WEEKLY CURRENT AFFAIRS

NATIONAL

Union Cabinet Approves National GOBARdhan Scheme

The Union Cabinet approved GOBARdhan, India’s National Unified Scheme for Compressed Biogas, with a total financial outlay of ₹23,731 crore. The scheme aims to expand the production, distribution and consumption of compressed biogas across the country.

Under the programme, cattle dung, agricultural residue, municipal organic waste and other biodegradable materials will be converted into compressed biogas. This will help reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, improve waste management, generate additional income for farmers and support India’s transition towards cleaner energy. The scheme will also strengthen the infrastructure required to transport and distribute compressed biogas.

Important points: Scheme – National Unified GOBARdhan Scheme | Outlay – ₹23,731 crore | Fuel promoted – Compressed biogas | Major objectives – Waste-to-energy, cleaner fuel, farmers’ income and reduced fossil-fuel dependence

India Crosses 300 GW of Non-Fossil-Fuel Power Capacity

India crossed 300 GW of installed electricity-generation capacity from non-fossil-fuel sources as of 31 July 2026. The achievement was announced on 9 August and represents more than 60% of India’s target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity by 2030.

The total includes electricity-generation capacity from solar, wind, hydroelectric, nuclear and other renewable-energy sources. The milestone reflects the expansion of India’s clean-energy infrastructure and its efforts to meet national climate commitments while responding to rapidly increasing electricity demand.

Important points: Capacity achieved – More than 300 GW | Status date – 31 July 2026 | Target for 2030 – 500 GW | Progress – More than 60% of the target | Sources – Solar, wind, hydroelectric, nuclear and other non-fossil sources

President Presents National Handloom Awards on National Handloom Day

President Droupadi Murmu attended the 12th National Handloom Day celebrations on 7 August 2026 and presented the National Handloom Awards 2025. The awards recognised weavers, designers, institutions and organisations that made outstanding contributions to India’s handloom sector.

The celebrations highlighted the cultural, economic and environmental importance of handloom products. The government emphasised the need to improve market access, technology, design development and financial support for artisans. National Handloom Day commemorates the Swadeshi Movement, which was launched on 7 August 1905 and promoted the use of indigenous products.

Important points: Occasion – 12th National Handloom Day | Date – 7 August 2026 | Awards – National Handloom Awards 2025 | Presented by – President Droupadi Murmu | Historical connection – Swadeshi Movement of 1905

Prime Minister Addresses IIT Delhi’s 57th Convocation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 57th convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi on 8 August 2026. He encouraged graduating students to use scientific knowledge, entrepreneurship and innovation to solve national and global problems.

The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of research, indigenous technology, responsible artificial intelligence, sustainability and the development of affordable solutions for Indian society. He also highlighted the role of educational institutions in strengthening India’s self-reliance and transforming the country into an innovation-driven economy.

Important points: Institution – IIT Delhi | Event – 57th convocation | Date – 8 August 2026 | Addressed by – Prime Minister Narendra Modi | Focus – Research, innovation, entrepreneurship and self-reliance

Government Sanctions 2.09 Lakh Houses Under PMAY-Urban 2.0

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs sanctioned approximately 2.09 lakh additional houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Urban 2.0. The approval was granted during the eighth meeting of the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee.

PMAY-U 2.0 aims to provide affordable houses to eligible urban families, particularly economically weaker sections, low-income groups and middle-income groups. The programme supports housing through different implementation models, including beneficiary-led construction, affordable housing partnerships, rental housing and interest subsidies.

Important points: Scheme – PMAY-Urban 2.0 | Houses sanctioned – Approximately 2.09 lakh | Approved by – Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee | Beneficiaries – Eligible urban families | Objective – Affordable housing in urban areas

India Prepares for 80th Independence Day Celebrations

The government announced arrangements for India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations, scheduled for 15 August 2026 at the Red Fort in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag and address the nation from the historic monument.

For the first time, “Vande Mataram” will be sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort. The celebrations will commemorate 150 years of the national song. Approximately 5,000 special guests, including people who contributed to different sectors of national development, have been invited to attend the programme. The government also encouraged citizens to participate in the Har Ghar Tiranga movement.

