Daily Current Affairs and GK Updates (15th June, 2026) |

National News

FSSAI Regulates Healthy and Organic Food Claims on Packaged Foods

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has intensified scrutiny of food labels and marketing claims on packaged foods, targeting terms such as “healthy,” “organic,” “zero maida,” “true vitamin,” and “plant-based vegan.” The initiative aims to prevent misleading advertisements and ensure compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and labelling regulations. FSSAI emphasized that such claims must be scientifically substantiated and clearly defined. Organic products must comply with certification systems like NPOP and PGS and carry the Jaivik Bharat Logo. The regulator may impose penalties, mandate label corrections, suspend licences, or order recalls for violations.

Ministry of Ayush Sets Guinness World Record with Largest YouTube Live Yoga Session Ahead of IDY 2026

The Ministry of Ayush created a Guinness World Record for the largest YouTube Live Yoga session, attracting 435,831 verified live viewers ahead of International Day of Yoga 2026. The event surpassed the previous 2024 record of 246,252 viewers and showcased the Common Yoga Protocol through the Ministry’s official channel under the “Yoga 365” campaign. Organized with support from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, the programme promoted accessibility, inclusivity, and preventive healthcare. Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav highlighted Yoga’s growing global appeal. The achievement supports preparations for IDY 2026, themed “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme: 11 Years of Advancing Girl Child Empowerment in India

Launched on 22 January 2015, the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme has completed 11 years of promoting gender equality, improving child sex ratio, and empowering girls through education. Implemented by the Ministries of Women and Child Development, Health, and Education, the initiative addresses gender discrimination and declining child sex ratio through awareness and behavioural change. Government data shows the Sex Ratio at Birth improved from 918 in 2014–15 to 929 in 2024–25, while girls’ secondary school enrolment increased from 75.51% to 80.2%. The programme also supports maternal health, nutrition, and holistic development of girls.

India Deploys First Tunnel Hoods for Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project

India has introduced its first railway tunnel hood technology on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor. Tunnel hoods are installed at tunnel entrances and exits to reduce air-pressure waves generated by trains travelling above 300 kmph. Using pressure-relief vents, the technology minimizes tunnel boom, reduces noise pollution, improves passenger comfort, and enhances operational safety. The corridor, built with Japanese Shinkansen technology, includes eight mountain tunnels across Maharashtra and Gujarat, with hoods at both ends. Widely used in Japan, France, and China, the innovation reflects India’s adoption of global best practices for safer, quieter, and more efficient high-speed rail operations.

BRICS Agriculture Ministers Adopt Joint Declaration in Indore, Back Farmer-Centric Initiatives

The 16th BRICS Agriculture Ministers Meeting in Indore concluded with a Joint Declaration promoting food security, sustainable agriculture, climate-resilient farming, innovation, and farmer welfare. Key decisions included launching the BRICS Network of Centres of Excellence on Agroecology and Regenerative Agriculture, coordinated by ICAR-IIFSR, and establishing a Digital Agriculture Network led by IIT Delhi. Ministers approved a Global Forum on Farmers Rights in Seed Systems and the BRICS AGRIN Framework for cooperation on agro-inputs and genetic resources. The BRICS Agricultural Research Platform will become a Knowledge-to-Action Hub, emphasizing support for small farmers, women, youth, and South-South cooperation.

Department of Posts Starts Drone-Based Mail Transmission in Remote Himachal Areas

The Department of Posts has launched drone-based mail delivery in Himachal Pradesh, beginning operations between Mandi Head Post Office and Rehardhar Branch Post Office on 12 June 2026. The service reduces a 12-kilometre journey from over two hours to just seven minutes. Announced by Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, the initiative aims to improve connectivity and postal services in remote mountainous regions. Following the successful pilot, the department plans to expand drone delivery to nearly 150 routes in Himachal Pradesh and Assam. Benefits include faster delivery, real-time tracking, environmental sustainability, and improved access to government and financial services.

Project Great Indian Bustard Adds Three New Chicks, Captive Population Reaches 94

Project Great Indian Bustard achieved a conservation milestone with the addition of three new chicks, increasing the captive population to 94 birds. Announced by Bhupender Yadav, the hatchlings included one from a wild-collected egg and two from captive-laid eggs. During the fourth year of the programme, 26 chicks were hatched through artificial insemination, natural breeding, and wild-collected eggs. The project also employs a jumpstart intervention strategy to enhance genetic diversity and reduce predation risks. Three chicks have additionally hatched in the wild in Rajasthan. Conservation efforts remain crucial as the species faces habitat loss and power-line collisions.

State News

Bihar to Get ₹31.21 Crore Integrated Aqua Park in Bhojpur

Bihar’s fisheries sector will receive a major boost with the establishment of a ₹31.21 crore Integrated Aqua Park in Bhojpur and the inauguration of the NFDB Regional Centre in Patna. Bihar possesses extensive fisheries resources, including ponds, reservoirs, wetlands, and over 21,000 km of rivers and canals. Supported by fisheries projects worth ₹902.84 crore, fish production has more than doubled, making Bihar India’s fourth-largest inland fish-producing state. The Aqua Park will include hatcheries, biofloc units, feed plants, laboratories, quarantine facilities, and training centres. A newly notified Wetland Fisheries Cluster will further strengthen sustainable fisheries development and rural livelihoods.

