Introduction

Current Affairs 16 July 2026 brings several significant developments for aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence and State PSC examinations.

Today's updates include the landmark Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Act, 2026, Semicon 2.0, Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS), India's export performance, BIMSTEC Security Advisers' Meeting, and India's leadership in global food safety standards. These topics are highly relevant for Prelims, Mains, Interview, Banking Awareness and General Studies preparation.

Detailed Current Affairs - 16 July 2026

National Affairs

Maharashtra Gives Legal Recognition to Women Farmers

Why in News

Maharashtra became the first Indian state to enact the Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Act, 2026, providing legal recognition to women engaged in agriculture regardless of whether they own agricultural land. The legislation was introduced during the United Nations International Year of the Woman Farmer and represents one of India's most significant agricultural gender reforms.

Traditionally, government subsidies, crop insurance, institutional credit, and extension services have depended upon land ownership, which has excluded millions of women despite their substantial contribution to agriculture. The Act attempts to bridge this historical gap.

The legislation also aligns with Maharashtra's Fourth Policy for Women (2024) and the National Policy for Farmers (2007).

Key Highlights

• Legal Recognition: Every eligible woman engaged in farming activities can now be officially recognised as a farmer irrespective of land ownership.
• Woman Farmer Certificate (WFC): Women may obtain a certificate through Gram Sabhas or Nagar Panchayats, enabling access to government schemes.
• Inclusive Definition: Agriculture includes crop cultivation, livestock, poultry, fisheries, agro-forestry, vermiculture, mushroom cultivation and primary processing.
• Digital Registry: A statewide digital database will identify certified women farmers for targeted welfare delivery.
• Dedicated Fund: Maharashtra will establish a Women Farmers Empowerment Fund.
• Administrative Structure: A State-Level Monitoring Committee and Chief Minister-led Governing Council will supervise implementation.
• Financial Inclusion: Women will gain easier access to institutional loans, insurance and agricultural subsidies.
• Climate Resilience: Greater participation of women is expected to improve adoption of sustainable farming practices.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• Nearly 73% of India's rural women participate in agriculture.
• The National Policy for Farmers (2007) broadened the definition of "farmer."
• Women constitute a majority of agricultural labour but own relatively little agricultural land.
• Women's land rights contribute significantly to household nutrition and rural development.

Analysis

The Act shifts agricultural governance from land ownership-based eligibility to occupation-based recognition. If implemented effectively, it may become a national model for gender-inclusive agricultural reforms and significantly improve financial inclusion among rural women.

President Murmu Inaugurates Saushrutam 2026

Why in News

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated Saushrutam 2026 at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi to commemorate Sushruta Jayanti. The seminar aims to strengthen international cooperation in Ayurvedic surgery and research while promoting evidence-based integration of Ayurveda with modern medicine.

Key Highlights

• Organised at AIIA, New Delhi.
• Marks Sushruta Jayanti.
• MRI facility inaugurated.
• Focus on evidence-based Ayurveda.
• Encourages international collaboration.
• Promotes innovation and ethical healthcare.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• Sushruta is regarded as the Father of Surgery.
• Sushruta Samhita is among the world's oldest surgical treatises.
• AIIA functions under the Ministry of AYUSH.

India's Exports Reach USD 232.73 Billion in Q1 FY27

Why in News

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry released India's external trade figures for the first quarter of FY 2026-27, indicating continued growth in exports despite global uncertainties. Total exports reached USD 232.73 billion, while imports stood at USD 270.15 billion.

Key Highlights

• Total exports: USD 232.73 billion
• Merchandise exports: USD 129.32 billion
• Services exports: USD 103.41 billion
• Total imports: USD 270.15 billion
• Services exports showed continued resilience.
• Merchandise imports increased due to industrial demand.

Quick Facts

Analysis

India's services sector continues to remain the primary stabilising force in external trade. However, increasing imports indicate rising industrial demand and energy requirements, highlighting the need for stronger domestic manufacturing.

