π CURRENT AFFAIRS β 4 JULY 2026
π ECONOMY
π Employeesβ Provident Fund Scheme, 2026 Notified
β Replaces EPF Scheme, 1952
β Employee and employer contribution remains 12%
β Withdrawal categories reduced from 13 to 3
β Greater emphasis on Aadhaar-linked UAN, UPI withdrawals and digital services
β Members must retain at least 25% as retirement corpus
π STATES
π Gujarat Launches βOperation Surakshit Cyberspaceβ
β 28-day statewide campaign from 1β28 July 2026
β Aims to make cyberspace safer for women and children
β Led by Gujarat Police
π NATIONAL
π Indian Business Leaders Join AI for Good Global Commission
β Global initiative launched by ITU and Salesforce
β Indian founding members include Mukesh Ambani, Sunil Bharti Mittal, Lakshmi N. Mittal and Vishal Talwar
β Promotes responsible, trustworthy and inclusive AI
β First meeting during AI for Good Global Summit 2026 at Geneva
π Indiaβs First Export-Import Shipping Container Unveiled
β Unveiled by Sarbananda Sonowal
β Manufactured in Dadri, Uttar Pradesh
β Produced for A.P. MollerβMaersk
β Supported under βΉ10,000 crore Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme (CMPS)
π NIMHANS Launches Indiaβs First Public Sleep Database
β iSLEEPS developed by NIMHANS and IIIT Hyderabad
β Asiaβs first open-access sleep database for ischemic stroke patients
β Contains 100 overnight polysomnography recordings
β Published in Scientific Data
π AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
π International Booker Prize Gets New Name
β Renamed as Bukhman International Booker Prize from 2027
β Prize money doubled from Β£50,000 to Β£100,000
β Follows 10-year funding agreement with Bukhman Philanthropies
π 7th National Water Awards Launched
β Launched by Ministry of Jal Shakti
β Organised by Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation
β Winners to receive Trophy and Citation
β Recognises excellence in water conservation and management
π PERSON IN NEWS
π Hokato Hotozhe Sema Becomes World No. 1
β Tops World Para Athletics Rankings in Menβs Shot Put F57
β Hails from Nagaland
β First Paralympian to receive Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM)
β Serves as Subedar in 9 Assam Rifles
π RANKS & REPORTS
π NITI Aayog Releases Tourism & Hospitality Report
β Report: βUnlocking Growth in Tourism and Hospitality Sectorβ
β Prepared with Ministry of Tourism
β Tourism contributed βΉ15.73 lakh crore (5.22% of GDP) in FY 2023β24
β Generated 84.6 million jobs
β India ranked 39th in TTDI 2024
π SUMMITS & CONFERENCES
π ASSOCHAM Hosts National Electric Mobility Conference
β Held in New Delhi
β Focus on EV ecosystem, localisation, battery supply chains and charging infrastructure
β Supports Viksit Bharat vision
π SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
π Skyroot Announces Vikram-1 Launch
β Indiaβs first privately developed orbital launch vehicle
β Maiden mission: Mission Aagaman
β Launch window: 12 Julyβ4 August 2026
β Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
π Worldβs Largest Digital Camera Begins 10-Year Survey
β Installed at Vera C. Rubin Observatory, Chile
β Resolution: 3,200 megapixels
β Conducts Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST)
β Captures one image every 40 seconds
π NASA Launches Mission to Raise Swift Observatory Orbit
β Link spacecraft launched aboard Pegasus rocket
β Will raise Swift Observatory by 240 km
β Extends mission life threatened by orbital decay
β Swift studies Gamma-Ray Bursts and other high-energy cosmic events
π DEFENCE
π DAC Clears βΉ52,000 Crore Defence Acquisitions
β Approved by Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)
β Enhances combat readiness of Army, Navy and Air Force
β Includes MR-SAM, VSHORADS, MPATGM, Anti-UAV EW Systems and Kamikaze Drones
β Supports indigenous defence capability
#CurrentAffairs
π ECONOMY
π Employeesβ Provident Fund Scheme, 2026 Notified
β Replaces EPF Scheme, 1952
β Employee and employer contribution remains 12%
β Withdrawal categories reduced from 13 to 3
β Greater emphasis on Aadhaar-linked UAN, UPI withdrawals and digital services
β Members must retain at least 25% as retirement corpus
π STATES
π Gujarat Launches βOperation Surakshit Cyberspaceβ
β 28-day statewide campaign from 1β28 July 2026
β Aims to make cyberspace safer for women and children
β Led by Gujarat Police
π NATIONAL
