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November 2026

43 checked stories. 6 to revise first.

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1. Supreme Court6 Nov

   Supreme Court names ex-CJI Gavai to head panel on forest rights claims in Agasthyamalai

   Background fact, details

   Background fact: The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act was passed in 2006

   Details

   On 6 November 2026 a Supreme Court bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta set up a committee headed by former Chief Justice of India B R Gavai for the protected areas of Tamil Nadu's Agasthyamalai landscape. It will scrutinise decisions under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 and supervise eviction and rehabilitation. The court also said people with only temporary residence in the forest, or living outside its boundary, cannot be treated as traditional forest dwellers under the Act merely for growing silk cotton there.

   • On 6 November 2026 a bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta appointed former CJI Bhushan R Gavai to chair a committee scrutinising Forest Rights Act, 2006 orders and supervising eviction and rehabilitation in the protected areas of the Agasthyamalai landscape in Tamil Nadu
   • The court directed Tamil Nadu to constitute the remaining Gram Sabhas within 30 days
   • Persons with temporary residence in the Agasthyamalai biosphere or living outside the forest boundary are excluded from consideration as forest dwellers under the Act merely for cultivating silk cotton in the forest
   • The order follows a May 2026 judgment on eviction, rehabilitation and restoration in the landscape

   New to this? Supreme Court, High Court, sessions court: which one is which? 5 min
2. Schemes6 Nov

   Government approves 12 more projects under electronics components scheme worth Rs 7,503 crore

   The government approved 12 more projects, worth Rs 7,503 crore, to make electronic components inside India under the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme.

   Exam angle, details

   Exam angle: Schemes for domestic electronics manufacturing are regular economy GK.

   Details

   The Ministry of Electronics and IT approved 12 new projects under the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) on 6 November 2026, with investments of Rs 7,503 crore. The biggest is a Rs 3,546 crore copper foil plant by Indo Asia Copper in Gujarat.

   • MeitY approved 12 new projects under the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) on 6 November 2026
   • The 12 projects entail investment of Rs 7,503 crore
   • The largest is a Rs 3,546 crore copper foil plant by Indo Asia Copper Ltd in Gujarat
   • ECMS incentives are turnover-linked and depend on companies starting production

   New to this? Cabinet approves a scheme worth Rs 84,084 crore: how do you read that story? 4 min
3. International6 Nov

   India and EU conclude talks on India joining Horizon Europe research programme

   Background fact, details

   Background fact: The European Commission is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium

   Details

   India and the European Commission said on 6 November 2026 that negotiations on India's association with Horizon Europe, the EU's flagship research and innovation programme, are complete. The agreement still has to be signed and cleared by both sides before Indian researchers can get funding directly.

   • India and the European Commission concluded negotiations on India's association with Horizon Europe, announced on 6 November 2026
   • Horizon Europe is the EU's flagship research and innovation programme, described as worth Euro 93.5 billion
   • The association agreement must still be signed and the procedures completed by both sides
4. Awards5 Nov

   Mahabharata, Arthashastra and Rajatarangini manuscripts join UNESCO Asia-Pacific memory register

   Revise first UN and other international bodies were asked in CLAT 2022, 2023 and 2026

   Three old Indian texts, the Mahabharata, the Arthashastra (a book on running a state) and the Rajatarangini (a history of Kashmir), were added to a UNESCO register of important documents for Asia and the Pacific.

   Exam angle, details

   Exam angle: Heritage and UNESCO lists are favourite static GK; Arthashastra is by Kautilya, Rajatarangini by Kalhana.

   Details

   Three Indian manuscripts, the Mahabharata, Kautilya's Arthashastra and Kalhana's Rajatarangini, were inscribed on UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register. The decision came at the 11th session of the regional committee (MOWCAP) held in Jakarta, Indonesia.

   • Manuscripts of the Mahabharata, Arthashastra and Rajatarangini were inscribed on the Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register
   • The inscription was decided at the 11th session of MOWCAP, the UNESCO Memory of the World committee for Asia and the Pacific, meeting in Jakarta, Indonesia
   • The Rajatarangini manuscript is a 12th-century chronicle of Kashmir by Kalhana, held at the Oriental Research Library, Srinagar
   • The Arthashastra is attributed to Kautilya (Chanakya) and is a treatise on governance and statecraft
   • The nominations were prepared by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA)

   New to this? Arthashastra and Rajatarangini 1 min
5. Science and tech5 Nov

   TRAI recommends new authorisation for satellite network providers

   The telecom regulator TRAI suggested a new kind of licence for firms that run satellite networks and rent them to phone companies. The government must accept it before it takes effect.

   Exam angle, details

   Exam angle: Regulator roles and the Telecommunications Act, 2023 can be asked.

   Details

   The telecom regulator TRAI released recommendations on 5 November 2026 for a new Satellite Communication Network Provider authorisation under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. Such a licence holder would run the ground network and rent capacity to licensed telecom companies. The recommendations are not binding unless the Department of Telecommunications accepts them.

