Daily Current Affairs Quiz 23rd July 2026 for Banking & Competitive Exams |

National News

India Launches Campus Biodiversity Register Initiative For Universities Nationwide

India has launched the Campus Biodiversity Register (CBR) Initiative for colleges and universities.
The initiative aims to document plants, animals, birds, insects, and other living organisms found on campuses.
It is jointly implemented by the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF) and the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).
The programme promotes biodiversity conservation, scientific research, and environmental awareness.
Educational institutions will use citizen science platforms such as iNaturalist, eBird, and SeasonWatch.
The initiative is inspired by the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR).
Students, faculty, and researchers are encouraged to actively participate in biodiversity documentation.
The collected data will support ecological research and environmental policymaking.
Registration for institutions will remain open until November 2026.
Biodiversity documentation will continue until June 2027.
Key Fact: The CBR Initiative aims to create comprehensive biodiversity records for campuses across India.

Tamil Nadu’s Killai Becomes First Climate-Resilient Village

Killai village in Cuddalore district has become Tamil Nadu’s first Climate-Resilient Village.
The village is located near the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest.
The initiative follows a community-driven approach to climate adaptation.
It addresses challenges such as cyclones, floods, coastal erosion, and sea-level rise.
Measures include climate-smart development and resilient infrastructure.
Nature-based solutions and improved water management have been adopted.
Community participation plays a key role in planning and implementation.
The project protects both livelihoods and natural ecosystems.
It benefits fishermen, farmers, and coastal residents.
The model can be replicated in other climate-vulnerable coastal regions.
Key Fact: Killai is the first Climate-Resilient Village in Tamil Nadu.

President Murmu Unveils Gandhi Bust In North Macedonia Capital

President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Skopje, North Macedonia.
The unveiling took place at the Museum of the City of Skopje.
The event was held on 22 July 2026.
North Macedonia President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova attended the ceremony.
The bust symbolizes friendship between India and North Macedonia.
President Murmu highlighted Gandhi’s principles of Truth (Satya) and Non-violence (Ahimsa).
She described Gandhi’s ideals as universal values promoting peace and justice.
The event strengthened bilateral and cultural relations between the two countries.
It reinforced India’s commitment to peace, humanity, and dialogue.
The memorial reflects shared values of tolerance and mutual respect.
Key Fact: The Gandhi bust was unveiled in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia.

India’s Wind Power Capacity Reaches 57,443 MW Milestone

India’s installed wind power capacity reached 57,443 MW as of 30 June 2026.
Around 6,057 MW was added during FY 2025–26.
This is the highest annual wind capacity addition in the last three financial years.
Wind power generation increased to 106 billion units.
Gujarat remains the leading state with 16,086 MW of installed capacity.
Tamil Nadu and Karnataka follow Gujarat in wind power capacity.
India ranks 4th globally in cumulative wind energy installations.
The ranking is based on data from the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC).
Government policies are promoting offshore wind and transmission infrastructure.
Wind energy expansion supports India’s renewable energy and climate goals.
Key Fact: India is the 4th largest country in cumulative wind energy installations globally.

India Becomes World’s Second Most Electrified Railway Network Nation

Indian Railways has achieved 99.6% electrification of its broad-gauge network.
India is now the world’s second most electrified railway network.
Only Switzerland ranks ahead of India.
More than 48,000 route kilometres have been electrified since 2014.
Diesel consumption has reduced significantly over the past decade.
Electrification has lowered fuel imports and carbon emissions.
Rail transport emits about 89% less CO₂ per tonne-kilometre than road transport.
Indian Railways has installed over 1,260 MW of solar and wind energy capacity.
Most railway zones have already achieved complete electrification.
Remaining sections are nearing completion.
Key Fact: Indian Railways has achieved 99.6% broad-gauge electrification, making it the second most electrified railway network in the world.

State News

Chhattisgarh Grants Agniveers 10% Reservation In Class-III Government Jobs

The Chhattisgarh government has approved 10% reservation for Agniveers in selected Class-III government jobs.
The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.
The reservation is provided under the Chhattisgarh Reservation of Vacancies in Class-III Civil Services for Agniveer Soldiers Rules, 2026.
It aims to help former Agniveers secure government employment after completing service under the Agnipath Scheme.
Eligible posts include Police Constable, Forest Guard, and Jail Warder.
Applicants must be residents of Chhattisgarh.
Candidates must possess a valid Agniveer discharge certificate.
The initiative supports a smooth transition from military to civilian careers.
It recognizes the contribution and discipline of former Agniveers.
The move is expected to strengthen the state’s public service workforce.
Key Fact: Chhattisgarh has announced 10% reservation for Agniveers in selected Class-III government posts.