π Indian Business Leaders Join AI for Good Global Commission
β Global initiative launched by ITU and Salesforce
β Indian founding members include Mukesh Ambani, Sunil Bharti Mittal, Lakshmi N. Mittal and Vishal Talwar
β Promotes responsible, trustworthy and inclusive AI
β First meeting during AI for Good Global Summit 2026 at Geneva
π Indiaβs First Export-Import Shipping Container Unveiled
β Unveiled by Sarbananda Sonowal
β Manufactured in Dadri, Uttar Pradesh
β Produced for A.P. MollerβMaersk
β Supported under βΉ10,000 crore Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme (CMPS)
π NIMHANS Launches Indiaβs First Public Sleep Database
β iSLEEPS developed by NIMHANS and IIIT Hyderabad
β Asiaβs first open-access sleep database for ischemic stroke patients
β Contains 100 overnight polysomnography recordings
β Published in Scientific Data
π AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
π International Booker Prize Gets New Name
β Renamed as Bukhman International Booker Prize from 2027
β Prize money doubled from Β£50,000 to Β£100,000
β Follows 10-year funding agreement with Bukhman Philanthropies
π 7th National Water Awards Launched
β Launched by Ministry of Jal Shakti
β Organised by Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation
β Winners to receive Trophy and Citation
β Recognises excellence in water conservation and management
π PERSON IN NEWS
π Hokato Hotozhe Sema Becomes World No. 1
β Tops World Para Athletics Rankings in Menβs Shot Put F57
β Hails from Nagaland
β First Paralympian to receive Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM)
β Serves as Subedar in 9 Assam Rifles
π RANKS & REPORTS
π NITI Aayog Releases Tourism & Hospitality Report
β Report: βUnlocking Growth in Tourism and Hospitality Sectorβ
β Prepared with Ministry of Tourism
β Tourism contributed βΉ15.73 lakh crore (5.22% of GDP) in FY 2023β24
β Generated 84.6 million jobs
β India ranked 39th in TTDI 2024
π SUMMITS & CONFERENCES
π ASSOCHAM Hosts National Electric Mobility Conference
β Held in New Delhi
β Focus on EV ecosystem, localisation, battery supply chains and charging infrastructure
β Supports Viksit Bharat vision
π SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
π Skyroot Announces Vikram-1 Launch
β Indiaβs first privately developed orbital launch vehicle
β Maiden mission: Mission Aagaman
β Launch window: 12 Julyβ4 August 2026
β Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
π Worldβs Largest Digital Camera Begins 10-Year Survey
β Installed at Vera C. Rubin Observatory, Chile
β Resolution: 3,200 megapixels
β Conducts Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST)
β Captures one image every 40 seconds
π NASA Launches Mission to Raise Swift Observatory Orbit
β Link spacecraft launched aboard Pegasus rocket
β Will raise Swift Observatory by 240 km
β Extends mission life threatened by orbital decay
β Swift studies Gamma-Ray Bursts and other high-energy cosmic events
π DEFENCE
π DAC Clears βΉ52,000 Crore Defence Acquisitions
β Approved by Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)
β Enhances combat readiness of Army, Navy and Air Force
β Includes MR-SAM, VSHORADS, MPATGM, Anti-UAV EW Systems and Kamikaze Drones
β Supports indigenous defence capability
#CurrentAffairs
β€4
π UPSC Editorial Analysis: Transitioning to Sovereign AI
π Introduction
β The establishment of Anthropicβs Bengaluru office alongside U.S. export restrictions on frontier AI models highlights that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has evolved from a commercial technology into a strategic geopolitical and national security asset.
π What is Sovereign AI?
β Sovereign AI refers to developing indigenous AI infrastructure, foundational models, computing capacity, and datasets, ensuring technological self-reliance, data sovereignty, and strategic autonomy.
π Why Sovereign AI Matters
β AI has become a dual-use technology with applications in defence, cyber security, intelligence, healthcare, and governance.
β Dependence on foreign AI models exposes countries to export controls, geopolitical risks, and supply disruptions.
β Indigenous AI strengthens national security, innovation, and economic competitiveness.
π Challenges for India
β Wrapper Trap: Many startups depend on foreign AI APIs instead of building foundational models.