   • TRAI released its recommendations on 5 November 2026
   • It proposes a Satellite Communication Network (SCN) Provider authorisation under the Telecommunications Act, 2023
   • The holder would run the ground segment and rent the network to licensed telecom companies, who sell the service to customers
   • The recommendations are not binding and take effect only if the Department of Telecommunications accepts them

   New to this? NGT, SEBI, CCPA, NCLT: are they courts or offices? 4 min
6. Defence5 Nov

   India-US Tiger Triumph 2026 exercise ends at Visakhapatnam

   India and the United States finished Tiger Triumph 2026, a joint military exercise held at Visakhapatnam to practise disaster relief and aid missions together.

   Exam angle, details

   Exam angle: Bilateral exercise names, partners and venues are common defence GK.

   Details

   The fifth edition of Tiger Triumph, the India-US bilateral tri-service exercise on humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HADR), ended at Visakhapatnam on 5 November 2026. It ran from 31 October and had a staff exercise and a tabletop exercise, with emphasis on joint amphibious operations.

   • Tiger Triumph 2026 concluded on 5 November 2026 at Visakhapatnam
   • It ran from 31 October to 5 November 2026
   • It is a bilateral India-US tri-service exercise on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR)
   • It was the fifth edition, according to the Defence Ministry release (PIB)
   • It had a staff exercise (STAFFEX) and a tabletop exercise (TTX), with emphasis on joint amphibious operations
7. Supreme Court5 Nov

   Supreme Court: 24-hour clock to meet a magistrate starts at detention, not formal arrest

   If the police detain you, the 24-hour limit to bring you before a magistrate starts at the moment of detention, not when they record an arrest, the Supreme Court said. Held longer, you must be released.

   Exam angle, details

   Exam angle: Article 22(2) and arrest safeguards are frequent polity and law questions.

   Details

   On 5 November 2026 the Supreme Court held that the 24-hour limit for producing a person before a magistrate begins when the person is detained, not when the arrest is formally recorded. The bench, headed by Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, rejected a distinction between detention and arrest and held that a person kept beyond 24 hours without production must be released.

   • Judgment delivered on 5 November 2026 by a Supreme Court bench headed by Justice Ujjal Bhuyan
   • The 24-hour period under Article 22(2) runs from the moment of detention, not formal arrest
   • The Court rejected a detention versus arrest distinction drawn by some High Courts
   • A person held beyond 24 hours without production before a magistrate must be released
   • Only travel time from the place of arrest to the magistrate is excluded, as Article 22(2) itself provides

   New to this? Supreme Court, High Court, sessions court: which one is which? 5 min
8. Sports5 Nov

   Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from international football

   Football star Cristiano Ronaldo announced he will stop playing for Portugal. He holds the men's record of 146 international goals, as of 5 November 2026.

   Background fact, details

   Background fact: As of 5 November 2026, Ronaldo holds the men's international goals record with 146 goals

   Details

   Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo announced on 5 November 2026 that he is retiring from international football. He ends his Portugal career as the all-time leading scorer in men's international football with 146 goals.

   • Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football on 5 November 2026
   • He played for Portugal
   • His tally of 146 international goals is the record in men's international football
9. Appointments5 Nov

   Former Supreme Court judge Rajesh Bindal appointed NCLAT chairperson

   Background fact, details

   Background fact: NCLAT hears appeals against orders of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) under the Companies Act, 2013 and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code

   Details

   Former Supreme Court judge Justice Rajesh Bindal was appointed chairperson of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) on 5 November 2026. He retired from the Supreme Court on 15 April 2026 and earlier was Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court. Justice Ashok Bhushan's tenure as chairperson had ended on 4 July 2026.

   • Justice Rajesh Bindal appointed NCLAT chairperson, reported 5 November 2026
   • He retired from the Supreme Court on 15 April 2026 after over three years there
   • Earlier Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court; elevated to the Supreme Court in February 2023
   • Predecessor Justice Ashok Bhushan completed his tenure on 4 July 2026; Justice Yogesh Khanna was officiating chairperson in the interim

   New to this? Supreme Court, High Court, sessions court: which one is which? 5 min
10. Polity5 Nov

    Election Commission announces Special Summary Revision of rolls in six states and UTs

    The Election Commission will update voter lists in six states and Union Territories, with draft lists on 30 November and final lists on 21 January 2027.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Election Commission roles and voter-roll processes are common polity questions.

    Details

    On 5 November 2026 the Election Commission announced a Special Summary Revision of electoral rolls in Arunachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Mizoram, Odisha and Sikkim. Draft rolls come out on 30 November 2026 and final rolls on 21 January 2027. The exercise aims to enrol eligible voters, especially young and first-time electors.

    • Announced by the Election Commission on 5 November 2026
    • Covers Arunachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Mizoram, Odisha and Sikkim
    • Draft electoral rolls to be published on 30 November 2026
    • Final rolls to be published on 21 January 2027
    • Aims to enrol young and first-time voters and take advance applications from those turning eligible on 1 April, 1 July and 1 October 2027

    New to this? Who decides when your state votes, and who counts? 5 min
11. Defence5 Nov

    DRDO flight-tests Pralay quasi-ballistic missile off Odisha coast

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: Pralay is a short-range surface-to-surface missile developed by DRDO

    Details

    On 5 November 2026 DRDO successfully flight-tested the Pralay surface-to-surface quasi-ballistic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. The defence ministry said the test was part of user evaluation trials, met all its objectives and brought induction of the system closer.