Government Schemes & Policies

Cabinet Approves Semicon 2.0

Why in News

The Union Cabinet approved Semicon 2.0, allocating ₹1.27 lakh crore to strengthen India's semiconductor ecosystem. The programme expands the scope of the earlier Semicon 1.0 and aims to position India as a trusted global semiconductor hub.

Key Highlights

• Budget: ₹1,27,500 crore
• Six strategic pillars.
• Supports fabrication, packaging, chip design and R&D.
• Promotes sub-28 nm technology.
• Strengthens Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP).
• Encourages semiconductor equipment manufacturing.
• Expands talent development across universities.
• Builds upon India Semiconductor Mission (ISM).

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• India approved 12 semiconductor projects under Semicon 1.0.
• Semiconductor chips are essential for AI, EVs, telecom, defence and healthcare.
• India aims to commission its first commercial silicon fab by 2028.

Analysis

Semicon 2.0 is not merely an industrial policy but a strategic initiative to reduce dependence on global semiconductor supply chains while enhancing national security and technological competitiveness.

Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS)

Why in News

The Union Cabinet approved the Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS) with a total allocation of ₹62,500 crore to deepen domestic value addition and strengthen India's electronics manufacturing ecosystem.

Key Highlights

• Budget: ₹62,500 crore
• Duration: FY2026-FY2031
• Incentives between 2.25-5%
• Additional incentives for domestic sourcing.
• Extra incentives for Indian brands investing in R&D.
• Expected production worth ₹39 lakh crore.
• Estimated 60,000 direct jobs.
• Strengthens Make in India.

Quick Facts

Analysis

MPMS moves India's smartphone industry beyond assembly towards deeper localisation, research and innovation, strengthening India's integration into global electronics value chains.

National Investment Policy for Urea-2026 (NIPU-2026)

Why in News

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved NIPU-2026, replacing the earlier NIP-2012, to promote investment in energy-efficient gas-based urea plants and reduce India's dependence on fertilizer imports.

Key Highlights

• Replaces NIP-2012
• Target: 10 million tonnes additional urea capacity
• 8-9 new gas-based plants
• Assured 12-16% Return on Equity
• INR conversion after four years
• Savings exceeding ₹250 crore per plant
• Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat
• Reduces fertilizer imports

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• India remains one of the world's largest urea consumers.
• Natural gas is the primary feedstock for modern urea production.
• Fertilizer subsidies form an important component of India's agricultural support system.
   

International Affairs

India Hosts the 5th BIMSTEC National Security Advisers' Meeting

Why in News

India hosted the 5th BIMSTEC National Security Advisers' Meeting in New Delhi on 16 July 2026, bringing together senior security officials from all seven BIMSTEC member countries. The meeting focused on strengthening regional cooperation against evolving security threats, including cybersecurity, terrorism, transnational organised crime, human trafficking, intelligence sharing, and satellite cooperation. The event demonstrates India's commitment to regional stability and its growing leadership role within the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

Key Highlights

• All seven BIMSTEC members participated in the meeting, reinforcing collective regional security cooperation.
• Discussions centred on counter-terrorism, cyber resilience, transnational crime, and maritime security.
• Special emphasis was placed on information sharing among security agencies.
• Regional satellite cooperation was discussed to improve disaster management and surveillance.
• Bangladesh, the current BIMSTEC Chair, actively participated.
• India reiterated its vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
• The meeting supports the objective of making BIMSTEC an effective regional security platform.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• BIMSTEC connects South Asia and Southeast Asia.
• Nearly 1.7 billion people live in BIMSTEC countries.
• BIMSTEC increasingly serves as India's alternative regional platform beyond SAARC.
• India's Neighbourhood First and Act East policies strongly complement BIMSTEC.

Analysis

The meeting reflects India's strategic effort to strengthen regional institutions capable of addressing emerging non-traditional security threats. As cyber attacks, maritime insecurity, and organised crime become increasingly transnational, BIMSTEC is evolving beyond economic cooperation into a comprehensive security partnership.