Andhra Pradesh Launches Blockchain-Based Mee Bhoomi Land Records Platform

Andhra Pradesh has launched the Mee Bhoomi–Blockchain Pilot Project.
The initiative modernises land record management using blockchain technology.
It has been developed by NIC Andhra Pradesh and NIC Bengaluru’s Centre of Excellence in Blockchain Technology.
The platform is built on Hyperledger Fabric.
It integrates revenue, survey, and registration records into a secure digital system.
The pilot project covers seven mandals across seven districts.
It includes 89 re-survey villages and more than 1.37 lakh land parcel maps.
Citizens can access services such as auto-mutation, land subdivision, and digital verification.
The platform reduces land disputes and prevents record tampering.
It improves transparency and enables secure data sharing.
Key Fact: Andhra Pradesh’s Mee Bhoomi platform uses Hyperledger Fabric for blockchain-based land records.

Jharkhand Partners With SRFTI To Launch Film Institute In Ranchi

Jharkhand has signed an MoU with SRFTI to establish its first Film and Television Institute.
The institute will be known as the Jharkhand Film and Television Institute (JFTI).
It will be established in Ranchi.
The project is being developed by Jharkhand Film Development Corporation Limited (JFDCL).
Initially, the institute will operate from Suchna Bhawan.
It will offer certificate courses in filmmaking and television production.
Courses include cinematography, editing, sound design, animation, screenplay writing, and direction.
Undergraduate programmes will be introduced in later phases.
The institute aims to develop skilled media professionals.
It will support Jharkhand’s creative economy and entertainment industry.
Key Fact: JFTI will be Jharkhand’s first Film and Television Institute.

Rajasthan Launches Mukhyamantri Yuva Suyog Platform For Youth Empowerment

Rajasthan has launched the Mukhyamantri Yuva Suyog Platform.
The initiative promotes youth development, sports, skills, and employment opportunities.
The platform was launched from the Chief Minister’s residence in Jaipur.
Registration is carried out through the Yuva Suyog Portal.
The pilot phase has started in Bagru Assembly constituency and Baran district.
Sports competitions include cricket, volleyball, kabaddi, and football.
Winners will advance to higher-level competitions.
The initiative also maps sports infrastructure digitally.
Registered youth become members of District-level Yuva Suyog Clubs.
The platform is integrated with the MY Bharat Programme to promote volunteerism.
Key Fact: The Mukhyamantri Yuva Suyog Platform combines sports, skill development, and community participation for Rajasthan’s youth.

Punjab Introduces AI Education Across Classes 1 To 12

Punjab has become the first Indian state to introduce AI as a mainstream subject from Class 1 to Class 12.
The initiative is being implemented under the Sarbat.AI programme.
It is introduced by the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB).
AI education will initially begin for Classes VIII to XII.
The programme includes live classes, recorded lectures, projects, and assessments.
A dedicated Learning Management System (LMS) will support teaching.
More than 12,000 Computer Science teachers will receive specialised AI training.
Technology partners include Google, Intel, Canva, Neeev AI, and FA-AI.
The initiative promotes AI literacy and ethical use of technology.
It prepares students for future careers in emerging technologies.
Key Fact: Punjab is the first state in India to introduce AI education from Class 1 to Class 12.

International News

India Hosts BRICS University Meet To Boost Education Cooperation

India hosted the International Governing Board Meeting of the BRICS Network University (BRICS NU).
The event was organised under India’s BRICS Presidency 2026.
It was hosted by the Ministry of Education.
Policymakers, university leaders, researchers, and academicians from BRICS nations participated.
Discussions focused on higher education, research, innovation, and institutional collaboration.
Member countries explored joint academic programmes and faculty-student exchange initiatives.
The first BRICS NU Conference on Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge Systems was also organised.
The conference highlighted responsible AI, ethical governance, and preservation of indigenous knowledge.
India proposed creating a new International Thematic Group on Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge Systems.
The proposal received broad support from all participating BRICS member countries.
Key Fact: The event was held under India’s BRICS Presidency 2026.

Oxford Study Lists Indian Cities Facing Extreme Heat Risks

A University of Oxford study identified the world’s cities most vulnerable to extreme heat.
The research was published in the journal Sustainable Cities and Society.
The study assessed 205 major cities using a global heat-risk framework.
Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai were ranked among the world’s top 10 heat-risk cities.
Delhi secured the 2nd position globally.
Mumbai ranked 6th, while Chennai ranked 9th.
The assessment considered temperature exposure, population vulnerability, and adaptive capacity.
The study highlighted the impact of rapid urbanisation and the urban heat island effect.
It recommended stronger heat action plans and climate-resilient urban infrastructure.
Green spaces and improved healthcare systems were identified as key adaptation measures.
Key Fact: Delhi ranked second globally in the Oxford extreme heat risk study.

