--- title: "Daily Current Affairs: 28 October 2026" date_published: "2026-10-28" date_modified: "2026-10-28T08:00:00+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/28_10_2026" citation_url: "https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/28_10_2026" content_url: "https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/28_10_2026.md" --- # Daily Current Affairs: 28 October 2026 Daily current affairs for 28 October 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/28_10_2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/news/28_10_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: 28 October 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 - Centre weighs reduced paperwork under Press Note 2 of 2026 for eligible foreign investors - SEBI Issues Circular Waiving Margin on Cash-Segment Trades After Early Pay-In - CBIC notifies CGST rule change allowing small e-commerce sellers to use platform warehouses as principal place of business from November 1 - International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) mandates net worth requirements and compliance deadlines for payment system operators - Sebi to review FPI compliance requirements and issue consultation paper to align disclosure norms with global standards - Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme (CMPS) cleared with Rs 10,000 crore outlay up to FY 2039-40 ## Centre weighs reduced paperwork under Press Note 2 of 2026 for eligible foreign investors ### Key Updates - An official said the government is considering easing paperwork under Press Note 2 of 2026 for foreign entities with non-controlling land-bordering country (LBC) ownership of up to 10 per cent investing through the automatic route. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India's FDI Inflows Rise 68% in August; $100 Billion FY27 Target in Sight](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-s-fdi-inflows-rise-68-in-august-100-billion-fy27-target-in-sight) - [Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Data Shows India's Net FDI Surging to $7.35 Billion in July, Highest Since May 2021](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/reserve-bank-of-india-rbi-data-shows-india-s-net-fdi-surging-to-7-35-billion-in) - [Government of India Approves One Chinese FDI Proposal Worth Rs 1 Crore in FY26](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/government-of-india-approves-one-chinese-fdi-proposal-worth-rs-1-crore-in-fy26) - [India's gross FDI reaches $30.66 billion in Q1 FY27, strongest quarter in 15 years](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-s-gross-fdi-reaches-30-66-billion-in-q1-fy27-strongest-quarter-in-15-years) ## SEBI Issues Circular Waiving Margin on Cash-Segment Trades After Early Pay-In ### Key Updates - The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued Circular No. HO/(320)2026-MRD-POD2/I/24141/2026 on 22 October 2026, titled 'Margin Waiver on Subsequent Buy/Sell Transactions Post Early Pay-In (EPI) in Cash Segment'. - Clearing corporations will not collect margin from trading/clearing members on a client's subsequent cash-segment buy or sell positions up to the value of Early Pay-In accepted by the clearing corporation, on a real-time basis. - The circular takes effect on 22 February 2027, four months from the date of issuance. - The available EPI value is computed as the lower of the EPI value done or the value of securities sold, calculated by the clearing corporation on the trade date upon accepting the EPI request. - If a client squares off the sale position for which the EPI benefit was availed, the EPI value is removed and any margin shortfall is blocked from the trading/clearing member's proprietary collateral; trade-for-trade securities are exempt from this clawback. - The waiver applies only to cash-segment positions, not derivatives, and follows proposals from the Brokers' Industry Standards Forum and deliberations by SEBI's Risk Management Review Committee. - The circular was issued under Section 11(1) of the SEBI Act, 1992 read with Regulation 51 of the Securities Contracts (Regulation) (Stock Exchanges and Clearing Corporations) Regulations, 2018, and is addressed to stock exchanges, clearing corporations, depositories and stock brokers. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [SEBI revamps Closing Auction Session rules and derivative settlement price mechanism](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/sebi-revamps-closing-auction-session-rules-and-derivative-settlement-price-mecha) - [Sebi reviews short selling and SLB framework, plans AI sandbox and corporate bond market-making](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/sebi-reviews-short-selling-and-slb-framework-plans-ai-sandbox-and-corporate-bond) - [India Lifts JPMorgan Unit Trading Ban After SEBI Order](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-lifts-jpmorgan-unit-trading-ban-after-sebi-order) - [Sebi Proposes Automatic Approval Route for Exchanges and Depositories to Deploy Funds Without Prior Nod](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/sebi-proposes-automatic-approval-route-for-exchanges-and-depositories-to-deploy) ## CBIC notifies CGST rule change allowing small e-commerce sellers to use platform warehouses as principal place of business from November 1 ### Key Updates - The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) notified changes in Central GST rules allowing small e-commerce sellers to declare an e-commerce operator's warehouse in another state or Union Territory as their Principal Place of Business (PPoB), effective November 1, 2026. - The change, approved by the GST Council in its October 8 meeting, applies to small sellers who do not pass on input tax credit of more than ₹2.5 lakh per month. - The move could enable around 9.5 lakh small sellers to access the national market without physical offices in every state where their goods are stored. - Sellers must apply in Form GST REG-01, declaring the GSTIN obtained on their PAN in their home state, where physical verification and Aadhaar authentication are completed; the e-commerce operator must give consent within 7 working days or the application will not be processed further. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [GST Council's 57th Meeting Recommends Arrest Power Removal, Higher Prosecution Threshold and Faster Refunds](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/gst-council-s-57th-meeting-recommends-arrest-power-removal-higher-prosecution-th) - [Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu Named Permanent Members of New GST Standing Committee](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/karnataka-maharashtra-uttar-pradesh-gujarat-and-tamil-nadu-named-permanent-membe) - [GST Council-approved revamp of GST return forms to curb mismatches; drafts open for public feedback from November 1](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/gst-council-approved-revamp-of-gst-return-forms-to-curb-mismatches-drafts-open-f) - [GeM Completes 10 Years with ₹20 Lakh Crore GMV](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/gem-completes-10-years-with-20-lakh-crore-gmv) ## International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) mandates net worth requirements and compliance deadlines for payment system operators ### Key Updates - The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) issued financial requirements for existing and new payment system operators in International Financial Services Centres (IFSCs) via a circular on October 27. - Existing payment system operators have six months from the date of the circular to meet the prescribed requirements. - Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) operators must maintain a minimum net worth of $1 million. - Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) issuers must maintain a minimum net worth of $200,000. - Trade repositories must maintain net worth equivalent to at least one year's operating costs, and the calculation must be carried out every six months. - Large-value payment systems and card payment networks are required to maintain a sound financial position. - Net worth calculation includes paid-up equity capital, eligible reserves, and certain preference shares that must be converted into equity. - Accumulated losses, intangible assets, and deferred revenue expenditure are deducted when calculating net worth. - New applicants must submit a certificate from their statutory auditor confirming that they meet the applicable financial requirements along with their application. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Skydo secures final IFSCA licence to operate as Payment Service Provider in GIFT City](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/skydo-secures-final-ifsca-licence-to-operate-as-payment-service-provider-in-gift) - [Reserve Bank of India exempts individuals from reporting personal foreign transactions; FAQs to be issued soon](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/reserve-bank-of-india-exempts-individuals-from-reporting-personal-foreign-transa) - [PM Modi Inaugurates Global Fintech Fest 2026, Calls for Next-Generation Innovation](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/pm-modi-inaugurates-global-fintech-fest-2026-calls-for-next-generation-innovatio) ## Sebi to review FPI compliance requirements and issue consultation paper to align disclosure norms with global standards ### Key Updates - Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey announced on October 28, 2026 that the regulator will review compliance requirements for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) and issue a consultation paper to align Indian norms with global standards. - Pandey acknowledged that some compliance requirements in India remain more onerous than in other major jurisdictions, and said the review will preserve safeguards for investor protection and market integrity. - Sebi is examining existing norms to facilitate greater foreign investor participation in domestic markets, and has already streamlined market access, eased digital onboarding and harmonised several compliance requirements with major global jurisdictions. - Sebi is considering relaxing additional disclosure rules that require FPIs above a certain asset size or with concentrated equity exposure in a company or corporate group to share granular details of investors in the funds, so as to enhance transparency without forcing funds to sell shares. - One suggestion is to fix a low threshold equity holding in a company below which an FPI would not need to disclose investor details even if the fund is focused on one or two firms or a group. - It has been proposed that FPIs with concentrated investments in professionally-run companies with no identifiable promoters and in public sector undertakings be exempted from the additional disclosure requirements. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) Issues SSA 5000 Standard for Sustainability Assurance Aligned with ISSA 5000](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/institute-of-chartered-accountants-of-india-icai-issues-ssa-5000-standard-for-su) - [SEBI Board Approves Review of Municipal Debt Securities Regulations, 2015](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/sebi-board-approves-review-of-municipal-debt-securities-regulations-2015) - [Securities and Exchange Board of India proposes market capitalisation-based SME IPO eligibility and halves minimum application size to ₹1 lakh](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/securities-and-exchange-board-of-india-proposes-market-capitalisation-based-sme) ## Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme (CMPS) cleared with Rs 10,000 crore outlay up to FY 2039-40 ### Key Updates - The Union Cabinet approved the Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme (CMPS) with a budgetary outlay of Rs 10,000 crore up to FY 2039-40; the scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2026-27. - CMPS aims to raise annual domestic container manufacturing capacity nearly tenfold to 7.5 lakh TEUs (0.75 million TEUs), reduce import dependence, and achieve a target of 15-20% of container manufacturing done in India. - The scheme has three components: Operational Expenditure Assistance (OEA) of Rs 8,891 crore for containers manufactured to global shipping standards and sold by eligible domestic manufacturers; Interest Subvention Assistance (ISA) of Rs 859 crore providing 3% per annum subvention on eligible term loans; and Rs 150 crore for testing and certification assistance, including common facilities such as dynamic longitudinal impact testing. - CMPS supports greenfield facilities and brownfield expansion of existing units, and is expected to generate an estimated 3,000 direct jobs and over 50,000 indirect jobs while supporting ancillary industries such as corner castings, specialised steel, wooden frames and paints. - India imports nearly 2 million