India Leads Global Food Safety Standards at CAC49

Why in News

India played a leading role during the 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) held in Geneva, Switzerland, by successfully steering the adoption of seven Codex standards developed under its leadership. India also secured election as Co-Chair of the Working Group on New Food Sources and Production Systems, further enhancing its global role in food standard-setting.

Key Highlights

• Seven Codex standards adopted under India's leadership.
• Standards covered dried coriander, fresh curry leaves, vanilla, large cardamom, and food safety guidelines.
• India proposed a global Codex standard for cashew kernels.
• Delegation headed by Rajit Punhani, CEO of FSSAI.
• Strengthens India's position in international food governance.
• Supports safer international agricultural trade.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• Codex standards facilitate global food trade.
• India chairs multiple Codex commodity committees.
• FSSAI represents India at Codex meetings.

Bilateral Relations

Iran's Disruptive Strategy and Its Global Consequences

Why in News

Fresh hostilities between the United States and Iran have escalated geopolitical tensions in West Asia after the collapse of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Iran threatened to disrupt maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz, raising serious concerns regarding global energy security and India's strategic interests.

Key Highlights

• Iran relies heavily on proxy groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis.
• Conflict escalated after renewed US military strikes.
• Strait of Hormuz blockade threatens global oil trade.
• Brent crude prices surged significantly.
• India faces risks to LPG imports, crude supplies and Chabahar Port investments.
• Global shipping insurance costs increased.
• IMF warned about declining global oil supply buffers.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• Around one-fifth of global oil trade passes through Hormuz.
• India's energy imports remain highly dependent on West Asia.
• Chabahar Port provides India access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Analysis

The crisis reinforces the importance of India's energy diversification strategy. Alongside expanding strategic petroleum reserves, India must strengthen alternative shipping corridors and reduce excessive dependence on any single geopolitical region.

Economy & Banking

Government Revises Windfall Tax on Petroleum Exports

Why in News

The Government revised the Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED) on petroleum exports with effect from 16 July 2026, responding to rising crude oil prices and geopolitical uncertainty in West Asia.

Key Highlights

• Diesel export duty increased.
• Aviation Turbine Fuel export duty increased.
• Petrol export duty reduced.
• Domestic excise duties remain unchanged.
• Objective is to maintain adequate domestic fuel availability.
• Supports national energy security.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• Windfall Tax is levied on extraordinary profits arising from abnormal price increases.
• India introduced SAED during periods of high crude oil prices.

BHASHINI Partners with Punjab National Bank

Why in News

The Digital India BHASHINI Division signed an MoU with Punjab National Bank to introduce AI-powered multilingual banking services, improving financial inclusion through India's Digital Public Infrastructure.

Key Highlights

• AI-based multilingual banking.
• Supports regional languages.
• Improves accessibility for rural users.
• Voice-enabled banking services.
• Strengthens Digital India Mission.

Quick Facts

Analysis

Language barriers remain a significant obstacle to digital financial inclusion. BHASHINI has the potential to substantially increase digital banking adoption across rural India.

Science & Technology

Indian Scientists Develop Self-Powered Wearable Ammonia Sensor

Why in News

Researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, developed a flexible, self-powered wearable ammonia gas sensor capable of detecting ammonia concentrations as low as 319 ppb, offering applications in industrial safety and healthcare.

Key Highlights

• Operates without external power.
• Detects extremely low ammonia concentrations.
• Uses VOx/VS₂ heterostructure.
• Suitable for wearable electronics.
• Supports industrial safety.
• Applicable in environmental monitoring.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• CeNS is an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology.
• Ammonia detection is essential in fertilizer plants and healthcare monitoring.

Former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath Joins Agnikul Cosmos

Why in News

Former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath joined Agnikul Cosmos as an Observer on its Board of Directors, strengthening India's rapidly expanding private space ecosystem.