β Service-Oriented Ecosystem: Strong IT services sector but limited indigenous AI intellectual property.
β Data Sovereignty Risks: Sensitive Indian data processed on foreign cloud platforms.
β Algorithmic Bias: AI models trained on Western datasets may not suit Indiaβs linguistic and socio-cultural diversity.
β Cyber Security Risks: Foreign restrictions can disrupt critical digital infrastructure.
π Socio-Economic Implications
β AI can transform agriculture through precision farming.
β Enables vernacular education and personalized learning.
β Improves healthcare diagnostics and public service delivery.
β Supports Digital India and inclusive governance.
π Government Initiatives
β IndiaAI Mission (βΉ10,000 crore).
β Bhashini for Indian language AI.
β Support for indigenous models like Krutrim, Sarvam AI, and Project Indus.
β Expansion of domestic AI computing infrastructure and GPU capacity.
π Way Forward
β Develop indigenous Large Language Models (LLMs).
β Build domestic AI supercomputing infrastructure.
β Promote AI research through IITs, IIITs, IISc, and industry collaboration.
β Strengthen AI governance, ethical standards, and data protection.
β Encourage deep-tech innovation through public funding and venture capital.
π Conclusion
β Indiaβs transition to Sovereign AI is essential for strategic autonomy, digital sovereignty, national security, and global technological leadership. Building indigenous AI capabilities will enable India to move from being the worldβs technology back-office to becoming a global AI innovation leader.
π UPSC GS-II/III Mains Practice Question (15 Marks | 250 Words)
βDiscuss the major risks associated with frontier Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems. Examine the limitations of existing global AI governance frameworks and suggest principles for building an equitable and sovereign AI ecosystem.β
#mains
π Introduction
β The establishment of Anthropicβs Bengaluru office alongside U.S. export restrictions on frontier AI models highlights that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has evolved from a commercial technology into a strategic geopolitical and national security asset.
π What is Sovereign AI?
β Sovereign AI refers to developing indigenous AI infrastructure, foundational models, computing capacity, and datasets, ensuring technological self-reliance, data sovereignty, and strategic autonomy.
π Why Sovereign AI Matters
β AI has become a dual-use technology with applications in defence, cyber security, intelligence, healthcare, and governance.
β Dependence on foreign AI models exposes countries to export controls, geopolitical risks, and supply disruptions.
β Indigenous AI strengthens national security, innovation, and economic competitiveness.
π Challenges for India
β Wrapper Trap: Many startups depend on foreign AI APIs instead of building foundational models.
β Service-Oriented Ecosystem: Strong IT services sector but limited indigenous AI intellectual property.
β Data Sovereignty Risks: Sensitive Indian data processed on foreign cloud platforms.
β Algorithmic Bias: AI models trained on Western datasets may not suit Indiaβs linguistic and socio-cultural diversity.
β Cyber Security Risks: Foreign restrictions can disrupt critical digital infrastructure.
π Socio-Economic Implications
β AI can transform agriculture through precision farming.
β Enables vernacular education and personalized learning.
β Improves healthcare diagnostics and public service delivery.
β Supports Digital India and inclusive governance.
π Government Initiatives
β IndiaAI Mission (βΉ10,000 crore).
β Bhashini for Indian language AI.
β Support for indigenous models like Krutrim, Sarvam AI, and Project Indus.
β Expansion of domestic AI computing infrastructure and GPU capacity.
π Way Forward
β Develop indigenous Large Language Models (LLMs).
β Build domestic AI supercomputing infrastructure.
β Promote AI research through IITs, IIITs, IISc, and industry collaboration.
β Strengthen AI governance, ethical standards, and data protection.
β Encourage deep-tech innovation through public funding and venture capital.
π Conclusion
β Indiaβs transition to Sovereign AI is essential for strategic autonomy, digital sovereignty, national security, and global technological leadership. Building indigenous AI capabilities will enable India to move from being the worldβs technology back-office to becoming a global AI innovation leader.
π UPSC GS-II/III Mains Practice Question (15 Marks | 250 Words)
βDiscuss the major risks associated with frontier Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems. Examine the limitations of existing global AI governance frameworks and suggest principles for building an equitable and sovereign AI ecosystem.β
#mains
β€5
π Delhi Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, 2026
Subject: Governance
π Why in News?
β The Delhi Government has notified the Delhi Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, 2026, introducing a comprehensive roadmap to accelerate the adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and reduce vehicular pollution.