US Approves Historic 30-Year Civil Nuclear Deal With Saudi Arabia

The United States approved a 30-year civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia.
The agreement was signed under Section 123 of the US Atomic Energy Act, 1954.
It establishes a long-term framework for peaceful nuclear cooperation.
The agreement includes reactor development, fuel supply, technology transfer, and infrastructure support.
It aims to support Saudi Arabia’s energy diversification programme.
US companies are expected to participate in Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear sector.
The agreement excludes the “Gold Standard” restrictions on uranium enrichment.
It also does not require the IAEA Additional Protocol.
Supporters describe the agreement as a strategic partnership.
Critics have raised concerns about possible nuclear proliferation risks.
Key Fact: The agreement is a 30-year Section 123 Civil Nuclear Agreement.

Banking News

RBI Revives Polymer Banknotes Plan With Global Supply Initiative

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revived its polymer banknotes initiative.
RBI has invited a global Expression of Interest (EoI) for polymer substrate sheets.
The procurement process is being managed through BRBNMPL.
The proposal covers durable ₹10 and ₹20 polymer banknotes.
Polymer notes are more resistant to moisture, dirt, and tearing than paper notes.
They support advanced anti-counterfeit security features.
Although costlier initially, polymer notes have a longer lifespan.
The initiative is expected to reduce replacement and maintenance costs.
India first proposed polymer currency notes in 2010.
The 2026 initiative marks a renewed effort to modernise India’s currency system.
Key Fact: RBI plans to introduce ₹10 and ₹20 polymer banknotes.

UPI Records Massive Transaction Growth In FY26 Digital Payments

UPI processed 24,161.69 crore transactions during FY 2025–26.
The total transaction value reached ₹314.23 lakh crore.
The platform is operated by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
UPI had 55.49 crore onboarded users by June 2026.
Transaction volume increased significantly compared to FY 2024–25.
RBI, NPCI, and the Government introduced stronger payment security measures.
The Comprehensive UPI Information Security Framework (CUISF) 2025 was implemented.
Risk-based transaction limits and enhanced authentication were introduced.
UPI merchant payment services have expanded internationally.
Countries including Bhutan, Singapore, and the UAE now support UPI merchant payments.
Key Fact: UPI processed 24,161.69 crore transactions worth ₹314.23 lakh crore in FY 2025–26.

NRI Deposit Inflows Drop 29% As RBI Data Shows

RBI reported a decline in NRI deposit inflows during April–May FY27.
Total inflows fell by 29.25% year-on-year.
NRI deposits declined to $1.33 billion during the period.
Outstanding NRI deposits stood at $165.96 billion in May 2026.
FCNR(B) deposit inflows decreased to $282 million.
NRE deposit inflows declined to $597 million.
NRO deposits recorded a slight increase to $451 million.
RBI introduced a concessional swap facility for fresh FCNR(B) deposits in June 2026.
The policy boosted foreign currency inflows in subsequent weeks.
Fresh FCNR(B) deposits reached $17.4 billion between 8 June and 17 July 2026.
Key Fact: NRI deposit inflows declined by 29.25% during April–May FY27.

Appointments News

Anurag Jain Appointed New NITI Aayog CEO By Government

Senior IAS officer Anurag Jain has been appointed as the new CEO of NITI Aayog.
The appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
He is a 1989-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre.
Jain has nearly four decades of experience in public administration and governance.
His expertise includes infrastructure development and industrial policy.
The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) announced the appointment.
He will assume charge from the date of joining.
His tenure will be two years or until further orders.
The appointment aligns with India’s Viksit Bharat@2047 vision.
NITI Aayog is also promoting reforms through the Investment Friendliness Index 2026.
Key Fact: Anurag Jain is the new CEO of NITI Aayog.

Awards News

Ajit Doval To Receive Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has been selected for the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026.
The award is presented by the Tilak Smarak Trust.
He is being honoured for strengthening India’s national security framework.
The announcement was made on 21 July 2026.
The award ceremony will be held on 1 August 2026.
The venue is Maharashtra Mandal Ground, Pune.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will present the award.
Ajit Doval is a retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer.
He has served in the Intelligence Bureau and various sensitive assignments.
The award recognises contributions to nation-building and public service.
Key Fact: Ajit Doval will receive the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026.