Key Highlights

• Chennai-based startup.
• Preparing for Mission 02.
• Focus on reusable launch technology.
• Agnibaan launch vehicle under development.
• Strengthens public-private collaboration.

Quick Facts

Analysis

India's space sector reforms have significantly expanded opportunities for private startups. The association of experienced ISRO leadership with emerging private firms will accelerate indigenous launch capability and commercial space competitiveness.

Defence & Security

Seafarer-First Initiative for Indian Mariners

Why in News

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways launched the Seafarer-First Initiative to safeguard Indian seafarers operating in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman amid escalating regional conflict.

Key Highlights

• Real-time monitoring dashboard.
• Dedicated liaison officers.
• Coordination with Indian Navy and Ministry of External Affairs.
• Emergency evacuation support.
• Welfare and compensation assistance.
• 24×7 grievance redressal.

Quick Facts

Analysis

The initiative reflects India's increasing emphasis on maritime citizen protection amid geopolitical instability. With thousands of Indian nationals employed in global shipping, proactive maritime diplomacy has become an important component of India's foreign policy.

Environment & Ecology

Indian Grey Hornbill Returns to Gir Forest After Six Decades

Why in News

The Indian Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros birostris) has successfully re-established its presence in Gujarat's Gir Forest after being absent for more than 60 years. The achievement follows a carefully planned reintroduction programme by the Gujarat Forest Department, marking a significant milestone in India's wildlife conservation efforts. The return of this important seed-dispersing bird strengthens the ecological health of the Gir ecosystem.

Key Highlights

• Successfully reintroduced after six decades.
• Scientific name: Ocyceros birostris.
• Belongs to the Bucerotidae family.
• Native to the Indian subcontinent.
• Plays an important role in seed dispersal.
• Helps maintain forest biodiversity.
• Adaptable to forests as well as urban landscapes.
• Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• Hornbills are often called the Farmers of the Forest because they disperse seeds.
• The female seals herself inside a tree cavity during nesting.
• The male supplies food throughout the nesting period.
• Hornbills are indicators of healthy forest ecosystems.

Analysis

The successful reintroduction demonstrates the effectiveness of habitat restoration and species recovery programmes. Such conservation initiatives contribute to ecosystem resilience while improving biodiversity conservation in protected areas.

Reports & Rankings

WDMMA Global Air Power Rankings 2026

Why in News

The World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA) released the Global Air Power Rankings 2026, placing the Indian Air Force (IAF) as the third most powerful national air force globally after the United States and Russia. India has maintained this position ahead of China for the fifth consecutive year.

Key Highlights

• India ranked 3rd among national air forces.
• Maintained position ahead of China.
• US Air Force ranked first.
• Assessment covered 129 air services.
• Evaluated over 48,000 military aircraft.
• Uses True Value Rating (TVR) methodology.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• WDMMA evaluates aircraft quality and operational capability.
• TVR considers modernization, logistics, and force readiness.
• India's modernization includes Rafale, LCA Tejas, and S-400 integration.

Government Bills & Policies

Draft National Health Research Policy 2026

Why in News

The Department of Health Research released the Draft National Health Research Policy, 2026 for public consultation. It represents India's first integrated framework covering biomedical research, digital health, public health, behavioural sciences, and emerging technologies. The policy aims to improve coordination, funding, ethical governance, and scientific innovation in health research.

Key Highlights

• India's first unified health research framework.
• Government funding proposed to increase significantly.
• Creation of a National Health Research Agenda.
• Three-tier governance structure.
• Introduction of ICMR-IRIS evaluation system.
• National Research Integrity Office proposed.
• Emphasis on AI, cybersecurity, and data governance.
• Supports regional health research priorities.

Quick Facts

Knowledge Booster

• ICMR is India's apex biomedical research organisation.
• Health research contributes directly to SDG-3.
• Ethical approval mechanisms are central to clinical research.

Analysis

The policy shifts research evaluation from publication quantity toward real-world health outcomes. If implemented effectively, it could significantly strengthen India's innovation ecosystem and improve evidence-based policymaking.