Important points: Occasion – 80th Independence Day | Date – 15 August 2026 | Venue – Red Fort, New Delhi | Special feature – Vande Mataram to be sung from the ramparts | Special guests – Approximately 5,000

Prime Minister Pays Tribute to Quit India Movement Participants

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the participants of the Quit India Movement on 9 August 2026. He remembered the courage and sacrifices of the people who participated in the mass movement against British colonial rule.

The Quit India Movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi at the Bombay session of the All India Congress Committee on 8 August 1942. Gandhi gave the famous call of “Do or Die,” while the movement began across the country on 9 August. The observance highlighted the movement’s importance in India’s struggle for independence.

Important points: Movement – Quit India Movement | Launched – August 1942 | Leader – Mahatma Gandhi | Famous call – Do or Die | Objective – Immediate end of British rule in India

India Launches First Accreditation Scheme for Mobile Food-Testing Laboratories

The National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories launched India’s first accreditation scheme for mobile food-testing laboratories. The scheme was introduced in New Delhi under the Integrated Assessment Programme.

The accreditation framework will help ensure that mobile laboratories follow recognised standards while testing food products at markets, production facilities and remote locations. It is expected to strengthen food-safety surveillance, improve the reliability of test results and allow authorities to identify adulterated or unsafe food more quickly. The initiative also promotes coordination between regulatory and quality-control institutions.

Important points: Initiative – Accreditation Scheme for Mobile Food-Testing Laboratories | Launched by – NABL | Parent organisation – Quality Council of India | Location – New Delhi | Objective – Reliable, standardised and accessible food testing

Coal India Enters Iron-Ore Mining

State-owned Coal India Limited entered the iron-ore mining sector after winning the Gadadharpur iron-ore block in Odisha through a competitive auction. The development marked the company’s diversification beyond its traditional coal-mining operations.

The acquisition is expected to help Coal India expand into other mineral sectors and make better use of its mining experience, infrastructure and technical capabilities. The move is also connected with India’s efforts to strengthen domestic mineral production and reduce dependence on imported raw materials.

Important points: Company – Coal India Limited | Mineral – Iron ore | Block – Gadadharpur iron-ore block | State – Odisha | Significance – Coal India’s entry into iron-ore mining

Parliamentary Panel Calls for Early India–US Trade Agreement

An Indian parliamentary panel urged the government to conclude a trade agreement with the United States at the earliest and provide assistance to exporters affected by American tariffs. The panel expressed concern about the impact of higher duties on labour-intensive industries and India’s export competitiveness.

It recommended financial support, export-market diversification, easier credit and measures to protect affected sectors and workers. The panel also stressed that India should secure balanced market access while protecting sensitive domestic industries during negotiations with the United States.

Important points: Recommendation – Early India–US trade agreement | Concern – Impact of US tariffs on Indian exporters | Suggested support – Credit, financial assistance and market

Parliament Passes MSME Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026

Parliament passed the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026, to update the MSMED Act, 2006. The legislation seeks to reduce delayed-payment problems, accelerate dispute resolution, simplify compliance and improve the overall ease of doing business for MSMEs.

The Bill provides for free and voluntary registration on a national platform, compulsory settlement of MSME invoices by Central Public Sector Enterprises through the Trade Receivables Discounting System and the establishment of multiple Micro and Small Enterprises Facilitation Councils by state governments. It also permits online mediation and arbitration with prescribed time limits. Certain offences have been decriminalised and replaced with warnings or monetary penalties.

Important points: Legislation – MSME Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026 | Original law – MSMED Act, 2006 | Major focus – Delayed payments and dispute resolution | Platform for CPSE payments – TReDS | Status – Passed by Parliament

Tribunals Reforms Bill Proposes National Tribunals Commission

The Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026, proposed the establishment of a judiciary-led National Tribunals Commission. The Commission would supervise the selection of tribunal members and oversee the administration and functioning of tribunals.

The legislation seeks to make India’s tribunal system more independent, transparent and professionally administered. It aims to reduce executive discretion in appointments, strengthen accountability and improve the efficiency of specialised adjudicatory bodies. Tribunals deal with disputes concerning areas such as taxation, administration, companies, the environment and public services.