Jharkhand’s Bhagaiya Silk, Munda Jewellery and Bamboo Craft Receive GI Tag

Jharkhand has secured Geographical Indication (GI) tags for four traditional products—Bhagaiya silk, Kuchai silk, Munda jewellery, and bamboo craft. Supported by NABARD, the recognition protects authenticity, prevents imitation, and promotes regional identity. Bhagaiya and Kuchai silk showcase Jharkhand’s sericulture heritage, while Munda jewellery reflects tribal craftsmanship and cultural traditions. Bamboo craft highlights sustainable livelihoods and eco-friendly products. GI certification is expected to improve branding, exports, tourism, and market value while creating better income opportunities for artisans. The recognition also strengthens rural economies and helps preserve indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage across the state.

Kerala Launches Priyadarshini Free Bus Travel Scheme

Kerala launched the Priyadarshini Free Bus Travel Scheme on 15 June 2026, offering free travel for women and transgender persons on ordinary KSRTC bus services. Beneficiaries receive zero-value electronic tickets, allowing the government to reimburse KSRTC for revenue losses. The universal scheme requires no registration and covers around 3,125 ordinary buses, excluding premium services. Estimated to cost over ₹60 crore monthly, it aims to improve access to education, employment, healthcare, and public services. By reducing transportation expenses, the initiative promotes workforce participation, social inclusion, and gender equity while strengthening Kerala’s welfare-oriented public transport system.

Kerala Vision 2031: A Roadmap to Become India’s Most Women-Friendly State

Kerala’s Vision 2031 seeks to make the state India’s most women-friendly through legal reforms, safety measures, mobility initiatives, and economic empowerment. The roadmap proposes a law inspired by the Disha Act for fast-track trials in crimes against women, expansion of women police stations, and appointment of more women Station House Officers. Plans include a Distress Alert App, pink buses, and expansion of the Priyadarshini free travel scheme. The “Avalkoppam” initiative will address domestic violence and dowry harassment. Kerala has allocated ₹5,586.99 crore under its 2026–27 gender budget, reinforcing its commitment to gender-responsive governance and inclusive development.

Odisha Celebrates Raja Festival as President Murmu Emphasizes Nature and Nation-Building

President Droupadi Murmu greeted citizens on Raja Parba, highlighting its significance in celebrating nature, agriculture, monsoon rains, and environmental harmony. The traditional three-day Odisha festival marks the symbolic rest and rejuvenation of Mother Earth and includes Pahili Raja, Mithuna Sankranti, and Basi Raja, followed by Vasumati Snana. Celebrations feature swings, folk songs, community gatherings, and traditional delicacies such as Poda Pitha, Manda Pitha, and Arisa Pitha. The President emphasized the festival’s message of living in balance with nature and contributing to social harmony and nation-building while preserving Odisha’s rich agrarian and cultural heritage.

International News

US-Iran Peace Agreement Finalised

Reports indicate a tentative understanding between the United States and Iran following months of regional tensions and diplomatic engagement. Supported by countries including Pakistan, Qatar, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, the proposed agreement could significantly reshape West Asian geopolitics. Key reported provisions include lifting maritime restrictions on Iranian ports, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and establishing a broader regional ceasefire framework. The agreement aims to improve energy flows, stabilize regional security, and strengthen global trade. For India, reduced tensions could lower crude oil prices, reduce shipping and insurance costs, enhance energy security, and support overall economic stability.

PM Modi’s France Visit: India, France Unveil 13 Key Outcomes & Adopt Innovation Roadmap 2030

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France, India and France announced 13 major outcomes under their Special Global Strategic Partnership. Key initiatives include the India-France Innovation Roadmap 2030, a Joint AI Working Group, UPI expansion in France, startup incubation at Station F, a Centre of Digital Sciences, and an Aeronautics Skilling Centre at NSTI Kanpur. Both nations agreed to establish a mechanism to double bilateral trade within five years and launch an Economic Security Dialogue. Additional agreements cover digital health, railways, defence, classified information protection, and cooperation between ISRO and CNES in space exploration and microgravity research.

India and France Launch ATL Bridge to Connect School Innovation Labs and Young Innovators

India and France launched the India-France ATL Bridge to strengthen collaboration in innovation, entrepreneurship, and education among young innovators. Announced during the India-France Year of Innovation 2026, the initiative was formalized through a Letter of Intent between the Atal Innovation Mission and La Fondation Dassault Systèmes. It includes establishing France’s first School Innovation Lab based on India’s Atal Tinkering Lab model. The programme will facilitate student exchanges, joint innovation projects, entrepreneurial training, and capacity-building activities. With over 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs already operating in India, the initiative will deepen bilateral cooperation in technology and startup development.

