Daily Current Affairs - 9 July 2026 (Part 1)

Short Summary

Today's current affairs cover PM-SETU expansion, UDISE+ and AISHE reports, PRAGATI initiative, TribeX platform, UNCTAD World Investment Report, AI Governance Dialogue, Global Cancer Report, and Women-led Panchayati Raj, making them highly important for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, and State PSC examinations.

Introduction

Current Affairs 9 July 2026 brings several important developments across education, governance, agriculture, international relations, biodiversity, artificial intelligence, and public health. Today's updates include the PM-SETU expansion for ITIs, AISHE 2023-24 Report, UDISE+ Report, UNCTAD World Investment Report, Global Status Report on Cancer 2026, and India's growing leadership in women-led Panchayati Raj. These developments are highly relevant for UPSC Prelims & Mains, SSC CGL, Banking, Railways, CDS, CAPF, NDA, and State PSC examinations. The article below combines information from all three sources and explains every topic from an examination perspective.

National Affairs

PM-SETU Expanded Across 200 ITI Clusters

Why in News

The Government of India approved the nationwide expansion of the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) programme. The approval was granted during the 4th National Steering Committee meeting chaired by Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

The programme involves an investment of ₹1,237.58 crore to modernize Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and improve industry-oriented skill development across India. It aims to bridge the gap between industrial demand and workforce skills through stronger public-private partnerships.

The initiative is expected to significantly strengthen India's skilled workforce and support the objectives of Skill India Mission and Make in India.

Key Highlights

• ₹1,237.58 crore investment approved for modernization of 200 ITI clusters.
• Programme implemented under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
• Private industries will function as Anchor Industry Partners.
• Modern laboratories, digital classrooms and advanced equipment will be introduced.
• Focus on industry-linked curriculum and employability.
• Five new ITI clusters approved in Odisha, Gujarat and Telangana.
• Supports Skill India Mission, Digital India, and manufacturing growth.

Knowledge Booster

• Skill India Mission was launched in 2015.
• National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) plays a major implementation role.
• ITIs provide vocational education under Directorate General of Training (DGT).
• Skill development is a recurring topic in UPSC GS-III.

Ministry of Education Releases UDISE+ 2025-26 Report

Why in News

The Ministry of Education released the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) 2025-26 Report, providing comprehensive statistics on school education including enrolment, teachers, infrastructure and learning outcomes.

The report indicates continuous improvement in India's education sector with better Pupil Teacher Ratio (PTR), lower dropout rates and increased enrolment at secondary level.

The report serves as a critical database for educational planning and implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Key Highlights

• Total teachers increased to 1.02 crore.
• Secondary GER increased to 71.7%.
• Dropout rates declined across all educational stages.
• Foundational PTR improved to 10:1.
• Secondary PTR improved to 21:1.
• Data supports implementation of NEP 2020.
• Better gender participation and educational access recorded.

Knowledge Booster

• UDISE+ is India's largest school education database.
• Used for planning educational expenditure.
• Supports implementation of Samagra Shiksha.
• Important for Education Governance questions.

AISHE 2022-23 & 2023-24 Reports Released

Why in News

The Ministry of Education released the latest All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) reports for 2022-23 and 2023-24. The survey collects self-reported data from Higher Education Institutions on enrolment, faculty, infrastructure and examination outcomes to support evidence-based policymaking.

The reports reveal steady improvement in Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), women's participation, social inclusion and STEM enrolment, indicating continued expansion of India's higher education system.

Key Highlights

• Overall GER increased to 30.0 in 2023-24.
• Female GER reached 31.2, exceeding male GER.
• Gender Parity Index (GPI) improved to 1.08.
• SC, ST and OBC enrolments registered significant growth.
• Women's share in STEM increased to 44%.
• Faculty strength reached 17.32 lakh.
• AISHE data is voluntarily submitted through the AISHE Portal.

Knowledge Booster

• GER measures enrolment in higher education among the 18-23 years age group.
• AISHE began in 2011.
• Used for policy planning under NEP 2020.
• Frequently asked in UPSC and Education-related examinations.

PRAGATI Initiative Launched for 20 Lakh Farmers

Why in News

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the PRAGATI (Promoting Regenerative Agriculture Through Agri-Entrepreneurship Initiative) to promote sustainable agriculture and improve rural livelihoods.

The initiative aims to develop 20,000 agri-entrepreneurs who will support nearly 20 lakh smallholder farmers across several states through technology adoption, soil testing, mechanisation and market access.