π About Delhi EV Policy, 2026
β Effective from 1 July 2026 to 31 March 2030.
β Focuses exclusively on Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).
β Strong hybrid vehicles are not eligible for tax exemptions or purchase incentives.
π Aim
β Reduce vehicular pollution and promote zero-emission mobility.
β Accelerate EV adoption through incentives, infrastructure development, and regulatory measures.
π Key Features
β Purchase Incentives
β Electric two-wheelers: βΉ30,000 (Year 1), βΉ20,000 (Year 2), βΉ10,000 (Year 3).
β Electric three-wheelers: βΉ50,000 (Year 1), βΉ40,000 (Year 2), βΉ30,000 (Year 3).
β Tax Benefits
β 100% exemption from road tax and registration fees for eligible EVs.
β For passenger cars, exemption is applicable up to βΉ30 lakh (ex-showroom).
β Commercial Vehicle Transition
β From 1 January 2027, only electric three-wheelers and N1 category light goods vehicles will receive fresh registrations.
β Two-Wheeler Transition
β From 1 April 2028, registration of new petrol and CNG two-wheelers will be discontinued.
β School Bus Electrification
β Schools must convert 10% of buses within 2 years, 20% within 3 years, and 30% by 31 March 2030.
β Digital Subsidy Portal
β Subsidies will be transferred via DBT within 60 days.
π Key Challenges
β High upfront cost of EVs for lower-income users.
β Need for large-scale expansion of charging infrastructure.
β Increased electricity demand and grid management.
β Opposition from hybrid vehicle manufacturers.
β Preventing misuse of subsidies through resale outside Delhi.
π Way Forward
β Expand the planned 32,000 public charging points.
β Ensure timely Aadhaar-enabled DBT of subsidies.
β Introduce affordable home charging tariffs through DISCOMs.
β Promote commercial EV adoption with regulatory incentives.
β Ensure a smooth transition by allowing existing ICE vehicles to operate until the end of their valid registration period.
π SECURE ANSWER WRITING PRACTICE QUESTION
Q. How can electric vehicle adoption contribute to Indiaβs climate commitments? Analyse the constraints that may limit its effectiveness in reducing emissions. (15 Marks)
#mains #polity #governance #mains #GS2 #prelims
https://t.me/upsc_polity_Governance
https://t.me/PIB_UPSC
Subject: Governance
π Why in News?
β The Delhi Government has notified the Delhi Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, 2026, introducing a comprehensive roadmap to accelerate the adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and reduce vehicular pollution.
π About Delhi EV Policy, 2026
β Effective from 1 July 2026 to 31 March 2030.
β Focuses exclusively on Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).
β Strong hybrid vehicles are not eligible for tax exemptions or purchase incentives.
π Aim
β Reduce vehicular pollution and promote zero-emission mobility.
β Accelerate EV adoption through incentives, infrastructure development, and regulatory measures.
π Key Features
β Purchase Incentives
β Electric two-wheelers: βΉ30,000 (Year 1), βΉ20,000 (Year 2), βΉ10,000 (Year 3).
β Electric three-wheelers: βΉ50,000 (Year 1), βΉ40,000 (Year 2), βΉ30,000 (Year 3).
β Tax Benefits
β 100% exemption from road tax and registration fees for eligible EVs.
β For passenger cars, exemption is applicable up to βΉ30 lakh (ex-showroom).
β Commercial Vehicle Transition
β From 1 January 2027, only electric three-wheelers and N1 category light goods vehicles will receive fresh registrations.
β Two-Wheeler Transition
β From 1 April 2028, registration of new petrol and CNG two-wheelers will be discontinued.
β School Bus Electrification
β Schools must convert 10% of buses within 2 years, 20% within 3 years, and 30% by 31 March 2030.
β Digital Subsidy Portal
β Subsidies will be transferred via DBT within 60 days.
π Key Challenges
β High upfront cost of EVs for lower-income users.
β Need for large-scale expansion of charging infrastructure.
β Increased electricity demand and grid management.
β Opposition from hybrid vehicle manufacturers.
β Preventing misuse of subsidies through resale outside Delhi.
π Way Forward
β Expand the planned 32,000 public charging points.
β Ensure timely Aadhaar-enabled DBT of subsidies.
β Introduce affordable home charging tariffs through DISCOMs.
β Promote commercial EV adoption with regulatory incentives.
