--- title: "Daily Current Affairs: 24 September 2026" date_published: "2026-09-24" date_modified: "2026-09-24T08:00:00+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/24_09_2026" citation_url: "https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/24_09_2026" content_url: "https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/24_09_2026.md" --- # Daily Current Affairs: 24 September 2026 Daily current affairs for 24 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/24_09_2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/24_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: 24 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 - Sagarmala Finance Corporation to Issue India's First Blue Bond on September 28 - Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Notifies Market Risk Minimum Capital Directions 2026 under Basel III Framework - India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement to Enter into Force on 20 October 2026 - Starbucks Signs MoU with Tamil Nadu Government to Open First India Global Capability Centre in Chennai with 800 Jobs - S&P Global Ratings Lifts India FY27 GDP Growth Projection to 7%, Sees RBI Rate Hike - Fitch Ratings Lifts India FY27 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.9% and Sees RBI Rate Hike ## Sagarmala Finance Corporation to Issue India's First Blue Bond on September 28 ### Key Updates - Sagarmala Finance Corporation, India's first maritime lender, plans to launch the country's maiden blue bond on September 28. - The company aims to raise 6 billion rupees ($62.62 million), including a greenshoe option of 5 billion rupees, through 10-year bonds. - Blue bonds are debt instruments used to finance sustainable water and marine projects such as clean water, recycling, shipping, sustainable fishing, ocean energy and mapping. - Proceeds will fund maritime sector lending, greenfield port projects and coastal road networks, to be used within the current financial year. - SBI Capital Markets is arranging the issue, which is rated AA+ by Icra and Care; investors will submit coupon and commitment bids on Monday. - The company has approached large insurance and provident fund players to invest in the issue. - Vadodara Municipal Corporation in Gujarat plans to raise around 2 billion rupees through blue bonds soon. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [IDFC FIRST Bank successfully completes maiden USD 500 million bond issuance](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/idfc-first-bank-successfully-completes-maiden-usd-500-million-bond-issuance) - [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) - [Centre Approves ₹26 Crore Incentive for Clean Godavari Bond on July 14, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/centre-approves-26-crore-incentive-for-clean-godavari-bond-on-july-14-2026) - [MSE Issues India's First Tokenised Corporate Bond Under SEBI's Demat 2.0 Pilot](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/mse-issues-india-s-first-tokenised-corporate-bond-under-sebi-s-demat-2-0-pilot) ## Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Notifies Market Risk Minimum Capital Directions 2026 under Basel III Framework ### Key Updates - The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the Reserve Bank of India (Commercial Banks - Minimum Capital Requirements for Market Risk) Directions, 2026 on September 21, 2026. - The Directions align market risk guidelines with the revised Basel III framework while ensuring simplicity, flexibility and ease of adoption. - The Directions will take effect from April 1, 2027, giving banks sufficient lead time. - Trading book definition instructions were deleted with a reference made to the Investment Directions' 'Held for Trading (HFT)' sub-classification. - Specific risk tables for interest rate risk were revised to align with Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) guidelines. - Capital treatment for debt mutual funds and exchange traded funds (ETF) held in the trading book was revised to be based on underlying risk drivers with sufficient guardrails. - Instructions on positions hedged by credit derivatives were revised to include total return swaps treatment under the RBI (Credit Derivatives) Directions, 2026. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [RBI Grants Scheduled Bank Status to Coastal Local Area Bank](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/rbi-grants-scheduled-bank-status-to-coastal-local-area-bank) - [Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Relaxes Weekly Access Rule for FCNR(B) Swap Facility for Transactions Above USD 100 Million](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/reserve-bank-of-india-rbi-relaxes-weekly-access-rule-for-fcnr-b-swap-facility-fo) - [Reserve Bank of India (RBI) expands credit derivatives market by introducing credit index derivatives and total return swaps (TRS)](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/reserve-bank-of-india-rbi-expands-credit-derivatives-market-by-introducing-credi) - [Forbes World’s Top Performing Banks 2026: HDFC Bank Secures 3rd Rank in Global Top 10](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/forbes-world-s-top-performing-banks-2026-hdfc-bank-secures-3rd-rank-in-global-to) ## India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement to Enter into Force on 20 October 2026 ### Key Updates - The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signed on 27 April 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, will enter into force on 20 October 2026 following completion of internal processes in both countries. - The FTA was signed by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand's Minister for Trade and Investment Todd McClay, and New Zealand's Parliament passed the legislation on 16 September 2026. - From the entry-into-force date, every tariff line covering 100% of India's exports to New Zealand will become duty-free, benefiting textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, gems and jewellery, engineering goods and processed foods. - Sensitive Indian products such as dairy, animal meat (except sheep), key agricultural commodities, sugar and edible oils are excluded from tariff concessions, while New Zealand apples, kiwifruit and Manuka honey get calibrated access through Tariff Rate Quotas, Minimum Import Prices and seasonal windows. - New Zealand has committed to facilitate USD 20 billion in investment into India, benefiting agriculture, manufacturing, infrastructure and start-ups. - Services provisions cover roughly 118 sectors with Most-Favoured Nation treatment across about 139 sub-sectors, including a dedicated quota of 5,000 Temporary Employment Entry visas for skilled Indians and 1,000 annual Working Holiday visas for young Indians. - The Agreement provides uncapped student mobility with post-study work rights of up to three years for STEM graduates and four years for doctoral scholars. - New Zealand will accept pharmaceutical and medical-device inspection approvals from regulators such as the US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA and Health Canada. - India and New Zealand endorsed the Strategic Partnership: Roadmap to 2030, with an aspirational goal of doubling bilateral two-way trade in goods and services to NZ$7 billion (approximately ₹35,000 crore) by 2030. - Bilateral merchandise trade stood at around USD 1.1 billion in 2025-26. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [New Zealand Parliament Approves Legislation to Implement Free Trade Agreement with India](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/new-zealand-parliament-approves-legislation-to-implement-free-trade-agreement-wi) - [India and New Zealand Elevate Ties to Strategic Partnership During PM Modi’s Visit (July 10-11, 2026)](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/india-and-new-zealand-elevate-ties-to-strategic-partnership-during-pm-modi-s-vis) - [India and New Zealand Set ₹35,000 Crore Trade Target by 2030](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/india-and-new-zealand-set-35-000-crore-trade-target-by-2030) - [India and United Kingdom to implement CETA and Social Security Pact from July 15, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/india-and-united-kingdom-to-implement-ceta-and-social-security-pact-from-july-15) ## Starbucks Signs MoU with Tamil Nadu Government to Open First India Global Capability Centre in Chennai with 800 Jobs ### Key Updates - Starbucks signed a memorandum of understanding with the Tamil Nadu government to establish its first India global capability centre (GCC) in Chennai. - The Starbucks GCC is expected to create 800 high-value jobs in its first phase. - Tamil Nadu Minister for Industries and Investment S. Keerthana led discussions with Starbucks' global team for the Chennai GCC. - The Tamil Nadu government announced three dedicated GCC corridors in Chennai with higher floor space index (FSI) for large-scale global capability operations. - Recent GCC-related investments and MoUs in Tamil Nadu include Nordex, Chubb, Walgreens, EY and Sigma Technology, alongside Starbucks. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [TeamLease Digital identifies India as world's largest retail Global Capability Centre (GCC) hub](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/teamlease-digital-identifies-india-as-world-s-largest-retail-global-capability-c) - [Kerala Targets 150 Global Capability Centres by 2031](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/kerala-targets-150-global-capability-centres-by-2031) - [Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) and GoodWorks Group sign MoU targeting ₹5,000 crore GCC investment](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/karnataka-digital-economy-mission-kdem-and-goodworks-group-sign-mou-targeting-5) - [Telangana Teams Up with Microsoft to Set Up Green Skills CoE in Hyderabad](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/telangana-teams-up-with-microsoft-to-set-up-green-skills-coe-in-hyderabad) ## S&P Global Ratings Lifts India FY27 GDP Growth Projection to 7%, Sees RBI Rate Hike ### Key Updates - S&P Global Ratings raised India's GDP growth forecast for FY27 (fiscal year ending March 31, 2027) to 7 per cent from 6.6 per cent earlier, citing robust industrial activity, healthy consumption, strong goods exports and accelerating government investment. - S&P expects the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to hike its policy rate by 25 basis points in FY27, with consumer inflation estimated to average 5.1 per cent in the fiscal year. - India's economy grew 7.8 per cent in the June quarter and also grew 7.8 per cent in the previous fiscal year 2025-26. - The 7 per cent FY27 growth estimate compares with the RBI's projection of 6.7 per cent and Fitch Ratings' projection of 6.4 per cent. - Moody's also raised India's GDP growth forecast for the fiscal to 7 per cent, the fastest among all G20 economies. - Cumulative rainfall was 15 per cent below normal till September 9, 2026, making agricultural output and food inflation key variables to watch. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) Raises India FY27 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.8%](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/india-ratings-and-research-ind-ra-raises-india-fy27-gdp-growth-forecast-to-6-8) - [Moody’s Ratings Upgrades India’s Fiscal Year 2026-27 GDP Growth Projection to 7%](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/moody-s-ratings-upgrades-india-s-fiscal-year-2026-27-gdp-growth-projection-to-7) - [ICRA Projects India's GDP Growth at 7% in April–June Quarter of FY27](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/icra-projects-india-s-gdp-growth-at-7-in-april-june-quarter-of-fy27) - [Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Releases 101st Survey of Professional Forecasters (SPF), Projects 6.6% GDP Growth for FY27](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/reserve-bank-of-india-rbi-releases-101st-survey-of-professional-forecasters-spf) ## Fitch Ratings Lifts India FY27 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.9% and Sees RBI Rate Hike ### Key Updates - Fitch Ratings raised India's FY27 GDP growth forecast to 6.9% from 6.4%, citing stronger-than-expected economic activity and resilience despite the US-Iran war shock. - India's GDP growth accelerated to 8.6% year-on-year in 1Q26 (4QFY26) from 7.7% in 4Q25, against Fitch's expectation of a slowdown. - Fitch expects private investment to rise by more than 10%, with non-food credit growth reaching 19% year-on-year in July. - Fitch expects the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to raise the policy rate by 25 basis points to 5.5% in October, followed by an increase to 5.75% in early 2027 and easing to 5.5% in 2028. - Fitch projects the dollar-rupee rate at 95 by end-2026, 98 by end-2027 and 99 by end-2028. - Fitch raised its 2026 global growth forecast to 2.6% from 2.4%. - S&P Global Ratings and Moody's Ratings have each projected India's FY27 GDP growth at 7%, while government data show the economy grew 7.8% in the April-June quarter. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [National Statistics Office (NSO) Announces 7.8% GDP Growth for India in Q1 FY27](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/national-statistics-office-nso-announces-7-8-gdp-growth-for-india-in-q1-fy27) - [International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects India GDP growth at 6.4% for FY26-27](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/international-monetary-fund-imf-projects-india-gdp-growth-at-6-4-for-fy26-27) - [Goldman Sachs raises India's CY26 GDP growth forecast to 6.8%](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/goldman-sachs-raises-india-s-cy26-gdp-growth-forecast-to-6-8) - [State Bank of India (SBI) Research raises India's FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7.3%](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/state-bank-of-india-sbi-research-raises-india-s-fy27-gdp-growth-forecast-to-7-3) ## World Economic Forum Survey Ranks India as Strongest Global Growth Outlook ### Key Updates - The World Economic Forum (WEF) September Chief Economists' Outlook found 98% of surveyed economists expect India to record moderate or stronger growth over the next 12 months, with 74% expecting strong or very strong growth, up from 52% in the May survey. - The WEF identified India as having the strongest growth outlook among all geographies covered, supported by resilient domestic demand, and raised its GDP growth forecast for fiscal 2026-27 to 6.7% in August. - About one-third of economists expect weak growth for China, while Europe remains the weakest region with 61% of respondents anticipating weak or very weak growth. - 56% of chief economists expect the global economic outlook to remain stable or improve, compared with only 11% in May, when 89% had expected conditions to deteriorate. - Geopolitical conflicts were cited by 97% of respondents as a likely source of uncertainty, and 58% expect asset-price corrections. - India's ranking on favourable business environments slipped to fourth from second, with only 40% of respondents including India among their top three destinations for multinational companies, down from 56% previously. - The survey was conducted before official data showed India's economy grew 7.8% in the April-June quarter, prompting several forecasters to raise growth estimates. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India Retains 131st Position in Global Gender Gap Index 2026 as Iceland Keeps Top Rank](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-retains-131st-position-in-global-gender-gap-index-2026-as-iceland-keeps-to) - [EY projects India's FY27 GDP growth at 7-7.2%](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/ey-projects-india-s-fy27-gdp-growth-at-7-7-2) - [India Secures Top Business Climate Rating Among 41 Global Markets in Swedish Chamber Survey 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-secures-top-business-climate-rating-among-41-global-markets-in-swedish-cha) - [India Rises from 82nd to 57th Global Rank in Pro-Competitive Reforms](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/india-rises-from-82nd-to-57th-global-rank-in-pro-competitive-reforms) ## UAE Central Bank Grants PhonePe In-Principle Approval for Two Payment Licences ### Key Updates - PhonePe has received in-principle approval from the Central Bank of the UAE for two payment licences, marking its entry into its first international market. - The approvals cover Retail Payment Services and Card Schemes (RPSCS) and Stored Value Facilities (SVF), and PhonePe must still obtain final regulatory clearance before commercial operations in the UAE. - PhonePe plans to explore integration with the UAE's domestic payment infrastructure, including Aani, the instant payment platform, and Jaywan, the domestic card scheme. - PhonePe's platform has more than 700 million registered users and 50 million merchants in India. - PhonePe already operates in the UAE through a partnership with NPCI International Payments Limited, enabling Indian travellers to pay via local QR codes through NEOPAY and Network International terminals. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Dilip Asbe Joins Global Supervisory Board of Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (Swift)](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/dilip-asbe-joins-global-supervisory-board-of-society-for-worldwide-interbank-fin) - [PhonePe and Visa Roll Out Tap to Pay, Tokenisation and Cross-Border Payments at Global Fintech Fest 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/phonepe-and-visa-roll-out-tap-to-pay-tokenisation-and-cross-border-payments-at-g) - [Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Approves LIC's Acquisition of Up to 9.99% Stake in ICICI Bank](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/reserve-bank-of-india-rbi-approves-lic-s-acquisition-of-up-to-9-99-stake-in-icic) - [RBI Approvals: RNFI Services, PB Pay & ICICI Prudential AMC Receive Regulatory Nod](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/rbi-approvals-rnfi-services-pb-pay-and-icici-prudential-amc-receive-regulatory-n) ## Government Operationalises CGTMSE Guarantee Cover for TReDS MSME Receivables ### Key Updates - The government has operationalised the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) guarantee cover for eligible Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) receivables, reducing lending risk for financiers and improving working capital access for micro and small enterprises. - The measure was announced in the Union Budget 2026-27 and provides guarantee support to banks and financiers lending against eligible invoices raised by micro and small enterprises. - M1xchange became the first TReDS platform to operationalise the CGTMSE guarantee mechanism and completed the first transaction backed by the credit guarantee cover. - Under the digital process, financiers can check invoice eligibility, apply for cover, and the system automatically calculates the guarantee fee and generates the cover note. - The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) 2026 TReDS framework permits financiers to avail guarantee cover from eligible government-established credit guarantee trusts. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issues Master Directions on Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) to streamline MSME financing](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/reserve-bank-of-india-rbi-issues-master-directions-on-trade-receivables-discount) - [MSME Ministry Mandates TReDS for All MSME Invoice Settlements by CPSEs](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/msme-ministry-mandates-treds-for-all-msme-invoice-settlements-by-cpses) ## President Droupadi Murmu Amends Inter-State Council Order, 1990 to Include Governors and LGs During Central Rule ### Key Updates - President Droupadi Murmu amended the Inter-State Council Order, 1990, to provide for the participation of Governors and Lieutenant Governors in Inter-State Council meetings when specified constitutional or statutory provisions are in force in their respective States or Union Territories. - The amendment was notified by the Ministry of Home Affairs on September 9, 2026, under powers conferred by Article 263 of the Constitution, and came into force with immediate effect. - Under the amended order, the Governor of a state under President's Rule (Article 356 proclamation) shall be invited to attend Inter-State Council meetings. - The Lieutenant Governor of the National Capital Territory of Delhi shall be invited when an order under Article 239AB is in force, the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry when an order under Section 51 of the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963 is in force, and the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir when an order under Section 73 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 is in force. - The Inter-State Council was established under Article 263 through the Inter-State Council Order, 1990, published in the Gazette of India on May 28, 1990, and previously amended in July 1990 and December 1996. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Amit Shah Chairs 28th Western Zonal Council Meeting](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/amit-shah-chairs-28th-western-zonal-council-meeting) ## TRAI Notifies Telecom Consumer Protection (Thirteenth Amendment) Regulations, 2026 Mandating Voice and SMS-Only Plans ### Key Updates - The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released the Telecom Consumer Protection (Thirteenth Amendment) Regulations, 2026 on September 22, 2026, concerning Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) for voice and SMS services. - Telecom service providers (TSPs) must now offer voice and SMS-only STVs with validities matching each validity period of 30 days and less than 30 days available for bundled voice, SMS and data STVs. - TSPs must provide at least one voice and SMS-only STV with validity renewable on the same date each month, or on the last day of the month if that date is unavailable. - The mandated voice and SMS-only STVs must carry an appropriate and largely proportional reduction in tariff compared with bundled plans. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India Amends E-Commerce Rules to Regulate Discounts, Dark Patterns and Data Use](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-amends-e-commerce-rules-to-regulate-discounts-dark-patterns-and-data-use) - [Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Updates Anti-Spam Regulations with AI Integration](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/telecom-regulatory-authority-of-india-updates-anti-spam-regulations-with-ai-inte) - [TRAI Begins Phase-Wise Rollout of 1601-Series for Service and Transactional Calls](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/trai-begins-phase-wise-rollout-of-1601-series-for-service-and-transactional-call) - [Centre Notifies Dissolution of Digital Communications Commission After 37 Years](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/centre-notifies-dissolution-of-digital-communications-commission-after-37-years) ## NHAI Releases Guidelines for High-Speed Access-Controlled National Highways to Boost Safety ### Key Updates - The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) released comprehensive guidelines for planning and designing high-speed access-controlled national highways, other than expressways. - The guidelines aim to ensure uniformity in standards for detailed project reports, consistency in technical standards, better road safety and improved operational efficiency. - They will apply to all upcoming four and six-lane greenfield and brownfield high-speed access-controlled national highways, for which no separate standards previously existed. - The guidelines focus on safety measures for high-speed traffic and advance notification of exits and entries, as stated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. - India plans to develop 50,000 km of access-controlled high-speed corridors under Viksit Bharat 2047 to boost connectivity and reduce logistics costs. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [NHAI Announces Winners of ‘Green Highways Excellence Awards 2026’](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/nhai-announces-winners-of-green-highways-excellence-awards-2026) - [Gadkari Launches OneTag to Let FASTag Users Change Issuer Banks Without Replacing Tag](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/gadkari-launches-onetag-to-let-fastag-users-change-issuer-banks-without-replacin) - [NHAI Extends Digital FASTag Local Pass Facility to 121 Toll Plazas](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/nhai-extends-digital-fastag-local-pass-facility-to-121-toll-plazas) - [NHAI-NCAER MoU: Establishment of NHAI Centre for Economics of Transportation, Mobility and Logistics](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/nhai-ncaer-mou-establishment-of-nhai-centre-for-economics-of-transportation-mobi) ## Andhra Pradesh Police Unveil Centralised Drone Monitoring Portal and SafeStay App for Tech-Driven Policing ### Key Updates - Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta launched the AI-based Centralised Drone Monitoring Portal (CDMP) and unveiled the logo of the SafeStay app at the Guntur SP office on 22 September 2026. - The SafeStay app will provide police with real-time information on guests staying in hotels and paying guest accommodations across Andhra Pradesh to aid public safety, crime prevention and investigation. - The CDMP enables police to monitor live feeds from drones deployed across Andhra Pradesh through a single dashboard, using AI-based monitoring, advanced analytics and role-based access controls without relying on public streaming platforms. - Guntur district SP Vakul Jindal, senior police officials, hotel industry representatives, technical experts and academicians attended the launch programme. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Andhra Pradesh Notifies Pedestrian Safety and Universal Accessibility Policy](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/andhra-pradesh-notifies-pedestrian-safety-and-universal-accessibility-policy) - [Andhra Pradesh Launches Mee Bhoomi Blockchain Pilot for Land Records Management](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/andhra-pradesh-launches-mee-bhoomi-blockchain-pilot-for-land-records-management) - [Punjab Launches 'Pehchaan' Portal to Identify Unidentified & Unclaimed Deceased Persons](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/punjab-launches-pehchaan-portal-to-identify-unidentified-and-unclaimed-deceased) - [CISF and IIT Kanpur Sign Two MoUs on Cyber Security Training and Anti-Drone Centre of Excellence](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/cisf-and-iit-kanpur-sign-two-mous-on-cyber-security-training-and-anti-drone-cent) ## Ex-High Court Judge R. C. Chavan Quits Maharashtra Uniform Civil Code Draft Committee ### Key Updates - Former high court judge Justice R. C. Chavan resigned on September 19 from the Maharashtra government's seven-member committee set up to draft a framework for implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). - The committee, set up in July, is headed by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Desai to prepare a draft for implementing the common civil code in Maharashtra. - Justice Chavan cited disagreements over the panel's functioning, alleging meetings concluded without substantive discussion and members' suggestions on the questionnaire were not considered, and flagged the involvement of an officer from outside Maharashtra. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Regional Workshop Under DISHA 2.0 Scheme Held in Goa by Department of Justice on September 21](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/regional-workshop-under-disha-2-0-scheme-held-in-goa-by-department-of-justice-on) - [Justice M.S. Liberhan Passes Away at 87](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/justice-m-s-liberhan-passes-away-at-87) - [Prabhjeet Singh stepped down as President of Uber India and South Asia](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/prabhjeet-singh-stepped-down-as-president-of-uber-india-and-south-asia) - [Ravneet Singh Bittu Resigns as Union Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing Industries](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/ravneet-singh-bittu-resigns-as-union-minister-of-state-for-railways-and-food-pro) ## Indian Air Force to Host Second Edition of Multinational Air Exercise Tarang Shakti-26 at Jodhpur from September 26 to October 12 ### Key Updates - The Indian Air Force will host the second edition of its largest-ever multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti-26, from September 26 to October 12 at Air Force Station Jodhpur and adjoining air bases. - Around 40 countries are expected to participate, with eight forces — India, Australia, Bangladesh, France, the United States, Germany, Sri Lanka and the UAE — taking part and 32 countries attending as observers. - Around 10 Air Chiefs or their equivalents are likely to attend the exercise. - Indian aircraft participating include the Rafale, Mirage-2000, Jaguar, Tejas, MiG-29 and Su-30 MKI, alongside the US F-35, French Rafale, UAE F-16 and Bangladesh C-130J. - The exercise will involve Beyond Visual Range and within Visual Range combat missions, air mobility operations, dynamic targeting, air-to-air refuelling and combat search and rescue operations, with aims of operational learning, greater interoperability and stronger partnerships. - The maiden edition of Tarang Shakti was held in August-September 2024 in two phases, with 11 countries participating with their air assets. - Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit said Operation Sindoor reinforced lessons on intelligence-led operations, precision, integrated air and missile defence, counter-UAS and jointness across domains, and the exercise would also showcase India's indigenous platforms, sensors, weapons and unmanned systems. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India and Malaysia Commence Exercise Udara Shakti 2026 at Subang Air Base in Malaysia on August 12, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/india-and-malaysia-commence-exercise-udara-shakti-2026-at-subang-air-base-in-mal) - [IAF Rafale Jets Reach Australia for Pitch Black 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/iaf-rafale-jets-reach-australia-for-pitch-black-2026) - [India to Host 16th Aero India from February 8-12, 2027 in Bengaluru](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-to-host-16th-aero-india-from-february-8-12-2027-in-bengaluru) - [Exercise Veer Guardian 2026 Begins in Jodhpur](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/exercise-veer-guardian-2026-begins-in-jodhpur) ## India's Nibe Ltd Signs MoU with France's Naval Group on Naval Shipbuilding and Defence Technologies ### Key Updates - On September 18, 2026, Indian defence engineering firm Nibe Ltd signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with France's Naval Group covering naval shipbuilding and defence technologies. - The partnership covers underwater drones and their integration onboard submarines, future weapon-ready modular launching systems, mine countermeasure systems, submarine systems, naval weapon launching systems and engineering. - The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between Naval Group and Nibe Group across shipbuilding, defence platforms and autonomous systems, aimed at strengthening India's self-reliance in naval programmes under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. - Naval Group has been present in India for more than a decade and has supported the Indian naval defence industry through a network of industrial partnerships. - Following the announcement, shares of Nibe Ltd ended at ₹1,285.80 on the BSE, up by ₹39.20, or 3.14%. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India and Armenia Sign MoU on Defence Research and Production on August 17, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/india-and-armenia-sign-mou-on-defence-research-and-production-on-august-17-2026) - [India and Belgium Sign MoUs on Energy and Defence](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-and-belgium-sign-mous-on-energy-and-defence) - [BEL and Esri India Sign MoU to Develop GIS and GeoAI Solutions for Defence Sector](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/bel-and-esri-india-sign-mou-to-develop-gis-and-geoai-solutions-for-defence-secto) - [Cochin Shipyard Limited Lays Keel of First of Six Next Generation Missile Vessels for Indian Navy](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/cochin-shipyard-limited-lays-keel-of-first-of-six-next-generation-missile-vessel) ## ISRO and European Space Agency Renew Cooperation Agreement Through January 2032 ### Key Updates - The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the European Space Agency (ESA) extended their Cooperative Agreement until January 8, 2032, via an exchange of letters signed in Paris on September 10, 2026, on the sidelines of the International Space Summit. - The original agreement came into force in January 2002 and covered cooperation in Earth observation, satellite navigation, space science