containers annually, while China manufactures about 95% of the world's shipping containers. - The scheme is expected to position India as a global export hub for quality shipping containers and strengthen the resilience of India's maritime and logistics supply chains. - Domestic container manufacturing requires Corten steel, which Indian steel makers like JSW, Tata Steel and SAIL can produce; other components such as corner castings and high-precision locking systems are largely imported, mainly from China. - Companies in the emerging domestic container manufacturing ecosystem include DCM Containers (DCM Shriram International), Jupiter Wagons, APPL Container, Kalyani Cast Tech and SYMCON Industries; Maersk ordered 1,000 additional containers from DCM Containers in July 2026. - The Cabinet also approved the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana with an outlay of Rs 7,395 crore to transform over 2.5 lakh gram panchayats into self-reliant institutions. - The Cabinet approved a 3% hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief effective from July 1, 2026, benefiting 48.54 lakh central government employees and 68.71 lakh pensioners. - The Cabinet also approved the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme with a total outlay of Rs 1,856.67 crore for the period 2026 to 2033-34. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Assam Cabinet approves Welspun Group's ₹300-crore industry at Rangia and election rules for Mising and Sonowal Kachari autonomous councils](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/assam-cabinet-approves-welspun-group-s-300-crore-industry-at-rangia-and-election) - [Finance Ministry clears in principle MNRE's proposed scheme to support domestic solar polysilicon manufacturing](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/finance-ministry-clears-in-principle-mnre-s-proposed-scheme-to-support-domestic) - [Union Cabinet approves Rs 53,428-crore five-year outlay for renamed National Social Assistance Programme with eased disability pension norms](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/union-cabinet-approves-rs-53-428-crore-five-year-outlay-for-renamed-national-soc) - [Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Chairs Inaugural Sagar Samvad in New Delhi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/union-minister-sarbananda-sonowal-chairs-inaugural-sagar-samvad-in-new-delhi) ## Drug regulator directs states and Union Territories to enforce raw material testing and vendor checks for pharmaceutical firms ### Key Updates - The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has asked all state and Union Territory drug control bodies to mandate testing of raw materials and finished formulations by manufacturers under their jurisdiction. - In a notice dated October 27, Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) Rajeev Raghuvanshi said licensees must test each batch or lot of raw materials in their own laboratories or in laboratories approved by the licensing authority, and maintain records of such tests. - State and Union Territory regulators have been asked to ensure robust vendor qualification and sourcing of raw materials and excipients exclusively from reliable, approved vendors. - Materials to be tested include critical excipients such as propylene glycol, glycerol and sorbitol, and manufacturers must also test each batch of the finished product. - The directive comes after inspections found several licensed manufacturers were not testing each batch of excipients before using them, following deaths of at least 22 children linked to toxic cough syrups in Madhya Pradesh's Chhindwara. - The Coldrif cough syrup linked to the Chhindwara deaths was found to contain the industrial chemical diethylene glycol (DEG) beyond permissible limits. - Diethylene glycol is a cheap, colourless liquid used in brake fluids and paints that can be mistakenly or illegally used as a substitute for propylene glycol in syrups, and even small intake causes severe poisoning leading to kidney problems, especially in children. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Supreme Court Asks 19 States and UTs to Declare Cancer a Notifiable Disease](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/supreme-court-asks-19-states-and-uts-to-declare-cancer-a-notifiable-disease) - [Bhavya Rasayan Scheme: Centre to fund three greenfield chemical parks with Rs 1,000 crore grant each; states and industry asked to submit proposals by November 30](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/bhavya-rasayan-scheme-centre-to-fund-three-greenfield-chemical-parks-with-rs-1-0) - [Health Ministry Asks States and UTs to Ensure Visible Display of Treatment Charges at Clinical Establishments](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/health-ministry-asks-states-and-uts-to-ensure-visible-display-of-treatment-charg) ## Ministry of Textiles Reopens PLI (Textiles) Scheme Portal for Round 4 Applications with Lower Turnover Criterion and Extended Tenure ### Key Updates - The Ministry of Textiles will reopen the application portal for the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles to accept new applications under Round 4 from 1st November 2026 to 31st December 2026. - The online application portal is https://pli.texmin.gov.in. - The minimum turnover requirement under Part 2 of the scheme has been reduced from ₹200 crore to ₹100 crore, enabling greater participation by MSMEs and mid-sized manufacturing units. - The scheme tenure has been extended up to Financial Year 2033–34 exclusively for applicants approved under Round 4. - Existing participant companies of Rounds 1, 2 and 3 who have not claimed or received any incentive so far are eligible to migrate to Round 4, subject to withdrawal of their existing applications. - The scheme aims to promote manufacturing of Man-Made Fibre (MMF) Apparel, MMF Fabrics and Technical Textiles, and to strengthen India's position in global textile value chains. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Finance Ministry clears in principle MNRE's proposed scheme to support domestic solar polysilicon manufacturing](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/finance-ministry-clears-in-principle-mnre-s-proposed-scheme-to-support-domestic) - [MoEFCC Launches India Net Zero Portal and NAPCC Dashboard on World Ozone Day 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/moefcc-launches-india-net-zero-portal-and-napcc-dashboard-on-world-ozone-day-202) - [DPIIT Launches NSA 6.0 to Recognize Innovation and Entrepreneurship Across 20 Sectoral Categories](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/dpiit-launches-nsa-6-0-to-recognize-innovation-and-entrepreneurship-across-20-se) ## Sports, Education Ministries and UNESCO exchange MoU to promote clean sport values in classrooms via Sports Values Toolkit ### Key Updates - The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of Education and UNESCO exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding on 28 October 2026 at NADA India's Clean Sport Conclave to take clean sport values to classrooms through the 'Sports Values in Every Classroom Toolkit', in line with Khelo Bharat Niti 2025. - The toolkit's video modules will be available in 13 Indian languages, aiming to embed values of respect, integrity and fairness in children through education and everyday classroom activities. - During 2025–26, the National Anti-Doping Agency of India conducted over 7,000 tests and more than 350 education and awareness sessions, reaching 27,000 participants. - The National Anti-Doping Act came into force in 2026, and the government is preparing to bring provisions for criminalisation of doping-related activities before Parliament. - Supplement testing facilities at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar and National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad help prevent inadvertent doping. - India finished 4th at the Asian Games and Asian Para Games, while doping remains a serious concern requiring sustained efforts in education, prevention, testing and enforcement. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya addresses UNESCO COP10 Bureau, detailing India's anti-doping framework and commitment to clean sport.](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/dr-mansukh-mandaviya-addresses-unesco-cop10-bureau-detailing-india-s-anti-doping) - [Indian Olympic Association and Korean Sport & Olympic Committee Sign MoU to Boost Sports Cooperation](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/indian-olympic-association-and-korean-sport-and-olympic-committee-sign-mou-to-bo) ## PM-DAKSH Skill Scheme Trained 1.87 Lakh Candidates, 96,162 Placed in Jobs ### Key Updates - The Pradhan Mantri Dakshata Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) scheme trained over 1.87 lakh candidates from 2020-21 to 2023-24, out of whom 96,162 received placement offers for jobs, per a factsheet issued by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE). - PM-DAKSH, a Central Sector scheme launched in 2020-21, provides skill training to SC, OBC, EWS and De-notified Tribe (DNT) communities, including Safai Karamcharis and waste pickers, for socio-economic development through self-employment and wage-employment. - The scheme is implemented by three corporations of DoSJE: National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation (NBCFDC) and National Safai Karamcharis Finance & Development Corporation (NSKFDC). - Against the total funds allotted to PM-DAKSH from 2020-21 to 2023-24 of Rs 276.47 crore, actual expenditure of Rs 309.5 crore has been incurred to date. - Training institutes must provide employment to at least 70 per cent of trained candidates, failing which the third installment (30 per cent of the training cost) is forfeited. - From 2024-25 onwards, PM-DAKSH has been merged with the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to avoid duplication, with job roles taken from the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) portal. - An evaluation study of the scheme shows over 90 per cent of beneficiaries reported alignment of training with career goals, local labour market needs and intended learning outcomes. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [DDU-GKY 2.0: India's Upgraded Rural Skilling Scheme Moves Focus to Sustainable Employment](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/ddu-gky-2-0-india-s-upgraded-rural-skilling-scheme-moves-focus-to-sustainable-em) - [DPIIT's Trust-Based Governance Push: 2.5 Lakh Startups, 25.42 Lakh Jobs and 47,957 Compliances Reduced](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/dpiit-s-trust-based-governance-push-2-5-lakh-startups-25-42-lakh-jobs-and-47-957) ## NHRC India Issues Advisory on Protecting Human Rights of Women Prisoners and Their Children ### Key Updates - The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has issued an Advisory on the 'Protection of Human Rights of Female Inmates and their Children' to nine Union Ministries, Chief Secretaries/Administrators, and Directors General of Police of all States and Union Territories. - The Advisory focuses on ten broad areas, including pre-admission and entry into the prison system, admission records and child database, health and mental healthcare, living conditions of women inmates, children living with or separated from prisoners, mulakat and family contact, legal aid and access to justice, welfare during court production, rehabilitation and post-release reintegration, and foreign national inmates. - The NHRC has urged all concerned authorities to implement the Advisory's recommendations and furnish an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two months. - The Advisory calls for a sensitive, gender-responsive approach covering humane prison conditions, maternal and child healthcare, access to justice, preservation of family ties, protection of children's best interests, and rehabilitation and social reintegration. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Kerala Launches Statewide Child Vulnerability Mapping to Track Welfare and Nutrition](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/kerala-launches-statewide-child-vulnerability-mapping-to-track-welfare-and-nutri) - [Karnataka High Court issues guidelines to police against mechanical FIRs over social media posts](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/karnataka-high-court-issues-guidelines-to-police-against-mechanical-firs-over-so) - [Supreme Court rules internet access a fundamental right for children, orders national CSEAM database](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/supreme-court-rules-internet-access-a-fundamental-right-for-children-orders-nati) - [Allahabad High Court holds transgender woman outside 'woman' definition in BNS Section 69 while granting bail](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/allahabad-high-court-holds-transgender-woman-outside-woman-definition-in-bns-sec) ## Punah