--- title: "Daily Current Affairs: 20 September 2026" date_published: "2026-09-20" date_modified: "2026-09-20T08:00:00+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/20_09_2026" citation_url: "https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/20_09_2026" content_url: "https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/20_09_2026.md" --- # Daily Current Affairs: 20 September 2026 Daily current affairs for 20 September 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/20_09_2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/20_09_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: 20 September 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 - Bank of Japan Lifts Key Rate to 1.25%, Highest Since 1995, to Fight Rising Prices - Lam Research to Invest Rs 10,000 Crore in First Silicon Component Manufacturing Facility in India - DGFT Approves Import of 642 UK Cars Under India-UK FTA Quota - FSSAI Initiates Three Adjudication Cases Against Nestle India Over Infant Nutrition Products - Health Ministry Proposes CCTV Surveillance Mandate for Sale of Schedule H, H1 and X Drugs Under Drugs Rules, 1945 - Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 Campaign Begins With Theme 'Swachhata Mein Sahbhag, Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat' ## Bank of Japan Lifts Key Rate to 1.25%, Highest Since 1995, to Fight Rising Prices ### Key Updates - The Bank of Japan (BOJ) raised its main interest rate from 1% to 1.25% on Friday, a level not seen since 1995. - The BOJ has hiked rates six times in the last two and a half years, beginning from minus 0.1% in 2024. - Japan's core inflation eased to 1.7% in August from 1.8% in July, remaining close to the BOJ's 2% target. - The US Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate for the first time in over three years, while the European Central Bank also increased borrowing costs earlier this month. - In August, Japan and the United States jointly intervened to halt a slide in the yen after it fell to a fresh 40-year low, the first coordinated intervention since 2011. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India's WPI Inflation Rises to 9.92% in August 2026, Government Announces](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-s-wpi-inflation-rises-to-9-92-in-august-2026-government-announces) - [US Federal Reserve Hikes Rates by 25 bps Under Chair Kevin Warsh; Impact on Indian Markets and FII Flows](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/us-federal-reserve-hikes-rates-by-25-bps-under-chair-kevin-warsh-impact-on-india) - [Finance Ministry retains interest rates for small savings schemes for July-September 2026 quarter](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/finance-ministry-retains-interest-rates-for-small-savings-schemes-for-july-septe) - [India's CPI Retail Inflation Climbs to 4.82% in August 2026 as Food Prices Accelerate](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-s-cpi-retail-inflation-climbs-to-4-82-in-august-2026-as-food-prices-accele) ## Lam Research to Invest Rs 10,000 Crore in First Silicon Component Manufacturing Facility in India ### Key Updates - Semiconductor equipment maker Lam Research announced plans to invest around Rs 10,000 crore to set up its first silicon component manufacturing facility in India. - The facility will support a vertically integrated process spanning silicon ingot production and processing for advanced semiconductor technologies and leading-edge nodes. - Lam intends to make the investment over the next several years, alongside augmenting its advanced research and development operations. - The R&D augmentation builds on Lam's India Center for Engineering, which supports design, testing, validation, and next-generation technology development for customers globally. - Rangesh Raghavan is the Corporate Vice President and Managing Director of Lam Research India. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Fujifilm Commits ₹800 Crore for Greenfield Semiconductor Materials Plant in India](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/fujifilm-commits-800-crore-for-greenfield-semiconductor-materials-plant-in-india) - [India Inaugurates Green Forge Complex at BRIC-NABI Mohali](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-inaugurates-green-forge-complex-at-bric-nabi-mohali) - [PM Modi Opens SEMICON India 2026 Semiconductor Conference at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/pm-modi-opens-semicon-india-2026-semiconductor-conference-at-yashobhoomi-new-del) - [Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group to set up ₹600 crore superalloy manufacturing facility in Telangana](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/raghu-vamsi-aerospace-group-to-set-up-600-crore-superalloy-manufacturing-facilit) ## DGFT Approves Import of 642 UK Cars Under India-UK FTA Quota ### Key Updates - The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) approved applications from seven companies to import 642 cars from the UK for the remainder of 2026 under the tariff rate quota (TRQ) provisions of the India-UK free trade agreement, having received applications from eight companies. - Only original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), dealers, and channel partners duly authorised by UK OEMs were eligible to apply for the TRQ. - Under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), effective July 15, India will allow import of 3.78 lakh conventional-engine passenger cars from the UK at concessional customs duty over the first 15 years. - Tariffs on automotive imports will fall from around 110 per cent to 10 per cent, with duties on standard petrol and diesel cars initially dropping to 30–50 per cent before reaching 10 per cent by the fifth year. - Annual TRQ caps start at 20,000 units in the first year and rise to 37,000 units by year five, within the overall 15-year ceiling of 3.78 lakh vehicles. - DGFT had invited applications in July for the 2026 import quota of about 5,000 units for fully-built passenger cars and goods vehicles, with uptake in the first round well below the ceiling. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India-UK Free Trade Agreement takes effect on 16 July 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/india-uk-free-trade-agreement-takes-effect-on-16-july-2026) - [India Notifies Rules for UK Vehicle Import Benefits Under CETA Effective 15 July 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/india-notifies-rules-for-uk-vehicle-import-benefits-under-ceta-effective-15-july) - [India Notifies Tariff Rate Quota Allocation Procedure Under India-Oman CEPA](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/india-notifies-tariff-rate-quota-allocation-procedure-under-india-oman-cepa) ## FSSAI Initiates Three Adjudication Cases Against Nestle India Over Infant Nutrition Products ### Key Updates - FSSAI has filed three separate adjudication cases against Nestle India Limited concerning NAN Excella Pro Stage 1, Lactogen Pro 1 and a follow-up formula manufactured by the company. - Two cases relate to promotional claims on NAN Excella Pro Stage 1 (claims of '5 HMOs' and 'Whey Protein') and Lactogen Pro 1 (whey protein described as easy to digest), both cited as contraventions of Regulation 4(2) of the Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020. - The third case concerns a follow-up formula sample found sub-standard in biotin content in laboratory analysis, with the Referral Laboratory also finding it did not conform to the prescribed biotin requirement under the 2020 regulations. - The FSSAI notice also cites the Infant Milk Substitutes, Feeding Bottles and Infant Foods (Regulation of Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 1992, which restricts advertisement and promotion of infant milk substitutes and certain infant foods. - Nestle India stated its products are fully compliant, that the labels of NAN Excella Pro and Lactogen Pro were approved by FSSAI's expert committee, and that it has submitted a detailed response to the authorities. - The initiation of proceedings does not mean the products are banned or unsafe; the outcome depends on the adjudication proceedings. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [FSSAI Suspends Dior Pharmaceuticals' Nutraceutical Licence in Punjab](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/fssai-suspends-dior-pharmaceuticals-nutraceutical-licence-in-punjab) - [CCPA imposes Rs 1 lakh penalty on Storia Foods and English Oven for misleading '100%' claims under Consumer Protection Act 2019](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/ccpa-imposes-rs-1-lakh-penalty-on-storia-foods-and-english-oven-for-misleading-1) - [FSSAI Proposes Front-of-Pack Warning Labels for Packaged Food High in Sugar, Fat or Salt](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/fssai-proposes-front-of-pack-warning-labels-for-packaged-food-high-in-sugar-fat) - [Supreme Court Asks FSSAI for 10-Day Timeline on Phased Front-of-Pack Warning Label Rollout](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/supreme-court-asks-fssai-for-10-day-timeline-on-phased-front-of-pack-warning-lab) ## Health Ministry Proposes CCTV Surveillance Mandate for Sale of Schedule H, H1 and X Drugs Under Drugs Rules, 1945 ### Key Updates - The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has proposed amendments to the Drugs Rules, 1945 to mandate CCTV surveillance at licensed premises for the sale of prescription drugs. - The proposal aims to curb unauthorised access to and sale of Schedule H, H1 and X drugs, which include prescription-only medicines, antibiotics, habit-forming sedatives, and high-risk narcotics and psychotropic substances. - The proposal was deliberated by the Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC) and circulated to the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), which recommended its approval. - Under the draft notification, CCTV footage must be preserved for three months, and the mandate will not apply to wholesale dealing. - Stakeholders and the public have been invited to submit suggestions and objections within 30 days. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Amendment to Drugs Rules, 1945: Stricter Controls for High Alcohol Content Medicines](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/amendment-to-drugs-rules-1945-stricter-controls-for-high-alcohol-content-medicin) - [Drugs Rules, 1945 Amended for Central Licensing of Stem Cell and Gene Therapies](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/drugs-rules-1945-amended-for-central-licensing-of-stem-cell-and-gene-therapies) - [Union Health Ministry restricts FDCs with chlorpheniramine and phenylephrine for children below four](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/union-health-ministry-restricts-fdcs-with-chlorpheniramine-and-phenylephrine-for) - [QR Code-based Drug Traceability Expansion: Strengthening Safeguards Against Counterfeit Medicines](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/qr-code-based-drug-traceability-expansion-strengthening-safeguards-against-count) ## Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 Campaign Begins With Theme 'Swachhata Mein Sahbhag, Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat' ### Key Updates - The Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 campaign commenced on September 17, 2026, with the theme 'Swachhata Mein Sahbhag, Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat', announced by Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil. - The campaign launch coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday on September 17. - According to the minister, 5.25 lakh villages have been declared free of open defecation and 12.22 crore individual household toilets have been built in rural areas since 2014. - Over 18 crore citizens participated in the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign last year, of whom 14 crore were from rural areas. - The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation launched Swachh Seva Aankalan, under which gram panchayats will undertake self-assessment of rural sanitation service delivery under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen). ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [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) - [Seva Sankalp Abhiyan 2026: Nationwide Campaign Marking 25 Years of PM Modi's Public Service from September 17 to October 17](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/seva-sankalp-abhiyan-2026-nationwide-campaign-marking-25-years-of-pm-modi-s-publ) - [BJP to chalk out nationwide plan for Modi@25 celebrations on August 22](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/bjp-to-chalk-out-nationwide-plan-for-modi-25-celebrations-on-august-22) ## Six States Sign MoA for Kishau Multipurpose Project on Tons River with 90% Central Funding for Water Component ### Key Updates - Chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana signed the Memorandum of Agreement for the Kishau multipurpose project on September 16, 2026, in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. - The Kishau project is proposed on the Tons River, a major tributary of the Yamuna, in Uttarakhand's Dehradun district and Himachal Pradesh's Sirmaur district. - The project envisages a 232.6-metre-high concrete gravity dam with a live storage capacity of 1,562 million cubic metres, irrigation benefits to about 0.97 lakh hectares, and annual energy generation of approximately 1,476 million units. - The meeting decided that 90% of the cost of the water component will be borne by the Central government, with the remaining 10% shared by the six participating states. - The project will be implemented by Kishau Corporation Limited, a joint venture of the Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand governments. - Himachal Pradesh's share of water will be allocated to Delhi and Rajasthan in return for sharing the cost of Himachal Pradesh's portion of the power component. - The Kishau agreement is the third project-specific construction agreement among the six Upper Yamuna basin states, after Renuka ji and Lakhwar multipurpose projects, which are already under construction. - With the MoA signed, the Kishau project will be placed before the Union Cabinet for approval. - The Upper Yamuna basin states had signed a Memorandum of Understanding on May 12, 1994, for sharing the utilisable surface water of the Yamuna up to Okhla Barrage. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Narmada Award Dues Settlement Pact: One-time settlement of Sardar Sarovar Project payments](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/narmada-award-dues-settlement-pact-one-time-settlement-of-sardar-sarovar-project) - [REC and PFC sign Rs 26,850 crore loan agreement for 2,400 MW Meja Thermal Power Project expansion](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/rec-and-pfc-sign-rs-26-850-crore-loan-agreement-for-2-400-mw-meja-thermal-power) - [JSW Neo Energy and Bhutan's DGPC Sign Pact for 920 MW Punatsangchhu-III Hydro Project](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/jsw-neo-energy-and-bhutan-s-dgpc-sign-pact-for-920-mw-punatsangchhu-iii-hydro-pr) - [United States, Israel, and Lebanon sign Trilateral Framework agreement on June 26, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/united-states-israel-and-lebanon-sign-trilateral-framework-agreement-on-june-26) ## NIELIT Ahmedabad Gets Infineon-Supported Centre of Excellence for Semiconductor Backend Manufacturing, Inaugurated by Union Minister Jitin Prasada ### Key Updates - The NIELIT–Infineon Centre of Excellence (CoE) on Semiconductor Manufacturing was inaugurated virtually on 16 September 2026 at NIELIT Ahmedabad, Gujarat, by Union Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology and Commerce & Industry Jitin Prasada. - The CoE was set up by the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with Infineon Technologies, in the presence of Infineon CEO Jochen Hanebeck, NIELIT Director General Madan Mohan Tripathi, German Charge d'Affaires Georg Enzweiler and Gujarat State Electronics Mission Director Neha Kumari. - Infineon Technologies is supporting the CoE with eight units of industry-grade semiconductor backend manufacturing equipment: 2 ASM AD838 Die/Glue Bonders, 2 SHINKAWA UTC1000 Wire Bonders, 2 BESI FICO Moulding Machines and 2 BESI FICO Trim-and-Form Machines. - The equipment enables learners to practise sequential operations of die bonding, wire bonding, moulding, trimming and lead forming, giving exposure to actual semiconductor backend manufacturing workflows. - The CoE will cater to diploma holders, engineering students, technicians, working professionals and faculty, and will support short-term and long-term training programmes, laboratory modules, faculty development programmes, training-of-trainers initiatives and industry-oriented curricula in semiconductor packaging and backend manufacturing. - The NIELIT–Infineon partnership began with the signing of the first understanding on 17 March 2025 in the presence of Jitin Prasada. - NIELIT Ahmedabad will serve as a model that can be replicated and scaled through NIELIT's national network to build a sustainable, industry-led approach to semiconductor skilling. - The initiative supports India's expanding semiconductor manufacturing, Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) and Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) capabilities, and complements the objectives of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [NIELIT to Establish Two CoE’s for Semiconductor Skilling in Ahmedabad and Guwahati](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/nielit-to-establish-two-coe-s-for-semiconductor-skilling-in-ahmedabad-and-guwaha) - [Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates CG Semi semiconductor plant in Gujarat](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/prime-minister-narendra-modi-inaugurates-cg-semi-semiconductor-plant-in-gujarat) - [PM Modi Opens SEMICON India 2026 Semiconductor Conference at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/pm-modi-opens-semicon-india-2026-semiconductor-conference-at-yashobhoomi-new-del) - [NIELIT and SCL Launch 1.2-Micron Process Design Kit](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/nielit-and-scl-launch-1-2-micron-process-design-kit) ## MeitY Clears AI Centre of Excellence in Bhubaneswar; Blue Cloud Softech to Contribute Rs 4 Crore Under IndiaAI Mission ### Key Updates - The proposed Centre of Excellence in artificial intelligence (AI-CoE) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha has received in-principle approval from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). - Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), an autonomous society under MeitY, will implement the centre under the IndiaAI Mission. - STPI has confirmed Hyderabad-based Blue Cloud Softech Solutions as the industry partner, which will contribute Rs 4 crore and provide industry leadership, mentorship and strategic support to startups. - The AI-CoE's initial application areas include healthcare, governance, disaster management, education and industrial use cases, with priority areas also covering oceanography, coastal fisheries, tidal and ocean energy, and women and child development. - STPI has earmarked around 10,000 square feet of built-up space with supporting infrastructure for the centre. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [IndiaAI Fellowship: Seven Chandigarh University Students Awarded Rs. 1 Lakh Each](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/indiaai-fellowship-seven-chandigarh-university-students-awarded-rs-1-lakh-each) - [Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SbDS) grants in-principle approval for Rs 24,700 crore Odisha shipbuilding cluster](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/shipbuilding-development-scheme-sbds-grants-in-principle-approval-for-rs-24-700) - [Andhra Pradesh Approves Quantum and AI University Campus in Amaravati](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/andhra-pradesh-approves-quantum-and-ai-university-campus-in-amaravati) - [HCLTech to Invest ₹14,257 Crore in Odisha AI Data Centre](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/hcltech-to-invest-14-257-crore-in-odisha-ai-data-centre) ## India Hosts 43rd Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference at New Delhi Headquarters from 17 to 19 September 2026 ### Key Updates - The 43rd edition of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference, the Service’s apex annual forum for 2026, was held at Coast Guard Headquarters, New Delhi, from 17 to 19 September 2026. - Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth addressed the ICG’s senior leadership at the official opening of the conference. - The three-day conference, billed as the ICG’s highest-level professional forum, covered current and emerging maritime security challenges, operational readiness and resource deployment, and a roadmap for capability enhancement and force modernisation. - The conference reviewed ongoing initiatives to bolster indigenisation under the Make in India programme, in alignment with the Government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. - A Request for Information is in progress for ten Medium Altitude Long Endurance drones for the ICG’s Aviation Wing, aimed at extending surveillance reach across the exclusive economic zone. - Shipyards and design houses met at Coast Guard Headquarters in July to convert broad qualitative requirements into measurable specifications for future Special Role and Multi-role platforms. - The ICG was raised in 1977, and 2027 marks the completion of its golden jubilee. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Raksha Mantri Announces Indian Coast Guard Policy Reforms](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/raksha-mantri-announces-indian-coast-guard-policy-reforms) - [Indian Coast Guard Receives ICGS Ajit Fast Patrol Vessel on 25 August 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/indian-coast-guard-receives-icgs-ajit-fast-patrol-vessel-on-25-august-2026) - [Indian Coast Guard, Vietnam Coast Guard Hold 7th High-Level Meeting](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/indian-coast-guard-vietnam-coast-guard-hold-7th-high-level-meeting) ## United States Includes India, China and Pakistan in FY-27 List of Major Drug Transit or Illicit Drug-Producing Countries ### Key Updates - The United States, in its annual presidential determination submitted to the US Congress on September 15, identified 23 countries, including India, China and Pakistan, as major drug transit or illicit drug-producing countries for fiscal year 2027. - US President Donald Trump welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government's efforts to curb illicit opium poppy cultivation and strengthen supply chain integrity, and looked forward to continued cooperation through the United States-India Drug Policy Framework. - The determination highlighted China as the world's largest producer of many precursor chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl and methamphetamine, and Trump said the PRC needs to schedule additional chemical precursors requested by the United States. - Venezuela was given a positive assessment, with Trump determining it should no longer be designated as having failed demonstrably to fulfil its drug control commitments under interim President Delcy Rodriguez. - Afghanistan, Bolivia, Burma and Colombia were designated as having failed demonstrably over the previous 12 months to fulfil their international counternarcotics obligations. - Inclusion on the list does not necessarily reflect a government's counterdrug efforts, as countries are identified based on geographic, commercial and economic factors. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [DGCA Mandates One-Time Drug Testing of All Pilots by July 2027](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/dgca-mandates-one-time-drug-testing-of-all-pilots-by-july-2027) - [Pakistan names first lunar rover Jinnah-1, set for 2029 Moon mission](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/pakistan-names-first-lunar-rover-jinnah-1-set-for-2029-moon-mission) - [SCO names Lahore as Tourism and Cultural Capital for 2026-27](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/sco-names-lahore-as-tourism-and-cultural-capital-for-2026-27) - [United States Names India Part of Shadow Transhipment Network in White House Report](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/united-states-names-india-part-of-shadow-transhipment-network-in-white-house-rep) ## India and Japan to Celebrate 75th Anniversary of Diplomatic Ties in 2027 ### Key Updates - India and Japan will mark the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2027. - Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi reaffirmed the special strategic partnership between India and Japan, calling India a trusted partner sharing strategic direction with Japan. - Motegi will attend the United Nations General Assembly after 20 September 2026, where he will meet foreign ministers including India's representative. - 2026 marks the 60th anniversary of Japan joining the United Nations. - Plans are underway to expand India-Japan exchanges in cultural, artistic, sporting, scientific, and municipal fields during the anniversary year. - Motegi emphasised security guarantees including economic security, and leveraging investment and innovation to build a mutually complementary India-Japan relationship. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to attend 16th India-Japan Annual Summit from July 1 to 3](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/japan-prime-minister-sanae-takaichi-to-attend-16th-india-japan-annual-summit-fro) - [India and Vietnam to Mark 2027 as Friendship Year After 19th Joint Commission Meeting in New Delhi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-and-vietnam-to-mark-2027-as-friendship-year-after-19th-joint-commission-me) - [Samvidhan Hatya Diwas observed on June 25](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/samvidhan-hatya-diwas-observed-on-june-25) - [India, Japan to Play First Men’s T20I](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-japan-to-play-first-men-s-t20i) ## India Pushes Trade Facilitation as SCO Ministers Conclude 25th Economic Meeting in Dushanbe ### Key Updates - The 25th Meeting of the Ministers of Economy and Foreign Trade of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) concluded in Dushanbe, Tajikistan on September 17, 2026, covering trade facilitation, resilient supply chains, digital commerce, connectivity and the 2026–30 economic cooperation action plan. - India was represented by Yashvir Singh, who framed its position around three pillars — Security, Connectivity and Opportunity — outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the SCO summit in Bishkek earlier in September 2026. - Ministers adopted a Statement of the Ministers of Economy and Foreign Trade of SCO Member States and agreed on an Action Plan for 2026–2030 for implementing the SCO Programme of Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation, to be forwarded to the Council of Heads of Government for approval. - The ministers approved regulations for an SCO special working group on the development of the creative economy. - India called for simpler customs procedures, paperless trade, electronic exchange of trade documents, stronger multimodal connectivity, and supply chain cooperation in agriculture, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and electronics. - India highlighted digital payments, cross-border payments and accessible trade finance for small and medium enterprises and start-ups, and reiterated support for a WTO-centred, rules-based multilateral trading system. - The next SCO economic and foreign trade ministers' meeting is scheduled to be held in Uzbekistan in 2027. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit 2026 to be held in Bishkek from August 31 to September 1](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/shanghai-cooperation-organization-sco-summit-2026-to-be-held-in-bishkek-from-aug) - [India-Afghanistan Joint Working Group Reviews Bilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-afghanistan-joint-working-group-reviews-bilateral-trade-and-economic-coope) - [UAE and Iranian Presidents Hold First Talks Since the War at BRICS Summit in India](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/uae-and-iranian-presidents-hold-first-talks-since-the-war-at-brics-summit-in-ind) - [26th SCO Summit Held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/26th-sco-summit-held-in-bishkek-kyrgyzstan) ## United States Clears $24.3 Billion Foreign Military Sale of 48 F-35 Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia ### Key Updates - The US Department of State approved a possible Foreign Military Sale of 48 F-35 Lightning 2 fighter aircraft and related equipment to Saudi Arabia at an estimated cost of USD 24.3 billion. - The package includes 48 F-35 aircraft with conventional takeoff and landing capability and 49 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines, comprising 48 installed engines and one spare engine. - The sale also covers secure communications, precision navigation and cryptographic equipment, electronic warfare database support, simulators, spare parts, training equipment, software, technical documentation and logistics support. - The State Department said the sale would strengthen Saudi Arabia's homeland defence and improve interoperability with US, regional and NATO forces, while not altering the regional military balance. - Principal contractors are Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, based in Fort Worth, Texas, and Pratt & Whitney Military Engines, based in East Hartford, Connecticut. - No additional US government or contractor representatives would need to be assigned to Saudi Arabia for implementation, and no offset agreement has been proposed so far. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Yemen's Houthis Capture Greater and Lesser Hanish Islands in Southern Red Sea, Pressuring Key Shipping Route](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/yemen-s-houthis-capture-greater-and-lesser-hanish-islands-in-southern-red-sea-pr) - [Iran Reportedly Invited to Join Mecca Joint Defence Agreement; India Watches Closely](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/iran-reportedly-invited-to-join-mecca-joint-defence-agreement-india-watches-clos) - [Saudi Arabia Launches Multinational Maritime Defence Coalition Involving 39 Countries](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/saudi-arabia-launches-multinational-maritime-defence-coalition-involving-39-coun) ## India Retains 131st Position in Global Gender Gap Index 2026 as Iceland Keeps Top Rank ### Key Updates - India retained the 131st rank among 145 countries in the Global Gender Gap Index 2026, released by the World Economic Forum on September 16, 2026, with only 14 countries ranked below it. - Iceland, Finland and Norway held the top three positions, with Iceland the only country to have closed more than 90 per cent of its gender gap. - Globally, 69.2 per cent of the gender gap has been closed, up 0.4 percentage points from the previous year, but full parity remains 120 years away, according to the WEF. - India's gender parity stood at 64.5 per cent, below the global average; its overall parity has risen 4.3 percentage points since 2006, mainly due to gains in educational attainment. - India's 2026 subindex scores: Economic Participation and Opportunity 41.2 per cent, Educational Attainment 96.6 per cent, Health and Survival 95.6 per cent, and Political Empowerment 24.5 per cent with a global rank of 67th. - Chad was the lowest-ranked country, with Iran and Pakistan joining it in the bottom three. - In its 20th year, the index benchmarked 145 economies across four dimensions: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment. - Australia entered the top 10 for the first time; Namibia climbed four places to fourth as the highest-ranked Sub-Saharan African country, followed by the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Sweden, Australia, Germany and Ireland. - Iceland, Finland, Norway and Sweden are the only four economies to have appeared in every top 10 since 2006. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Global Liveability Index 2026 released by Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/global-liveability-index-2026-released-by-economist-intelligence-unit-eiu) - [International Monetary Fund Backs India’s Push to Modernise Macroeconomic Statistics](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/international-monetary-fund-backs-india-s-push-to-modernise-macroeconomic-statis) - [Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2026: Estonia Tops Global Rankings, India Ranked 176th](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/environmental-performance-index-epi-2026-estonia-tops-global-rankings-india-rank) - [Delhi Secures Top Rank in NITI Aayog's India Electric Mobility Index 2025](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/delhi-secures-top-rank-in-niti-aayog-s-india-electric-mobility-index-2025) ## Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to Deliver Tejas Trainers and HTT-40 Aircraft to Indian Air Force on September 18 ### Key Updates - Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will hand over LCA Tejas Final Operational Clearance (FOC) twin-seater trainers and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF), and Dhruv Next Generation (NG) helicopters to Pawan Hans Limited, in Bengaluru on September 18, 2026. - The handover will take place in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu. - Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, HAL Chairman and Managing Director Ravi K, and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Civil Aviation will attend the event. - The induction of these indigenous platforms is a step towards strengthening India's self-reliance in aerospace and reducing dependence on foreign sources. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [HAL Revives Su-30MKI Production at Nashik with 12 Aircraft for Indian Air Force](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/hal-revives-su-30mki-production-at-nashik-with-12-aircraft-for-indian-air-force) - [Airports Authority of India (AAI) Operationalises Satellite-Guided Helicopter Approach at HAL Airport](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/airports-authority-of-india-aai-operationalises-satellite-guided-helicopter-appr) - [India inaugurates first public-private defence avionics facility in Gurugram](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/india-inaugurates-first-public-private-defence-avionics-facility-in-gurugram) - [HAL and Safran Sign Aravalli Helicopter Engine Contract](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/hal-and-safran-sign-aravalli-helicopter-engine-contract) ## Odisha Minister Says Agencies Probing International Links in Orangutan Smuggling Case ### Key Updates - Odisha forest and environment minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia said the Special Task Force (STF) and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) are investigating possible international links in the illegal smuggling of rescued orangutans in the state. - A joint probe across several states has been initiated to trace the smuggling network, which may take around a month to conclude, while the primary accused within Odisha have been arrested. - All five rescued orangutans are currently healthy; three of four primates tested positive for anaemia, one severely and two mildly, while results for the other two are pending. - The orangutans are being given iron supplements along with fruit and vegetable-rich diets, and veterinarians have taken chest, stomach and skull X-rays and collected blood, serum and nasopharyngeal swab samples for tests. - Dr Indramani Nath, former Project Coordinator at OUAT Wild Animal Medical Centre, said the orangutans were hand-fed with milk bottles from a young age without mothers' milk, causing malnutrition and anaemia. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Odisha Cabinet Approves New Agricultural Marketing Law to Create Unified Statewide Market](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/odisha-cabinet-approves-new-agricultural-marketing-law-to-create-unified-statewi) - [Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 Comes Into Force with Punishment Up to 7 Years](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/maharashtra-freedom-of-religion-act-2026-comes-into-force-with-punishment-up-to) - [India Secures Extradition of Virender Singh Basoya from United Arab Emirates on August 14, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/india-secures-extradition-of-virender-singh-basoya-from-united-arab-emirates-on) - [New Catfish Species Discovered in Odisha Named After Legendary Tigress Khairi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/new-catfish-species-discovered-in-odisha-named-after-legendary-tigress-khairi) ## TCS Introduces Custom SoC Design Services for Automotive OEMs ### Key Updates - Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) launched Custom System-on-Chip (SoC) Design Services for automotive original equipment manufacturers and semiconductor ecosystem companies. - The services enable automakers to conceive, design, verify and implement custom SoC solutions for next-generation software-defined vehicles, covering architecture, design, verification, implementation, software integration and system validation. - The launch responds to automakers' shift towards centralised computing and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), aiming to improve performance-per-watt and align compute capabilities with software requirements. - Sreenivasa Chakravarti, Global Head & Vice President of Industrial Autonomy and Engineering at TCS, said the company combines semiconductor engineering, embedded software and systems expertise to help automakers translate silicon strategies into mobility platforms. - TCS shares traded flat in Thursday's intraday session, having fallen nearly 5% over the past month and more than 9% over six months. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [DeepSeek Develops Custom AI Inference Chip to Reduce Reliance on Nvidia and Huawei](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/deepseek-develops-custom-ai-inference-chip-to-reduce-reliance-on-nvidia-and-huaw) - [Qualcomm Teams Up with Amazon to Build Custom AI Chips for AWS Data Centres](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/qualcomm-teams-up-with-amazon-to-build-custom-ai-chips-for-aws-data-centres) - [Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) expands partnership with ABB in multi-million multi-year deal to transform global network operations with AI](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/tata-consultancy-services-tcs-expands-partnership-with-abb-in-multi-million-mult) ## Astronomers Confirm Jupiter-Size Elias 2-24 b as the Youngest Known Planet, Less Than 1 Million Years Old ### Key Updates - Astronomers have confirmed Elias 2-24 b, a Jupiter-mass planet less than 1 million years old, as the youngest known planet, orbiting a star about 450 light-years from Earth. - The study, led by Andrea Bernardi of Universidad Diego Portales in Chile, was published on September 16, 2026 in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. - The planet was confirmed using archived observations from the W. M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii from 2018 and 2020, combined with earlier ALMA and Very Large Telescope detections of a gap in the star's dusty disk. - Elias 2-24 b orbits about 55 times farther from its star than Earth is from the Sun, challenging models suggesting a Jupiter-size planet should take about 5 million years to form at such distances. - The previous youngest-planet record was a four-way tie between two planets around PDS 70 and two around WISPIT 2, all more than 5 million years old. - NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, launched August 30, 2026, carries an advanced coronagraph that could detect more such forming planets in tighter orbits. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Astronomers Discover Rocky 'Mega-Earth' GJ 523b That Defies Planet Formation Theories](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/astronomers-discover-rocky-mega-earth-gj-523b-that-defies-planet-formation-theor) - [NASA's James Webb Space Telescope Discovers New Exoplanet in Beta Pictoris System](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/nasa-s-james-webb-space-telescope-discovers-new-exoplanet-in-beta-pictoris-syste) - [LHS 1140b Shows Helium-Rich Rocky Exoplanet Atmosphere](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/lhs-1140b-shows-helium-rich-rocky-exoplanet-atmosphere) - [Researchers at University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine) discover Earth-like exoplanet GJ 3378b](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/researchers-at-university-of-california-irvine-uc-irvine-discover-earth-like-exo) ## Scientists Discover New Conger Eel Species in Arabian Sea, Name It After Marine Fisheries Research Institute ### Key Updates - Scientists of the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) discovered a new conger eel species from the deep waters of the Arabian Sea and named it Ariosoma cmfriense to mark the institute's 80th anniversary year. - The species was found off Kollam at a depth of about 300 metres in January 2026. - It was identified as distinct based on morphological characteristics and molecular evidence, and distinguished from 12 recognised Ariosoma species in Indian and neighbouring waters. - Distinctive features include a low total vertebral count of 135, 127-130 lateral-line pores, a plain pectoral fin, a dark patch over the operculum, and fine black speckling below the lateral line. - The discovery was made under the Deep Ocean Mission of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, led by Principal Scientist Dr Rekha J Nair. - The holotype has been deposited in the CMFRI Marine Biodiversity Museum and a scientific paper was published in the journal Zootaxa. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) discovers new deep-sea fish species Cyttopsis indica](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/icar-central-marine-fisheries-research-institute-cmfri-discovers-new-deep-sea-fi) ## Venomous Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake Reappears on Southern California Beach After Nearly a Decade ### Key Updates - A yellow-bellied sea snake, one of the world's most venomous sea snakes, was found at Crystal Cove State Beach in Orange County, Southern California, on the night of September 11 by Jackie Aguilar, marking the species' first sighting in the area in nearly ten years (eight years since 2018). - Certified marine naturalist Capt. Chad Steffen confirmed the identification, noting that while its venom can be fatal to humans, the snake is clumsy and slow on land and not aggressive. - The species is identified by a dark brown or black back, a bright yellow underside, and a flattened paddle-like tail adapted for swimming. - Yellow-bellied sea snakes normally inhabit the warmer tropical waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, and their appearance in Southern California is linked to changing weather patterns such as El Nino affecting ocean surface temperatures. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [SpaceX launches two Falcon 9 rockets 38 minutes apart, setting new record](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/spacex-launches-two-falcon-9-rockets-38-minutes-apart-setting-new-record) - [Rare Laudankia Vine Snake Documented in Udaipur](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/rare-laudankia-vine-snake-documented-in-udaipur) - [GI-tagged Mithila Makhana's first sea shipment to Australia flagged off on August 8, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/gi-tagged-mithila-makhana-s-first-sea-shipment-to-australia-flagged-off-on-augus) - [Project Cheetah Turns Four as India's Cheetah Population Reaches 52](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/project-cheetah-turns-four-as-india-s-cheetah-population-reaches-52) ## L&T Semiconductor Arm Debuts First Silicon Carbide Chip Platform at SEMICON India 2026 ### Key Updates - L&T Semiconductor Technologies (LTSCT), a wholly owned subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro, unveiled 40 products at SEMICON India 2026, including its first silicon carbide (SiC) product platform and a fully designed-in-India BLDC motor controller. - The key product is LTSCT's 1200V silicon carbide MOSFET platform developed for power conversion applications such as EV fast chargers, microgrids, solid-state transformers and traction inverters, alongside its first in-house SiC power modules and devices. - The 40-product portfolio also includes a USB-C GaN charger and a Vision Camera SoC combining image processing with on-device AI acceleration, plus a Secure Identity Platform for e-passports, payment cards and national ID systems. - In connectivity and RF, LTSCT is showcasing four indigenously designed modules for smart metering, automotive applications and digital payments, including the LCC43 Dynamic QR and Soundbox proof of concept for NPCI's proposed Trusted Device Layer. - The showcase is presented under the theme "Silicon to Systems: Building the Ecosystem" and is aligned with the Semicon 2.0 initiative, with applications spanning secure identity, surveillance, connectivity, computing and power electronics. - Dr Sandeep Kumar is the Chief Executive of L&T Semiconductor Technologies Limited. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Larsen & Toubro (L&T) secures ₹15,000+ crore offshore contract from ADNOC Offshore](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/larsen-and-toubro-l-and-t-secures-15-000-crore-offshore-contract-from-adnoc-offs) - [SK Hynix Announces $38.1 Billion Investment for Two New Memory Chip Plants](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/sk-hynix-announces-38-1-billion-investment-for-two-new-memory-chip-plants) - [SiCSem's ₹3,406 Crore Silicon Carbide Semiconductor Plant Approved for Odisha](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/sicsem-s-3-406-crore-silicon-carbide-semiconductor-plant-approved-for-odisha) - [Larsen & Toubro Delivers Samarthak, Indian Navy’s First Indigenous Multi-Purpose Vessel on 27 August 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/larsen-and-toubro-delivers-samarthak-indian-navy-s-first-indigenous-multi-purpos) ## Abhishek Sharma Smashes 30-Ball Hundred to Record Fastest T20I Century by an Indian ### Key Updates - Abhishek Sharma scored the fastest century by an Indian in men's T20 internationals, reaching 100 in 30 balls against Afghanistan in the third T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi, breaking Rohit Sharma's record of a 35-ball century made against Sri Lanka in December 2017. - His knock included 10 sixes and nine fours, and was also the fastest T20I century by any batter against a Test-playing nation. - It was Abhishek Sharma's third T20I century, to go with 12 half-centuries. - India, led by Shreyas Iyer, had already sealed the three-match series 2-0 before the third T20I, with Afghanistan winning the toss and opting to field. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Harmanpreet Kaur becomes first cricketer to play 200 T20Is](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/harmanpreet-kaur-becomes-first-cricketer-to-play-200-t20is) - [Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Becomes Youngest Player to Score a T20I Fifty](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/vaibhav-sooryavanshi-becomes-youngest-player-to-score-a-t20i-fifty) - [Rohit Sharma Breaks Sachin Tendulkar's Record with Historic First-Ever Indian ODI Century at Lord's](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/rohit-sharma-breaks-sachin-tendulkar-s-record-with-historic-first-ever-indian-od) - [Shree Charani Sets Record as Quickest Indian Bowler to Reach 50 Women's T20I Wickets](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/shree-charani-sets-record-as-quickest-indian-bowler-to-reach-50-women-s-t20i-wic) ## Indian Para-Shooters Millie Shah and Rakesh Nidagundi Win Gold and Silver at Changwon 2026 WSPS World Championships ### Key Updates - Indian para-shooters Millie Shah and Rakesh Nidagundi won Gold and Silver in team events at the Changwon 2026 WSPS World Championships in South Korea. - Millie Shah, a Vijayi Bharat Foundation (VBF) athlete, won the Gold Medal in the R2 Team Event, while fellow VBF athlete Rakesh Nidagundi secured the Silver Medal in the R1 Team Event. - These results mark India's first-ever team medals in rifle at the Para Shooting World Championships. - Both athletes train at VBF's High-Performance Centre. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India Wins Both Men's and Women's Junior Asia Cup Hockey Titles](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-wins-both-men-s-and-women-s-junior-asia-cup-hockey-titles) - [Asian Games 2026 Medals: Design, Material, Weight and Key Facts](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/asian-games-2026-medals-design-material-weight-and-key-facts) - [Manu Bhaker and Tajinderpal Singh Toor Appointed as India's Flag-Bearers for 2026 Asian Games](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/manu-bhaker-and-tajinderpal-singh-toor-appointed-as-india-s-flag-bearers-for-202) - [Satwik-Chirag Win China Masters 2026 After Stunning Comeback](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/satwik-chirag-win-china-masters-2026-after-stunning-comeback) ## Hyderabad Liberation Day 2026: Vice-President Radhakrishnan Marks September 17 History and Significance ### Key Updates - Hyderabad Liberation Day is observed on September 17, commemorating the merger of Hyderabad state with the Indian Union on September 17, 1948, through Operation Polo. - Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan took part in the 79th Hyderabad Liberation Day celebrations held at Parade Ground in Secunderabad on September 17, 2026. - Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, as India's first Home Minister and Minister for States, led the integration of hundreds of princely states into the Indian Union. - The Vice-President paid homage to patriots including Ramji Gond, Turrebaz Khan and Komaram Bheem for their role against injustice. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [World Coconut Day 2026: September 2](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/world-coconut-day-2026-september-2) - [Hindi Diwas 2026 on 14 September: History and Key Facts About India's Official Language Day](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/hindi-diwas-2026-on-14-september-history-and-key-facts-about-india-s-official-la) - [Eid Milad-un-Nabi 2026 observed on August 26](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/eid-milad-un-nabi-2026-observed-on-august-26) - [National Flag Day 2026 observed in India on July 22](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/national-flag-day-2026-observed-in-india-on-july-22) ## World Bamboo Day 2026: Observed on 18 September with Theme 'Bamboo for a Regenerative Future' ### Key Updates - World Bamboo Day is observed every year on 18 September and was established in 2009 by the World Bamboo Organization (WBO). - The date 18 September is associated with the 8th World Bamboo Congress held in Bangkok, Thailand, in 2009. - The theme of World Bamboo Day 2026 is 'Bamboo for a Regenerative Future: A Global Call to Grow, Build and Prosper with Nature'. - Bamboo development is linked to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). - Bamboo is used in construction, furniture, textiles, paper, food products and bio-based applications, and supports rural livelihoods and ecosystem restoration. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Asian Development Bank (ADB) approves $42.2 million loan for Northeast India bamboo industry](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/asian-development-bank-adb-approves-42-2-million-loan-for-northeast-india-bamboo) ## United Nations Observes International Day for Interventional Cardiology on September 16 ### Key Updates - The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 16 September as the International Day for Interventional Cardiology in September 2022 to raise public awareness of cardiovascular diseases, their procedures, complications, prevention and care. - The first coronary angioplasty was performed by Dr. Andreas Grüntzig on 16 September 1977. - Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, with an estimated 17.9 million deaths in 2019, representing 32 per cent of all global deaths, of which 85 per cent were due to heart attack and stroke. - Non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and chronic lung disease, are collectively responsible for almost 70 per cent of all deaths worldwide. - Over three quarters of deaths from cardiovascular diseases take place in low- and middle-income countries. - The World Health Organization's Global action plan for the prevention and control of NCDs 2013-2020 aims to reduce premature deaths from non-communicable diseases by 25 per cent by 2025 through nine voluntary global targets. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [International Space Summit 2026 Convenes in Paris on 9-10 September](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/international-space-summit-2026-convenes-in-paris-on-9-10-september) - [World Suicide Prevention Day 2026: Theme, Warning Signs and India Helpline Numbers for September 10](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/world-suicide-prevention-day-2026-theme-warning-signs-and-india-helpline-numbers) - [International Equal Pay Day: Significance and Global Observance](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/international-equal-pay-day-significance-and-global-observance) - [Observance of International Day of Science, Technology and Innovation for the South on 16 September 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/observance-of-international-day-of-science-technology-and-innovation-for-the-sou) ## Santosh Davakhar's Marathi film Gondhal selected as India's official entry for the 99th Academy Awards ### Key Updates - Marathi film Gondhal, written and directed by Santosh Davakhar, has been chosen as India's official entry in the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards, selected by the Film Federation of India (FFI) from 33 contenders. - Gondhal is a 117-minute thriller set in rural Maharashtra over one night against the backdrop of the traditional Gondhal ritual, starring Ishita Deshmukh, Kishor Kadam, Yogesh Sohoni and Nishad Bhoir. - Santosh Davakhar won the Silver Peacock for Best Director at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) for Gondhal. - Gondhal is the fourth Marathi film to be India's official Oscar entry, after Shwaas (2005), Harishchandrachi Factory (2009) and Court (2015). - The 99th Academy Awards will be held on March 14, 2027, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, hosted by Conan O'Brien for the third consecutive year. - India is yet to win the Best International Feature Film award, with only Mother India, Salaam Bombay and Lagaan having reached the final nominations. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Veteran Actor Anant Nag Selected for Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/veteran-actor-anant-nag-selected-for-dadasaheb-phalke-award-2024) - [Kashmir Hosts Inaugural International Film Festival](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/kashmir-hosts-inaugural-international-film-festival) - [National Film Awards 2026 to Be Held in Gujarat](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/national-film-awards-2026-to-be-held-in-gujarat) - [Malayalam Filmmaker R Sarath Dies at 65](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/malayalam-filmmaker-r-sarath-dies-at-65) ## Indian Railways Clears ₹493 Crore Mukutban-Gadchandur Railway Line Project in Maharashtra ### Key Updates - Indian Railways has approved a ₹493 crore new railway line between Mukutban in Yavatmal district and Gadchandur in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, under South Central Railway. - The 38.21-km line is expected to handle around 6.08 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of freight, including coal and coke, cement, sponge iron, iron and steel, metal scrap, fertilisers and foodgrains. - The new line will provide an alternative route to the busy Wardha-Manikgarh section and reduce reliance on the Balharshah-Nagpur High-Density Network route. - The corridor will create a direct connection to the Majri-Nanded railway route and support two MEMU services in each direction every day. - The Ministry of Railways announced the approval on September 18, 2026. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project in Uttarakhand Records 41st Tunnel Breakthrough with Escape Tunnel-1](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/rishikesh-karnaprayag-rail-project-in-uttarakhand-records-41st-tunnel-breakthrou) - [Indian Railways Sanctions Rs 497 Crore for Chouk-Karjat Track Doubling in Maharashtra](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/indian-railways-sanctions-rs-497-crore-for-chouk-karjat-track-doubling-in-mahara) - [Indian Railways Approves ₹170 Crore for Kavach 4.0](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/indian-railways-approves-170-crore-for-kavach-4-0) - [Indian Railways approves Kavach 4.0 for 660 route km in Izzatnagar Division](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/indian-railways-approves-kavach-4-0-for-660-route-km-in-izzatnagar-division) ## ByteDance Founder Zhang Yiming Overtakes Gautam Adani to Become Asia’s Richest Person ### Key Updates - ByteDance founder Zhang Yiming became Asia's richest person for the first time, overtaking Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, with his fortune crossing $105 billion on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index as of September 16, 2026. - Zhang founded ByteDance in Beijing in 2012 and stepped down as its chief executive in November 2021; at 43, he is the youngest person in the global top 20. - His fortune rose eightfold from $13 billion in March 2019, when Bloomberg began tracking his wealth; he passed Mukesh Ambani to become Asia's second-richest in June 2026. - Zhang's wealth is driven mainly by ByteDance's AI business, including the Doubao chatbot with over 300 million monthly users and the Seedance video-generation tool, rather than TikTok. - ByteDance settled the TikTok standoff with Washington in January 2026 by agreeing to a US joint venture with Oracle and Silver Lake. - Gautam Adani is the only Indian in the global top 20 at 20th place, while Mukesh Ambani sits 23rd with about $81 billion. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Joheirry Mola Crowned Miss World 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/joheirry-mola-crowned-miss-world-2026) - [Lebanon Abolishes Death Penalty, Becomes First West Asian Country to End Capital Punishment](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/lebanon-abolishes-death-penalty-becomes-first-west-asian-country-to-end-capital) - [Vaibhav Sooryavanshi becomes youngest Duleep Trophy half-century maker](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/vaibhav-sooryavanshi-becomes-youngest-duleep-trophy-half-century-maker) - [Smriti Mandhana Becomes Leading Run-Scorer in Women’s International Cricket](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/smriti-mandhana-becomes-leading-run-scorer-in-women-s-international-cricket) ## Zimbabwe Cricket Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani Named International Cricket Council (ICC) Deputy Chairperson Till November 2027 ### Key Updates - Tavengwa Mukuhlani, Chairman of Zimbabwe Cricket, was appointed Deputy Chairperson of the International Cricket Council (ICC) until November 2027, replacing Singapore's Imran Khwaja. - Mukuhlani becomes the first Zimbabwean to serve as ICC Deputy Chair, and the appointment comes as Zimbabwe prepares to co-host the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 with South Africa and Namibia. - Mukuhlani currently serves on the ICC Finance and Commercial Affairs Committee and the Nominations Committee, and chairs the HR and Remuneration Committee. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [K Rajaraman Gets Extension as International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) Chairperson](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/k-rajaraman-gets-extension-as-international-financial-services-centres-authority) - [DoSJ&E Appointed Bhagwat Prasad Makwana as Chairperson of NCSK](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/dosj-and-e-appointed-bhagwat-prasad-makwana-as-chairperson-of-ncsk) - [India's Parliamentary Delegation Led by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Joins 69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Cape Town](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-s-parliamentary-delegation-led-by-rajya-sabha-deputy-chairman-harivansh-jo) - [Rahul Himalian Appointed Additional Chairman and Managing Director of IRCTC](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/rahul-himalian-appointed-additional-chairman-and-managing-director-of-irctc) ## Sanjukta Parasor Becomes First Woman Inspector General of CRPF's CoBRA Commando Unit ### Key Updates - IPS officer Sanjukta Parasor has been appointed the Inspector General of the CRPF special jungle warfare commando unit, CoBRA, becoming the first woman to hold the post. - Parasor is a 2006-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Assam-Meghalaya cadre. - The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) headquarters issued the appointment order last week, and Parasor will succeed 1996-batch IPS officer Danesh Rana as the IG of the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA). - Parasor previously served in the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and also worked in her cadre state of Assam. - The CRPF raised CoBRA in 2008-09 to tackle Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in multiple Indian states and insurgency in certain Northeast states. - The same order posted 2003-batch IPS officer V K Birdi as the new IG of the CRPF VIP security wing, replacing Sunil Joon, who has been posted to the force's officers' academy in Gurugram. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [IPS Officer Sanjukta Parashar Takes Charge as First Woman Head of CRPF's CoBRA Unit](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/ips-officer-sanjukta-parashar-takes-charge-as-first-woman-head-of-crpf-s-cobra-u)