β Ensure a smooth transition by allowing existing ICE vehicles to operate until the end of their valid registration period.
π SECURE ANSWER WRITING PRACTICE QUESTION
Q. How can electric vehicle adoption contribute to Indiaβs climate commitments? Analyse the constraints that may limit its effectiveness in reducing emissions. (15 Marks)
#mains #polity #governance #mains #GS2 #prelims
https://t.me/upsc_polity_Governance
https://t.me/PIB_UPSC
β€6
πππ‘ππ§π¨π₯ ππ₯ππ§ππ’π§π π’π§ ππ§ππ’π
π1
#Goodmorning
β³46 days left CSM26 [ 21-08-26]
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β³46 days left CSM26 [ 21-08-26]
β³321 days left CSP27 [ 23-05-27]
β³411 days left CSM27 [ 20-08-27]
β³153 days left UPPSC/RAS prelims 6 December
β³70 Day left CDS/NDA 2 13 Sept
β³63 day left Mppsc mains26 7 September
β³32 days left Afcat 8 august
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#Target
#TargetOnlyone
#Accountability
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π3β€2
π The Federal Fiscal Mismatch Architecture
π Context
β Economist Jayan Jose Thomas highlighted that the rising debt of Indian States is driven by a structural fiscal mismatch between expenditure responsibilities and revenue-raising powers.
π What is the Federal Fiscal Mismatch?
β The Union Government controls major tax sources, while States bear the bulk of expenditure on health, education, agriculture, irrigation, welfare, and local development.
β This imbalance forces States to depend heavily on market borrowings to finance developmental expenditure.
π Key Highlights
β Kerala generates 1.5 times the national average per capita own-tax revenue.
β Yet, its share in Central tax devolution is only 1.92%.
β Around 90% of Keralaβs expenditure is Revenue Expenditure, while only 10% is Capital Expenditure.
β Budget composition:
Salaries β 20%
Pensions β 15.3%
Interest Payments β 16.5%
β Keralaβs Credit-Deposit Ratio (CD Ratio) is 66%, against the national average of 76%.
β State Development Loans (SDLs) carry 6.5β7.5% interest, higher than Union Government borrowing costs.
π Key Challenges
β Limited fiscal space for infrastructure and capital investment.
β High debt servicing reduces funds for productive assets.
β Weak public investment leads to brain drain and slower economic growth.
β States cannot easily reduce spending without affecting health, education, and welfare services.
β Growing gap between private wealth and public finances.
π Chinaβs Model
β Local governments finance infrastructure through:
Local Government Bonds (LGBs)
Land sales
Local Government Financing Vehicles (LGFVs)
β Access to low-cost domestic credit keeps borrowing costs around 2%.
π Way Forward
β Reform Finance Commission devolution to reward efficient tax mobilisation.
β Lower borrowing costs by strengthening the SDL framework.
β Channel excess bank deposits into State infrastructure financing.
β Increase Capital Expenditure on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and technology.
β Improve fiscal autonomy while ensuring cooperative federalism.
π UPSC PRELIMS FACTS
β State Development Loans (SDLs): Market borrowings by State Governments.
β Finance Commission (Article 280): Recommends tax devolution between the Union and States.
β Capital Expenditure: Creates productive assets.
β Revenue Expenditure: Day-to-day operational expenditure.
β Credit-Deposit Ratio (CD Ratio): Indicates the proportion of deposits deployed as loans by banks.
#mains
π Context
β Economist Jayan Jose Thomas highlighted that the rising debt of Indian States is driven by a structural fiscal mismatch between expenditure responsibilities and revenue-raising powers.
π What is the Federal Fiscal Mismatch?
β The Union Government controls major tax sources, while States bear the bulk of expenditure on health, education, agriculture, irrigation, welfare, and local development.
β This imbalance forces States to depend heavily on market borrowings to finance developmental expenditure.
π Key Highlights
β Kerala generates 1.5 times the national average per capita own-tax revenue.
β Yet, its share in Central tax devolution is only 1.92%.
β Around 90% of Keralaβs expenditure is Revenue Expenditure, while only 10% is Capital Expenditure.
β Budget composition:
Salaries β 20%
Pensions β 15.3%
Interest Payments β 16.5%
β Keralaβs Credit-Deposit Ratio (CD Ratio) is 66%, against the national average of 76%.
β State Development Loans (SDLs) carry 6.5β7.5% interest, higher than Union Government borrowing costs.