Bharan Mobile App Launched for Scientific Groundwater Recharge Planning ### Key Updates - The Union Jal Shakti Minister launched the Punah Bharan Mobile Application, developed by BISAG-N in collaboration with the National Water Mission (NWM) under the Department of Water Resources, RD&GR, Ministry of Jal Shakti, to support scientific groundwater recharge planning. - The app enables users to identify potential artificial recharge zones within a radial distance of up to 3 km and explore suitable recharge structures based on local conditions. - The associated web portal provides village-level Artificial Recharge Structure (ARS) zonation maps, GIS tools and thematic layers for sustainable groundwater management planning. - The platform uses geospatial datasets including rainfall, groundwater levels, groundwater yield, slope and drainage to identify potential recharge areas. - The application was launched on 28 October 2026 by PIB Delhi under the Ministry of Jal Shakti. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Mission Shakti App: Consolidated Platform for Women and Child Safety Helplines](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/mission-shakti-app-consolidated-platform-for-women-and-child-safety-helplines) - [Sone River Water Sharing Agreement Signed Between Bihar and Jharkhand](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/sone-river-water-sharing-agreement-signed-between-bihar-and-jharkhand) - [Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan Inaugurates 9th India International Water Week 2026 in New Delhi](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/vice-president-c-p-radhakrishnan-inaugurates-9th-india-international-water-week) - [India Mobile Congress 2026 Unveils Viksit Tech 47 Platform to Promote Indian Tech Brands](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-mobile-congress-2026-unveils-viksit-tech-47-platform-to-promote-indian-tec) ## India and Mexico Sign Terms of Reference to Begin Preferential Trade Agreement Negotiations ### Key Updates - India and Mexico signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) for negotiations on a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), formally launching the process to expand bilateral trade and investment ties. - The ToR was signed by Mexico's Undersecretary of Foreign Trade Luis Rosendo Gutiérrez Romano and India's Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal during the latter's official visit to Mexico. - The proposed agreement will cover market access for goods, rules of origin, customs procedures and trade facilitation, dispute settlement, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, and trade remedies. - The initiative follows an understanding reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada in June 2025. - Key sectors identified for cooperation include automobiles, chemicals, electronics, pharmaceuticals, agri-food, energy, critical minerals, medical devices and advanced manufacturing, and a Mexican business mission to India was proposed for the first quarter of 2027. - India-Mexico merchandise trade stood at $8.74 billion in 2024, with Indian exports of $5.73 billion and imports of $3.01 billion, giving India a trade surplus of $2.72 billion. - India's key exports to Mexico included light vehicles worth $880 million, motorcycles worth $390 million, base metals worth $760 million and auto parts worth $740 million, while major imports included crude petroleum oils worth $1.7 billion, smartphones worth $270 million and gold worth $170 million. - A PTA generally offers preferential tariff treatment on selected goods, whereas an FTA typically provides broader tariff concessions across a wider range of products. - Mexico raised most-favoured-nation (MFN) import tariffs from 5% to as high as 50% on 1,455 tariff lines effective January 1, 2026, targeting imports from countries without free trade agreements with Mexico and also aimed at curbing Chinese imports. - India's Commerce Ministry estimated the tariff measures could affect around $2 billion worth of Indian exports, particularly in automobiles, auto parts, textiles, iron and steel, plastics, leather and footwear. - First proposed in September 2025 with an initial estimated impact of $3.8 billion on Indian exports, the tariff increase was deferred to August 2026 before taking effect in January 2026. - Technical discussions on the trade agreement began on December 12, 2025, after the two sides reportedly agreed on December 2, 2025 to pursue a trade agreement to mitigate the tariff impact. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India and Gulf Cooperation Council Hold Troika Ministerial in New York, Welcome Start of FTA Talks](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-and-gulf-cooperation-council-hold-troika-ministerial-in-new-york-welcome-s) - [India and MERCOSUR Sign First Additional Protocol to Preferential Trade Agreement to Enable Electronic Certificates of Origin](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-and-mercosur-sign-first-additional-protocol-to-preferential-trade-agreemen) - [India and SACU to Sign Terms of Reference for Trade Pact Talks on August 12](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/india-and-sacu-to-sign-terms-of-reference-for-trade-pact-talks-on-august-12) - [India and ASEAN agree to expedite AITIGA trade agreement review with time-bound targets](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-and-asean-agree-to-expedite-aitiga-trade-agreement-review-with-time-bound) ## Poland and United Kingdom Sign Three-Year Defence Cooperation Plan in Warsaw Amid Russian Threats ### Key Updates - Poland and the United Kingdom signed a three-year defence cooperation plan in Warsaw on October 28, 2026, aimed at strengthening military capabilities, developing new technologies and enhancing coordination against Russian security threats. - The agreement was signed by Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz and UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting following a bilateral meeting. - The plan focuses on emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, drones, anti-drone systems and modern deterrence measures, along with joint military exercises. - Key joint initiatives include the Miecznik naval programme, an integrated air defence system under the Narew, Pilica and Pilica+ programmes, and an independent production line for 155mm ammunition. - The plan follows a bilateral treaty