    • Flight test held on 5 November 2026 from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast
    • Pralay is an indigenous surface-to-surface quasi-ballistic missile
    • Test was part of user evaluation trials and met all objectives, per range data from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur
    • Developed by Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad, with other DRDO laboratories; Bharat Dynamics Limited produced the system
    • Defence ministry said induction of the system has become imminent
12. Awards5 Nov

    Devi Shetty receives France's Knight of the National Order of Merit

    France gave Narayana Health founder Devi Shetty its Knight of the National Order of Merit for helping the French community in Bengaluru during Covid-19.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Foreign honours to Indians appear occasionally in awards GK.

    Details

    France's Consul General in Bengaluru conferred the Chevalier de l'Ordre national du Merite (Knight of the National Order of Merit) on Narayana Health founder Devi Shetty on 5 November 2026. It recognised his support to Bengaluru's French community during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    • Devi Shetty, founder and chairman of Narayana Health, was made a Chevalier (Knight) of the Ordre national du Merite of France on 5 November 2026
    • The honour was presented by Marc Lamy, Consul General of France in Bengaluru
    • It recognised support to the French community in Bengaluru during the Covid-19 pandemic through vaccination and logistical help

    New to this? France's Legion of Honour 1 min
13. Supreme Court4 Nov

    Supreme Court says two-child disqualification laws have lost relevance; refers Maharashtra provision to larger bench

    The Supreme Court said laws that stop people with more than two children from holding local posts no longer make sense, since India's fertility rate (children per woman) has fallen. It sent the Maharashtra rule to a larger bench.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Two-child norms, Javed (2003) and Panchayat law are polity and legal GK.

    Details

    A Supreme Court bench headed by Justice P S Narasimha said on 4 November 2026 that laws penalising people for having more than two children have lost their relevance, because the fear of overpopulation behind them has faded as fertility has fallen. It referred the validity of a two-child disqualification under Maharashtra law to a larger bench. In 2003, in Javed v State of Haryana, the court had upheld such a disqualification for panchayat elections.

    • Judgment of 4 November 2026 by a bench headed by Justice P S Narasimha
    • Court said laws penalising more than two children have lost relevance as the fear of overpopulation behind them has faded
    • India's total fertility rate has fallen from 3 (2003) to 1.9, below the replacement rate of 2.1
    • Validity of the two-child disqualification under Maharashtra law referred to a larger bench
    • Javed v State of Haryana (2003) had upheld Haryana's two-child disqualification for panchayat elections

    New to this? Supreme Court, High Court, sessions court: which one is which? 5 min
14. Supreme Court4 Nov

    Seven-judge bench: states' sales tax surcharge reference now academic after GST; Kodar ruling stands

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: GST came into force in India on 1 July 2017

    Details

    A seven-judge Constitution Bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant held on 4 November 2026 that a reference pending for nearly 27 years, on states' power to levy an additional tax or surcharge calculated on sales tax, no longer needs an answer because the laws involved have been replaced or amended and GST is in force. The court said the 1974 ruling in S Kodar vs State of Kerala continues to hold the field.

    • Seven-judge Constitution Bench headed by CJI Surya Kant, judgment of 4 November 2026
    • Reference was about 27 years old; held academic as the provisions were replaced or amended and GST law came into force
    • CJI wrote for himself and five judges; Justice K V Viswanathan wrote a separate concurring verdict
    • S Kodar vs State of Kerala (1974, five-judge bench) continues to hold the field
    • Kodar held a surcharge computed as a percentage of sales tax is an enhancement of the sales tax rate, under Entry 54 of List II as it then stood

    New to this? 'A two-judge bench referred it to a larger bench.' What just happened? 5 min
15. Supreme Court4 Nov

    Supreme Court tells Centre to set up a special cell to monitor the child labour law

    The Supreme Court told the Centre to set up a special team to check that the law banning child labour is actually followed in the states.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Child labour law and Article 24 appear in polity and legal GK.

    Details

    A Supreme Court bench of Justices S V N Bhatti and N V Anjaria directed the Centre, through the Ministry of Women and Child Development, to set up a special cell to monitor how the Child Labour law, as amended in 2016, is enforced, and to instruct enforcement agencies through state Chief Secretaries. The 2016 amendment bars employment of children below 14 in all occupations and processes.

    • Supreme Court direction reported on 4 November 2026 by a bench of Justices S V N Bhatti and N V Anjaria
    • Centre (Women and Child Development Ministry) to constitute a special cell to monitor the Child Labour Act's implementation
    • Instructions to enforcement agencies to go through the states' Chief Secretaries
    • The 2016 amendment bars employment of children below 14 in all occupations and processes

    New to this? Supreme Court, High Court, sessions court: which one is which? 5 min
16. Supreme Court4 Nov

    Supreme Court: anti-defection petitions must be decided quickly even if the Assembly has years left

    The Supreme Court said that when a legislator is accused of breaking the anti-defection law, the Speaker must decide quickly, even if the Assembly's term has a long time left.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: The Tenth Schedule and the Speaker's role are standard polity questions.