Defence News

Samudra Pradakshina Creates History With Tri-Service Women Sailors

Samudra Pradakshina became India’s first tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition.
The expedition featured a nine-member crew.
Women officers belonged to the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The team sailed aboard IASV Triveni.
The voyage lasted 314 days.
The crew covered nearly 25,500 nautical miles.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the expedition in September 2025.
The expedition returned to Mumbai on 22 July 2026.
The mission crossed the Equator twice and rounded three major capes.
It showcased Nari Shakti and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Key Fact: IASV Triveni completed India’s first tri-service all-women global sailing expedition.

Indian Navy Commissions INS Malvan To Strengthen Coastal Security

The Indian Navy commissioned INS Malvan at Karwar Naval Base.
It is the second Mahe-class ASW Shallow Water Craft.
The vessel was built by Cochin Shipyard Limited.
It has over 80% indigenous content.
INS Malvan is designed for anti-submarine warfare.
It also performs underwater surveillance and mine warfare.
The ship is named after Malvan in Maharashtra.
It supports operations in shallow coastal waters.
The commissioning strengthens India’s coastal security.
It reflects the success of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Key Fact: INS Malvan is the second Mahe-class ASW-SWC of the Indian Navy.

DRDO Signs Key Contracts For Indigenous AEW&C Mk-II Programme

DRDO signed two major contracts for the AEW&C Mk-II Programme.
The programme is led by Centre for Air Borne Systems (CABS).
AIESL will convert six Airbus A321 aircraft.
Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited (ADSTL) will develop mission systems.
The aircraft will undergo integration and flight trials.
The Indian Air Force will conduct operational testing.
The platform will enhance airborne surveillance capabilities.
It will improve early threat detection and secure communications.
The project supports indigenous aerospace manufacturing.
It is part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Key Fact: Six Airbus A321 aircraft will be converted under the AEW&C Mk-II Programme.

HAL Partners Safran To Manufacture LEAP Engine Components In India

HAL signed a long-term agreement with Safran Aircraft Engines.
HAL will manufacture superalloy turbine ring forgings.
Production will take place in Bengaluru.
The components are meant for the CFM LEAP engine programme.
LEAP engines power the Airbus A320neo aircraft.
They also power the Boeing 737 MAX.
The engines are used in the COMAC C919 aircraft.
The agreement strengthens India’s aerospace manufacturing sector.
It expands HAL’s role in the global aerospace supply chain.
The partnership supports high-value component exports.
Key Fact: HAL will manufacture LEAP engine components in partnership with Safran Aircraft Engines.

Schemes News

CSC Registration 2026: Start Digital Service Centre From Home

The Common Service Centre (CSC) Scheme operates under the Digital India Mission.
Eligible individuals can become Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs).
CSC 4.0 provides more than 500 government and private services.
Services include Aadhaar, PAN, banking, insurance, and Ayushman Bharat registration.
Applicants must be Indian citizens with Class 10 qualification.
Basic computer knowledge and internet access are mandatory.
Candidates must complete the Telecentre Entrepreneur Course (TEC).
Registration is completed through the official CSC portal.
CSC operators earn commissions for every service provided.
Monthly earnings can exceed ₹30,000, depending on demand.
Key Fact: TEC certification is mandatory for CSC registration.

Mini Nandi Farmer Prosperity Scheme Offers ₹11.8 Lakh Dairy Aid

The scheme promotes scientific dairy farming.
It supports indigenous cattle breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, and Tharparkar.
Farmers receive financial assistance of up to ₹11.80 lakh.
The scheme supports establishment of a 10-cow dairy unit.
The total project cost is ₹23.60 lakh.
Government provides 50% subsidy.
Beneficiaries contribute 15%, while banks finance 35%.
At least 50% of beneficiaries will be women dairy farmers.
Applicants must have land and fodder arrangements.
The scheme promotes rural livelihoods and milk production.
Key Fact: The scheme provides ₹11.80 lakh assistance with 50% government subsidy.

Science & Technology News

IIT Madras Hosts Digital India RISC-V Symposium For Chip Innovation

IIT Madras will host the 3rd Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Symposium 2026.
The event will be held on 1–2 August 2026.
The venue is IIT Madras Research Park, Chennai.
It is organised with MeitY and RISC-V International.
The theme is “Empowering Bharat’s Semiconductor Future.”
The symposium focuses on semiconductor and processor innovation.
Experts from academia, industry, startups, and government will participate.
A major attraction is the DIR-V Grand Challenge Hackathon.
Discussions include AI, secure computing, and semiconductor design.
The event supports India’s semiconductor ecosystem.
Key Fact: The symposium will be held at IIT Madras Research Park on 1–2 August 2026.