adopted by the two countries a few months earlier. - Streeting described Russian drone incursions into Poland, which prompted mobilisation of Polish forces and air defences, as terrorism sponsored by a state. - Poland and the UK support greater European defence capacity and independence for Europe but not independence from the United States, favouring reinforcement of the transatlantic alliance. - The next round of Ukraine peace talks, the fourth organised by the Trump administration after the previous round in Geneva in February, is likely to take place in Abu Dhabi around mid-November, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [India-Poland Joint Statement: PM Modi and Poland PM Donald Tusk Agree to Double Bilateral Trade by 2030 and Launch Defence Industry Dialogue During 21-23 October 2026 Official Visit](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-poland-joint-statement-pm-modi-and-poland-pm-donald-tusk-agree-to-double-b) - [IIIT-Bangalore and Poland's AGH University of Krakow sign MoU covering AI and Quantum Technologies collaboration](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/iiit-bangalore-and-poland-s-agh-university-of-krakow-sign-mou-covering-ai-and-qu) - [Ukraine Enters NATO Support and Procurement Agency's Security Cooperation Support Partnership Framework](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/ukraine-enters-nato-support-and-procurement-agency-s-security-cooperation-suppor) ## India Unveils Four Publications on Biodiversity, Biosafety and Access and Benefit Sharing at CBD COP-17 in Yerevan ### Key Updates - Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav addressed a side event at the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP-17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Yerevan, Armenia, on 28 October 2026. - The side event, titled 'From Policy to Practice: Advancing India's Biodiversity Commitments through Innovation, Finance, ABS and OECMS', was organised by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change with the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). - India released four publications: Guidelines for the Designation of India's Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (I-OECMs) 2026, the 5th National Report on the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, the Convention on Biological Diversity Handbook: Reference Guide and Indian Perspective, and India's ABS Success Story. - Yadav said the Nagoya Protocol provides the basis for fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilisation of genetic resources and stressed translating it into workable, transparent and equitable procedures. - Armenia's Environment Minister Hambardzum Matevosyan, President of CBD COP17, and Dr Taukondjo Shikongo, Head of the Access and Benefit-sharing (ABS) unit of the CBD Secretariat, attended the event and appreciated India's efforts. - Yadav reaffirmed India's commitment to implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, including South-South learning and international cooperation on finance and technology. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Bhupender Yadav Delivers India's National Statement at CBD COP-17 High-Level Segment in Yerevan](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/bhupender-yadav-delivers-india-s-national-statement-at-cbd-cop-17-high-level-seg) - [National Biodiversity Authority distributes Rs 1.19 crore among 29 State Biodiversity Boards and one UT Biodiversity Council via Access and Benefit Sharing mechanism](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/national-biodiversity-authority-distributes-rs-1-19-crore-among-29-state-biodive) ## Lancet Countdown report calls for climate change to be declared a global health emergency as heat deaths near three million since 2016 ### Key Updates - The 10th edition of the Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change report, produced by 146 researchers from 30 countries and published ahead of the COP31 climate summit, calls for climate change to be formally declared a global health emergency. - Heat caused a record 710,000 deaths in 2023, with over 70% linked to human-caused climate change, and nearly three million heat-related deaths occurred globally between 2016 and 2023 since the Paris Agreement. - Warming-related productivity losses cost the global economy over one trillion dollars per year in the past three years, with Southeast Asia and Africa losing the equivalent of 3.9% and 3.2% of GDP respectively. - Fossil fuels still supply 80% of global energy and their air pollution causes 2.73 million deaths per year, though about 323,000 deaths have been avoided in at least 77 countries where such pollution fell since 2016. - Clean energy investment reached $2.1 trillion in 2025, double that of fossil fuels, and 56 of the WHO's 194 member states have adapted health and early-warning systems for extreme events since 2016. - India ranks among the top countries with the highest heatwave exposure for infants and older adults, along with China, the U.S. and Russia; in 2025 older adults faced 10.8 billion person-days of heatwave exposure and infants 1.1 billion. - Funding for climate-related health research rose sevenfold to $316 million in 2024, but 84% goes to researchers in wealthy countries. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2026 projects worse global warming, citing US Paris exit and rising emissions](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/unep-emissions-gap-report-2026-projects-worse-global-warming-citing-us-paris-exi) - [Malaysia Declares Emergency as Serian Haze Index Hits 519](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/malaysia-declares-emergency-as-serian-haze-index-hits-519) - [Global report warns climate change is worsening heat, chemical and exploitation risks for food system workers](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/global-report-warns-climate-change-is-worsening-heat-chemical-and-exploitation-r) ## Centre orders high-level probe into pellet-shooting death of cheetah at Kuno National Park ### Key Updates - The Centre deputed a high-level team comprising the Inspector General of Forests of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and two Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) officials to investigate the death of a 19-month-old male cheetah, KNG22, from firearm pellet injuries outside Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh. - The cheetah, an offspring of