    Details

    On 4 November 2026 a Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant held that petitions under the anti-defection law (Tenth Schedule) must be decided expeditiously, and that a High Court should not refuse to direct a Speaker just because the Assembly has a long tenure left. It told the Madhya Pradesh Assembly Speaker to decide a pending disqualification petition within two months.

    • Supreme Court order of 4 November 2026 by a bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana
    • Tenth Schedule (anti-defection) petitions must be decided expeditiously
    • A High Court should not decline directions to a Speaker merely because the Assembly's tenure is long
    • Madhya Pradesh Assembly Speaker told to decide a petition pending since 2024 within two months

    New to this? Supreme Court, High Court, sessions court: which one is which? 5 min
17. Economy4 Nov

    RBI sets up Technical Consultative Committee for Financial Markets

    The Reserve Bank of India, the central bank, set up a committee to talk regularly with players in the money, government bond and currency markets.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: RBI's structure and functions are standard economy GK.

    Details

    The Reserve Bank of India constituted a Technical Consultative Committee for Financial Markets (TCCFM) on 4 November 2026. Headed by the Deputy Governor in charge of Financial Markets Regulation, it will be a forum for structured engagement with market participants on money, government securities and foreign exchange markets and their derivatives, and will meet at least once a quarter.

    • RBI press release of 4 November 2026 constituting the TCCFM
    • Chaired by the Deputy Governor in charge of the Financial Markets Regulation Department
    • Forum for engagement with market participants on money, government securities and foreign exchange markets, related derivatives and market infrastructure
    • Meetings at least once a quarter

    New to this? The Reserve Bank of India 1 min
18. International4 Nov

    Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri begins two-day Nepal visit ahead of Nepal PM's India trip

    India's Foreign Secretary visited Nepal for two days to prepare for a planned visit to India by Nepal's Prime Minister.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: India-Nepal ties and the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship are common international questions.

    Details

    Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri began a two-day visit to Nepal on 4 November 2026 to prepare the ground for Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah's proposed visit to India.

    • Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri began a two-day Nepal visit on 4 November 2026
    • Purpose is to prepare for Nepal PM Balendra (Balen) Shah's proposed India visit

    New to this? Who really runs India: the President or the Prime Minister? 5 min
19. Defence4 Nov

    INS Sahyadri reaches Japan for Malabar 2026 naval exercise

    Indian warship INS Sahyadri reached Japan to join Malabar, a naval exercise with the United States, Japan and Australia, held 5 to 12 November 2026.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Malabar and the Quad navies are frequent international relations questions.

    Details

    The Indian Navy stealth frigate INS Sahyadri arrived at Yokosuka, Japan, on 4 November 2026 to take part in the multilateral exercise Malabar 2026 with the navies of India, Japan, the United States and Australia. The exercise runs from 5 to 12 November in waters near Japan.

    • INS Sahyadri arrived at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, on 4 November 2026
    • Malabar 2026 involves the navies of India, Japan, the United States and Australia
    • Exercise scheduled for 5 to 12 November 2026 in waters south of the Kanto region, Japan
    • Participation described as in line with India's MAHASAGAR vision

    New to this? Why do the armies of two countries train together? 4 min
20. International4 Nov

    Jaishankar attends CHOGM 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda, highlights digital public infrastructure

    India's foreign minister attended the Commonwealth leaders' summit in Antigua and Barbuda and spoke about India's digital public systems helping governments work better.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Summits and the Commonwealth are common international affairs questions.

    Details

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda. At its Executive Session he highlighted India's digital public infrastructure for good governance and financial responsibility, and spoke about India's recent free trade agreements.

    • Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 held in Antigua and Barbuda
    • External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended for India
    • He spoke at the CHOGM Executive Session
    • He highlighted digital public infrastructure and India's recent free trade agreements

    New to this? Why is UPI called 'public infrastructure', and how does AI fit in? 5 min
21. International4 Nov

    South African envoy says India-SACU trade pact could be template for India-Africa deal

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: SACU (Southern African Customs Union) has its secretariat in Windhoek, Namibia

    Details

    South Africa's High Commissioner Anil Sooklal said in an interview published 4 November 2026 that a proposed India-SACU preferential trade agreement could become a template for a wider India-Africa trade deal. India and the five-member Southern African Customs Union signed terms of reference for talks on 12 August 2026, reviving negotiations that ended without a deal after five rounds between 2002 and 2010.

    • India and SACU signed terms of reference for preferential trade agreement talks on 12 August 2026
    • SACU members: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini
    • Earlier talks: five rounds between 2002 and 2010 without a deal
    • South Africa's High Commissioner Anil Sooklal said in an interview published 4 November 2026 that the pact could be a template for a broader India-Africa agreement

    New to this? Exports, imports, tariffs and trade deals: what is India actually agreeing to? 5 min
22. International4 Nov

    Jaishankar announces extension of 500 million dollar line of credit for Guyana

    India announced an extension of its 500 million dollar line of credit to Guyana (a loan India offers another country), for roads, health and defence projects.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Lines of credit and India's outreach at the Commonwealth summit can appear in international affairs questions.

    Details

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Guyana's President Irfaan Ali on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Saint John's, Antigua and Barbuda, on 4 November 2026. He announced an extension of a 500 million US dollar line of credit for roads, health and defence projects.