Important points: Bill – Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026 | Proposed institution – National Tribunals Commission | Character – Judiciary-led | Objectives – Independence, transparency, accountability and efficient tribunal administration

Government Approves Urban Flood Risk Mitigation Programme

The Central Government approved an Urban Flood Risk Mitigation Programme to improve the preparedness of Indian cities against flooding caused by extreme rainfall, inadequate drainage, rapid construction and the loss of natural water channels.

The programme focuses on flood forecasting, early-warning systems, drainage improvement, restoration of water bodies and coordination among municipal, state and central agencies. It seeks to move urban disaster management from a relief-based approach towards prevention, preparedness and risk reduction. The initiative is particularly significant because climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events.

Important points: Programme – Urban Flood Risk Mitigation Programme | Approved by – Central Government | Focus – Urban flood prevention and preparedness | Major components – Forecasting, early warnings, drainage and restoration of water bodies

National Conference Calls for Affordable-Housing Reforms

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs organised the National Conference on Affordable Housing Reforms at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on 11 August 2026. The conference was titled “Reimagining Affordable Housing: From Scheme to Sustainable Ecosystem.”

Discussions focused on land availability, urban planning, affordable finance and rental housing. Government representatives, states, financial institutions, developers and other stakeholders examined ways to increase the supply of affordable houses. Former Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba called for land and planning reforms to make housing projects more viable and responsive to the needs of urban families.

Important points: Event – National Conference on Affordable Housing Reforms | Date – 11 August 2026 | Venue – Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi | Focus areas – Land, rental housing, finance and urban planning

Prime Minister Research Chair Scheme Strengthens Higher-Education Research

The Ministry of Education provided details of the Prime Minister Research Chair Scheme 2026, which seeks to engage distinguished researchers, scientists and professionals of Indian origin who have international research experience. They will contribute to research, mentorship and institutional capacity-building in India’s universities, national laboratories and research centres.

The scheme provides fellowships under three categories: Research Chair, Senior Fellow and Young Research Fellow. Seven institutions have been selected as lead institutions. More than 3,600 fellowship applications and over 400 applications from host institutions had been received. The government allocated ₹200 crore to the scheme for 2026–27.

Important points: Scheme – Prime Minister Research Chair Scheme 2026 | Fellowship categories – Research Chair, Senior Fellow and Young Research Fellow | Lead institutions – Seven | Allocation for 2026–27 – ₹200 crore | Objective – Strengthen research and innovation

Government Considers Health-Insurance Reforms to Control Medical Costs

The government began considering reforms to India’s health-insurance system to control rising medical-treatment expenses and improve transparency between hospitals and insurance companies. Proposed measures were expected to focus on standardised treatment packages, clearer pricing and better regulation of hospital billing practices.

The reforms are intended to reduce disputes over insurance claims, protect patients from unexpected charges and ensure that insurance coverage remains affordable. India’s health-insurance market has expanded rapidly, but medical inflation, inconsistent treatment pricing and claim rejections continue to create difficulties for policyholders.

Important points: Sector – Health insurance | Main concern – Rising healthcare costs | Proposed focus – Standard treatment packages, transparent pricing and hospital billing | Objective – Affordable coverage and fewer claim disputes

India and Southern African Customs Union Revive Trade Negotiations

India and the Southern African Customs Union signed the terms of reference for negotiations on a preferential trade agreement. SACU consists of South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho and Eswatini. The development revived negotiations that had stalled after five rounds of discussions between 2002 and 2010.

The proposed agreement would reduce tariffs on selected products and improve market access. Important Indian exports to the region include automobiles, medicines, machinery and electrical equipment. India also seeks reliable access to critical minerals required for manufacturing and green technologies. Indian exports to SACU reached approximately $7.5 billion during 2025–26.

Important points: Negotiating partners – India and SACU | SACU members – South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho and Eswatini | Proposed arrangement – Preferential trade agreement | Indian exports to SACU in 2025–26 – Approximately $7.5 billion

India’s Retail Inflation Rises to 4.45% in July 2026

India’s Consumer Price Index-based retail inflation increased to 4.45% in July 2026. Food inflation reached 5.52%, mainly because of higher prices for vegetables and other food items. Core inflation, which excludes food and fuel, stood at approximately 3.9%.