and mission operations support. - The renewed framework adds new areas including space weather, human and robotic exploration, and sustainability of outer space activities. - ESA and ISRO signed a Joint Statement of Intent on human exploration last year. - ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher and ISRO Chairman Dr V. Narayanan endorsed the renewal as reflecting shared ambition for innovation and scientific progress. ### 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) - [ISRO to Set Up Advanced Radar Research Centre at Chandrapur in Assam under Project Netra](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/isro-to-set-up-advanced-radar-research-centre-at-chandrapur-in-assam-under-proje) - [German’s Isar Aerospace Launches ‘Spectrum Rocket’ into Space](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/german-s-isar-aerospace-launches-spectrum-rocket-into-space) ## Akums Launches DCGI-Approved Triple Therapy Combikit to Treat H. pylori Infection in Adults ### Key Updates - Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., an Indian pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), has introduced a DCGI-approved triple therapy combikit to treat Helicobacter pylori infection in adults. - The combikit combines Vonoprazan, a potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB), with the antibiotics Clarithromycin and Amoxicillin, and is prescribed as twice-daily dosing over 14 days. - The treatment pack contains Clarithromycin 500 mg, Vonoprazan 20 mg and Amoxicillin 1000 mg, with the full 1000 mg Amoxicillin dose provided in one tablet. - H. pylori infection is associated with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer disease and is recognised as an important risk factor for gastric cancer. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) develops plant-based drug for diabetic foot ulcers](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/csir-indian-institute-of-chemical-technology-csir-iict-develops-plant-based-drug) - [U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Approves Daraxonrasib for Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/u-s-food-and-drug-administration-fda-approves-daraxonrasib-for-metastatic-pancre) - [Health Ministry Bars Routine Stem Cell Therapy for Autism, Restricts Use to Approved Trials](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/health-ministry-bars-routine-stem-cell-therapy-for-autism-restricts-use-to-appro) - [ICMR-Developed SHetA2 Oral Drug Targets HPV-Related Cervical Precancerous Lesions](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/icmr-developed-sheta2-oral-drug-targets-hpv-related-cervical-precancerous-lesion) ## Oak Ridge National Laboratory Team Turns Polyethylene Waste into Fuel Using Aluminum-Based Molten Salts ### Key Updates - Researchers at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) developed a method to transform polyethylene, one of the world's most common plastics used in shopping bags and white cutting boards, into gasoline- and diesel-like fuels. - The ORNL team's method combines the plastic with molten salts containing aluminum chloride, which act as both the reaction medium and the catalyst driving the chemical conversion. - The experiments achieved a gasoline yield of about 60 percent under relatively mild reaction conditions. - Unlike traditional techniques, the process did not require noble-metal catalysts, organic solvents, external hydrogen, or a catalytic initiator, and is the first time molten salts were used to produce high-value-added chemicals from waste at a temperature below 200 degrees Celsius. - Using soft X-ray spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance, the team found that charged aluminum atoms bind with three other atoms, creating highly acidic catalytic sites that split polyethylene's long molecular chains into smaller hydrocarbons; simpler polymer chains produced gasoline-like compounds while more complex chains generated diesel-like fuels. - The team also used neutrons at ORNL's Spallation Neutron Source to monitor hydrogen within the system, as neutrons are ideal at discerning light elements including hydrogen and its isotopes such as deuterium. - The researchers have applied for a patent for the technology, and the findings were published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society. - A key limitation is that the aluminum-based material is hygroscopic, readily absorbing water that reduces its stability; researchers want to investigate confining the molten salts, potentially using halogens or carbon-based materials, to improve stability. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [SASTRA University develops nanofluid electrolyte to boost zinc-air battery efficiency](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/sastra-university-develops-nanofluid-electrolyte-to-boost-zinc-air-battery-effic) - [Scientists Demonstrate Eight-Letter Genetic Alphabet Reading](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/scientists-demonstrate-eight-letter-genetic-alphabet-reading) - [Weizmann Institute Researchers Identify DARE Cells That Begin Cell Death Yet Survive to Rebuild Damaged Tissue](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/weizmann-institute-researchers-identify-dare-cells-that-begin-cell-death-yet-sur) - [Indian Scientists Develop Indigenous Placenta-on-Chip Platform](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/indian-scientists-develop-indigenous-placenta-on-chip-platform) ## India Reiterates Commitment to Eliminate Hepatitis B and C as Public Health Threats by 2030 at UNGA Side Event ### Key Updates - Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava reaffirmed India's commitment to eliminating Hepatitis B and C as public health threats by 2030 at a UN General Assembly side event titled 'Advancing Global Action to Eliminate Hepatitis', organised by the UN Group of Friends to Eliminate Hepatitis on the sidelines of the 81st UNGA. - The National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP), launched in 2018 under the National Health Mission, provides free diagnostic services and medicines for Hepatitis B and C and aims to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. - India's NVHCP estimates around 40 million people are living with Hepatitis B and 6–12 million with Hepatitis C. - The programme includes Hepatitis B vaccination, safe injection practices, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission through timely birth-dose vaccination and pregnancy screening. - The World Health Organization has stated that effective tools exist, including Hepatitis B vaccination, curative treatment for Hepatitis C, and long-term therapies for Hepatitis B. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [World Hepatitis Day 2026 observed globally on July 28 with theme 'Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down'](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/world-hepatitis-day-2026-observed-globally-on-july-28-with-theme-hepatitis-let-s) ## Indian Women’s Cricket Team Retains Asian Games Gold with Record Win Over Sri Lanka ### Key Updates - India's women's cricket team retained the Asian Games gold medal by beating Sri Lanka by 147 runs in the final at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, handing India its first gold of the 2026 Asiad. - India posted 216 for three, the highest women's T20I total at the Asian Games across four editions, with Smriti Mandhana scoring 79 and Richa Ghosh making 49 off 22 balls, while Sri Lanka's chase folded for 67. - Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana became the first pair to reach 4,000 runs in T20Is, while Mandhana completed 11,000 T20I runs and notched her 37th T20I half-century. - In the semi-final against Bangladesh, 22-year-old Shafali Verma scored her maiden international century, becoming the first woman to do so at the Asian Games, and surpassed Mandhana as India's highest six-hitter in T20Is. - With consecutive titles, India joined Pakistan (2010, 2014) as the only teams to defend the women's cricket gold at the Asian Games. - India's nine-match unbeaten run since the 2026 T20 World Cup group-stage exit in June includes a one-off Test win over England at Lord's and the 2026 Asia Cup title, their eighth in 10 editions. - The Indian men's cricket team will defend its gold from September 28 with a direct quarter-final berth, while the women next play a home white-ball series against Zimbabwe starting late October. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026 Day 1: India Open Account with Two Silvers as Hockey, Cricket and MMA Shine](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/aichi-nagoya-asian-games-2026-day-1-india-open-account-with-two-silvers-as-hocke) - [Indian Trio Secures Silver in Asian Games 2026 Men’s 10m Air Rifle Team Event](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/indian-trio-secures-silver-in-asian-games-2026-men-s-10m-air-rifle-team-event) - [Kabaddi Star Pawan Sehrawat Replaces Tajinderpal Singh Toor as India's Asian Games 2026 Flag-Bearer](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/kabaddi-star-pawan-sehrawat-replaces-tajinderpal-singh-toor-as-india-s-asian-gam) - [Suchika Tariyal Secures India’s Maiden Asian Games Medal in MMA with Bronze](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/suchika-tariyal-secures-india-s-maiden-asian-games-medal-in-mma-with-bronze) ## Shafali Verma Breaks World Record for Most WT20I Runs in a Calendar Year ### Key Updates - Shafali Verma broke the world record for most runs in a calendar year in women's T20Is, reaching 825 runs in her 24th T20I of 2026 during the Asian Games 2026 final against Sri Lanka on September 22 at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan. - She surpassed South Africa's Laura Wolvaardt's tally of 824 runs, needing 10 runs in the final and scoring her 10th run off the seventh ball. - In 2026, Shafali has scored one century and seven fifties in women's T20Is; following her and Wolvaardt on the list are Natasha Miles of Hong Kong (800), Esha Oza of the UAE (779) and Yasmin Daswani of Hong Kong (779). - In her last four T20I matches, Shafali scored two half-centuries and one century, including an unbeaten 40 off 15 balls against Japan in the Asian Games quarterfinal and an unbeaten 100 off 49 balls against Bangladesh. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [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) - [Savita Punia Sets Record as India's Most-Capped Women's Hockey Player](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/savita-punia-sets-record-as-india-s-most-capped-women-s-hockey-player) - [Abhishek Sharma Smashes 30-Ball Hundred to Record Fastest T20I Century by an Indian](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/abhishek-sharma-smashes-30-ball-hundred-to-record-fastest-t20i-century-by-an-ind) - [Tanya Chaudhary Breaks Women's Hammer Throw National Record](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/tanya-chaudhary-breaks-women-s-hammer-throw-national-record) ## Smriti Mandhana Makes History as First Woman Cricketer to Reach 11,000 International Runs ### Key Updates - Smriti Mandhana became the first woman cricketer to complete 11,000 runs in international cricket during India's Asian Games gold-medal final against Sri Lanka at Korogi Sports Park in Aichi-Nagoya. - Before the final, Mandhana had 10,987 international runs: 788 in Tests, 5,411 in ODIs and 4,788 in T20Is. - She overtook Mithali Raj's record of 10,868 runs with 124 against Hong Kong in the Women's Asia Cup, her 18th international century, passing Meg Lanning and Laura Wolvaardt for most hundreds. - In the Asian Games semifinal against Bangladesh, Mandhana surpassed Suzie Bates (4,758) to become the leading run-scorer in women's T20Is with 4,788 runs, and became the first Indian woman to hit 100 T20I sixes. - Mandhana and Shafali Verma extended their record women's T20I partnership beyond 4,000 aggregate runs, adding 99 in the final, ahead of Esha Oza and Theertha Satish (2,949). - India beat Japan by eight wickets in the quarterfinal and Bangladesh by 114 runs in the semifinal, with Shafali Verma scoring an unbeaten 100 off 49 balls; India were defending the title won in 2023, while Sri Lanka sought their first gold after bronze in 2014 and silver in 2022. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Indian Women’s Cricket Team Defeats England in Women’s Test at Lord’s, London](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/indian-women-s-cricket-team-defeats-england-in-women-s-test-at-lord-s-london) - [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) ## Mirabai Chanu Claims Maiden Asian Games Medal With Silver in Women's 49kg Weightlifting ### Key Updates - Mirabai Chanu won her maiden Asian Games medal, a silver in the women's 49kg weightlifting category at the Nagoya City Trade and Industry Center in Aichi and Nagoya, lifting a total of 198 kg (87 kg snatch, 111 kg clean and jerk). - North Korea's Ri Song Gum won gold with a total lift of 215 kg, while Indonesia's Wijayana Luluk Diana Tri took bronze. - Mirabai had finished fourth at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games after injury prevented her final clean and jerk attempt. - She won silver in the 49kg event at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and set a world record clean and jerk of 119 kg at the Asian Weightlifting Championships on April 17, 2021, which she held until September 5, 2023. - Mirabai has won three gold medals and a silver at the Commonwealth Games, including gold at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow (48kg), and was awarded the Padma Shri and Khel Ratna in 2018. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Lovepreet Singh Wins Silver in Commonwealth Games Weightlifting](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/lovepreet-singh-wins-silver-in-commonwealth-games-weightlifting) - [U20 World Championships: Mansi Lather Wins Silver; Tanvi and Komal Claim Bronze](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/u20-world-championships-mansi-lather-wins-silver-tanvi-and-komal-claim-bronze) - [Mirabai Chanu, Rishikanta Singh Win CWG 2026 Medals](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/mirabai-chanu-rishikanta-singh-win-cwg-2026-medals) - [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) ## Ayurveda Day 2026 on September 23: Theme, Venue and Key Initiatives of the 11th Observance ### Key Updates - Ayurveda Day 2026, the 11th edition, was observed on September 23, 2026, with the main national celebration held in Nagpur, Maharashtra. - The theme for Ayurveda Day 2026 is 'Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow,' focusing on integrated healthcare, wellbeing and sustainable living. - Ayurveda Day was first celebrated in 2016 with a national seminar in New Delhi focused on prevention and control of diabetes through Ayurveda. - The Ministry of Ayush reported over 9,700 activities across 30 States and Union Territories, with more than 3 lakh participants registered and around 89 lakh citizens pledging support through the Ayurveda Day 2026 microsite. - Initiatives launched for the 11th Ayurveda Day include the first-ever Ayush Services Sector Report, Standard Treatment Guidelines on skin disorders, and the Ayush Vision 2030 report. - The five pillars of Ayurveda are Aahar (diet), Vihar (lifestyle), Nidra (sleep), Brahmacharya (mental and emotional discipline/energy management), and Shodhana (detoxification). ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Saushrutam 2026 inaugurated on July 15, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/saushrutam-2026-inaugurated-on-july-15-2026) - [AIIA Launches Garbhini Mitra Course to Train Maternal Wellness Support Workers](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/aiia-launches-garbhini-mitra-course-to-train-maternal-wellness-support-workers) - [PCIM&H and IPC Renew 'One Herb, One Standard' MoU for Three Years](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/pcim-and-h-and-ipc-renew-one-herb-one-standard-mou-for-three-years) - [Ayurveda Day to be celebrated on September 23](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/ayurveda-day-to-be-celebrated-on-september-23) ## World Rhino Day 2026 Observed on September 22: History and Other Key Observances ### Key Updates - World Rhino Day 2026 was observed on Tuesday, September 22, as confirmed by the International Rhino Foundation. - The day highlights all five rhino species and efforts to protect them from threats including habitat loss and poaching. - World Rhino Day has been observed internationally since 2011. - September 22 is also marked as World Car Free Day, which encourages walking, cycling and public transport over private cars, and UN documentation has referenced it as World Carfree Day. - September 22 is also observed as World Narcolepsy Day, raising awareness of the neurological sleep disorder. - Hobbit Day falls on September 22, traditionally associated with the birthdays of fictional characters Bilbo Baggins and Frodo Baggins from J.R.R. Tolkien's works. - The September equinox in 2026 occurs at 00:05 UTC on September 23, corresponding to 5:35 am IST on September 23, marking autumn in the Northern Hemisphere and spring in the Southern Hemisphere. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [World Ozone Day 2026: September 16 Theme and Background of the Ozone Layer Observance](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/world-ozone-day-2026-september-16-theme-and-background-of-the-ozone-layer-observ) - [World Wide Web Day 2026: August 1, Theme 'Energy-Aware Web and AI Systems for Sustainability'](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/world-wide-web-day-2026-august-1-theme-energy-aware-web-and-ai-systems-for-susta) - [International Red Panda Day 2026 Observed on September 19: Key Facts and Significance](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/international-red-panda-day-2026-observed-on-september-19-key-facts-and-signific) - [World First Aid Day 2026: Date, Theme and Key Facts](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/world-first-aid-day-2026-date-theme-and-key-facts) ## World Cleanup Day 2026 Observed On September 20 With Theme 'From Clean Plates To Clean Cities' ### Key Updates - World Cleanup Day 2026, a UN-recognised day, was observed on September 20 with the theme 'From Clean Plates to Clean Cities', focusing on food waste prevention. - According to the UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2024, around 1.05 billion metric tonnes of food were wasted globally in 2022, about 19 per cent of the food available to consumers, with households accounting for around 60 per cent of this waste. - The UN estimates that approximately 673 million people experienced hunger in 2024. - The UN estimates that food loss and waste account for around 8-10 per cent of global greenhouse-gas emissions. - The global observance of World Cleanup Day 2026 took place in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, China. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [World Water Monitoring Day 2026: Observed Annually on September 18](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/world-water-monitoring-day-2026-observed-annually-on-september-18) - [National Wildlife Day 2026 observed on September 4](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/national-wildlife-day-2026-observed-on-september-4) - [World Bamboo Day 2026: Observed on 18 September with Theme 'Bamboo for a Regenerative Future'](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/world-bamboo-day-2026-observed-on-18-september-with-theme-bamboo-for-a-regenerat) - [World Skyscraper Day observed annually on September 3](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/world-skyscraper-day-observed-annually-on-september-3) ## India Fields Record 70-Member Skilled Youth Team at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 ### Key Updates - India's largest-ever contingent of 70 skilled young competitors will represent the country across 63 skill categories at the 48th WorldSkills Competition, which begins in Shanghai on Tuesday. - The competition is being held at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre (NECC), China's largest exhibition complex, with the closing event scheduled for September 27. - India's team will participate in 63 out of 64 skill categories, making it one of India's largest and most diverse representations. - The WorldSkills Conference will be held from September 23 to 25, where global leaders, policymakers and educators will discuss the future of vocational education. - India will compete for the first time in eleven new skills, including Dental Prosthetics, Landscape Gardening, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Software Testing, Heavy Vehicle Technology, and Aircraft Maintenance. - India's participation is being held under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) driving preparations through collaboration with industry partners and training institutions. - India's world ranking improved from 29th at WorldSkills in 2015 to 13th in 2024, and it secured 8th rank in Asia at WorldSkills Asia 2025 and won five medals at the Taipei Capital Cup 2026. - The PM-SETU scheme is modernizing one thousand government ITIs with an investment of 60,000 crore rupees, and PM Modi announced in his Independence Day address that one crore youth would be trained in AI skills over the next year. - The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship hosted the send-off ceremony for the Indian contingent in the national capital on September 15, where Minister of State (Independent Charge) Jayant Chaudhary addressed the team. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Global Skills Challenge Australia 2026 held from 23–29 June 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/global-skills-challenge-australia-2026-held-from-23-29-june-2026) - [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) - [United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) ranks India 11th among top FDI destinations in 2025](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/united-nations-conference-on-trade-and-development-unctad-ranks-india-11th-among) - [503-Member Indian Contingent Receives Grand Send-Off for Asian Games 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/503-member-indian-contingent-receives-grand-send-off-for-asian-games-2026) ## NIRF 2026 Sustainable Development Goals Rankings: India's Leading Institutes for Sustainability ### Key Updates - The NIRF 2026 Rankings are expected to be released soon by the Ministry of Education. - The Sustainable Development Goals category was introduced in NIRF 2025 as a new addition, shifting the total national ranking categories from 16 to 17. - The SDG category measures institutions on sustainable campus practices such as energy efficiency, water conservation and waste management, alignment of research with the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals, community outreach, and diversity, equity and inclusivity on campus. - As per NIRF 2025 data, 791 institutions are included in the Sustainable Development Goals category. - IIT Madras, Chennai, established in 1959 and an Institute of National Importance, secured Rank 1 in the NIRF SDG ranking, becoming the first institute nationwide to achieve this milestone in 2025, recognized for higher technical education, green technology initiatives, and basic & applied research. - Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, also known as Pusa Institute and established in 1905, secured Rank 2 based on agricultural research, food security advancement, and sustainable farming development. - Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, established in 1920 and granted Central University status in 1988, secured Rank 3, reflecting its commitment to social inclusion, environmental studies, and community outreach. - In the NIRF 2025 SDG category, Rank 4 was secured by S.R.M. Institute of Science and Technology (Chennai, Tamil Nadu), Rank 5 by Manipal Academy of Higher Education (Manipal, Karnataka), Rank 6 by IIT Roorkee (Uttarakhand), and Rank 7 by Jawaharlal Nehru University (New Delhi). - Ranks 8 to 10 in the NIRF 2025 SDG category went to IIT Delhi (New Delhi), NIT Rourkela (Odisha), and Banaras Hindu University (Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) respectively. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [AP Signs MoU with UN-Habitat to Promote Sustainable Urban Development](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/ap-signs-mou-with-un-habitat-to-promote-sustainable-urban-development) - [MAHE secures World No. 1 rank for SDG 5 in THE Impact Rankings 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/06/mahe-secures-world-no-1-rank-for-sdg-5-in-the-impact-rankings-2026) - [2026 UN Sustainable Development Goals Index released at Hamburg Sustainability Conference](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/2026-un-sustainable-development-goals-index-released-at-hamburg-sustainability-c) - [MoSPI releases SDG Progress Report 2026 highlighting 65.3% Social Protection Coverage](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/mospi-releases-sdg-progress-report-2026-highlighting-65-3-social-protection-cove) ## Anant Nag Selected for Dadasaheb Phalke Award as 72nd National Film Awards Move to Ekta Nagar ### Key Updates - The Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 will be conferred on Shri Anant Nag, as announced by the Government of India on 16 September 2026. - Anant Nag was born on 4 September 1948 in Karnataka, made his debut with the Kannada film 'Sankalpa' and the Hindi film 'Ankur', and has acted in over 300 films across six Indian languages, including the television series 'Malgudi Days'. - Anant Nag has won five Filmfare Awards and five Karnataka State Best Actor Awards, and was honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2025. - The President of India will present the 72nd National Film Awards on 22 September 2026 at Ekta Nagar (formerly Kevadia) in Gujarat. - The 72nd National Film Awards honour films certified in 2024, and the winners were announced on 18 July 2026 by the chairpersons of the three juries. - Shri Jayaraj chaired the Feature Film Jury, Shri Aseem Sinha chaired the Non-Feature Film Jury, and Shri A. Chandrasekhar chaired the Best Writing on Cinema Jury for the 72nd National Film Awards. - 'Article 370' won Best Feature Film, Yami Gautam won Best Actress for the same film, and Mammootty ('Bramayugam') and Kartik Aaryan ('Chandu Champion') shared the Best Actor award. - Shri Rajkumar Periasamy won Best Direction for the Tamil film 'Amaran', 'Kalki 2898 AD' was named Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, and Randeep Hooda won Best Debut Film of a Director for 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar'. - 'Bhangaar' won Best Non-Feature Film, 'Ram-Nami' won Best Documentary, and the Santhali film 'Angen' directed by Ravi Raj Murmu won Best Debut Film of a Director (Non-Feature), the first time a Santhali film was honoured in that section. - The National Film Awards were instituted in 1954 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. - The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honour in Indian cinema, was instituted in 1969 with Devika Rani as its first recipient. - Shri Mohanlal received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, Shri Mithun Chakraborty for 2022, and Smt. Waheeda Rehman for 2021. - The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has decided to hold future editions of the National Film Awards in various parts of the country beyond the National Capital. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [National Film Awards 2026 Announced](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/national-film-awards-2026-announced) - [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) - [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) - [Santosh Davakhar's Marathi film Gondhal selected as India's official entry for the 99th Academy Awards](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/santosh-davakhar-s-marathi-film-gondhal-selected-as-india-s-official-entry-for-t) ## Jayanti Prasad Takes Additional Charge as Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) Chairperson ### Key Updates - Jayanti Prasad, Whole Time Member of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), has taken additional charge as its chairperson. - The central government appointed him to the post from September 13 onwards, succeeding Ravi Mital, a 1986 batch IAS officer who turned 65. - Ravi Mital was appointed IBBI chairperson in February 2022 for a five-year tenure or until he turned 65, whichever came earlier. - Prasad will hold the post until the completion of his IBBI tenure on November 20, 2026, or until a new appointee joins, in addition to his existing duties. - Prasad is an Indian Audit and Accounts Service officer from the 1986 batch, and applications have been invited for a full-time successor. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Bijay Kumar Mohanty Assumes Additional Charge as Chairman and Managing Director of Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/bijay-kumar-mohanty-assumes-additional-charge-as-chairman-and-managing-director) - [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) - [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) - [Vinai Kumar Saxena, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Given Additional Charge of Jammu and Kashmir](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/vinai-kumar-saxena-lieutenant-governor-of-ladakh-given-additional-charge-of-jamm) ## Rajat Sharma Unanimously Re-Elected President of News Broadcasters & Digital Association for 2026-27 ### Key Updates - Rajat Sharma, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of India TV, was unanimously re-elected as President of the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) for 2026-27 at the NBDA Board of Directors meeting held on Tuesday. - The NBDA is the apex association of news broadcasters in India, with 29 leading news and current affairs broadcasters comprising 136 news channels and digital platforms as its members. - At the 19th Annual General Meeting, Jayant Mammen Mathew of MM TV Ltd. was appointed to the NBDA Board, while Rachna Burman of The Times Group and Kshipra Jatana of Network18 Media & Investments Limited were made Permanent Directors. - Other NBDA Board members include MV Shreyams Kumar (Mathrubhumi), Anuradha Prasad Shukla (News24 Broadcast India Ltd.), Kalli Purie Bhandal (TV Today Network Ltd.), Anil Kumar Malhotra (Zee Media Corporation Ltd.), Dhruba Mukherjee (ABP Network Pvt. Ltd.), Rahul Kanwal (New Delhi Television Ltd.) and Mahesh Kumar Rajaraman (Sun TV Network Ltd.). ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Dr Vinaya Prakash Singh Re-elected as Secretary-General of APPU for Second Term](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/dr-vinaya-prakash-singh-re-elected-as-secretary-general-of-appu-for-second-term) - [Dr Dinesh Sharma Appointed Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/dr-dinesh-sharma-appointed-lieutenant-governor-of-andaman-and-nicobar-islands) - [Hakainde Hichilema Re-elected as President of Zambia for Second Term](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/hakainde-hichilema-re-elected-as-president-of-zambia-for-second-term) - [AI Holobox of Atal Bihari Vajpayee unveiled at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/07/ai-holobox-of-atal-bihari-vajpayee-unveiled-at-pradhanmantri-sangrahalaya) ## Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre Receives National Honour for Clinical Excellence in Mental Health and Wellness ### Key Updates - Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre won the 'Excellence in Clinical Services - Mental Health & Wellness' award in the National category at the ET Healthcare Awards 2026, organised by ETHealthworld, the healthcare division of The Economic Times. - The award was presented in New Delhi on September 11, 2026, and recognises Jagruti's structured and consistent delivery of mental health, de-addiction and rehabilitation care across its centres. - Dr. Amar Shinde is the Founder and Senior Psychiatrist of Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre. - Jagruti has more than 18 years of experience in the field and operates over 17 centres across India. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Tripura State Mental Health Authority Issues Show-Cause Notices to 19 Unauthorised De-Addiction and Mental Health Rehabilitation Centres](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/tripura-state-mental-health-authority-issues-show-cause-notices-to-19-unauthoris) - [POWERGRID Receives PMIS Award for Innovation in Exit Pathways on August 14, 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/powergrid-receives-pmis-award-for-innovation-in-exit-pathways-on-august-14-2026) - [Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Awards 2024 Announced](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/tenzing-norgay-national-adventure-awards-2024-announced) - [Bharatanatyam Exponent Vasundhara Doraswamy to Be Honoured with Saroja Vaidyanathan Excellence Award 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/bharatanatyam-exponent-vasundhara-doraswamy-to-be-honoured-with-saroja-vaidyanat)