    • Jaishankar met Guyana's President Irfaan Ali on the sidelines of CHOGM 2026 in Saint John's, Antigua and Barbuda
    • India announced an extension of a 500 million US dollar line of credit
    • The credit is for roads, health and defence projects
23. Economy4 Nov

    Minister says investors pledged nearly 400 billion dollars at Bharat Renewable Energy Summit

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is the nodal ministry for renewable energy in India

    Details

    Renewable Energy Minister Pralhad Joshi said on 4 November 2026 that investors at the Bharat Renewable Energy Summit 2026 CEO roundtable made preliminary commitments of about 400 billion US dollars, with details still to be worked out.

    • Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, announced it on 4 November 2026
    • About 400 billion US dollars of preliminary investment commitments at the Bharat Renewable Energy Summit 2026
    • Details are still to be worked out and proposals will be examined by the government

    New to this? Who decides where a summit happens, and why does 'chair' matter? 4 min
24. Polity4 Nov

    Health Ministry proposes immediate suspension of licences for drugs declared not of standard quality

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: The Drugs Rules, 1945 are made under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940

    Details

    On 4 November 2026 the Union Health Ministry proposed an amendment to the Drugs Rules, 1945, to let regulators suspend a manufacturer's licence immediately once a government analyst declares a drug Not of Standard Quality (NSQ) on specified parameters such as assay, dissolution, impurities or sterility. Suspension would last until the maker finds the root cause and fixes it.

    • Proposal announced by the Union Health Ministry on 4 November 2026
    • It adds an immediate manufacturing licence suspension clause to the Drugs Rules, 1945
    • Triggered by a government analyst report declaring a drug NSQ on assay, dissolution, related substances, impurities or sterility
    • Suspension continues until root cause analysis and corrective action are completed
    • It is a proposed draft amendment, not yet final
25. Schemes4 Nov

    Cabinet approves VISTAR, a Rs 4,371 crore scheme to modernise India's official statistics

    The Cabinet approved a new Rs 4,371 crore plan to improve how India collects and publishes official data such as surveys and the Economic Census.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Scheme names, outlays and the Economic Census are common economy and governance questions.

    Details

    On 4 November 2026 the Union Cabinet approved the Viksit Bharat Initiative for Statistical Transformation, Analytics and Research (VISTAR), with an outlay of about Rs 4,371 crore for FY27 to FY31. It has three parts: strengthening statistical operations, supporting state statistical capacity, and carrying out the nationwide Economic Census. The aim is faster, more detailed and AI-ready official data.

    • Union Cabinet approved VISTAR on 4 November 2026
    • Outlay about Rs 4,371 crore (Rs 4,371.10 crore) for FY27 to FY31
    • Three components: statistical operations and ecosystem, state capacity building, the nationwide Economic Census
    • Aim: timelier, more granular, AI-ready official statistics

    New to this? Who really runs India: the President or the Prime Minister? 5 min
26. Schemes4 Nov

    Cabinet approves Rs 14,500 crore viability gap funding for 92 GWh of grid-scale energy storage

    The government will pay up to Rs 14,500 crore to help build large energy storage, such as big batteries and plants that store water uphill to make power later, so clean power is available when the sun is down or the wind drops.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Energy transition schemes and their sizes are regular economy and environment questions.

    Details

    The Union Cabinet on 4 November 2026 approved a Rs 14,500 crore viability gap funding (VGF) scheme for grid-scale energy storage for FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31. It aims to support 92 GWh of storage: 60 GWh of pumped storage, 30 GWh of battery storage and 2 GWh of emerging technologies.

    • Union Cabinet approved the scheme on 4 November 2026
    • Total support Rs 14,500 crore for FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31
    • Target 92 GWh: 60 GWh pumped storage, 30 GWh battery energy storage, 2 GWh emerging technologies

    New to this? Who really runs India: the President or the Prime Minister? 5 min
27. Schemes4 Nov

    Cabinet approves Rs 2,814 crore capex support scheme for critical mineral processing

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: Lithium is a key battery metal used in electric vehicle and phone batteries

    Details

    The Union Cabinet on 4 November 2026 approved a capital expenditure support scheme worth Rs 2,814 crore over five years to promote critical mineral processing in India, with lithium and nickel processing named in the official title. It offers capital subsidies on eligible investments to bring in private investment and cut import dependence.

    • Union Cabinet approved the Capex Support Scheme to Promote Critical Mineral Processing on 4 November 2026
    • Outlay Rs 2,814 crore over five years
    • Official title refers to lithium and nickel processing
    • Capital subsidy on eligible investments; aim to cut import dependence

    New to this? What is the Union Budget, and why does the fiscal deficit make headlines? 5 min
28. Defence4 Nov

    Cabinet gives Agniveers a two-year second engagement; CDS announces

    Revise first Government schemes and missions were asked in CLAT 2021, 2022 and 2026

    The other 75% will now be offered two more years, and can then be enrolled as regular soldiers if they meet the selection criteria. The 25% still join the regular forces after four years.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Agnipath and defence reforms are frequent current affairs questions.