Cheetah Nirva, was rescued on Sunday evening from the Pahargarh range in Morena's territorial forests and taken to Kuno National Park, where emergency surgery at the Jabalpur veterinary facility recovered five pellets; it died on October 27, 2026. - This is the first killing of a reintroduced cheetah in India since the species was reintroduced four years ago, with eight cheetahs brought from Namibia in September 2022, 20 from South Africa in February 2023, and nine from Botswana earlier in 2026. - So far 58 cubs have been born in Kuno, of which 40 survived; currently 52 cheetahs are in Kuno National Park and its surroundings, four in Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, and two in Virangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve in Damoh district. - The Madhya Pradesh government has constituted a Special Task Force (STF) of forest and police officers, and the central team will examine security protocols, monitoring and protection measures in coordination with the state machinery. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [10-Year-Old Namibian Cheetah Gaurav Dies During Treatment at Kuno National Park](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/10-year-old-namibian-cheetah-gaurav-dies-during-treatment-at-kuno-national-park) - [Kuno cheetah cub dies of pellet wounds after being found injured in Morena forest; STSF probes first such attack since reintroduction](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/kuno-cheetah-cub-dies-of-pellet-wounds-after-being-found-injured-in-morena-fores) - [Centre Deploys National Joint Outbreak Response Team to Gujarat and Rajasthan for Chandipura Virus Outbreak](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/centre-deploys-national-joint-outbreak-response-team-to-gujarat-and-rajasthan-fo) ## CSIR-IHBT and GFI India study shows plant-based meat can deliver more bioavailable protein than chicken ### Key Updates - A joint study by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT) and the Good Food Institute (GFI) India found that plant-based meat available in the Indian market can deliver comparable or higher absorbable (bioavailable) protein than conventional meat. - The joint report titled 'Protein quality and bioavailability of indigenous crop-based ingredients and plant-based meat products in India' was launched at the CSIR Science Centre. - After cooking, two plant-based seekh kebabs recorded 81 per cent and 86 per cent protein bioavailability compared with 39 per cent for conventional chicken, plant-based patties scored 57 per cent and 58 per cent against 21 per cent for chicken, and plant-based nuggets scored 61 per cent against 43 per cent for chicken nuggets. - Researchers tested five commercial plant-based meat products against conventional counterparts using laboratory simulations of human digestion, and cooking raised or retained absorbable protein in four of the five plant-based products while reducing it in certain conventional options. - The study of indigenous pulses and millets found pressure cooking nearly quadrupled bioavailable protein in cowpea and raised it in chickpea, fermentation more than tripled it in mung beans, and millets responded favourably to sprouting and fermentation. - CSIR-IHBT Director Sudesh Kumar Yadav noted that despite being the world's largest producer of millets and pulses, India imports the majority of its plant protein concentrates and isolates. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [FSSAI advisory mandates temperature-controlled transport of perishable foods like khoa, paneer, meat and fish](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/fssai-advisory-mandates-temperature-controlled-transport-of-perishable-foods-lik) - [Study identifies free-ranging dogs as a key threat to vultures at Bikaner carcass dumpsite in the Thar desert](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/study-identifies-free-ranging-dogs-as-a-key-threat-to-vultures-at-bikaner-carcas) - [Study finds El Niño reshaped India's winter PM2.5 pollution pattern](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/study-finds-el-nino-reshaped-india-s-winter-pm2-5-pollution-pattern) - [IMD study finds northwest India growing drier and south peninsula wetter over seven decades](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/imd-study-finds-northwest-india-growing-drier-and-south-peninsula-wetter-over-se) ## Researchers Unearth Gerrothorax Maritimus, the World's First Fully Marine Stem Amphibian ### Key Updates - The world's first known fully marine stem amphibian, Gerrothorax maritimus, was identified from two nearly complete Late Triassic skeletons found in Guanling County, Guizhou Province, southwestern China. - The species lived about 237 million years ago during the Late Triassic period. - Evidence for its fully marine lifestyle included an offshore burial setting about 200 kilometers from major land masses, preserved articulated hand bones indicating death near its living site, and strontium isotope measurements in the bones matching the seawater signature of the early Late Triassic. - Gerrothorax maritimus had a broad, flattened body covered in bony armor plates called osteoderms, and skull and throat features suggest it was a bottom-dwelling suction feeder similar to living wobbegong sharks. - The study, published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, was led by first author Lipin Diao with corresponding authors Ryosuke Motani of the University of California, Davis and Da-yong Jiang of Peking University, alongside the Geological Museum of Guizhou. - Researchers propose that the extensive bony armor reduced water exchange through the skin, while internal gills may have removed excess salt, though salt regulation and reproduction remain hypotheses since soft tissues were not preserved. ### 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) - [Scientists discover three new cascade frog species in northeast India](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/scientists-discover-three-new-cascade-frog-species-in-northeast-india) - [Scientists Discover New Conger Eel Species in Arabian Sea, Name It After Marine Fisheries Research Institute](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/scientists-discover-new-conger-eel-species-in-arabian-sea-name-it-after-marine-f) ## An Se-young and Christo Popov Claim Singles Crowns at 2026 French Open as Sindhu Settles for Silver ### Key Updates - South Korea's An Se-young defeated