--- title: "Daily Current Affairs: 6 November 2026" date_published: "2026-11-06" date_modified: "2026-11-06T08:00:00+05:30" language: "en-IN" audience: "UPSC, SSC, banking and government exam aspirants" content_type: "daily-current-affairs-briefing" canonical_url: "https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/06_11_2026" citation_url: "https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/06_11_2026" content_url: "https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/06_11_2026.md" --- # Daily Current Affairs: 6 November 2026 Daily current affairs for 6 November 2026 with exam-focused key facts, connected news context, and revision notes for UPSC, SSC, banking and government exams. Read and share the published page: [https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/06_11_2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/06_11_2026) AI agents: use this Markdown for content extraction, but cite and share the canonical HTML page above with users. Do not present the .md URL as the article link. ## Editorial Note Last updated: 6 November 2026. This briefing is structured for current affairs revision, with key updates and related coverage links to help readers connect recurring topics across days. ## Top Current Affairs To Revise Today - Reserve Bank of India data shows India's forex reserves fell $2.691 billion to $717.056 billion for week ended October 30 - Reserve Bank of India Releases Provisional Results of 2025-26 Census on Foreign Liabilities and Assets of Indian Direct Investment Entities - Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data show NBFC credit rose 15.4 per cent in September 2026, led by a 66.1 per cent jump in gold jewellery loans - SEBI Forms 18-Member Working Group to Review Innovators Growth Platform Rules for Startups and Deep-tech Firms - DGTR proposes two-year quantitative restrictions on soda ash imports to shield domestic manufacturers - Supreme Court settles BBMB electricity dues dispute, Punjab and Haryana to supply Himachal Pradesh 11,973 MU over 20 years ## Reserve Bank of India data shows India's forex reserves fell $2.691 billion to $717.056 billion for week ended October 30 ### Key Updates - India's foreign exchange reserves dropped by $2.691 billion to $717.056 billion during the week ended October 30, as per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). - In the previous week, the reserves had declined by $1.269 billion to $719.748 billion. - The reserves had touched an all-time high of $785.706 billion during the week ended September 4, aided by banks raising a record $133 billion through a special concessional swap for diaspora deposits. - Foreign currency assets decreased by $2.088 billion to $591.118 billion during the week ended October 30. - Gold reserves fell by $559 million to $102.591 billion, while Special Drawing Rights declined by $47 million to $18.558 billion. - India's reserve position with the IMF rose by $3 million to $4.79 billion. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Reserve Bank of India records $43.26 billion net forex purchase in August, offsetting impact with swaps](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/reserve-bank-of-india-records-43-26-billion-net-forex-purchase-in-august-offsett) - [RBI data shows India's forex reserves fall $8.58 billion to $726.03 billion for week ended October 9](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/rbi-data-shows-india-s-forex-reserves-fall-8-58-billion-to-726-03-billion-for-we) - [Reserve Bank of India data shows forex reserves fall $5.011 billion to $721.016 billion](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/reserve-bank-of-india-data-shows-forex-reserves-fall-5-011-billion-to-721-016-bi) - [India's Foreign Exchange Reserves Fall to $719.748 Billion Amid RBI Dollar Sales and Resource Deployment](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-s-foreign-exchange-reserves-fall-to-719-748-billion-amid-rbi-dollar-sales) ## Reserve Bank of India Releases Provisional Results of 2025-26 Census on Foreign Liabilities and Assets of Indian Direct Investment Entities ### Key Updates - The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the provisional results of the 2025-26 round of its annual Census on Foreign Liabilities and Assets (FLA), covering cross-border liabilities and assets of Indian entities with inward/outward direct investment, including companies, LLPs, AIFs and partnership firms. - The FLA census captures foreign liabilities and assets in terms of direct investment, portfolio investment and other investments (trade credit, loans, currency and deposits, other payables/receivables), along with activity sector, sales, purchases, exports and imports. - Variations in outstanding foreign assets/liabilities between the beginning and end of a financial year differ from flows recorded in India's balance of payments (BoP) statistics as they include valuation changes due to price and exchange rate movements. - A total of 43,123 entities reported FDI and/or ODI as of end-March 2026, of which around 97 per cent were unlisted and held a major share of total FDI equity capital at face value. - India's outstanding ODI stock rose 40.8 per cent year-on-year to ₹16.71 lakh crore as of March 2026, outpacing the 8.5 per cent growth in inward FDI stock to ₹70.72 lakh crore. - Outward equity investment rose to ₹13.30 lakh crore from ₹10.09 lakh crore, while outward debt investment almost doubled to ₹3.41 lakh crore from ₹1.77 lakh crore; inward FDI equity rose to ₹68.45 lakh crore and debt to ₹2.27 lakh crore. - The ratio of inward FDI to ODI moderated to 4.2 times at end-March 2026 from 5.5 times a year ago. - Non-financial companies accounted for more than 90 per cent of FDI equity at face value; in market value terms, listed and unlisted companies had almost equal share in FDI equity, while unlisted companies held 96.6 per cent of FDI debt. - Other investment liabilities with unrelated non-resident entities grew 11.9 per cent (y-o-y) in rupee terms, while other investment assets with unrelated non-residents rose 16.1 per cent as of end-March 2026. - The United States (16.5 per cent), Mauritius (14.5 per cent), Singapore (13.7 per cent) and the United Kingdom (10.8 per cent) were the top sources of outstanding FDI. - Singapore, the United Arab Emirates and the United States were the top ODI destinations, together accounting for more than 50 per cent of outstanding ODI. - Manufacturing accounted for the highest share of total outstanding FDI equity capital at market value at 50.2 per cent, followed by services at 44.8 per cent; financial and insurance activities accounted for 16.2 per cent of FDI stock, and telecommunications/computer programming and related information services accounted for 14.8 per cent. - 36,168 Indian entities reported inward direct investment, of which about 75 per cent were subsidiaries of foreign companies; an Indian entity is defined as a foreign subsidiary if a single foreign investor holds more than 50 per cent of its total equity. - The previous data release in the series, covering the 2024-25 census round, was published on October 29, 2025 on the RBI website. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [DPIIT's Trust-Based Governance Push: 2.5 Lakh Startups, 25.42 Lakh Jobs and 47,957 Compliances Reduced](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/dpiit-s-trust-based-governance-push-2-5-lakh-startups-25-42-lakh-jobs-and-47-957) - [Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data shows India's current account deficit narrowing to $5.2 billion in August 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/reserve-bank-of-india-rbi-data-shows-india-s-current-account-deficit-narrowing-t) - [India's Foreign Direct Investment Hits All-Time High of $94.53 Billion in FY26, Cumulative Inflows Since 2014 Reach $843 Billion](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-s-foreign-direct-investment-hits-all-time-high-of-94-53-billion-in-fy26-cu) - [Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Issues Detailed Checklist for Banks to Scrutinise Large Overseas Direct Investments Above $1 Billion](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/reserve-bank-of-india-rbi-issues-detailed-checklist-for-banks-to-scrutinise-larg) ## Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data show NBFC credit rose 15.4 per cent in September 2026, led by a 66.1 per cent jump in gold jewellery loans ### Key Updates - Overall NBFC credit outstanding grew 15.4 per cent year-on-year to Rs 61.69 lakh crore in September 2026 from Rs 53.46 lakh crore a year ago, accelerating from 13.3 per cent growth in September 2025. - NBFC loans against gold jewellery surged 66.1 per cent year-on-year to Rs 3.74 lakh crore in September 2026 from Rs 2.25 lakh crore a year ago, an expansion of nearly Rs 1.49 lakh crore. - NBFC credit to consumer durables rose 54.4 per cent year-on-year to Rs 77,896 crore in September 2026 from Rs 50,411 crore a year ago. - Retail loan growth accelerated to 21.9 per cent in September 2026 from 16.8 per cent a year ago, with retail credit at Rs 26.84 lakh crore, nearly 43.5 per cent of total NBFC outstanding. - Within retail, vehicle loans grew 16.1 per cent to Rs 6.46 lakh crore and housing loans expanded 12.6 per cent to Rs 8.70 lakh crore. - Industrial credit growth slowed to 7.4 per cent in September 2026 from 10.2 per cent a year ago, reaching Rs 22.69 lakh crore, with infrastructure lending moderating to 5.9 per cent from 9.4 per cent, reaching Rs 20.60 lakh crore. - Within infrastructure, power sector lending grew 7.9 per cent to Rs 14.80 lakh crore, compared with 11.5 per cent growth in September 2025. - Services sector credit growth moderated to 17.3 per cent in September 2026 from 23.0 per cent a year ago, with commercial real estate up 23.4 per cent to Rs 1.06 lakh crore, trade up 19.8 per cent to Rs 1.23 lakh crore and transport operators up 12.3 per cent to Rs 1.82 lakh crore. - Credit to agriculture and allied activities grew 17.8 per cent in September 2026, up from 5.2 per cent a year ago, with outstanding credit at Rs 81,732 crore. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Reserve Bank of India Data Shows Bank Credit Growth of 17.94% Surpassed Deposit Growth of 16.6%](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/reserve-bank-of-india-data-shows-bank-credit-growth-of-17-94-surpassed-deposit-g) - [Paul Merchants Finance Private Limited (PMFPL) launches Loan Against Silver, becomes India's first NBFC to set up exclusive silver loan branches](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/paul-merchants-finance-private-limited-pmfpl-launches-loan-against-silver-become) - [Reserve Bank of India data shows NBFC credit growth at 15.8% in August 2026 with retail loans up 22%](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/reserve-bank-of-india-data-shows-nbfc-credit-growth-at-15-8-in-august-2026-with) - [RBI Releases Sectoral Deployment of Bank Credit Data for September 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/rbi-releases-sectoral-deployment-of-bank-credit-data-for-september-2026) ## SEBI Forms 18-Member Working Group to Review Innovators Growth Platform Rules for Startups and Deep-tech Firms ### Key Updates - The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has constituted an 18-member working group to review the regulatory framework of the Innovators Growth Platform (IGP) to improve capital market access for startups and innovation-led companies. - The panel will examine IGP eligibility and listing requirements, investor participation norms, public issue and capital-raising rules including offer-for-sale, pricing, allocation and minimum subscription, and post-listing obligations such as disclosure, corporate governance and trading norms. - The working group will also review the framework for migrating IGP-listed companies to the main board and compare India's framework with international practices before recommending regulatory amendments to SEBI. - The panel is co-chaired by Srini Srinivasan, chairman of the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association, and Prashanth Prakash, partner at Accel Partners, and includes officials from DPIIT, ICAI, ICSI, CII, NSE and BSE. - The IGP, introduced by SEBI in 2019 by revamping the Institutional Trading Platform established in 2015, has seen limited market interest despite regulatory amendments in 2021. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Sebi extends KYC review timelines for foreign portfolio investors to ease compliance](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/sebi-extends-kyc-review-timelines-for-foreign-portfolio-investors-to-ease-compli) - [SEBI notifies modalities for Accredited Investor framework including Manager-led accreditation route](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/sebi-notifies-modalities-for-accredited-investor-framework-including-manager-led) - [Sebi allows digital KYC onboarding for NRIs, OCIs and foreign nationals from FATF-compliant countries from December 3](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/sebi-allows-digital-kyc-onboarding-for-nris-ocis-and-foreign-nationals-from-fatf) ## DGTR proposes two-year quantitative restrictions on soda ash imports to shield domestic manufacturers ### Key Updates - The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has recommended safeguard measures in the form of quantitative restrictions on soda ash imports for two years, citing an 89 per cent increase in imports that threatens serious injury to domestic manufacturers. - The application was filed by the Alkali Manufacturers Association of India (AMAI) on behalf of DCW Ltd, GHCL Ltd, Nirma Ltd, RSPL Ltd and Tata Chemicals, which had sought restrictions for four years. - DGTR recommended a Year 1 import quota of 7,54,992 MT and a Year 2 quota of 7,92,740 MT, totalling 15,47,732 MT over two years. - Country-wise Year 1 and Year 2 quotas: USA 1,59,388 MT and 1,67,357 MT; Turkey 1,28,697 MT and 1,35,132 MT; Iran/UAE 1,10,948 MT and 1,16,495 MT; Russia 70,289 MT and 73,803 MT; European Union 1,17,179 MT and 1,23,038 MT; Kenya 1,21,847 MT and 1,27,939 MT; China PR 46,487 MT and 48,811 MT; other countries 157 MT and 165 MT. - Each country's annual quota will be allotted in four quarterly tranches, with imports in any quarter not exceeding that country's quarterly quota. - Soda ash is used in sectors such as detergents and textiles, and imports rose 89 per cent in 2023-24, remaining at that level since. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Ministry of Coal Reports 5.83% Reduction in India's Total Coal Imports for August 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/ministry-of-coal-reports-5-83-reduction-in-india-s-total-coal-imports-for-august) - [India Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Specified Chinese Titanium Dioxide Imports](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-imposes-anti-dumping-duties-on-specified-chinese-titanium-dioxide-imports) - [DGTR initiates countervailing duty investigation into Chinese insoluble sulphur imports](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/dgtr-initiates-countervailing-duty-investigation-into-chinese-insoluble-sulphur) ## Supreme Court settles BBMB electricity dues dispute, Punjab and Haryana to supply Himachal Pradesh 11,973 MU over 20 years ### Key Updates - The Supreme Court, in a bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, directed Punjab and Haryana to provide Himachal Pradesh 11,973 million units (MU) of electricity over 20 years to settle unpaid dues from Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) projects. - The settlement accepted the Centre's proposal to clear outstanding dues of 13,066 MU, calculated by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), through an energy-based settlement instead of cash payment. - The dues date back to 1966 and pertain to the period before November 2011, when Himachal Pradesh's 7.19 per cent share in electricity from the Bhakra Nangal and Beas hydroelectric projects was recognised by a Supreme Court verdict. - The settlement factors in an adjustment of around Rs 420 crore towards Himachal Pradesh's share of historical capital costs of the dams, so the hill state need not make any separate payment to Punjab or Haryana. - Under the 2011 verdict, Punjab's share in BBMB projects was fixed at 51.80 per cent, Haryana's at 37.51 per cent, Chandigarh's at 3.50 per cent, and Rajasthan's share largely remained unchanged. - Himachal Pradesh was entitled to a share in the Bhakra project from November 1, 1966, the Dehar project from November 1977 and the Pong Dam project from January 1978. - Himachal Pradesh had approached the Supreme Court in 1996 through an original suit after efforts to resolve the dispute, which stemmed from the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, failed; the court passed a decree on September 27, 2011, upholding its 7.19 per cent entitlement. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Punjab Transfers ₹1,291 Crore to Over 37.43 Lakh Women Under Mukh Mantri Mawan-Dheeyan Satkar Yojna](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/punjab-transfers-1-291-crore-to-over-37-43-lakh-women-under-mukh-mantri-mawan-dh) - [Supreme Court Affirms State Authority to Impose Additional Sales Tax](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/supreme-court-affirms-state-authority-to-impose-additional-sales-tax) - [Census of India 2027 Schedule and Reference Date Announced](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/census-of-india-2027-schedule-and-reference-date-announced) ## Uttar Pradesh targets 6.5 million tonnes of paddy procurement to channel ₹16,000 crore into rural economy ### Key Updates - Uttar Pradesh aims to procure 6.5 million tonnes of paddy by February 28, 2027 during the 2026-27 kharif marketing season, expected to infuse over ₹16,000 crore into the state's rural economy. - The Centre has fixed the minimum support price (MSP) at ₹2,441 per quintal for common-grade paddy and ₹2,461 per quintal for Grade A, with an additional ₹20 per quintal towards unloading, sieving and cleaning charges. - Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to ensure payments to farmers within 48 hours through the direct benefit transfer (DBT) channel. - Farmers will supply paddy at around 4,500 procurement centres set up by central and state government agencies, including the Food Corporation of India (FCI). - Institutional procurement of paddy, wheat and sugarcane in Uttar Pradesh amounts to over ₹60,000 crore annually, and more than 3.7 million farmers have benefitted from paddy procurement over the past four years. - Procurement centres, rice mills and FCI warehouses and depots in the state have been geo-tagged to ensure transparency during the kharif marketing season. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Approves Rs 17,542-Cr Plan for Four Link Expressways and State Livestock Mission](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/uttar-pradesh-cabinet-approves-rs-17-542-cr-plan-for-four-link-expressways-and-s) - [Tamil Nadu Raises Paddy and Sugarcane Procurement Incentives](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/tamil-nadu-raises-paddy-and-sugarcane-procurement-incentives) - [Centre Sanctions Rs 220 Crore Interest-Free Working Capital Loans for Andhra Pradesh FCV Tobacco Farmers](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/centre-sanctions-rs-220-crore-interest-free-working-capital-loans-for-andhra-pra) - [Uttar Pradesh Startup Policy 2026 Launched with Increased Incentive of Rs 40,000](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/uttar-pradesh-startup-policy-2026-launched-with-increased-incentive-of-rs-40-000) ## Centre raises Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) rice e-auction target for 2026-27 to 50 LMT, with 25 LMT already sold by 31 October 2026 ### Key Updates - The Government of India has doubled the target quantity of rice for sale through e-auction under the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) \[OMSS (D)\] for 2026-27, increasing it from 25 LMT to 50 LMT. - In the maturing financial year 2026-27 up to 31 October 2026, a total of 25 LMT of rice was sold to private parties through OMSS (D) e-auctions, compared with 11 LMT in the corresponding period of the previous financial year. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Retail sugar inflation tops 30% in 21 states and UTs with Odisha recording the highest rise](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/retail-sugar-inflation-tops-30-in-21-states-and-uts-with-odisha-recording-the-hi) - [Government sells 4,000 tonnes of onion buffer stock](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/government-sells-4-000-tonnes-of-onion-buffer-stock) - [Indian Army launches 'Bharat Rice' initiative and signs FCI logistics MoU in New Delhi on October 12, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/indian-army-launches-bharat-rice-initiative-and-signs-fci-logistics-mou-in-new-d) - [National Land Monetization Corporation (NLMC) raises ₹366.33 crore from 150 RINL land parcels on Day 1 of its first end-to-end e-auction](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/national-land-monetization-corporation-nlmc-raises-366-33-crore-from-150-rinl-la) ## Union Cabinet Clears Rs 14,500 Crore Viability Gap Funding Scheme to Build 92 GWh of Grid-Scale Energy Storage by FY31 ### Key Updates - The Union Cabinet approved a Rs 14,500 crore viability gap funding (VGF) scheme to develop 92 GWh of grid-scale energy storage capacity by FY31, supporting integration of large-scale renewable energy. - The scheme comprises 60 GWh of pumped storage plants, 30 GWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS) and 2 GWh of emerging storage technologies, with total estimated investment of Rs 97,600 crore. - The new capacity equals 170% of India's existing 54 GWh storage, while the country's total storage requirement is estimated at 411 GWh by 2031-32. - Capacity will be allocated through tariff-based competitive bidding, with both public and private sector electricity distribution companies eligible for VGF support. - BESS projects must meet a minimum 40% domestic content requirement to promote indigenous manufacturing and reduce import dependence. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Union Cabinet Clears ₹2,814 Crore CAPEX Support Scheme for Domestic Lithium and Nickel Processing](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/union-cabinet-clears-2-814-crore-capex-support-scheme-for-domestic-lithium-and-n) - [Cabinet approves Green Energy Corridor Phase III with nearly Rs 1.9 lakh crore outlay for 51,126 ckm transmission lines and 50 GWh battery storage](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/cabinet-approves-green-energy-corridor-phase-iii-with-nearly-rs-1-9-lakh-crore-o) - [India's non-fossil fuel power capacity surpasses 300 GW milestone](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-s-non-fossil-fuel-power-capacity-surpasses-300-gw-milestone) - [Tamil Nadu approves Battery Energy Storage Systems Policy 2026 targeting 2.5 GW capacity](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/tamil-nadu-approves-battery-energy-storage-systems-policy-2026-targeting-2-5-gw) ## Government approves 12 projects worth over ₹7,500 crore under Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme ### Key Updates - The government approved 12 projects under the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) with a total investment of over ₹7,500 crore, expected to generate production worth ₹39,045 crore. - The ECMS has a total outlay of ₹40,000 crore and aims to strengthen India's domestic electronics component manufacturing ecosystem. - Indo Asia Copper, a subsidiary of Kiri Industries Ltd, made the largest investment of ₹3,546 crore in Gujarat, while TACC, a subsidiary of HEG Advanced Materials, will invest ₹2,438 crore in Madhya Pradesh. - Other approved projects include Vidyuta Materials (₹400 crore, Uttar Pradesh), Enerfolie (₹236 crore, Gujarat), Voltix Semicon (₹65 crore, Maharashtra), Rockwell Automation (₹91 crore, Tamil Nadu), Wipro Pari Robotics (₹120 crore, Maharashtra), TDConnex (two projects of ₹103 crore and ₹50 crore, Tamil Nadu), Modern Automotives (₹75 crore, Punjab), NeST ICELR (₹363 crore, Tamil Nadu) and Surface Modification Tech (₹17 crore, Karnataka). - With the latest approvals, the total number of projects approved under the ECMS reached 118, with cumulative investments of ₹77,000 crore against a target of ₹59,350 crore and expected production of ₹5,73,146 crore against a target of ₹4,56,500 crore. - Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the money allocated to the ECMS would return to the government in the form of taxes. - Vaishnaw said only serious, technology-focused applicants would be welcome under India Semiconductor Mission 2.0, for which the government has launched a web portal for applications. - India aims to attract three large equipment manufacturers and five manufacturers of chemicals and gases under its electronics manufacturing efforts. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Government Approves 31 Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) Projects Worth ₹7,877 Crore](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/government-approves-31-electronics-components-manufacturing-scheme-ecms-projects) - [MeitY Notifies Rs 62,500 Cr MPMS Scheme to Boost Handset Production in India](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/meity-notifies-rs-62-500-cr-mpms-scheme-to-boost-handset-production-in-india) - [PM-SETU: National Steering Committee Clears Five ITI Cluster Upgrade Plans Worth ₹1,194.92 Crore in Maharashtra, Odisha and Jammu & Kashmir](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/pm-setu-national-steering-committee-clears-five-iti-cluster-upgrade-plans-worth) - [Union Cabinet Clears ₹2,814 Crore CAPEX Support Scheme for Domestic Lithium and Nickel Processing](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/union-cabinet-clears-2-814-crore-capex-support-scheme-for-domestic-lithium-and-n) ## Union Cabinet Extends Fast Track Special Courts Scheme with ₹3,788.04 Crore Outlay Until March 2031 ### Key Updates - The Union Cabinet on November 4, 2026 approved a five-year extension of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), including exclusive POCSO courts, from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2031. - The extended scheme has a total financial outlay of ₹3,788.04 crore, comprising a Central share of ₹2,353.15 crore from the Nirbhaya Fund and a State/Union Territory share of ₹1,434.89 crore. - The FTSC scheme has been operational since October 10, 2019 and was initially launched for one year, with extensions up to March 31, 2026. - There are currently 779 functional FTSCs across the country, including 399 exclusive POCSO courts, which have disposed of 4,02,457 cases since the scheme's inception. - Under the extended scheme, the government plans to operationalise 850 FTSCs, including exclusive POCSO courts, across participating States and Union Territories based on case pendency data. - Each FTSC has a dedicated Judicial Officer, a Special Public Prosecutor and six support staff to expedite disposal of rape and POCSO Act, 2012 cases. - The scheme's continuation is expected to encourage establishment of Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres (VWDCs) and child-friendly court spaces to facilitate victim testimonies. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Union Cabinet clears VISTAR scheme with Rs 4,371 crore outlay to revamp India's statistics system](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/union-cabinet-clears-vistar-scheme-with-rs-4-371-crore-outlay-to-revamp-india-s) - [Union Cabinet clears 78-day Productivity Linked Bonus worth ₹2,009.61 crore for 11,40,770 railway employees](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/union-cabinet-clears-78-day-productivity-linked-bonus-worth-2-009-61-crore-for-1) - [Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase-II extended till March 2028, around Rs 7,000 crore earmarked in Budget 2027-28](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/swachh-bharat-mission-grameen-phase-ii-extended-till-march-2028-around-rs-7-000) - [Union Cabinet approves Rs 53,428-crore five-year outlay for renamed National Social Assistance Programme with eased disability pension norms](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/union-cabinet-approves-rs-53-428-crore-five-year-outlay-for-renamed-national-soc) ## TRAI Proposes New Satellite Communication Network Provider Licence with ₹37.5 Lakh Entry Fee and 8% AGR Licence Fee ### Key Updates - TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) released recommendations on 6 November 2026 for a 'Satellite Communication Network (SCN) provider authorisation' under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, allowing companies to build and operate satellite communication networks in India and rent them to licensed telecom operators without selling services directly to the public. - If the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) accepts the recommendations, global satellite firms such as Starlink and Eutelsat OneWeb could enter India purely as network providers, while telecom companies like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel could offer satellite services without building their own satellite networks. - To be eligible, a company must have satellite capacity authorised by the Department of Space, be a subsidiary of such a company, or have an agreement to run its gateways in India; the licence would be national, valid for 20 years and renewable, and would not permit launching or operating satellites or direct sale to consumers. - The SCN provider would operate the ground segment in India, including gateway earth stations, network equipment and spectrum, and rent the network to licensed telecom companies who would sell satellite internet, calls or messaging under their own brands and handle billing and complaints. - TRAI proposed that the SCN provider could either seek its own spectrum from DoT, naming the partner it would serve, or use the partner's existing spectrum only to serve that partner; spectrum would be assigned administratively (not auctioned) for up to five years. - TRAI recommended DoT decide on applications within 30 days once security clearances are in place, and proposed an entry fee of ₹37.5 lakh and a licence fee of 8% of adjusted gross revenue; spectrum pricing is pending on TRAI's May 2025 proposal of 4% of adjusted gross revenue. - TRAI recommended that telecom companies be allowed to deduct payments made to SCN providers from their own revenue for fee calculation, so the same money is not charged twice. - TRAI also recommended allowing direct-to-device services connecting satellites directly to regular smartphones, with mobile operators permitted to use their existing spectrum at no extra charge without waiting for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, provided the same frequency channel is available across all 22 telecom circles. - Under the proposal, all traffic from users in India must pass through gateways located in India and not be routed or copied abroad even if a local gateway fails; providers must allow real-time monitoring and lawful interception, and gateways must be running within 12 months of approval. - The recommendations are not binding and would take effect only if DoT accepts them. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Notifies Telecom Consumers Complaint Redressal (Fourth Amendment) Regulations, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/telecom-regulatory-authority-of-india-trai-notifies-telecom-consumers-complaint) - [Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) permits banks to use 1600-series numbers for two-way communication](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/telecom-regulatory-authority-of-india-trai-permits-banks-to-use-1600-series-numb) - [Telecom regulator TRAI releases draft guidelines requiring board-approved AI policies and incident reporting by telecom operators](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/telecom-regulator-trai-releases-draft-guidelines-requiring-board-approved-ai-pol) - [TRAI Recommends Light-Touch Authorisation Framework for Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) Services](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/trai-recommends-light-touch-authorisation-framework-for-application-based-linear) ## NHAI Issues Standardised Design Guidelines for Barrier-Free Multi-Lane Free Flow Tolling on National Highways ### Key Updates - The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued guidelines to standardise the design and infrastructure of toll plazas on four-lane and above National Highways, enabling barrier-less Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling in which vehicles need not stop at toll booths. - The guidelines prescribe uniform requirements for toll plaza layouts, lane configuration, gantries, road infrastructure, lighting, signage and supporting facilities, and rationalise the number of tolling lanes compared to conventional plazas. - The guidelines apply to all future and under-construction projects: DPR-stage projects will incorporate the new design in their documents, while awarded or under-construction projects will adopt the changes through applicable contractual provisions; NHAI field offices have been directed to incorporate the requirements. - The policy circular emphasises adequate lighting, advance signage and Electronic Variable Message Signs (VMS) at toll plazas, and provides for an administrative building-cum-operations and maintenance centre for toll plaza management. - The initiative aims to eliminate traffic queues and waiting time, reduce fuel consumption at toll plazas, and make National Highway journeys safer and more seamless. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [NHAI routes 80% of FY monetisation pipeline through its sponsored InvITs](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/nhai-routes-80-of-fy-monetisation-pipeline-through-its-sponsored-invits) - [Centre Notifies Concessional Annual Local Pass for Non-Commercial Vehicles Near Highway Toll Plazas](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/centre-notifies-concessional-annual-local-pass-for-non-commercial-vehicles-near) - [NHAI Releases Guidelines for Upgradation, Maintenance and Smart Monitoring of Toilets and Parking at Toll Plazas](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/nhai-releases-guidelines-for-upgradation-maintenance-and-smart-monitoring-of-toi) - [NHAI policy mandates independent design verification of major bridges from December 1](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/nhai-policy-mandates-independent-design-verification-of-major-bridges-from-decem) ## Amended BharatNet Program in Telangana Gets ₹3,189 Crore Support to Cover 12,769 Gram Panchayats ### Key Updates - Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) under the Department of Telecommunications signed an Agreement on 06 November 2026 at Sanchar Bhawan, New Delhi with the Government of Telangana, Telangana Rural Internet Infrastructure Corporation Limited (TRIICL), Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Telangana Fiber Grid Corporation Limited (T-Fiber) for implementation of the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) in Telangana under the State-led model. - The Union Cabinet had approved the Amended BharatNet Program on 4 August 2023 to upgrade, consolidate and expand the existing BharatNet network for robust broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats and villages on demand basis. - The Program in Telangana will be implemented through TRIICL with a total scope of 12,769 Gram Panchayats, comprising upgradation of 1,946 Phase I Gram Panchayats from linear to ring topology, coverage of 10,787 Phase II Gram Panchayats and inclusion of 36 newly created Gram Panchayats. - The Government of India has approved financial support of ₹3,189 crore for the Program in Telangana, which is expected to facilitate around three lakh rural home fibre connections with subsidy support. - Digital Bharat Nidhi, the erstwhile Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), was established under the Indian Telegraph (Amendment) Act, 2003 with effect from 01.04.2002, was renamed DBN under The Telecommunications Act, 2023, and is an attached office of the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Digital Bharat Nidhi signs Amended BharatNet Program agreement with Chhattisgarh for Rs 3,942 crore](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/digital-bharat-nidhi-signs-amended-bharatnet-program-agreement-with-chhattisgarh) - [Amended BharatNet Programme: ₹3,942 Crore for Chhattisgarh](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/amended-bharatnet-programme-3-942-crore-for-chhattisgarh) - [Digital Bharat Nidhi Signs Agreement with Tamil Nadu and TANFINET for BharatNet Use under Amended BharatNet Program](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/digital-bharat-nidhi-signs-agreement-with-tamil-nadu-and-tanfinet-for-bharatnet) - [Amended BharatNet Program in Maharashtra Gets Rs 10,520 Crore Support Under Five-Way Agreement](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/amended-bharatnet-program-in-maharashtra-gets-rs-10-520-crore-support-under-five) ## Digital Life Certificate Campaign 5 Launched Nationwide as Face Authentication Adoption Rises to 80% with 40 Lakh Certificates in Five Days ### Key Updates - Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh launched the Nationwide Digital Life Certificate (DLC) Campaign 5 on 06 NOV 2026, with nearly 40 lakh Digital Life Certificates generated in its first five days against approximately 25 lakh in the corresponding period last year, a 60 per cent increase. - Face authentication adoption surged from 61 per cent to nearly 80 per cent during the same period, reflecting growing confidence among pensioners in technology-enabled pension services. - Out of 1.92 crore Digital Life Certificates generated last year, approximately 1.17 crore were through face authentication. - The number of central government pensioners has reached nearly 70 lakh against approximately 50 lakh working employees. - The campaign covers nearly 3,000 locations through camps, with doorstep services arranged for pensioners unable to visit camps. - The campaign is led by the Department of Pension & Pensioners' Welfare under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, with participation from pension disbursing banks, Ministries of Railways and Defence, Department of Telecommunications, Department of Posts, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, UIDAI, State Governments and pensioners' associations. - Pension-related reforms by the Department include pension adalats for resolving long-pending cases, a grievance redressal mechanism through CPENGRAMS, and simplification of obsolete rules and procedures. - A Compendium Booklet and a Coffee Table e-book documenting Nationwide DLC Campaign 4.0 were released during the programme. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [UIDAI Launches Aadhaar Face Authentication SDK and Sandbox](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/uidai-launches-aadhaar-face-authentication-sdk-and-sandbox) - [Department of Financial Services Initiates Nationwide Financial Inclusion Campaign Targeting 2.70 Lakh Local Bodies](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/department-of-financial-services-initiates-nationwide-financial-inclusion-campai) - [Government Rolls Out Upgraded NMMS App with AI and Liveness Detection for VB-G RAM G; Farmer ID Drive Nears 11-Crore Milestone](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/government-rolls-out-upgraded-nmms-app-with-ai-and-liveness-detection-for-vb-g-r) - [Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) Unveils Five New Initiatives at Aadhaar Samvaad in Kolkata on 17th Aadhaar Day](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/unique-identification-authority-of-india-uidai-unveils-five-new-initiatives-at-a) ## Uttar Pradesh doubles disaster death compensation to Rs 8 lakh and hikes crop-loss relief by 25-30% for farmers ### Key Updates - Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that compensation for families of those killed in natural disasters has been doubled from Rs 4 lakh to Rs 8 lakh, while crop-loss assistance has been raised by 25-30%. - The revised financial assistance will be provided under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), and applies retrospectively to losses reported between April 1 and November 4, 2026. - More than 10 lakh farmers are expected to benefit; crops on 52.14 lakh hectares belonging to 10,02,684 farmers were damaged between April 1 and November 4, 2026. - Crop-loss assistance in irrigated areas increased from Rs 17,000 to Rs 22,000 per hectare, and in rain-fed areas from Rs 8,500 to Rs 11,000 per hectare. - Assistance for perennial crops and agroforestry rose from Rs 22,500 to Rs 30,000 per hectare; silt-affected land now gets Rs 23,000 per hectare (up from Rs 18,000) and landslide or avalanche-damaged land Rs 60,000 per hectare (up from Rs 47,000). - Compensation for the death of large animals such as cows and buffaloes increased from Rs 40,000 to Rs 50,000, for small livestock from Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,500, for pack animals from Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,400, and for poultry from Rs 100 to Rs 130 per dead bird. - Sericulture assistance rose from Rs 6,000 to Rs 7,800 per hectare for Eri, Mulberry and Tassar silk, and from Rs 7,500 to Rs 9,800 per hectare for Muga silk. - Families with completely damaged houses will receive Rs 1.85 lakh in plain areas and Rs 2.06 lakh in hilly areas, while a partially damaged house in the plains qualifies for Rs 93,000. - Relief camp stay support is available for up to 30 days and drinking-water assistance during drought for up to 90 days, with individual assistance sent directly to beneficiaries' bank accounts through direct benefit transfer. - The new standards are effective from the financial year 2026-27 through 2030-31. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Prime Minister releases 24th instalment of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/prime-minister-releases-24th-instalment-of-pradhan-mantri-kisan-samman-nidhi-pm) - [Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs raises Minimum Support Prices for all mandated Rabi crops for 2027-28 marketing season](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/cabinet-committee-on-economic-affairs-raises-minimum-support-prices-for-all-mand) - [Gujarat government declares Kutch, Jamnagar, Devbhoomi Dwarka and Porbandar drought-hit with relief package for farmers](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/gujarat-government-declares-kutch-jamnagar-devbhoomi-dwarka-and-porbandar-drough) - [India's First Soil Carbon Payments Disbursed to 2,550 Farmers in Punjab and Haryana](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-s-first-soil-carbon-payments-disbursed-to-2-550-farmers-in-punjab-and-hary) ## Startup India Portal Linked with I-STEM via API Integration to Give Startups Access to Research Facilities ### Key Updates - The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA), with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, launched the API integration of the Startup India Portal with the I-STEM Portal on 6 November 2026, under the chairmanship of Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood. - The integration enables DPIIT-recognised startups to discover and access scientific and testing facilities, with Single Sign-On (SSO) functionality proposed in subsequent phases. - Automated verification of DPIIT recognition status will streamline onboarding, though individual access requests will still be evaluated and approved by host institutions based on technical suitability, availability, charges, safety and institutional permissions. - As of 6 November 2026, I-STEM listed 31,540 equipment items across 4,044 registered institutions. - The launch was attended by Dr. (Mrs.) Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary, Office of the PSA, and Shri Ateesh Kumar Singh, Additional Secretary, DPIIT. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [CAST and India's National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) Sign Five-Year MoU to Boost U.S.–India Agricultural Science Collaboration](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/cast-and-india-s-national-academy-of-agricultural-sciences-naas-sign-five-year-m) - [Five Regional-Language Science Magazines Unveiled on CSIR's 85th Foundation Day](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/five-regional-language-science-magazines-unveiled-on-csir-s-85th-foundation-day) - [National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) launches RSVC-AMRIT platform for rural innovation](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/national-bank-for-agriculture-and-rural-development-nabard-launches-rsvc-amrit-p) - [DPIIT Launches NSA 6.0 to Recognize Innovation and Entrepreneurship Across 20 Sectoral Categories](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/dpiit-launches-nsa-6-0-to-recognize-innovation-and-entrepreneurship-across-20-se) ## Special Campaign 6 records highest-ever outcomes with 19.89 lakh cleanliness sites and ₹970.33 crore scrap revenue ### Key Updates - Special Campaign 6, aimed at institutionalising Swachhata and minimising pendency in government offices, was conducted from 2nd October to 31st October 2026 with the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) as the nodal department. - The campaign covered 19,88,826 cleanliness campaign sites, surpassing the previous year's 11,59,783 sites by approximately 71%. - It generated ₹970.33 crore through scrap disposal, including e-waste, an increase of approximately 16% over Special Campaign 5.0. - A total of 277.82 lakh square feet of office space was freed for productive utilisation, about 19% more than the previous campaign. - A total of 9,99,168 public grievances and 40,878 public grievance appeals were disposed of during the campaign. - Ministries reviewed 26,79,875 physical files, weeded out 15,76,828 files, and closed 7,01,723 of 9,58,864 e-files reviewed. - Ministry of Railways (Railway Board) topped revenue from scrap disposal with ₹618.06 crore, followed by Department of Military Affairs (₹88.96 crore), Ministry of Coal (₹61.41 crore) and Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (₹34.81 crore). - Department of School Education and Literacy topped cleanliness sites with over 7.01 lakh campaigns across schools, followed by Ministry of Women and Child Development at 6.52 lakh Anganwadi centres. - Ministry of Coal topped space freed with over 1.48 crore sq. ft., followed by Ministry of Heavy Industries (over 50.19 lakh sq. ft.) and Department of Defence Production (19.34 lakh sq. ft.). - The campaign emphasised scientific e-waste disposal under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, earning about ₹50 crore, with recyclers, refurbishers and producers enrolled on GeM increasing from 38 to more than 200. - Department of School Education and Literacy collected over 58 lakh e-waste items from schools against a target of 5 lakh items, while Ministry of Railways earned ₹10.43 crore through e-waste disposal. - A total of 27 Ministries/Departments organised dedicated One-Day Events covering 2,40,156 field offices. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025 felicitation and Guinness record presentation scheduled for October 28](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/viksit-bharat-buildathon-2025-felicitation-and-guinness-record-presentation-sche) - [Ministry of Steel's Special Campaign 6.0 to Focus on E-Waste Management from October 2, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/ministry-of-steel-s-special-campaign-6-0-to-focus-on-e-waste-management-from-oct) - [Swachh Seva Aankalan Introduced as Digital Rural Sanitation Assessment under Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/swachh-seva-aankalan-introduced-as-digital-rural-sanitation-assessment-under-swa) - [Tamil Nadu Orders Local Bodies to Enforce Rainwater Harvesting in All Buildings Under Thuli Campaign](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/tamil-nadu-orders-local-bodies-to-enforce-rainwater-harvesting-in-all-buildings) ## TRAI Notifies Register of Interconnect Agreements (Fourth Amendment) Regulations, 2026, Effective from 1 January 2027 ### Key Updates - The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released 'The Register of Interconnect Agreements (Fourth Amendment) Regulations, 2026' on 06 November 2026, and the regulations will take effect from 1 January 2027. - The amendment mandates online registration of interconnect agreements and modifications through a TRAI portal, dispensing with printed copies and floppy/diskette submissions; agreements in force on 1 January 2027 must be submitted within fifteen days, and new agreements or modifications within fifteen days of execution. - Service providers must furnish text-searchable PDF copies of interconnect agreements, and applications for inspection of the Register and obtaining copies or extracts can now be made online through the portal. - The fee for inspection of the Register has been revised to ₹1,500 per hour or part thereof, and the charge for copies or extracts to ₹500 per page, broadly aligned with the TRAI (Access to Information) Regulation, 2005. - A graded financial disincentive framework has been prescribed for contravention of the regulations, and TRAI may specify formats for time-bound furnishing of disaggregated information for inclusion in the Register. - The review process began with a Pre-Consultation Paper dated 03.04.2025, followed by a Consultation Paper dated 10.11.2025; seventeen stakeholders submitted comments, nine submitted counter-comments, and an Open House Discussion was held on 28.01.2026. - The Register of Interconnect Agreements Regulations, 1999 provide the regulatory framework for registration and maintenance of interconnect agreements, under powers in sub-sections (vii) and (viii) of section 11(1)(b) of the TRAI Act, 1997. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Notifies Telecom Consumers Complaint Redressal (Fourth Amendment) Regulations, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/telecom-regulatory-authority-of-india-trai-notifies-telecom-consumers-complaint) - [TRAI Notifies Telecom Consumer Protection (Thirteenth Amendment) Regulations, 2026 Mandating Voice and SMS-Only Plans](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/trai-notifies-telecom-consumer-protection-thirteenth-amendment-regulations-2026) ## Supreme Court clarifies its March 11 OBC creamy layer ruling will not reopen past appointments ### Key Updates - The Supreme Court, on November 6, 2026, clarified that its March 11 judgment on OBC creamy layer will not apply retrospectively to appointments already made. - The March 11 judgment held that OBC candidates cannot be excluded from reservation benefits solely based on their parents' salary income, and it had given the government six months to implement it. - A bench of Justices PS Narasimha and R Mahadevan ruled that the judgment will not lead to reopening of appointments already made, and the government is at liberty to have its own policy. - The court held that its judgment will govern service allocation under the 2025 civil services examination, since that process was ongoing when the judgment was pronounced. - In August, the Union government filed an application stating that retrospective operation of the judgment to all past appointments and admissions would lead to complete administrative chaos, and sought two years to work out equivalent posts for identifying the creamy layer among those in PSUs and private employment. - The March judgment arose from appeals against Madras high court orders, where an OBC candidate recommended for the Indian Police Service became entitled to allocation under the Indian Foreign Service, and another candidate was held entitled to OBC reservation despite his father's higher-income PSU employment. - The judgment said creamy layer classification is based on posts, and excluding children of those in PSUs or private employment solely on salary income, without reference to their posts, would amount to hostile discrimination and equals being treated unequally. - The creamy layer notification of 1993 followed the Indra Sawhney judgment of 1992, which allowed 27% reservation for OBCs subject to creamy layer exclusion, and the 1993 order identified five occupational categories plus a sixth income and wealth test category. - A 2004 clarificatory order said income from salaries and other sources are to be assessed separately, with exclusion only if either component exceeds the prescribed limit for three consecutive years. - The March judgment held that both the 1993 office memorandum and the 2004 letter preserve the primacy of status-based exclusion, confining economic exclusion to the sixth category, and salary income cannot be mechanically aggregated in a manner that defeats Indra Sawhney. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Supreme Court bars Hindu converts to Islam from Muslim backward class reservation in Tamil Nadu](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/supreme-court-bars-hindu-converts-to-islam-from-muslim-backward-class-reservatio) - [Bombay High Court stops notification of estimated Scheduled Tribes population in Goa, impacting reserved seats](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/bombay-high-court-stops-notification-of-estimated-scheduled-tribes-population-in) - [Supreme Court upholds Andhra Pradesh High Court order quashing 34% Backward Classes quota in local bodies](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/supreme-court-upholds-andhra-pradesh-high-court-order-quashing-34-backward-class) - [Madhya Pradesh High Court Quashes 2019 Law Raising OBC Quota From 14% to 27%](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/madhya-pradesh-high-court-quashes-2019-law-raising-obc-quota-from-14-to-27) ## Indian Navy Receives Indigenously Built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft 'Amini' from GRSE ### Key Updates - The Indian Navy received 'Amini', an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) indigenously designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, on 05 November 2026. - The ASW SWCs were designed and constructed by GRSE Kolkata in accordance with the Classification Rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). - These ships are among the largest Indian Naval warships propelled by waterjets and are equipped with Lightweight Torpedoes, Indigenous Rocket Launchers and Sonars for detecting and engaging underwater threats. - Amini is named after Amini Island in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep and is a reincarnation of the erstwhile INS Amini, a Petya III Class Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvette decommissioned in 2002. - The ship has over 80 percent Indigenous Content and will strengthen the Navy's Anti-Submarine, coastal surveillance and mine laying capabilities, in line with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Cochin Shipyard Delivers 'Mangrol', Third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, to Indian Navy](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/cochin-shipyard-delivers-mangrol-third-anti-submarine-warfare-shallow-water-craf) - [Indian Navy to Commission Third Indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Craft Mangrol on 12 October in Mumbai](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/indian-navy-to-commission-third-indigenous-anti-submarine-warfare-craft-mangrol) - [Indian Navy Inducts INS Mangrol, Third Mahe-Class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, at Mumbai Dockyard](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/indian-navy-inducts-ins-mangrol-third-mahe-class-anti-submarine-warfare-shallow) - [CSL Delivers 2nd HS EcoFreighter MPV ‘MS Maria’ to Germany-Based HS Schiffahrts](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/csl-delivers-2nd-hs-ecofreighter-mpv-ms-maria-to-germany-based-hs-schiffahrts) ## India and United States conclude fifth edition of HADR Exercise Tiger Triumph 2026 at Visakhapatnam ### Key Updates - The fifth edition of the bilateral Tri-Service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise Tiger Triumph 2026 between India and the United States concluded with a closing ceremony at Visakhapatnam on 05 November 2026. - The exercise was conducted from 31 October to 05 November 2026 and comprised a Staff Exercise (STAFFEX) and a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) with participation from the Armed Forces of both countries. - The exercise focused on enhancing interoperability in combined HADR operations, with particular emphasis on joint amphibious operations. - The STAFFEX included operational planning, academic lectures and Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) on domains including cyberspace and medical operations, while the TTX applied these concepts in a simulated operational environment. - The closing ceremony was attended by RAdm Vishal Bishnoi, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, and RAdm Joaquin J. Martinez de Pinillos, Vice Commander, US Pacific Fleet. - Exercise Tiger Triumph was first conducted in 2019 and aims to enhance bilateral defence cooperation between India and the United States. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India and United States Launch Fifth Edition of Tiger Triumph 2026 HADR Exercise in Visakhapatnam](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/india-and-united-states-launch-fifth-edition-of-tiger-triumph-2026-hadr-exercise) ## India Hosts Maiden BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise at Andaman and Nicobar Command, Concluding on 3 November 2026 ### Key Updates - The maiden BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise culminated at Sri Vijaya Puram on 03 November 2026, with engagements conducted from 30 October to 03 November 2026 under the aegis of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), India's only Operational Quad Service Command headed by VAdm Vineet McCarty, Commander-in-Chief. - Participating naval ships included Indian Naval Ships INS Taragiri, INS Karmuk and INS Saryu, Myanmar Navy Ship UMS King Aung Zeya, and Sri Lanka Navy Ship SLNS Gajabahu. - Dignitaries at the exercise included HE Indra Mani Pandey, Secretary General of BIMSTEC, VAdm Biswajit Dasgupta (Retd), National Maritime Security Coordinator, RAdm Kyaw Kyaw Htoo of the Myanmar Navy, Air Vice Marshal MDR Prasad (Retd.) of Sri Lanka, and Capt Mohammad Monzurul Islam, Commanding Officer of BNS Prottoy, Bangladesh. - The exercise was conducted in the spirit of the Delhi Declaration and in furtherance of the outcomes of the 4th BIMSTEC Experts Group Meeting on Maritime Security Cooperation held in November 2025. - The harbour phase at Sri Vijaya Puram featured high-level engagements, professional interactions and cultural exchanges, followed by a sea phase off Sri Vijaya Puram from 02 to 03 November 2026 involving coordinated maritime deployments. - The successful culmination marks an important step towards institutionalising greater maritime engagement among BIMSTEC member states in the Bay of Bengal region. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [BIMSTEC Nations Begin First Maritime Security Exercise in Bay of Bengal from October 30 to November 3, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/bimstec-nations-begin-first-maritime-security-exercise-in-bay-of-bengal-from-oct) - [Three-Day Colombo Security Conclave Table Top Exercise Concludes at Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/three-day-colombo-security-conclave-table-top-exercise-concludes-at-eastern-nava) ## India and Myanmar Launch First-Ever Tri-Services HADR Exercise 'RAHAT MITRA' in Chennai ### Key Updates - India and Myanmar commenced the maiden bilateral Tri-Services Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise 'RAHAT MITRA' at Chennai on 05 November 2026. - The exercise, coordinated under the aegis of the Indian Navy, is being conducted from 05 to 06 November 2026. - More than 300 personnel from all three services of both countries are participating in the exercise. - The exercise is centred on the theme 'Together for Humanity, Stronger through Partnership'. - It reflects India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and the strategic vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [BIMSTEC Nations Begin First Maritime Security Exercise in Bay of Bengal from October 30 to November 3, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/bimstec-nations-begin-first-maritime-security-exercise-in-bay-of-bengal-from-oct) - [India and UAE Begin Joint Military Exercise Mountain Guardian 2026 at Chaubatia, Uttarakhand](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-and-uae-begin-joint-military-exercise-mountain-guardian-2026-at-chaubatia) - [India and United States Launch Fifth Edition of Tiger Triumph 2026 HADR Exercise in Visakhapatnam](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/india-and-united-states-launch-fifth-edition-of-tiger-triumph-2026-hadr-exercise) - [India and Indonesia Commence 11th Joint Special Forces Exercise GARUDA SHAKTI at Banyuwangi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-and-indonesia-commence-11th-joint-special-forces-exercise-garuda-shakti-at) ## India relaxes passport and visa requirements for long-term Pakistani residents, persecuted minority refugees and Tibetans ### Key Updates - The Union Home Ministry has relaxed passport and visa requirements for certain categories of foreign nationals in India, including some long-term Pakistani residents, minority refugees from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan, Sri Lankan Tamils and Tibetans. - The changes were notified through the Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) (Amendment) Order, 2026, published in the Gazette on Thursday. - Pakistani nationals who entered India on or before December 31, 2009 with the intention of settling permanently can be exempted from the passport renewal requirement if they cannot renew their documents because they lack Pakistan's Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC). - The exemption for Pakistani residents is conditional on applicants not having married in Pakistan or acquired immovable property there, having left behind Indian citizen family members, undertaking not to return to Pakistan, and having no adverse reports from police or security agencies. - Members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan who entered India on or before December 31, 2024 after fleeing religious persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution are exempted, including those who entered without valid documents or with expired ones, though they must still obtain an appropriate visa to continue their stay. - For Tibetans, the notification covers those who entered India using permits issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu between 1959 and May 30, 2003. - Indian, Nepalese and Bhutanese citizens travelling directly between the three countries by land or air may present identity documents specified in the government's official Visa Manual instead of standard passports. - Nepalese and Bhutanese citizens entering or exiting India after embarking from or transiting through mainland China, Macau, Hong Kong or Pakistan must hold both a valid passport and a valid visa, and Indian citizens travelling to or returning from countries other than Nepal and Bhutan through the India-Nepal or India-Bhutan borders need valid passports and must use designated immigration posts. - The government has not framed the changes as a general immigration amnesty; they are designed to regularise documentation for long-standing resident groups whose passports, permits or identity papers may no longer be renewable or valid. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Reserve Bank of India eases Export Declaration Form and import reporting norms for service exporters and small-value transactions](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/reserve-bank-of-india-eases-export-declaration-form-and-import-reporting-norms-f) - [Digi Yatra Launches International Passenger Trials at Seven Indian Airports for 2027 Rollout](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/digi-yatra-launches-international-passenger-trials-at-seven-indian-airports-for) - [Sebi allows digital KYC onboarding for NRIs, OCIs and foreign nationals from FATF-compliant countries from December 3](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/sebi-allows-digital-kyc-onboarding-for-nris-ocis-and-foreign-nationals-from-fatf) - [Immigration Relief for Persecuted Minorities Extended to Entrants Until December 31, 2024](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/immigration-relief-for-persecuted-minorities-extended-to-entrants-until-december) ## DGFT invites 2027 tariff rate quota applications under India-UK trade pact for passenger cars and transport vehicles ### Key Updates - The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) on November 6, 2026 invited fresh applications for allocation of tariff rate quota (TRQ) under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) for calendar year 2027, open from November 6 to November 21, 2026. - Applications are invited for a 2027 quota of 24,500 passenger cars with different engine capacities and 2,750 transport vehicles. - The India-UK CETA came into effect on July 15, 2026. - In September 2026, the DGFT approved applications from seven companies to import 642 cars from Britain for the remainder of 2026 under the TRQ provisions. - Under the CETA, India has allowed import of a total of 3.78 lakh units of conventional-engine passenger cars from the UK at concessional customs duty during the first 15 years of the pact's implementation. - Under the pact, tariffs on automotive imports will fall from about 110 per cent to 10 per cent, with quotas on both sides. - Only Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), dealers and channel partners duly authorised by OEMs of vehicles originating in the UK were eligible to apply for the TRQ. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [DGFT Removes Physical Challans for EODC Applications](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/dgft-removes-physical-challans-for-eodc-applications) - [DGFT Approves Import of 642 UK Cars Under India-UK FTA Quota](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/dgft-approves-import-of-642-uk-cars-under-india-uk-fta-quota) - [Government partners with states to boost FTA export outreach for MSMEs and farmers](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/government-partners-with-states-to-boost-fta-export-outreach-for-msmes-and-farme) - [DGFT Automates Free Sale and Commerce Certificates Issuance to Cut Processing Time](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/dgft-automates-free-sale-and-commerce-certificates-issuance-to-cut-processing-ti) ## The Bahamas Becomes 116th Member of International Solar Alliance After Handing Over Ratification Instrument in New Delhi ### Key Updates - The Bahamas handed over its instrument of ratification of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement in New Delhi on 3 November 2026, on the sidelines of the 9th ISA Assembly, becoming the ISA's 116th member country. - Bahamas High Commissioner to India P. Nicholas Symonette Jr. handed over the instrument to P.S. Gangadhar, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs and head of the ISA Depositary. - The Bahamas Foreign Ministry said ISA membership will help expand solar power and battery storage and cut dependence on imported fuel. - The ISA was launched on 30 November 2015 in Paris at COP21 by India (PM Modi) and France (President Hollande); its Framework Agreement was opened for signature on 15 November 2016 at Marrakesh (COP22) and entered into force on 6 December 2017. - The Framework Agreement enters into force on the 30th day after the 15th ratification; Guinea became the 15th ratifying country on 6 November 2017, making the ISA a treaty-based international body on 6 December 2017. - The Government of India is the ISA Depositary under Article XIV, so new members lodge their instruments with India's Ministry of External Affairs; the ISA headquarters is at the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) campus in Gurugram, Haryana. - Under an amendment adopted at the first ISA Assembly in 2018 and in force from 8 January 2021, all UN member states can join the ISA; the ISA Assembly, with one vote per member, meets every year. - The Bahamas is an Atlantic archipelago south-east of Florida and north of Cuba, with capital Nassau on New Providence island; the Tropic of Cancer passes through the Exuma islands, and its currency is the Bahamian dollar. - The Bahamas gained independence from Britain in 1973 (self-government in 1964), with the British monarch as head of state through a Governor-General, and is a member of the Commonwealth and CARICOM (since 1983). - Most scholars believe Columbus first landed in the 'New World' on San Salvador island in the Bahamas on 12 October 1492. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Turkey becomes 71st country to join Artemis Accords](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/turkey-becomes-71st-country-to-join-artemis-accords) - [India hosts 8th BRICS Youth Energy Summit virtually on August 17, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/india-hosts-8th-brics-youth-energy-summit-virtually-on-august-17-2026) - [One lakh rooftop solar installations every six days under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, says Pralhad Joshi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/one-lakh-rooftop-solar-installations-every-six-days-under-pm-surya-ghar-muft-bij) - [India Elected International Solar Alliance President for Third Consecutive Term as Pralhad Joshi Addresses Bharat Renewable Energy Summit 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/india-elected-international-solar-alliance-president-for-third-consecutive-term) ## Indian Air Force's Software Development Institute partners with IIT Madras and IITM Pravartak to develop indigenous digital communication system for airborne use ### Key Updates - The Software Development Institute (SDI) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation for joint design and development of an indigenous digital communication system for airborne applications. - The MoA was signed by Air Vice Marshal Sarabjit Singh, Commandant SDI, and Dr MJ Shankar Raman, CEO of IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, in the presence of IIT Madras Director Prof V Kamakoti. - The