Government Schemes

Gramodyam Programme

Why in News

NABARD launched Gramodyam, an Entrepreneurship Development Programme aimed at creating 4,000 rural entrepreneurs through digital training, mentoring, financial support, and institutional credit linkages.

Key Highlights

• Digital-first entrepreneurship programme.
• Implemented with NSDC.
• Supports credit access.
• DPR preparation assistance.
• Mentorship support.
• Target: 4,000 entrepreneurs.

State Affairs

Kolkata Metro to Introduce Driverless Operations

Why in News

Kolkata Metro received approval from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) to begin driverless train operations on its Green and Purple Lines using Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) technology. Kolkata will become another Indian city operating fully automated metro systems.

Key Highlights

• Grade of Automation: GoA-4.
• No onboard driver required.
• India's first underwater metro corridor.
• Centralised Control Room.
• Platform Screen Doors.
• Smart signalling.

Quick Facts

Google India Signs MoU with Tripura

Why in News

Google India signed an MoU with the Government of Tripura to strengthen AI capabilities, digital infrastructure, cloud computing, and workforce development through the establishment of AI Centres of Excellence and IT infrastructure.

Key Highlights

• AI ecosystem development.
• Digital literacy programmes.
• 5,000 technical graduates targeted annually.
• AI Centre of Excellence.
• 10-acre IT Park.
• Supports Global Capability Centres.

Species in News

Cyclosporiasis

Why in News

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an advisory following a widespread outbreak of Cyclosporiasis across multiple states. The disease is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis and spreads through contaminated food and water.

Key Highlights

• Foodborne parasitic disease.
• Spread through contaminated produce.
• No direct person-to-person transmission.
• Common symptoms include prolonged diarrhoea.
• Treated with Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole.

Mapping

Gandak River

Why in News

Heavy rainfall in Nepal caused the Gandak River to cross the danger mark in Bihar's Gopalganj district, raising flood concerns. The river is a major left-bank tributary of the Ganga.

Key Highlights

• Origin: Nhubine Himal Glacier, Nepal.
• Tributary of the Ganga.
• Flows through Nepal and Bihar.
• Supports irrigation.
• Forms extensive alluvial plains.
• Connected to Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

Miscellaneous

Korku Community

Why in News

Members of the Korku tribal community protested in Madhya Pradesh, demanding stronger protection of forest rights and traditional livelihoods.

Key Highlights

• Scheduled Tribe.
• Primarily located in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
• Speak the Korku language.
• Practice settled agriculture.
• Rich tradition of community conservation.
• Depend heavily on forest produce.

Important Days

Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026

Why in News

The Jagannath Rath Yatra was celebrated on 16 July 2026 in Puri, Odisha, with millions of devotees participating in one of the world's largest religious processions.

Key Highlights

• Dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
• Char Dham pilgrimage.
• Massive wooden chariots.
• Destination: Gundicha Temple.
• Major rituals include Bahuda Yatra and Suna Besha.

World Snake Day 2026

Why in News

World Snake Day was observed on 16 July to promote awareness regarding snake conservation, ecological balance, and biodiversity.

Key Highlights

• Observed annually on 16 July.
• Promotes conservation.
• India has nearly 300 snake species.
• Protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act.
• Encourages scientific awareness.

Sports

India Wins First-Ever Women's Deaf T20I Series

Why in News

The Indian Deaf Women's Cricket Team created history by defeating Sri Lanka 5-0 in the inaugural Women's Deaf T20 International Series held in Moratuwa, Sri Lanka. The clean sweep highlights the growing strength of differently-abled sports in India and reflects increasing institutional support for deaf cricket.

Key Highlights

• India won series 5-0.
• Final played in Moratuwa.
• Reddy Jyoshna named Player of the Series.
• Shradda Vaishnav won Player of the Final.
• Organised under Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA).
• Supported by Serum Institute of India and Cyrus Poonawalla Group.