π Key Challenges
β Limited fiscal space for infrastructure and capital investment.
β High debt servicing reduces funds for productive assets.
β Weak public investment leads to brain drain and slower economic growth.
β States cannot easily reduce spending without affecting health, education, and welfare services.
β Growing gap between private wealth and public finances.
π Chinaβs Model
β Local governments finance infrastructure through:
Local Government Bonds (LGBs)
Land sales
Local Government Financing Vehicles (LGFVs)
β Access to low-cost domestic credit keeps borrowing costs around 2%.
π Way Forward
β Reform Finance Commission devolution to reward efficient tax mobilisation.
β Lower borrowing costs by strengthening the SDL framework.
β Channel excess bank deposits into State infrastructure financing.
β Increase Capital Expenditure on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and technology.
β Improve fiscal autonomy while ensuring cooperative federalism.
π UPSC PRELIMS FACTS
β State Development Loans (SDLs): Market borrowings by State Governments.
β Finance Commission (Article 280): Recommends tax devolution between the Union and States.
β Capital Expenditure: Creates productive assets.
β Revenue Expenditure: Day-to-day operational expenditure.
β Credit-Deposit Ratio (CD Ratio): Indicates the proportion of deposits deployed as loans by banks.
#mains
β€5
π Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) β Modified UDAN
π Why in News?
β The Union Cabinet approved the Modified UDAN Scheme to accelerate regional air connectivity and support the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
π Modified UDAN Scheme
β Duration: 10 years (FY 2026β27 to 2035β36).
β Outlay: βΉ28,840 crore.
π Key Components
β 100 New Aerodromes: Development of airports from existing unserved airstrips.
β O&M Support: Operational and maintenance support for 3 years to around 441 RCS-only aerodromes.
β 200 Modern Helipads: To be developed in hilly, remote, island, and aspirational districts.
β Viability Gap Funding (VGF): βΉ10,043 crore over 10 years to support regional airline operations.
β Atmanirbhar Bharat Aviation: Promotion of indigenous aircraft such as HAL Dhruv helicopters and HAL Dornier aircraft for regional connectivity.
π About UDAN Scheme
β Launch: October 2016 under the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP), 2016.
β Type: Central Sector Scheme.
β Ministry: Ministry of Civil Aviation.
β Implementing Agency: Airports Authority of India (AAI).
β Objective: Make air travel affordable, accessible, and widespread, while improving connectivity to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
π Achievements
β 669 regional routes operationalised.
β Connectivity expanded across 95 airports, heliports, and water aerodromes.
β Benefited over 1.66 crore passengers.
β βΉ4,593.28 crore released as Viability Gap Funding (VGF).
β Indiaβs airport network expanded from 74 (2014) to 159 (2024).
#goverment_schemes
Join https://t.me/PIB_UPSC
https://t.me/upsc_government_scheme
π Why in News?
β The Union Cabinet approved the Modified UDAN Scheme to accelerate regional air connectivity and support the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
π Modified UDAN Scheme
β Duration: 10 years (FY 2026β27 to 2035β36).
β Outlay: βΉ28,840 crore.
π Key Components
β 100 New Aerodromes: Development of airports from existing unserved airstrips.
β O&M Support: Operational and maintenance support for 3 years to around 441 RCS-only aerodromes.
β 200 Modern Helipads: To be developed in hilly, remote, island, and aspirational districts.
β Viability Gap Funding (VGF): βΉ10,043 crore over 10 years to support regional airline operations.
β Atmanirbhar Bharat Aviation: Promotion of indigenous aircraft such as HAL Dhruv helicopters and HAL Dornier aircraft for regional connectivity.
π About UDAN Scheme
β Launch: October 2016 under the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP), 2016.
β Type: Central Sector Scheme.
β Ministry: Ministry of Civil Aviation.
β Implementing Agency: Airports Authority of India (AAI).
β Objective: Make air travel affordable, accessible, and widespread, while improving connectivity to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
π Achievements
β 669 regional routes operationalised.
β Connectivity expanded across 95 airports, heliports, and water aerodromes.
β Benefited over 1.66 crore passengers.
β βΉ4,593.28 crore released as Viability Gap Funding (VGF).
β Indiaβs airport network expanded from 74 (2014) to 159 (2024).