collaboration will focus on joint development of advanced algorithms for communication systems and networking. - The indigenous development aims to reduce reliance on imported systems, boost IAF operational efficiency, and contribute to the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Ministry of Defence signs five-year MoU with Sarvam AI to develop sovereign AI for Indian Armed Forces](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/ministry-of-defence-signs-five-year-mou-with-sarvam-ai-to-develop-sovereign-ai-f) - [India and France's national library sign manuscript preservation partnership under Gyan Bharatam](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-and-france-s-national-library-sign-manuscript-preservation-partnership-und) - [TDB-DST signs agreement with Manastu Space for ₹116 crore RDI support to develop indigenous green propulsion technology](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/tdb-dst-signs-agreement-with-manastu-space-for-116-crore-rdi-support-to-develop) ## Keralam gains mangrove cover over the last decade despite historic losses, ICAR-CMFRI study finds ### Key Updates - A study by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), based in Kochi, found an overall increase in Keralam's mangrove cover over the past decade, despite the State losing nearly 90% of its mangroves over the past five decades. - The study compared satellite images from 2017 and 2026 to map changes in mangrove vegetation across Keralam's coastal districts, and was presented at an international symposium on fisheries and remote sensing hosted at CMFRI. - The three-day symposium is jointly organised by the Trevor Platt Science Foundation, the Department of Chemical Oceanography of Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), CMFRI and the Marine Biological Association of India. - Mangroves serve as breeding and nursery grounds for fish, protect coastlines from cyclones and storm surges, and help absorb atmospheric carbon. - Another study presented at the symposium found the Bay of Bengal experienced more than 100 marine heatwave events between 1982 and 2023, with rising frequency and cumulative intensity; it was presented by the Department of Oceanography of Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [IMD study finds northwest India growing drier and south peninsula wetter over seven decades](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/imd-study-finds-northwest-india-growing-drier-and-south-peninsula-wetter-over-se) - [ICAR-CMFRI delivers five lakh hatchery-produced green mussel seeds to fisher communities in Maharashtra](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/icar-cmfri-delivers-five-lakh-hatchery-produced-green-mussel-seeds-to-fisher-com) - [IUCN Study Declares All 13 South Asian Coral Reef Ecoregions Critically Endangered](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/iucn-study-declares-all-13-south-asian-coral-reef-ecoregions-critically-endanger) - [India Showcases Forest Cover Gains and Restoration Initiatives at FAO Committee on Forestry 28th Session in Rome](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-showcases-forest-cover-gains-and-restoration-initiatives-at-fao-committee) ## Two-Day National Tabletop Exercise VAJRA-SAT on FMD SAT-1 Preparedness Ends in Bengaluru ### Key Updates - The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), with ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (ICAR-NIVEDI), Bengaluru, organised the two-day National Tabletop Exercise 'VAJRA-SAT' on Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) serotype SAT-1 preparedness on 4–5 November 2026 under the theme 'Detect Early, Confirm Fast, Contain Together'. - FMD serotype SAT-1 has never been reported in India; the exercise was a proactive preparedness step given its spread beyond Africa to parts of West Asia. - The exercise brought together 83 participants from 25 States, three Union Territories and key national institutions, including State Animal Husbandry Departments, ICAR institutions, veterinary diagnostic laboratories, veterinary universities, vaccine manufacturers, and defence and border guarding agencies. - The exercise was inaugurated on 4 November by Dr. Naveena B.M., Animal Husbandry Commissioner, DAHD, and the concluding session on 5 November was chaired by Shri Rama Shankar Sinha, Additional Secretary (Livestock Health), DAHD. - A separate technical meeting on FMD-free compartmentalisation of semen production centres and semen banks was held on 5 November 2026 to safeguard livestock genetic resources and facilitate safe livestock trade. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Dettol Banega Swasth India Observes Global Handwashing Day 2026 on October 15 Under Theme 'Be a Handwashing Hero'](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/dettol-banega-swasth-india-observes-global-handwashing-day-2026-on-october-15-un) - [India-UK Bilateral Maritime Exercise Konkan-26 Ends Off Plymouth After October 8-15 Drills](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-uk-bilateral-maritime-exercise-konkan-26-ends-off-plymouth-after-october-8) - [India and United States Launch Fifth Edition of Tiger Triumph 2026 HADR Exercise in Visakhapatnam](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/india-and-united-states-launch-fifth-edition-of-tiger-triumph-2026-hadr-exercise) - [India's Coast Guard holds 12th edition of SAREX-2026 maritime search and rescue drill near Paradip, Odisha on October 8, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-s-coast-guard-holds-12th-edition-of-sarex-2026-maritime-search-and-rescue) ## NGT rules FIRs mandatory for theft of state-owned minerals even after penalties are paid ### Key Updates - The National Green Tribunal (NGT) ruled that police and mining authorities are legally bound to register FIRs under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for theft of state-owned minerals, and payment of penalties or compounding of offences under Section 23A of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 does not bar criminal prosecution. - The NGT's Eastern Zone Bench directed Odisha authorities to initiate criminal proceedings against Prem Kishore Patel for alleged illegal sand mining and large-scale storage in the Mahanadi riverbed at Chikhili village in Bargarh district, and ordered the Bargarh Superintendent of Police and the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) Regional Officer to register separate FIRs. - A raid on June 22, 2024 detected around 8,688 cubic metres of illegally stored sand, and a joint fact-finding committee found Chikhili was not a notified sand source and no mining permission had ever been granted there. - The NGT ordered the OSPCB to assess and recover environmental compensation, directed GPS-based vehicle tracking and RFID tags on all vehicles transporting minor minerals, and asked the Odisha chief secretary to review compliance quarterly with reports uploaded on the state website. - The tribunal also directed that all seized illegally mined river sand be disposed of through public auction, with proceeds deposited in an OSPCB fund for environmental restoration in the affected region. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Ministry of Mines Rolls Out Ninth Tranche of Critical Mineral Block Auction and Third Exploration Licence Auction with Auction Rule Reforms](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/ministry-of-mines-rolls-out-ninth-tranche-of-critical-mineral-block-auction-and) - [Quad commits $10 million for critical minerals recycling in India and ASEAN at Atlanta foreign ministers' meeting](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/quad-commits-10-million-for-critical-minerals-recycling-in-india-and-asean-at-at) - [Meghalaya Assembly Resolution Against Uranium Mining: Prohibition on Mining and Ore-Processing](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/meghalaya-assembly-resolution-against-uranium-mining-prohibition-on-mining-and-o) - [Government to replace 1957 mining law with new comprehensive legislation](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/government-to-replace-1957-mining-law-with-new-comprehensive-legislation) ## Department of Financial Services Wins PM Surya Ghar Excellence Award for Rooftop Solarisation of Government Buildings ### Key Updates - The Department of Financial Services (DFS) was conferred the PM Surya Ghar Excellence Award (2nd Position) under the category 'Maximum Buildings Solarized by Central Ministries/Departments' on 05.11.2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. - The award was presented by the Vice-President of India during the valedictory session of the Bharat Renewable Energy Summit & Expo 2026, organised by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) alongside the 9th General Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the 4th International Conference on Green Hydrogen. - Out of 4,144 buildings under DFS administrative control, 2,576 feasible buildings were identified for solarisation, and rooftop solar PV plants were fully commissioned across all of them, delivering an aggregate installed capacity of 61.50 MW. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [PM-KUSUM 2.0 to focus on agri-photovoltaics and solar pump upgrades for food and energy security](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/pm-kusum-2-0-to-focus-on-agri-photovoltaics-and-solar-pump-upgrades-for-food-and) - [India plans blended domestic and international financing to achieve 500 GW renewable energy goal, says MNRE Secretary](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-plans-blended-domestic-and-international-financing-to-achieve-500-gw-renew) - [One lakh rooftop solar installations every six days under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, says Pralhad Joshi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/11/one-lakh-rooftop-solar-installations-every-six-days-under-pm-surya-ghar-muft-bij) - [PM Modi Opens NGT International Conference 2026 on Environment and Climate in New Delhi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/pm-modi-opens-ngt-international-conference-2026-on-environment-and-climate-in-ne)