    Details

    On 4 November 2026 the Union Cabinet approved a change to the Agnipath scheme. As before, 25% of Agniveers are to be enrolled in the regular forces after four years. The other 75% will now be offered an additional two-year engagement, and after it willing Agniveers can be enrolled as regular soldiers if they meet selection criteria. It was announced at a briefing by Chief of Defence Staff General N S Raja Subramani.

    • Union Cabinet decision of 4 November 2026 on the Agnipath scheme
    • 25% of Agniveers are enrolled in the armed forces after four years
    • The remaining 75% get an additional two-year engagement, making six years in all
    • After the extra two years, willing Agniveers are enrolled subject to selection criteria
    • Announced at a media briefing by Chief of Defence Staff General N S Raja Subramani

    New to this? Who really runs India: the President or the Prime Minister? 5 min
29. Polity4 Nov

    Cabinet approves extension of 850 Fast Track Special Courts for sexual offences against women and children

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: The POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act) was passed in 2012

    Details

    The Union Cabinet on 4 November 2026 approved strengthening and extending 850 Fast Track Special Courts, which try cases of sexual offences against women and children, including under the POCSO Act. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw briefed reporters. The aim is faster, time-bound trials.

    • Union Cabinet decision of 4 November 2026
    • 850 Fast Track Special Courts to be strengthened and extended
    • The courts try sexual offence cases involving women and children, including under the POCSO Act
    • Announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw after the Cabinet meeting

    New to this? Who really runs India: the President or the Prime Minister? 5 min
30. Reports and indices4 Nov

    Annual Survey of Industries 2024-25: manufacturing corporate sector GVA grows 9.28%

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: The Annual Survey of Industries is conducted by MoSPI (National Statistics Office) and covers the registered factory sector

    Details

    The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released Annual Survey of Industries results for 2024-25 on 4 November 2026 (reported 5 November). They show the manufacturing corporate sector's Gross Value Added grew 9.28 per cent over the previous year, with operating factories up 3.45 per cent and persons engaged up 7.57 per cent.

    • MoSPI released Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) 2024-25 results on 4 November 2026, reported on 5 November
    • Manufacturing corporate sector GVA grew 9.28 per cent over the previous year
    • Operational factories grew 3.45 per cent and total persons engaged grew 7.57 per cent
    • Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh were the top five states by GVA, together over 54 per cent

    New to this? Why does everyone cheer when GDP grows 8 percent, and what does GDP actually count? 4 min
31. Awards3 Nov

    Rs 250 commemorative coin released for Muthuswami Dikshitar's 250th birth anniversary

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: Muthuswami Dikshitar, Tyagaraja and Syama Sastri are known as the Trinity of Carnatic music

    Details

    Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman released a Rs 250 commemorative coin on 3 November 2026 at IIT-BHU, Varanasi, marking the 250th birth anniversary of Carnatic composer Muthuswami Dikshitar. The programme was organised under the Centre of Excellence for Indian Knowledge Systems at IIT-BHU.

    • Rs 250 commemorative coin released on 3 November 2026 by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
    • Marks the 250th birth anniversary of Carnatic composer Muthuswami Dikshitar
    • Released at IIT-BHU, Varanasi
    • Event organised under the Centre of Excellence for Indian Knowledge Systems at IIT-BHU
32. Supreme Court3 Nov

    Supreme Court: no group can occupy a designated protest site indefinitely

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: Article 19(1)(b) gives citizens the right to assemble peaceably and without arms, subject to reasonable restrictions

    Details

    While hearing petitions over the Delhi Police's handling of July protests and its move to denotify Jantar Mantar as a designated protest site, a bench led by CJI Surya Kant said on 3 November 2026 that no individual or group can claim an indefinite right to occupy a protest site. It said permission orders must give reasons and state how long the site can be used, since others also have a right to protest.

    • Observations made on 3 November 2026 by a bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana
    • No individual, group or organisation can occupy a designated protest site indefinitely
    • Orders granting or refusing permission should give reasons and, if granted, the duration
    • The court is also examining Delhi Police's decision to denotify Jantar Mantar as a designated protest site and shift protests to Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and CBD Ground
    • These were observations during hearing, not a final judgment

    New to this? Supreme Court, High Court, sessions court: which one is which? 5 min
33. Science and tech3 Nov

    NITI Aayog launches India S&T Scoreboard to compare States and UTs on science and technology

    NITI Aayog, the government's policy think tank, launched an online scoreboard that compares States on science and technology, looking at quality and teamwork as well as how much they produce.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: New NITI Aayog reports and platforms are common in reports and governance questions.

    Details

    NITI Aayog launched the India S&T Scoreboard in New Delhi on 3 November 2026. Unveiled by Vice Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri, it is an interactive platform comparing the science and technology landscape of States and Union Territories, looking at quality, impact and collaboration as well as volume of output. Tamil Nadu has the highest patents and research publications in 2024-25.

