Top News
1. CUET-UG 2026 Results Announced
The results for the Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduate (CUET-UG) 2026 have been officially declared, with over 11.6 lakh candidates appearing for the examination. A remarkable highlight of this year's results was a candidate securing a 100 percentile in four subjects. The highest-scoring female candidate secured 1232.19 marks, placing her marginally ahead of the top male candidate who scored 1230.82 marks, reflecting highly competitive performances across the nation.
2. Rajasthan Forms Panel for Uniform Civil Code Draft
The Rajasthan state government has constituted a high-level committee to prepare the draft of the Rajasthan Uniform Civil Code, 2026. Headed by former Supreme Court Judge Ranjana Desai, the drafting committee will focus on framing regulations covering marriage, divorce, and succession while specifically excluding tribal groups. This legislative move aligns with Article 44 of the Constitution on Directive Principles, making Rajasthan the latest state to initiate this process following Uttarakhand and Gujarat.
3. Successful Demonstration of Garudastra 120-mm Mortar
India successfully tested the Garudastra 120-mm Vehicle-Mounted Mortar, an advanced indigenous weapon system. Demonstrated in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, the system boasts a high rate of fire, capable of launching 12 rounds within just 60 seconds. Utilizing GPS and laser guidance, the Garudastra can engage targets up to 10 kilometers away, and its 17-kilogram warhead is designed to penetrate 20 centimeters of concrete to effectively neutralize enemy bunkers.
4. IX Portal and AI WHOIS Platform Launched
The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) launched several crucial digital tools, including the IX Portal, myIRINN, a .IN Auction platform, and an AI-driven WHOIS platform. These platforms are designed to enhance domain security, operational transparency, and digital governance within India's internet ecosystem. Currently managing over 39 lakh .IN domains and operating 79 exchange points, these initiatives have significantly contributed to India achieving a 78.34 percent IPv6 adoption rate.
5. World Bank Approves USD 1.5 Billion for India's Structural Reforms
The World Bank has approved a financing package of USD 1.5 billion aimed at supporting India's ongoing structural reforms. The funding, provided under the Private Sector Development Policy Financing (DPF) program, is specifically targeted at accelerating private sector-led job creation, boosting economic competitiveness, and fostering sustainable economic growth across the nation.
6. India and US Begin High-Stakes Trade Talks
India and the United States have commenced crucial high-stakes trade negotiations in Washington. The talks come at a time when shifting tariff regimes have compelled both nations to revisit and reassess key assumptions that previously guided their bilateral economic engagement. The ongoing negotiations are closely monitored by legislative bodies to evaluate strategic trade alignments without hastening into broad agreements.
7. Assam Cabinet Clears Single-Window Registration for Tourist Stays
In a significant move to boost community-led tourism, the Assam State Cabinet has cleared a single-window registration system for tourist stays, placing a major focus on the homestay sector. The state government plans to introduce a separate incentive policy specifically designed for homestay owners following the upcoming Budget session. Additionally, the cabinet cleared key land and education reforms, easing the conversion of land for industrial use and reducing the acreage requirements for establishing new private universities.
8. Border Residents Demand Tripartite Talks Over Assam-Nagaland Row
Tensions have resurfaced along the Assam-Nagaland border, prompting border residents and various organizations to demand immediate tripartite talks to resolve the deepening dispute. Protests and road blockades in Mariani and Uriamghat led to hundreds being stranded. Altogether, 18 organizations have rallied against the recurring border conflicts, highlighting severe concerns regarding insecurity and the disruption of daily life for locals residing in the contested areas.
9. Lakadong Turmeric Gains Global Recognition
Lakadong Turmeric, a highly sought-after variety cultivated in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, continues to gain substantial global recognition for its exceptional quality. Having received its Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2024, it is highly valued for an unusually high curcumin content of about 7 percent. This recognition is aiding local farmers in securing better market prices and expanding their agricultural export footprint.
10. India Ranks 13th in World Future Skills Index
India has secured the 13th position globally in AI-economy readiness, according to the QS World Future Skills Index 2027. The ranking underscores India's rapidly growing capabilities in artificial intelligence, digital upskilling, and technological infrastructure, reflecting the nation's increasing preparedness to integrate advanced future skills into its broader economic framework.
11. Bengaluru Hosts BRICS Space Agencies Meeting
Bengaluru successfully hosted the BRICS Heads of Space Agencies (HOSA) 2026 meeting. With India chairing the BRICS summit for the year 2026, the congregation brought together top space agency officials from member nations. The discussions focused on deepening multilateral cooperation in space exploration, satellite data sharing, and the joint development of advanced space technologies for peaceful and developmental purposes.
12. Himachal Bioeconomy Valuation Report Released
A comprehensive report titled "Counting Green Wealth: Towards a Future-Ready People's Forest Economy in Himachal Pradesh" has been officially released, detailing the immense economic value of the state's natural resources. According to the valuation report, Himachal Pradesh's forest-based bioeconomy is estimated to be worth Rs 22,600 crore annually, emphasizing the critical role of sustainable forest management and green wealth in the state's long-term economic planning.
13. Neeraj Chopra and Parul Chaudhary Win Indian Athletics Awards
Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra and long-distance runner Parul Chaudhary were honored as the Best Male and Female Athletes of the Year at the Indian Athletics Awards. Hosted by the Athletics Federation of India to celebrate outstanding performances, the ceremony also featured legendary sprinter P.T. Usha receiving the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. The accolades were officially presented by the Union Sports Minister during a dedicated gala event.
14. Botticelli's 'Madonna and Child' Makes Indian Debut
Strengthening the cultural ties between India and Italy, Sandro Botticelli's masterpiece 'Madonna and Child' made its debut in India as part of an exclusive international art exhibition. The exhibition remarkably unites 27 artworks spanning four millennia, deeply exploring the enduring resonance and universal theme of motherhood across diverse global civilizations.
15. Centre Bans 16 Fixed-Dose Combination Drugs
The Central Government has officially banned 16 Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) drugs across the country, citing significant concerns regarding their overall safety and therapeutic efficacy. The regulatory action aims to eliminate irrational drug combinations from the market, thereby protecting public health and ensuring that only strictly evaluated and safe pharmacological treatments remain accessible to patients.
24 June 2026 Top News for APSC | Most Important Updates, Schemes & Reports You Must Know