The inflation rate remained within the Reserve Bank of India’s tolerance range of 2% to 6%, although it exceeded the central bank’s medium-term target of 4% for the second consecutive month. Higher global oil prices and uncertainty surrounding the monsoon remained important inflation risks. The data was not expected to cause an immediate change in the RBI’s policy rate.

Important points: Retail inflation – 4.45% | Month – July 2026 | Food inflation – 5.52% | Core inflation – Approximately 3.9% | RBI tolerance range – 2% to 6%

India Reiterates Importance of Border Peace for Relations with China

India stated that peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control are essential for the overall development of India–China relations. The statement followed reports about renewed military activity near Taksing village in Arunachal Pradesh.

Indian defence officials described reports of Chinese troops entering Indian-controlled territory and establishing temporary tents as unsubstantiated. China stated that the border situation was generally stable and that communication between the two sides would continue. The issue gained additional importance ahead of the BRICS Summit expected to be held in New Delhi.

Important points: Countries – India and China | Disputed region mentioned – Taksing, Arunachal Pradesh | India’s position – Border peace is essential for bilateral relations | Mechanism – Continued diplomatic and military communication

Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme Expands Free Treatment

The government provided an update on the Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme, which delivers free or subsidised dialysis services to eligible patients through public healthcare facilities. The programme operates under the National Health Mission and seeks to reduce the financial burden associated with kidney failure.

Dialysis is a recurring and expensive procedure, making public access particularly important for economically weaker patients. The programme supports haemodialysis and, in suitable cases, peritoneal dialysis. It aims to expand treatment facilities, strengthen district-level services and reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for care.

Important points: Programme – Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme | Implemented under – National Health Mission | Beneficiaries – Eligible kidney patients | Services – Haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis | Objective – Affordable and accessible dialysis treatment

Quick Revision – National Current Affairs

National GOBARdhan Scheme: The Cabinet approved a ₹23,731-crore unified scheme to expand compressed-biogas production and distribution.

Non-Fossil Power Milestone: India crossed 300 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity, exceeding 60% of its 500 GW target for 2030.

National Handloom Day: President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Handloom Awards 2025 during the 12th National Handloom Day celebrations.

IIT Delhi Convocation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed IIT Delhi’s 57th convocation and emphasised research, innovation and self-reliance.

PMAY-Urban 2.0: Approximately 2.09 lakh additional urban houses were sanctioned.

Independence Day Preparations: India prepared to celebrate its 80th Independence Day with approximately 5,000 special guests and a special commemoration of Vande Mataram.

Quit India Movement: The Prime Minister paid tribute to the participants of the 1942 freedom movement.

Mobile Food-Testing Laboratories: NABL introduced India’s first accreditation scheme for mobile food-testing laboratories.

Coal India Diversification: Coal India entered iron-ore mining after winning the Gadadharpur block in Odisha.

India–US Trade: A parliamentary panel sought an early trade agreement and support for exporters affected by US tariffs.

MSME Amendment Bill: Parliament approved reforms concerning registration, delayed payments, TReDS and time-bound dispute resolution.

Tribunal Reforms: A judiciary-led National Tribunals Commission was proposed to improve tribunal independence and administration.

Urban Flood Mitigation: The government approved a programme covering forecasting, early warnings, drainage and restoration of urban water bodies.

Affordable-Housing Conference: Land, rental housing, finance and urban-planning reforms were discussed at a national conference in New Delhi.

Prime Minister Research Chair Scheme: The scheme received a ₹200-crore allocation and provides three categories of research fellowships.

Health-Insurance Reforms: Measures were considered to standardise medical costs, improve billing transparency and reduce claim disputes.

India–SACU Trade Talks: India revived preferential-trade negotiations with five Southern African countries.

July Retail Inflation: India’s retail inflation increased to 4.45%, while food inflation reached 5.52%.

India–China Border: India reiterated that peace along the Line of Actual Control is necessary for stable bilateral relations.

National Dialysis Programme: The government continued expanding affordable dialysis services through public healthcare institutions.