Key Highlights

• Targets 20 lakh farmers.
• Covers 8 states initially.
• Focus on regenerative agriculture.
• Income target: 30% increase.
• Crop productivity target: 15-20% increase.
• Financial inclusion for 50% of farmers.
• Technology-based advisory services.

TribeX Digital Learning Platform Launched

Why in News

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched TribeX, India's first dedicated digital learning platform for tribal knowledge systems, arts, languages and culture.

The initiative seeks to preserve India's indigenous heritage while creating educational and livelihood opportunities for tribal communities.

Key Highlights

• Dedicated platform for tribal education.
• 20 certificate courses launched initially.
• Target of 100+ courses.
• Partnership with Sampurnanand Sanskrit University.
• Includes UGC-recognised PG Diploma programmes.
• Promotes tribal languages, crafts and culture.

International Affairs

UNCTAD World Investment Report 2026

Why in News

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) released the World Investment Report 2026 highlighting global FDI trends.

India ranked 11th globally in FDI inflows after receiving USD 38.89 billion in 2025, marking an increase of around 44% over the previous year.

Key Highlights

• India ranked 11th in global FDI inflows.
• FDI inflow reached USD 38.89 billion.
• USA remained top investment destination.
• Global FDI increased to USD 1.6 trillion.
• Semiconductor and AI sectors attracted major investments.
• India also improved its outbound FDI ranking.

India Participates in UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance

Why in News

India participated in the inaugural United Nations Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance held in Geneva, reaffirming its AI for All vision.

India advocated responsible, inclusive and human-centric Artificial Intelligence while emphasizing safeguards, transparency and equitable access to AI technologies.

Key Highlights

• Meeting held in Geneva.
• Indian delegation led by Kirti Vardhan Singh.
• Supports AI for All approach.
• Focus on ethical AI governance.
• Established under UNGA Resolution 79/325.
• Linked to the Global Digital Compact.

Economy & Banking

GIFT City Signs MoUs to Strengthen International Financial Cooperation

Why in News

Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Vietnam International Financial Center-Da Nang (VIFC-DN) to strengthen financial cooperation between India and Vietnam. The agreement aims to promote cross-border investments, financial technology collaboration, institutional capacity building, and knowledge exchange.

Apart from the Vietnam agreement, GIFT City also signed separate MoUs with Tata Communications Limited to promote Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and with CEPT University for research and capacity building. The agreements reinforce GIFT City's position as India's premier international financial hub.

Key Highlights

• MoU signed with Vietnam International Financial Center-Da Nang.
• Promotes cross-border investments between India and Vietnam.
• Focuses on FinTech, digital finance and institutional collaboration.
• Includes professional exchanges, conferences and joint research.
• Separate MoUs signed with Tata Communications and CEPT University.
• Strengthens India's International Financial Services Centre ecosystem.

RBI Approves Appointment of Muralidhar Pai as MD & CEO of South Indian Bank

Why in News

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of Mahesh Muralidhar Pai as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of South Indian Bank for a three-year term beginning 1 October 2026.

Pai currently serves as Chief General Manager of Canara Bank and possesses nearly three decades of banking experience across treasury, retail banking, MSME finance and strategic management.

Key Highlights

• Appointment approved by RBI.
• Tenure of 3 years.
• Succeeds P. R. Seshadri.
• Presently Chief General Manager, Canara Bank.
• Experienced in treasury, retail banking and MSME finance.
• RBI also reappointed N. S. Vishwanathan as Chairman of Axis Bank.

Economy & Business

Adani Copper Receives London Metal Exchange Certification

Why in News

Kutch Copper Limited, a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Limited, secured London Metal Exchange (LME) certification for its Grade A Adani Copper Cathodes.

The certification enables the company's copper cathodes to be traded through LME-approved warehouses and used against LME copper futures contracts, significantly enhancing their international acceptance.

Key Highlights

• LME approved Adani Copper Grade A Cathodes.
• Enables global trading through LME.
• Products can be used as financial collateral.
• Certification verifies quality and responsible sourcing.
• Improves India's presence in global metals markets.
• LME established in 1877, headquartered in London.

Science & Technology

ISRO Successfully Tests CE20 Cryogenic Engine

Why in News

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted the Flight Acceptance Hot Test of the CE20 Cryogenic Engine for the upcoming LVM3-M7 mission at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.

The successful test validated engine performance under different thrust conditions and marked the first test using the newly developed Nozzle Protection System (NPS).