PM Modi Visits Slovakia in Historic First State Visit by an Indian Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Slovakia from 14–16 June 2026 marked the first state visit by an Indian Prime Minister since Slovakia became independent in 1993. Held in Bratislava, the visit strengthened bilateral ties in trade, investment, defence, innovation, and infrastructure. Discussions focused on expanding trade, which grew from USD 1 billion in 2024 to around USD 1.8 billion in 2025, and enhancing cooperation in automobiles, railways, and emerging technologies. Defence collaboration and labour mobility also featured prominently. Meetings with Slovak leaders reaffirmed the commitment to deepening strategic and economic relations between the two nations.

52nd G7 Summit Begins in France as Leaders Focus on Global Security and Economic Stability

The 52nd G7 Summit commenced in Evian, France, on 15 June 2026 under the presidency of Emmanuel Macron. Leaders from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, and the European Union are discussing economic stability, geopolitical challenges, and global security. A key backdrop is the reported U.S.-Iran agreement, which could reopen the Strait of Hormuz and stabilize energy markets. Summit priorities include reducing macroeconomic imbalances, strengthening supply chains, securing critical minerals, and renewing international partnerships. India is attending as a partner country, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi participating in his seventh consecutive G7 Summit.

PM Modi and President Macron Inaugurate Bharat Innovates 2026 in Nice, France

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated Bharat Innovates 2026 in Nice as part of the India-France Year of Innovation. The three-day summit features around 120 startups, over 20 institutes of excellence, and more than 350 global investors. Innovations are being showcased across 13 technology sectors, including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, clean energy, defence, and space technology. The event aims to strengthen international partnerships, boost investment opportunities, and accelerate commercialization of emerging technologies. PM Modi emphasized inclusive, human-centric innovation and highlighted cooperation in climate action, technology, and the Indo-Pacific region.

Defence News

First Batch of Women NDA Cadets Commissioned into Indian Armed Forces

India achieved a historic milestone in military inclusion as the first batch of 17 women cadets trained at the National Defence Academy was commissioned as officers in June 2026. Inducted in August 2022, the cadets completed the same rigorous training as male counterparts before joining their respective service academies. Nine women were commissioned into the Indian Army, five into the Indian Air Force, and three into the Indian Navy. The commissioning ceremonies were reviewed by President Droupadi Murmu and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The achievement reflects India’s commitment to gender equality, meritocracy, and modernization of its armed forces.

Science & Technology News

India’s Space Economy Poised to Reach USD 45 Billion in the Next Decade

India’s space economy is projected to expand from its current value of around USD 8–9 billion to nearly USD 40–45 billion within the next decade. Speaking at the RISE Conclave 2026, Union Minister Jitendra Singh attributed the growth to sectoral reforms and increased private participation. More than 400 startups are currently active in satellite technology, launch systems, Earth observation, AI-based analytics, and downstream applications. Successful missions like Chandrayaan-3 and the upcoming Gaganyaan mission continue strengthening India’s global standing. Space technologies are also supporting governance initiatives such as PM Gati Shakti, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

India Gets First Approved Radioligand Therapy for Advanced Prostate Cancer

India has introduced Pluvicto, its first regulatory-approved radioligand therapy for advanced PSMA-positive metastatic prostate cancer. Developed by Novartis, the treatment combines a targeting molecule with the radioactive isotope Lutetium-177 to deliver radiation directly to cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Often described as a guided missile approach, the therapy offers a more precise alternative to conventional treatments. India records approximately 250,000 prostate cancer cases annually, many diagnosed at advanced stages. Supported by more than 250 nuclear medicine centres, Pluvicto is expected to improve survival outcomes, quality of life, and future precision oncology advancements.

Sports News

Lewis Hamilton Ends Mercedes Dominance with Maiden Ferrari Victory at Barcelona Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton secured his first victory for Ferrari at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix 2026, ending Mercedes’ recent dominance. Starting alongside pole-sitter George Russell, Hamilton executed a successful three-stop strategy that proved decisive, especially after a late Virtual Safety Car period. Russell finished second, while Lando Norris claimed third, creating the first all-British Formula One podium since 1968. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli retired late due to a technical problem, costing Mercedes valuable points and intensifying the championship battle as the season enters a critical stage.

Important Days News

Global Wind Day 2026: India Charts Roadmap to 100 GW Wind Energy Capacity

Global Wind Day 2026, observed on 15 June, highlights India’s commitment to expanding renewable energy under the theme “Wind Energy: From Ambition to Acceleration.” A conference in Goa brings together government agencies, industry stakeholders, and policymakers to discuss capacity growth, offshore wind development, manufacturing, and grid integration. India’s wind energy potential stands at 695.5 GW at 120 metres and 1,163.9 GW at 150 metres hub height. Installed capacity has increased from 21.04 GW in 2014 to 56.09 GW in 2026, making India the world’s fourth-largest wind energy producer. The country aims to achieve 100 GW capacity through domestic manufacturing and international cooperation.