India's P. V. Sindhu 16-21, 21-11, 21-12 in the women's singles final at the 2026 Yonex French Open at Arena Grand Paris in Paris, France, on October 26, 2026, claiming her fourth French Open title (2019, 2024, 2025, 2026) and third consecutively. - An Se-young extended her winning streak to 50 matches and captured her 10th title of 2026, with a season record of 66 wins from 67 matches; her career singles title count reached 48, surpassing Susi Susanti's 46. - An Se-young played despite an Achilles tendon injury from slipping during the previous weekend's Denmark Open final and remains unbeaten since losing to China's Wang Zhi Yi in the March All England Open final. - France's Christo Popov defeated Indonesia's Moh. Zaki Ubaidillah 21-11, 14-21, 21-13 in the men's singles final, becoming the first French champion in the event since Henri Pellizza in 1946, ending an 80-year wait. - Popov's victory earned 11,000 ranking points and is set to make him the new BWF world No. 1, overtaking Denmark's Anders Antonsen and Thailand's Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the updated rankings. - Popov's compatriot Alex Lanier won the 2026 BWF World Championships and Denmark Open titles, and both French players reached the French Open semifinals. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [USTA announces record $108 million prize purse for US Open 2026](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/usta-announces-record-108-million-prize-purse-for-us-open-2026) - [France’s Alex Lanier & South Korea’s An Se-young Win Men’s & Women’s Singles Champions](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/france-s-alex-lanier-and-south-korea-s-an-se-young-win-men-s-and-women-s-singles) - [India Finishes Fourth at Pickleball World Cup With 41 Medals](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/09/india-finishes-fourth-at-pickleball-world-cup-with-41-medals) - [Yuki Bhambri and Ryan Seggerman Claim Almaty Open Doubles Crown](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/yuki-bhambri-and-ryan-seggerman-claim-almaty-open-doubles-crown) ## Supreme Court clarifies that foreign nationality and visa overstay are insufficient grounds for UAPA bail restrictions ### Key Updates - The Supreme Court ruled that foreign nationality and visa overstay alone cannot trigger a special restriction on bail under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). - Section 43D(7) of the UAPA applies only if the accused is not an Indian citizen, is charged with a UAPA offence, and entered India illegally or without authorization. - The court distinguished between illegal entry and overstaying a visa, holding that a subsequent visa overstay does not retrospectively make the original entry illegal. - The Supreme Court clarified that Section 43D(7) overrides Sections 43D(5) and 43D(6) but does not override Section 43D(2) of the UAPA. - Default bail is a statutory safeguard under Section 187(3) of the BNSS, which applies when investigators fail to file a chargesheet within the prescribed period. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [RBI Advises Regulated Entities After UNSC Removes Three Names from ISIL (Da'esh) & Al-Qaida Sanctions List](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/rbi-advises-regulated-entities-after-unsc-removes-three-names-from-isil-da-esh-a) - [Allahabad High Court holds transgender woman outside 'woman' definition in BNS Section 69 while granting bail](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/allahabad-high-court-holds-transgender-woman-outside-woman-definition-in-bns-sec) - [US Tightens Immigration Rules for Visa and Green Card Applications](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/08/us-tightens-immigration-rules-for-visa-and-green-card-applications) - [India empowers tax authorities to deny treaty benefits on Mauritius-routed investments under Principal Purpose Test](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/india-empowers-tax-authorities-to-deny-treaty-benefits-on-mauritius-routed-inves) ## Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Clears PRAGATI Robotics and AI Park in Greater Noida ### Key Updates - The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, approved the proposed Platform for Robotics and AI Growth Through Technology and Innovation (PRAGATI) Park in Greater Noida, spread over 69.52 acres. - The park is projected to generate more than one lakh direct and indirect jobs and add around ₹2,000 crore annually to the state's economy at full scale. - The first zone, spread over eight acres, will be developed and operated through a special purpose vehicle under the public-private partnership model, with the Greater Noida Authority holding 26 per cent equity and the selected industrial partner holding the remaining 74 per cent. - The second zone, covering 61.52 acres, will be developed by private enterprises through investments in industrial units, with no capital liability for the state government. - For the first zone, the Greater Noida Authority will contribute ₹21.1 crore as equity, and the state government will provide an interest-free loan of ₹126.2 crore for 30 years. - Commercial operations in the first zone are targeted to begin within 36 months of the SPV's registration, with the timeline extendable to a maximum of 48 months. - The park will house robotics testing and certification centres, rapid prototyping facilities, AI computing infrastructure, motion-capture systems and data laboratories, and is expected to help test robotics products against global standards and obtain CE and UL certifications. - Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna announced the approval while briefing reporters after the Cabinet meeting. ### Related Current Affairs Coverage - [Uttar Pradesh Achieves National Top Rank in Mission Karmayogi Implementation](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/uttar-pradesh-achieves-national-top-rank-in-mission-karmayogi-implementation) - [Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Approves Rs 17,542-Cr Plan for Four Link Expressways and State Livestock Mission](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/uttar-pradesh-cabinet-approves-rs-17-542-cr-plan-for-four-link-expressways-and-s) - [Goa's new AI policy: Rs 250-crore innovation fund and target of 50,000 AI-ready professionals by 2030](https://www.dailyconnects.in/current-affairs/2026/10/goa-s-new-ai-policy-rs-250-crore-innovation-fund-and-target-of-50-000-ai-ready-p)