Key Highlights

• Tested for LVM3-M7 Mission.
• Conducted at Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
• First use of Nozzle Protection System.
• Operated at 19.5-22 tonnes thrust.
• Engine powers LVM3 launch vehicle.
• Qualified for Gaganyaan Mission.

Knowledge Booster

• CE20 is India's largest indigenous cryogenic engine.
• Used in Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3 missions.
• Cryogenic engines use liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen.
• LVM3 is ISRO's heaviest operational launch vehicle.

Defence & Security

DRDO Successfully Tests Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket

Why in News

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the flight test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur.

The test validated the user-specified minimum operational range of 60 km, enhancing India's indigenous long-range artillery capabilities.

Key Highlights

• Indigenous guided rocket system.
• Range of 60-120 km.
• Based on Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher.
• Designed by Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE).
• Suitable for all-weather operations.
• Delivers heavy firepower in a short duration.

Indonesia to Import India's Astra Mk-1 Missile

Why in News

Indonesia became the first foreign country to sign an agreement for importing India's Astra Mk-1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM).

The export marks a significant milestone for India's indigenous defence manufacturing and defence exports.

Key Highlights

• First export customer: Indonesia.
• Developed by DRDO.
• Range: 80-110 km.
• Speed: Mach 4.5.
• Equipped with active radar homing.
• Used by Indian Air Force and Indian Navy.

Environment & Ecology

Natural History Museum, Mizoram Becomes India's 21st Designated Repository

Why in News

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) designated the Natural History Museum, Mizoram University as India's 21st Designated Repository under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

The repository will preserve biological specimens and support biodiversity conservation in the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot.

Key Highlights

• India's 21st Designated Repository.
• Located at Mizoram University.
• Supports National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
• Houses over 500 biological specimens.
• Works with NBA, BSI, and ZSI.
• Focus on ex-situ conservation.

Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Market Review

Why in News

The India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA) and Customised Energy Solutions (CES) released the India Battery Energy Storage System Market Review Report, estimating India's requirement of 888 GWh energy storage capacity by 2035-36, including 321 GWh through Battery Energy Storage Systems.

Key Highlights

• India requires 888 GWh ESS by 2035-36.
• 321 GWh expected through BESS.
• Supports renewable energy integration.
• Peak electricity demand expected to reach 300 GW.
• PLI Scheme supports 50 GWh battery manufacturing.
• Two VGF schemes approved for BESS deployment.

Knowledge Booster

• ESS stores electricity for later use.
• Lithium-ion batteries dominate current BESS deployment.
• Flow batteries offer longer-duration storage.
• BESS supports frequency regulation and grid stability.

Egyptian Vulture Faces Local Extinction in Nilgiris

Why in News

The Egyptian Vulture has become locally extinct in the Nilgiris and is rapidly disappearing across parts of Tamil Nadu, raising concerns about vulture conservation in India.

Key Highlights

• IUCN Status: Endangered.
• Protected under Schedule I of Wildlife Protection Act.
• World's smallest tool-using vulture.
• Threatened by diclofenac poisoning.
• Plays an essential ecological role in carcass disposal.

Kalladi Landslide Renews Concern over Landslide Risks

Why in News

The recent Kalladi landslide in Wayanad, Kerala has renewed attention towards India's vulnerability to landslides, especially in the Western Ghats and Himalayan regions.

Key Highlights

• India among top four landslide-prone countries.
• Around 12.6% of India's land area is landslide-prone.
• Northwest Himalayas account for the highest share.
• Geological Survey of India is the nodal agency.
• IIT Mandi developed Landslide Early Warning System.
• PSInSAR technology monitors ground deformation.

Awards & Recognition

Sirsa Kinnow Receives GI Tag

Key Highlights

• Haryana's first GI-tagged fruit.
• GI awarded to Kharisureran Farmer Producer Company.
• Total GI products in India reached 822.
• Rich source of Vitamin C.
• Developed originally in California, USA.

Appointments

InsuranceDekho Appoints Sourav Ganguly as Brand Ambassador

Key Highlights

• Campaign titled "Khul Kar Khelo."
• Promotes insurance awareness.
• Strengthens advisor ecosystem.
• Supports financial inclusion.

State Affairs

Uttar Pradesh Renames Jalalabad as Parashurampuri

Key Highlights

• Approved by UP Cabinet.
• Located in Shahjahanpur district.
• Linked to birthplace of Lord Parashuram.
• MHA had issued No Objection Certificate.
• Startup and Data Centre policies also approved.

