, housing species like Asiatic Lion, White Tiger, and Indian Rhinoceros.

• A new four-winged feathered gliding dinosaur, Jian changmaensis, was announced on June 4, 2026. The 120-million-year-old fossil from the Changma Basin in Gansu province, northwestern China, belongs to the Microraptoria group of small predatory theropods related to Velociraptor.
• The specimen features long feathers on forelimbs and hind limbs, enabling gliding. With an estimated four-foot wingspan, it resembles a barn owl. This is the first confirmed microraptor fossil found outside northeastern China, extending the group’s known range. The Changma Basin is also known for Early Cretaceous bird fossils like Gansus yumenensis. The study was published in Annals of Carnegie Museum.

• Footprints and handprints dated 14,000–14,400 years ago were identified in Grotta della Bàsura cave in Toirano, northern Italy. The traces belong to five Epigravettian hunter-gatherers — two adults, an 11-year-old adolescent, and children aged three and six — who explored the cave during the Late Upper Palaeolithic.
• About 180 prints show crawling through low tunnels, the first fossil evidence of human crawling. The group used Scots pine twig torches for lighting. The study employed 3D modelling, laser scans, and other methods. A canid likely accompanied them. Research was published in eLife in 2019.

• India remained the world’s fifth-largest military spender in 2025 with $92.1 billion expenditure, behind the US, China, Russia, and Germany. Spending rose 8.9% from the previous year. India was also the second-largest importer of major arms during 2021–25, accounting for 8.2% of global imports, though imports declined 4% due to growing domestic production capacity.
• Russia remained the top supplier (40% share, down from 70% earlier), followed by France (29%) and Israel (15%). SIPRI noted increasing global arms transfers and Ukraine as the largest recipient in the period.

• Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal launched the BHAVYA Portal in New Delhi to implement the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana (BHAVYA), a flagship scheme aimed at developing 100 world-class industrial parks across India over six years with a ₹33,660 crore outlay. The initiative focuses on creating integrated industrial ecosystems with modern infrastructure, multimodal connectivity, digital governance, and sustainable features to accelerate manufacturing growth, attract investments, and generate employment.
• The portal serves as a single digital interface for submitting Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), evaluation, real-time monitoring, and stakeholder coordination. States will compete through a transparent challenge-based model, with the first batch of 20 parks selected from proposals received between June 1 and July 31, 2026.

• Italian driver Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) won the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix 2026, securing his fifth consecutive victory of the season. Starting from pole, he delivered a masterclass performance on the narrow Monte Carlo streets, maintaining control even after a late red flag and standing restart.
• Lewis Hamilton finished second for Ferrari, while Max Verstappen retired early due to engine failure. The win strengthened Antonelli’s lead in the Drivers’ Championship. Other finishers included Isack Hadjar (3rd) and Oscar Piastri (4th). The Monaco GP, held since 1950 on a challenging street circuit, is known for precision driving and glamour.

• The Indian women’s football team clinched their record sixth SAFF Women’s Championship title by defeating defending champions Bangladesh 3-1 in the final at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Margao, Goa. This victory ended a seven-year wait and marked a dominant campaign with 4 wins, 18 goals scored, and just 1 conceded.
• Goals came from Pyari Xaxa (42'), Sanfida Nongrum (46'), and Lynda Kom Serto (82'), with Bangladesh’s Ritu Porna Chakma scoring in the 45+1 minute. Individual awards: Sanfida Nongrum (MVP), Panthoi Chanu Elangbam (Best Goalkeeper), and Aveka Singh (Top Scorer).

• Australian cancer researcher Professor Richard Scolyer died on June 7, 2026, at age 59. Diagnosed with glioblastoma (grade-four brain cancer) in May 2023, he became a patient in an experimental immunotherapy treatment combining pre-surgery immunotherapy and a personalized vaccine, far outliving his initial six-to-eight-month prognosis.
• Scolyer was renowned for melanoma research with Professor Georgina Long; they were jointly named 2024 Australian of the Year. A state funeral was announced. His journey inspired a clinical trial at Duke University. He publicly shared his experience to advance research and patient awareness.

• According to the SIPRI Yearbook 2026, India has expanded its nuclear arsenal to an estimated 190 warheads as of January 2026, maintaining a lead over Pakistan’s 170 warheads. Both countries continued modernizing their capabilities in 2025, with India shifting focus toward longer-range systems to address challenges from China alongside Pakistan.
• India’s defence expenditure reached $92.1 billion in 2025, up 8.9%, ranking it fifth globally. The report highlights investments in long-range missiles, armed drones, AI, and cyber capabilities reshaping South Asian security. SIPRI, established in 1966, tracks military expenditure, nuclear forces, and arms transfers.