    • Launched 3 November 2026 at the Civil Services Officers' Institute, KG Marg, New Delhi
    • Unveiled by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri
    • Interactive platform to compare States and UTs and support evidence-based policymaking and benchmarking
    • Designed to capture quality, impact and collaboration, not only output volume
    • Tamil Nadu has the highest patents and research publications in 2024-25 (Economic Times)

    New to this? CAG, UPSC, NHRC, NITI Aayog: all 'government bodies'. Why does the exam ask which kind? 4 min
34. International3 Nov

    MEA: Joint Rivers Commission is the mechanism for cross-border rivers incl. the Ganga; Ganga treaty expires 12 December

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: The India-Bangladesh Ganga Water Sharing Treaty was signed on 12 December 1996 for 30 years

    Details

    At the MEA briefing on 3 November 2026, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India and Bangladesh have a structured mechanism, the Joint Rivers Commission, for cross-border rivers including the Ganga. The 1996 treaty is due to expire on 12 December 2026. He said there was no update on its renewal, and India has invited Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman to visit New Delhi.

    • MEA briefing of 3 November 2026 by spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal
    • Joint Rivers Commission is the structured mechanism for cross-boundary rivers including the Ganga
    • India-Bangladesh Ganga Water Treaty is set to expire on 12 December 2026
    • No update on renewal or on dates for Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman's visit, which India has invited

    New to this? A country 'signed' a treaty. So is it bound by it? 4 min
35. Environment3 Nov

    India sets COP31 priorities: predictable climate finance, tech transfer, party-driven mitigation

    Revise first Summits were asked in CLAT 2024, 2025 and 2026

    India said that at the COP31 climate summit in Turkiye it will push for steady, predictable money from rich countries to help poorer ones fight climate change, and for no new targets forced on countries from above.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: COP summits, climate finance and the Paris Agreement appear often in environment questions.

    Details

    Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said on 3 November 2026 that India will press at COP31 in Antalya, Turkiye, starting 9 November, for predictable climate finance and a decision to begin the Climate Finance Work Programme. India also wants mitigation and the Global Stocktake to stay party-driven and non-punitive, with no new top-down targets.

    • Briefing by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on 3 November 2026
    • COP31 is in Antalya, Turkiye, beginning 9 November 2026
    • India seeks a decision to commence the Climate Finance Work Programme
    • India says climate finance is an obligation of developed countries under Article 9.1 (Paris Agreement) and should be predictable, largely public and concessional
    • India wants mitigation and the Global Stocktake to stay party-driven, facilitative and non-punitive, ruling out new top-down targets

    New to this? What actually happens at a COP, and what has India promised? 5 min
36. Defence3 Nov

    India and Canada hold their inaugural Defence Dialogue

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: Canada is a member of the Commonwealth and of G7

    Details

    India and Canada held the first India-Canada Defence Dialogue virtually on 3 November 2026. It was co-chaired by Dr Amit Telang of India's Defence Ministry and Scott Millar of Canada's Department of National Defence. Defence industrial cooperation, military-technical cooperation and defence research were named priority areas. It follows the Modi-Carney joint statement of 2 March 2026.

    • Inaugural India-Canada Defence Dialogue held virtually on 3 November 2026
    • Co-chaired by Dr Amit Telang (India, Joint Secretary International Cooperation) and Scott Millar (Canada, Assistant Deputy Minister Policy)
    • Priorities: defence industrial cooperation, military-technical cooperation, defence R&D
    • Follows the joint statement of 2 March 2026 by the two Prime Ministers
37. International3 Nov

    ICJ to deliver Gambia v Myanmar Rohingya genocide judgment on 19 November

    The top UN court, the ICJ, will give its decision on 19 November in the case where The Gambia says Myanmar broke the 1948 Genocide Convention in its treatment of the Rohingya, a minority group. The court cannot enforce its rulings.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: ICJ cases, its seat and the Genocide Convention are standard international law questions.

    Details

    The International Court of Justice said on 3 November 2026 that it will rule on 19 November in the case brought by The Gambia against Myanmar over the treatment of the Rohingya minority. The case alleges breach of the 1948 UN Genocide Convention. The court cannot enforce its decisions.

    • ICJ announced on 3 November 2026 that it will deliver its judgment on 19 November 2026
    • Case brought by The Gambia against Myanmar in 2019 under the 1948 Genocide Convention
    • Judges have weighed the case for about seven years
    • The ICJ has no means of enforcing its decisions

    New to this? ICJ and ICC: same city, similar letters, very different courts 4 min
38. Defence3 Nov

    First BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise ends at Sri Vijaya Puram

    Background fact, details

    Background fact: BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation

    Details

    India hosted the first BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise at Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from 30 October to 3 November 2026. It was run under the Andaman and Nicobar Command, India's only tri-service theatre command, to build cooperation among Bay of Bengal countries.

    • The first BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise ran from 30 October to 3 November 2026 at Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
    • It was conducted under the Andaman and Nicobar Command, India's only operational tri-service command (PIB)
    • It had three days of tabletop exercises followed by a two day harbour phase
    • Aims included maritime domain awareness, coordination, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and response to cross-border maritime crime and marine pollution

    New to this? Why does a new government in Kathmandu or Dhaka make the front page in India? 5 min
39. International2 Nov

    UN First Committee approves regional arms control draft 180 to 2; India and Israel vote no

    Revise first UN and other international bodies were asked in CLAT 2022, 2023 and 2026

    A UN committee on disarmament and security backed a draft on controlling ordinary weapons region by region, 180 votes to 2. India and Israel were the only two against, as India says security worries do not stop at regional borders.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: UN bodies, voting records and India's stand on disarmament are regular international affairs questions.