#goverment_schemes
Join https://t.me/PIB_UPSC
https://t.me/upsc_government_scheme
β€3π1
#Goodmorning
β³45 days left CSM26 [ 21-08-26]
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β³45 days left CSM26 [ 21-08-26]
β³320 days left CSP27 [ 23-05-27]
β³410 days left CSM27 [ 20-08-27]
β³152 days left UPPSC/RAS prelims 6 December
β³69 Day left CDS/NDA 2 13 Sept
β³63 l2day left Mppsc mains26 7 September
β³31 days left Afcat 8 august
β³31 days left mppsc mains 8 august
β³19 days left 72nd BPSC PRELIMS 26 July
β³11 days left CAPF AC 19 July
#Target
#TargetOnlyone
#Accountability
https://t.me/anmolvachan1
β€1
π CURRENT AFFAIRS β 6 JULY 2026
π SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
π Government Orders Removal of Battery Hacking Apps
β Apple and Google directed to remove BAT-BMS, Lossigy and Epoch Li-ion apps
β Apps could remotely stop Bluetooth-enabled e-rickshaws
β Highlights cybersecurity risks in EV Battery Management Systems (BMS)
β BMS monitors, protects and manages lithium-ion battery packs
π SCHEMES
π LokOS Strengthens Rural Livelihood Digitisation
β Digital platform under DAY-NRLM
β Enables end-to-end digitisation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
β Aadhaar-linked digital IDs and financial transaction records
β Supports women entrepreneurs through SHE-LEAPS
β Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development
π Registration Extended for Navachar Mantra
β Registration deadline extended till 15 July 2026
β Flagship innovation platform of MSDE
β Implemented through NIESBUD and FITT
β Promotes entrepreneurship and startup innovation
π PM Launches Viksit UDAN
β Next phase of UDAN launched on 4 July 2026
β Total outlay: βΉ29,000 crore
β Duration: 10 years
β Plans 100 new aerodromes and 200 helipads
β Supports regional connectivity and Viksit Bharat 2047
π STATES
π Oldest Scientifically Dated Banyan Tree Identified
β Located in Munger, Bihar
β Estimated age: ~700 years
β Confirmed using AMS Radiocarbon Dating
β Research by Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP)
π West Bengal Gets Three New GI Tags
β Jalbhara Sandesh (Chandannagar)
β Manohara (Janai)
β Balagarh Traditional Wooden Boats
β GI registration governed by GI Act, 1999
π Ladakh Announces Incentives for Pashmina Herders
β 25% production-based incentive through DBT
β βΉ8 crore revolving fund approved
β Supports Changthangi goat rearers and Changpa community
π NATIONAL
π NCW Launches Women Helpline 14490
β 24Γ7 toll-free helpline
β Provides counselling, complaint registration and grievance redressal
β Covers domestic violence, workplace harassment and gender-based violence
π India Inaugurates First Greenfield Refinery-Cum-Petrochemical Complex
β Located at Pachpadra, Rajasthan
β Project cost: βΉ79,450 crore
β Joint venture: HPCL (74%) and Government of Rajasthan (26%)
β Indiaβs first integrated Greenfield refinery-cum-petrochemical complex
π India Unveils First Indigenous EXIM Shipping Container
β Unveiled by Sarbananda Sonowal
β Manufactured by DCM Shriram Group
β Designed for international intermodal cargo transport
π INTERNATIONAL
π IAEA Reports Power Loss at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant
β Plant lost off-site power for the 21st time
β Located in Ukraine
β One of Europeβs largest nuclear power plants
β Report released by IAEA
π United States Marks 250th Independence Anniversary
β Celebrated on 4 July 2026
β Marks 250 years of the US Declaration of Independence (1776)
π INDIA & THE WORLD
π India and Mali Launch Export Promotion Forum
β First institutional trade platform between both countries
β Theme: βReinforcing Trade and Strategic Partnershipsβ
β FY 2025β26 bilateral trade: US$326.61 million
β Launched in Bamako
π AGREEMENTS & MoUs
π IndiaβIsrael Bilateral Investment Agreement Comes into Force
β Agreement signed in September 2025
β Effective from 6 July 2026
β Promotes cross-border investment and economic cooperation
π APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS
π Keiko Fujimori Wins Peru Presidential Election
β Conservative leader elected President of Peru
π AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
π 651 Indian Army Personnel Receive UN Medal
β Awarded for peacekeeping service in DR Congo
β Serving under MONUSCO
β Recognises contribution to UN peacekeeping
π ICMR-MINDS Wins Gold at National e-Governance Awards