Today's Current Affairs One-Liners - 9 July 2026

The following one-liners provide rapid revision of the Latest Current Affairs 2026 and cover every major topic from the three sources.

National Affairs

• National Affairs - The Government of India approved the nationwide expansion of PM-SETU across 200 Industrial Training Institute (ITI) clusters with an investment of ₹1,237.58 crore to modernise vocational education and improve employability.
• Education - The Ministry of Education released the UDISE+ 2025-26 Report, reporting 1.02 crore teachers, improved Pupil-Teacher Ratio, lower dropout rates and higher Secondary Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER).
• Higher Education - The AISHE 2022-23 & 2023-24 Reports showed India's overall Gross Enrolment Ratio increased to 30.0, while the Female GER rose to 31.2, remaining higher than the male GER for the seventh consecutive year.
• Agriculture - Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the PRAGATI Initiative to empower 20,000 agri-entrepreneurs and directly support 20 lakh farmers through regenerative agriculture and technology-driven farming.
• Tribal Affairs - The Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched TribeX, India's first digital learning platform dedicated to tribal languages, arts, crafts, traditional knowledge and UGC-recognised diploma programmes.
• Women Empowerment - During the BRICS Women Ministerial Meeting, India showcased its women-led Panchayati Raj model, highlighting nearly 14.5 lakh elected women representatives across Panchayati Raj Institutions.
• Literacy - Uttarakhand became the sixth fully literate state under the ULLAS Scheme aligned with NEP 2020, joining Mizoram, Goa, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim.
• Social Justice - The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) has now reached over 29.24 crore individuals, promoting awareness, rehabilitation and demand reduction to achieve a drug-free India.

International Affairs

• Investment - According to the UNCTAD World Investment Report 2026, India ranked 11th globally in FDI inflows, receiving USD 38.89 billion during 2025.
• Artificial Intelligence - India reaffirmed its AI for All vision during the inaugural United Nations Global Dialogue on AI Governance held in Geneva, Switzerland.
• Health - The Global Status Report on Cancer 2026, released by the WHO and IARC, estimated 20.6 million new cancer cases and 10 million deaths annually worldwide.
• Places in News - Kyrgyzstan remained in focus after the establishment of the International Centre for Civilizational Studies "Manas and Mahabharata" in Bishkek through Indo-Kyrgyz collaboration.

Economy & Banking

• Financial Cooperation - GIFT City signed an MoU with Vietnam International Financial Center-Da Nang to promote cross-border investments, fintech collaboration and institutional cooperation.
• Metals Industry - Kutch Copper Limited, a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises, received London Metal Exchange (LME) certification for its Grade A Adani Copper Cathodes.
• Banking - The Reserve Bank of India approved the appointment of Mahesh Muralidhar Pai as the next Managing Director and CEO of South Indian Bank with effect from 1 October 2026.

Science & Technology

• Space Technology - ISRO successfully completed the Flight Acceptance Hot Test of the CE20 Cryogenic Engine for the LVM3-M7 Mission at Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
• Energy Storage - The India Battery Energy Storage System Market Review projected India's requirement of 888 GWh Energy Storage Capacity by 2035-36, including 321 GWh Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

Defence & Security

• Defence Research - DRDO successfully tested the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) with a minimum operational range of 60 km at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur.
• Defence Exports - Indonesia became the first foreign nation to sign an agreement for importing India's Astra Mk-1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile developed by DRDO.
• Strategic Affairs - India and Indonesia agreed to jointly develop Sabang Port, strengthening India's strategic presence near the Strait of Malacca in the Indo-Pacific region.

Environment & Ecology

• Biodiversity - The Natural History Museum, Mizoram University became India's 21st Designated Repository under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
• Disaster Management - The Kalladi Landslide in Wayanad, Kerala renewed concerns regarding India's landslide vulnerability and the need for improved early warning systems.
• Wildlife Conservation - The Egyptian Vulture, classified as Endangered by the IUCN, has become locally extinct in the Nilgiris, highlighting the impact of diclofenac poisoning and habitat degradation.

Awards & Recognition

• Geographical Indication - Sirsa Kinnow received the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag, becoming Haryana's first fruit to obtain GI recognition.

Appointments

• Appointments - InsuranceDekho appointed former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly as its brand ambassador and launched the "Khul Kar Khelo" campaign.

Obituary

• Sports - Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran passed away at the age of 38, leaving behind an important legacy in Afghanistan's rise in international cricket.