• World Oceans Day was observed on June 8, 2026, with the theme “Reimagine: Beyond the World We Know, a New Relationship with Our Ocean.” The day raises awareness about oceans, which cover over 70% of Earth’s surface, produce at least 50% of the world’s oxygen, support biodiversity, regulate climate, and sustain billions of people.
• The theme encourages transforming human-ocean relations from exploitation to guardianship through conservation, restoration, and sustainable use. Major threats include overfishing, plastic pollution, acidification, coral destruction, and biodiversity loss. The observance, officially designated by the UN in 2008, aligns with SDG 14 for marine conservation.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Jammu on 5 June 2026, the seventh such facility in India. It will serve Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh, providing specialized weather forecasts for mountainous terrain. The centre will issue district-level, mountain, flash flood, avalanche, and cloudburst warnings. It will benefit pilgrims, farmers, disaster management agencies, and security forces. Four Doppler Weather Radars are currently operational, with five more planned under Mission Mausam.

India is launching E85 fuel — a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% petrol — to boost energy security and sustainable mobility. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri introduced the fuel on World Environment Day 2026. Designed for Flex-Fuel Vehicles, E85 is cheaper (nearly ₹20 less per litre than E20) and environmentally friendlier as it uses renewable agricultural feedstocks like sugarcane and maize. The phased rollout begins at 48-50 stations in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. It aims to reduce crude oil imports, cut emissions, and increase farmers’ income.

West Bengal signed an MoU with the National Health Authority on 8 June 2026 to implement Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), becoming the 36th State/UT. Rollout begins in July 2026. Around 6 crore families will benefit from ₹5 lakh annual health cover for secondary and tertiary care. Beneficiaries of the state’s Swasthya Sathi scheme will be gradually integrated. The Central Government has allocated ₹3,505 crore for smooth implementation.

The Government of India reappointed Swaminathan Janakiraman as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India for another two years, effective from 26 June 2026. A senior banker with extensive experience from State Bank of India, he handles banking operations, risk management, and financial supervision. The reappointment ensures leadership continuity at the central bank during a crucial period for the Indian economy. RBI is headed by the Governor and supported by four Deputy Governors.

• Saurabh Vijay, CEO of UIDAI and a 1998-batch IAS officer of the Maharashtra cadre, assumed charge as the Chief Executive Officer of the IndiaAI Mission. Sudeep Shrivastava, Joint Secretary in MeitY, took charge as Chief Operating Officer. The appointments were announced by the Mission’s official platform. Saurabh Vijay, a civil engineering graduate from IIT Delhi, brings rich experience in public finance and governance.
• The IndiaAI Mission, launched in March 2024 with ₹10,372 crore outlay, aims to build sovereign AI capabilities, develop indigenous models, expand computing infrastructure, and promote responsible AI adoption across the country.

The Department of Consumer Affairs’ e-Jagriti platform received the Silver Award under Category I at the National Awards for e-Governance 2026. Launched on 1 January 2025, it has unified legacy consumer dispute systems into a single AI-powered platform. It has enabled filing of over 2.29 lakh cases with 2.07 lakh disposals (90.75% disposal rate). The platform supports virtual hearings, real-time tracking, and access for NRIs, significantly improving consumer justice delivery.

The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI), developed by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, received the Gold Award under Category VII at the National e-Governance Awards 2026. It will be presented at the 29th National Conference on e-Governance in Jaipur (1-2 July 2026). PAI is India’s first comprehensive data-driven framework to assess Gram Panchayat performance, identify development gaps, and promote accountability. The theme of the conference is ‘Viksit Bharat 2047: AI-Enabled, Data-Driven and Secure Digital Governance’.

• The Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi honoured 51 distinguished artistes at the SNA Samman Ceremony 2026 held in Lucknow for their contributions to music, dance, theatre, and folk arts from 2021-2024. Governor Anandiben Patel stressed that culture is both inheritance and responsibility.
• Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak assured continued government support for artists and cultural infrastructure. The event highlighted the evolution of traditional arts through modern platforms like “Bhajan Clubbing” while preserving India’s rich artistic heritage.

Kerala Forest Department launched HAWK (Hostile Activity Watch Kernel) on 6 June 2026 — India’s first digital, judiciary-integrated system for wildlife crime prosecution. The platform connects forest enforcement records with the District Court Management System via API. It tracks cases from Preliminary Offence Report to final verdict. Developed with Wildlife Trust of India and supported by NTT Data, HAWK provides ecological intelligence on wildlife mortality, seizures, and repeat offenders. Over 1,750 officers have been trained.