Quick Facts

Asian U23 Athletics Championships 2026

Why in News

India finished 4th in the inaugural Asian U23 Athletics Championships with 16 medals, including 3 gold medals, demonstrating the country's emerging strength in track and field events.

Key Highlights

• Total medals: 16
• Gold: 3
• Silver: 4
• Bronze: 9
• China topped the medal table.
• Championship held in Ordos, China.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Update

Why in News

The 2026 FIFA World Cup reached its final stage with Argentina set to face Spain, while Lionel Messi continued to lead the Golden Boot race with 8 goals and 4 assists.

Key Highlights

• Argentina vs Spain Final.
• Venue: MetLife Stadium, USA.
• Lionel Messi leads Golden Boot race.
• First FIFA World Cup with 48 teams.
• Kylian Mbappé also scored eight goals.

Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship Mascot

Why in News

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled "Mayur", the official mascot of the Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026.

Key Highlights

• Inspired by India's national bird.
• Represents unity among Commonwealth nations.
• Championship hosted in New Delhi.
• Organised jointly with TTFI.

Awards & Recognitions

Gujarat's Unjha Cumin & Fennel Receive GI Tags

Why in News

The Geographical Indications Registry granted GI Tags to Unjha Cumin and Unjha Fennel from Gujarat, increasing the state's GI-tagged agricultural products to six.

Key Highlights

• Sixth agricultural GI products from Gujarat.
• Facilitated by APMC Unjha.
• Supported by NABARD.
• Recognises unique quality and origin.
• Enhances export opportunities.

India Wins Five Gold Medals at International Physics Olympiad

Why in News

India recorded its best-ever performance at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO 2026) by winning five gold medals, tying for first place with several leading countries.

Key Highlights

• Five participants won gold.
• Held in Colombia.
• India jointly topped medal tally.
• Team trained by HBCSE-TIFR.

Appointments & Resignations

Three Indian-Origin Experts Join US Federal Reserve Review Panels

Why in News

The US Federal Reserve appointed Raghuram Rajan, Raj Chetty, and Asha Sharma to lead important task forces reviewing America's monetary policy framework.

Key Highlights

• Raghuram Rajan - Balance Sheet Policy.
• Raj Chetty - Economic Data.
• Asha Sharma - AI, Productivity & Employment.
• Review initiated under Fed Chair Kevin Warsh.

Today's Current Affairs One-Liners

National Affairs

• Maharashtra became the first Indian state to enact the Women Farmers Empowerment Act, 2026, legally recognising women farmers irrespective of land ownership.
• President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated Saushrutam 2026 at AIIA, promoting Ayurveda-based scientific research.
• India's exports reached USD 232.73 billion during Q1 FY27, according to the Ministry of Commerce.
• NABARD launched Gramodyam to develop 4,000 rural entrepreneurs.
• Indian Railways launched Reform Express, targeting 52 freight reforms.

Government Schemes

• Cabinet approved Semicon 2.0 with an outlay of ₹1.27 lakh crore.
• Cabinet approved Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme worth ₹62,500 crore.
• Cabinet approved NIPU-2026 to boost domestic urea production.

International Affairs

• India hosted the 5th BIMSTEC NSA Meeting in New Delhi.
• India played a leading role during CAC49 in Geneva.

Economy & Banking

• Government revised Windfall Tax (SAED) on petroleum exports.
• BHASHINI partnered with Punjab National Bank for multilingual AI banking.

Science & Technology

• CeNS Bengaluru developed a self-powered wearable ammonia gas sensor.
• Former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath joined Agnikul Cosmos.

Environment

• Indian Grey Hornbill returned to Gujarat's Gir Forest after six decades.

Reports

• Indian Air Force ranked third globally in WDMMA Air Power Rankings 2026.

Sports

• India won the Women's Deaf T20I Series against Sri Lanka 5-0.
• India finished fourth in the Asian U23 Athletics Championships.
• Argentina will meet Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final.