    Details

    On 2 November 2026 the UN General Assembly's First Committee approved a draft resolution on conventional arms control at regional and subregional levels, tabled by Pakistan and Belarus, by 180 votes to 2 with no abstentions. India and Israel were the only two against; India said security concerns cannot be confined to regional boundaries.

    • Draft titled 'General and complete disarmament: Conventional arms control at the regional and subregional levels'
    • Approved by the UNGA First Committee on 2 November 2026: 180 in favour, 2 against, no abstentions
    • India and Israel were the only countries to vote against
    • Tabled by Pakistan and Belarus
    • India's First Secretary Anmol Sher Bedi said conventional arms control is a global matter and India is not convinced it should be pursued mainly in regional and sub-regional contexts

    New to this? Why can one country stop the UN Security Council from acting? 5 min
40. Economy2 Nov

    PM Modi inaugurates Bharat Renewable Energy Summit and Expo 2026, sets 500 GW more non-fossil target

    Revise first Summits India hosts were asked in CLAT 2024 and AILET 2024 and 2025

    The PM opened a big clean-energy summit in Delhi and set a new goal: 500 gigawatts (GW) more power from sources other than coal, oil and gas, over the next 10 to 11 years.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Renewable energy targets, the International Solar Alliance and COP pledges are favourite exam topics.

    Details

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bharat Renewable Energy Summit and Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 2 November. He said India has over 50% non-fossil installed capacity and nearly 300 GW toward its 500 GW target for 2030, and announced a goal of adding another 500 GW over 10 to 11 years.

    • Inaugurated on 2 November 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi; the event coincides with the Ninth Assembly of the International Solar Alliance and a conference on green hydrogen
    • India's COP26 pledge is 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030; PM said nearly 300 GW is already achieved
    • India met its Paris pledge of 50% non-fossil installed capacity in 2025, five years ahead of schedule
    • New goal announced: add another 500 GW of non-fossil capacity over the next 10 to 11 years
    • PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (launched February 2024, target one crore rooftop solar homes) has over 65 lakh households, per the PM
    • National Green Hydrogen Mission aims at 50 lakh tonnes of green hydrogen by the end of the decade

    New to this? Who really runs India: the President or the Prime Minister? 5 min
41. Polity2 Nov

    MHA to open FRROs in all State capitals by 2027; network now 20 offices

    The Home Ministry will open offices where foreigners register and get visa services in every State capital by 2027. There are now 20 such offices (as of 2 Nov 2026).

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: Ministry plans and bodies like FRROs can appear as polity and governance questions.

    Details

    The Home Ministry said on 2 November that Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs) will be set up in every State capital by 2027, on Home Minister Amit Shah's direction. The network now has 20 offices, with new ones in Jaipur, Chandigarh, Guwahati, Aizawl and Amravati and three more notified.

    • MHA statement of 2 November 2026: FRROs in all State capitals by 2027, as directed by Home Minister Amit Shah
    • Number of FRROs is now 20
    • Five new FRROs since 2025: Jaipur, Chandigarh, Guwahati (2025), Aizawl and Amravati (2026)
    • Three newly notified: Kohima, Agartala and Bhubaneswar
    • 35 online services are available through e-FRRO
42. Economy1 Nov

    Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express flagged off

    A new overnight train with sleeper berths now runs between Bengaluru and Mumbai. The Railway Minister flagged it off on 1 November.

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: New trains, their routes and safety systems like Kavach appear in current affairs questions.

    Details

    Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express on 1 November 2026, a new overnight service between Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) in Bengaluru and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai. It passes through Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.

    • Flagged off by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday 1 November 2026 from SMVT Bengaluru
    • Connects SMVT Bengaluru with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai
    • Route passes through Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra
    • Train is fitted with the Kavach train protection system, automatic doors and CCTV
    • Runs six days a week
43. Economy1 Nov

    October 2026 gross GST collection reaches about Rs 2.31 lakh crore

    Revise first Economy and RBI stories were asked in CLAT 2020, 2023 and 2026

    In October 2026 the government collected over Rs 2.31 lakh crore in GST (before refunds), a tax on goods and services. That is 22.9% more than a year earlier and the second-highest month so far (as of 1 Nov 2026).

    Exam angle, details

    Exam angle: GST facts (start date, GST Council, record months) are common economy questions.

    Details

    Gross GST collection in October 2026 rose 22.9% year on year to over Rs 2.31 lakh crore, the second-highest monthly figure after April's record of about Rs 2.43 lakh crore, helped by festive demand. Data was released on 1 November.

    • Gross GST in October 2026 was over Rs 2.31 lakh crore, up 22.9% from about Rs 1.88 lakh crore a year earlier
    • Second-highest monthly collection; the record is about Rs 2.43 lakh crore in April 2026
    • Includes CGST of Rs 42,935 crore, SGST of Rs 51,340 crore and IGST of over Rs 1.37 lakh crore
    • Domestic revenue rose about 16% to over Rs 1.59 lakh crore; import revenue rose 42% to Rs 72,246 crore
    • Net GST after refunds was over Rs 2.03 lakh crore

    New to this? What is GST, and why do the Centre and all the states sit in one room to decide it? 4 min