Kerala Agricultural University launched a new green chilli variety, KAU Thejaswini, on 7 June 2026. Developed at the College of Agriculture, Vellayani, this bush-type variety is suitable for year-round cultivation in homesteads and terrace gardens. It yields 32.5 tonnes per hectare with 84 fruits per plant. The glossy, dark green fruits have medium pungency (0.45% capsaicin), high Vitamin C, and tolerance to bacterial wilt and viral diseases. The variety was approved by the State Seed Sub-Committee on 3 June 2026.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a standardised vegan logo for certified vegan food products. The green square-framed logo featuring a stylized “V” and sprouting leaf will become mandatory from 1 July 2027. It aims to enhance transparency, prevent misleading claims, and help consumers easily identify vegan products free from animal-derived ingredients. The move supports growing vegan demand, promotes sustainable choices, and aligns with international labelling practices. Food businesses must update packaging accordingly.

The 14th meeting of the India-Philippines Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment (JWGTI) was held in Manila on 5 June 2026. Co-chaired by Amit Verma and Allan B. Gepty, both sides noted bilateral trade reaching USD 3.9 billion in FY 2025-26. Discussions focused on infrastructure, digital technologies, pharmaceuticals, film, energy, and customs cooperation. They agreed to expedite the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement review and pursue a bilateral Preferential Trade Agreement. An interaction with Indian businesses in the Philippines was also held.

India’s Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) platform set a Guinness World Record for the “Most Users to Take an Online Quiz in One Week” with 390,812 participants completing the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) Quiz. Over 50.42 lakh youth from all states and UTs participated. The record was verified for the period 25-31 October 2025. The initiative aims to engage youth in nation-building, promote Viksit Bharat@2047, and foster leadership. The certificate was presented in New Delhi in the presence of Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.

India and the United Kingdom launched the Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory (GSCO) in New Delhi. Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper formally inaugurated the initiative. The observatory will monitor global critical mineral supply chains, identify risks, and support data-driven decisions for clean energy, EVs, and advanced manufacturing. It is a collaboration between TEXMiN, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, and University of Cambridge. The move strengthens India-UK ties and aligns with India’s National Critical Mineral Mission.

The UN General Assembly elected Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for the 2027-2028 term, starting 1 January 2027. Germany, despite strong lobbying, failed to secure a seat in the Western European and Others Group. Kyrgyzstan won its first-ever seat after a competitive contest against the Philippines. The new members will join discussions on global peace, sanctions, and peacekeeping. The Security Council has five permanent members with veto power and ten elected non-permanent members.

India’s GDP grew 7.8% in Q4 FY26, surpassing RBI (7.0%) and other forecasts. Full-year FY26 growth was revised upward to 7.7%. Strong services (12.5% in trade/hotels/transport), financial services (10.4%), construction (8.4%), and investment (GFCF 10.8%) drove the performance. Agriculture grew 3.6% and manufacturing 7.3%. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman credited structural reforms and resilience. The robust numbers reflect strong domestic demand and limited impact from global uncertainties.

India’s Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa became the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess tournament 2026. The 20-year-old Chennai player defeated Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the final round, securing 18 points and the title. Starting from third place with 15 points, he delivered a brilliant comeback with four consecutive wins in the later stages. He also defeated Magnus Carlsen twice in classical games. Wesley So finished second with 17 points. This landmark victory highlights Praggnanandhaa’s rising stature and India’s growing chess dominance.

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the next Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force, effective 1 July 2026. Currently serving as Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC), the experienced fighter pilot, test pilot, and strategist will assist the Chief of Air Staff in operational readiness and modernization. Commissioned in 1986, he has over 3,300 flying hours on 20+ aircraft types and has commanded a Mirage-2000 squadron. He has significantly contributed to indigenous defence projects and theatre command initiatives.

Jammu & Kashmir Bank won the Gold Award at the Finacle Innovation Awards 2026 for its advanced Data Insights and Analytics Platform in the “Modern Technologies-led Innovation” category. The award was received by MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee and GM Mohammad Muzaffar Wani. The platform integrates Business Intelligence, AI, Machine Learning, and analytics to improve customer analytics, risk management, forecasting, and operational efficiency. The recognition underscores the bank’s successful adoption of technology for better decision-making and customer experience.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s seventh Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu on 5 June 2026. It will serve Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh with district-level forecasts, mountain weather warnings, and disaster alerts for flash floods, cloudbursts, and avalanches. The centre will benefit pilgrims, farmers, and security forces. The Minister highlighted expanded radar and observatory networks under Mission Mausam. A similar centre is planned for Lucknow. This restructuring improves specialised weather services for the Himalayan region.