β Awarded at National Awards for e-Governance 2026
β Integrates mental health with Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
π SPORTS
π Australia Wins Record Seventh Womenβs T20 World Cup
β Defeated England in the final
β Venue: Lordβs Cricket Ground
β Beth Mooney named Player of the Match
#CurrentAffairs
π SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
π Government Orders Removal of Battery Hacking Apps
β Apple and Google directed to remove BAT-BMS, Lossigy and Epoch Li-ion apps
β Apps could remotely stop Bluetooth-enabled e-rickshaws
β Highlights cybersecurity risks in EV Battery Management Systems (BMS)
β BMS monitors, protects and manages lithium-ion battery packs
π SCHEMES
π LokOS Strengthens Rural Livelihood Digitisation
β Digital platform under DAY-NRLM
β Enables end-to-end digitisation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
β Aadhaar-linked digital IDs and financial transaction records
β Supports women entrepreneurs through SHE-LEAPS
β Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development
π Registration Extended for Navachar Mantra
β Registration deadline extended till 15 July 2026
β Flagship innovation platform of MSDE
β Implemented through NIESBUD and FITT
β Promotes entrepreneurship and startup innovation
π PM Launches Viksit UDAN
β Next phase of UDAN launched on 4 July 2026
β Total outlay: βΉ29,000 crore
β Duration: 10 years
β Plans 100 new aerodromes and 200 helipads
β Supports regional connectivity and Viksit Bharat 2047
π STATES
π Oldest Scientifically Dated Banyan Tree Identified
β Located in Munger, Bihar
β Estimated age: ~700 years
β Confirmed using AMS Radiocarbon Dating
β Research by Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP)
π West Bengal Gets Three New GI Tags
β Jalbhara Sandesh (Chandannagar)
β Manohara (Janai)
β Balagarh Traditional Wooden Boats
β GI registration governed by GI Act, 1999
π Ladakh Announces Incentives for Pashmina Herders
β 25% production-based incentive through DBT
β βΉ8 crore revolving fund approved
β Supports Changthangi goat rearers and Changpa community
π NATIONAL
π NCW Launches Women Helpline 14490
β 24Γ7 toll-free helpline
β Provides counselling, complaint registration and grievance redressal
β Covers domestic violence, workplace harassment and gender-based violence
π India Inaugurates First Greenfield Refinery-Cum-Petrochemical Complex
β Located at Pachpadra, Rajasthan
β Project cost: βΉ79,450 crore
β Joint venture: HPCL (74%) and Government of Rajasthan (26%)
β Indiaβs first integrated Greenfield refinery-cum-petrochemical complex
π India Unveils First Indigenous EXIM Shipping Container
β Unveiled by Sarbananda Sonowal
β Manufactured by DCM Shriram Group
β Designed for international intermodal cargo transport
π INTERNATIONAL
π IAEA Reports Power Loss at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant
β Plant lost off-site power for the 21st time
β Located in Ukraine
β One of Europeβs largest nuclear power plants
β Report released by IAEA
π United States Marks 250th Independence Anniversary
β Celebrated on 4 July 2026
β Marks 250 years of the US Declaration of Independence (1776)
π INDIA & THE WORLD
π India and Mali Launch Export Promotion Forum
β First institutional trade platform between both countries
β Theme: βReinforcing Trade and Strategic Partnershipsβ
β FY 2025β26 bilateral trade: US$326.61 million
β Launched in Bamako
π AGREEMENTS & MoUs
π IndiaβIsrael Bilateral Investment Agreement Comes into Force
β Agreement signed in September 2025
β Effective from 6 July 2026
β Promotes cross-border investment and economic cooperation
π APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS
π Keiko Fujimori Wins Peru Presidential Election
β Conservative leader elected President of Peru
π AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
π 651 Indian Army Personnel Receive UN Medal
β Awarded for peacekeeping service in DR Congo
β Serving under MONUSCO
β Recognises contribution to UN peacekeeping
π ICMR-MINDS Wins Gold at National e-Governance Awards
β Awarded at National Awards for e-Governance 2026
β Integrates mental health with Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
π SPORTS
π Australia Wins Record Seventh Womenβs T20 World Cup
β Defeated England in the final
β Venue: Lordβs Cricket Ground
β Beth Mooney named Player of the Match
#CurrentAffairs
β€6