Current affairs · 2 August 2026
The day's most exam-relevant current affairs for UPSC, SSC, banking, railways and state exams — free, factual, revision-ready. 12 updates.
Varsha Ashok Aglawe Becomes First Woman Director General of Geological Survey of India
Varsha Ashok Aglawe took over as the 54th Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) on August 1, 2026, becoming the first woman to head India's premier geoscientific organization. This marks a historic appointment in the earth sciences sector.
Why it matters: First woman in a key scientific leadership role; important for appointments and women empowerment topics.
Cabinet Approves 'Samudra Manthan' - National Offshore Exploration Scheme (₹84,084 Crore)
The Union Cabinet approved 'Samudra Manthan', the National Offshore Exploration Scheme, a Central Sector scheme with an outlay of ₹84,084 crore. The scheme aims to boost offshore oil and gas exploration to enhance energy security.
Why it matters: Energy security and self-reliance initiatives are critical for economy and policy questions.
RBI Monetary Policy Committee Meeting Scheduled for August 3-5, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting is scheduled from August 3-5, 2026, with the policy decision expected on August 5. SBI Research expects the repo rate to remain unchanged at 5.25% due to inflation staying above 5% and global uncertainties.
Why it matters: RBI monetary policy decisions are crucial for banking and economy sections in all competitive exams.
Cabinet Launches 'Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana' with ₹5,070 Crore
The Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana (PM-SSY) for development of Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FSPV) Projects with Energy Storage Systems (ESS). Total outlay is ₹5,070 crore, focusing on renewable energy expansion.
Why it matters: Renewable energy initiatives align with India's climate goals; relevant for environment and energy sectors.
Indian Railways Introduces Token-Based Tatkal Booking System from August 1
Indian Railways introduced a token-based system for Tatkal ticket bookings at reservation counters from August 1, 2026. The move aims to streamline the booking process, reduce overcrowding, and improve passenger experience at railway ticket counters.
Why it matters: Railway reforms and passenger convenience measures are regularly asked in SSC and Railway exams.
8th Pay Commission Data Collection Deadline Extended to July 31, 2026
The 8th Pay Commission extended the deadline for Ministries, Departments, and government organizations to submit employee and workforce data through its online portal till July 31, 2026. The Commission is collecting data including contractual and outsourced manpower to support its salary revision exercise.
Why it matters: 8th Pay Commission progress is of high interest to all government job aspirants for future salary structures.
Dearness Allowance Increased to 60% from January 1, 2026
The Union Cabinet approved a 2% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) effective from January 1, 2026, raising the rate from 58% to 60% of Basic Pay/Pension. This increase benefits all central government employees and pensioners.
Why it matters: DA hikes directly impact aspirants' future government salary; critical for government job seekers to track.
Cabinet Approves PM-KISAN Extension with ₹3.15 Lakh Crore Outlay (2026-31)
The Union Cabinet approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) from 2026-27 to 2030-31 with a total financial outlay of ₹3.15 lakh crore. The scheme provides direct income support to farmers.
Why it matters: Major farmer welfare scheme with massive budgetary allocation; key for economy and agriculture questions.
PM Modi Launches 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan' on August 2
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan' on August 2, 2026 at 11 AM through video conferencing. The campaign aims to create drug-free youth for developed India by 2047.
Why it matters: Government youth development initiatives are frequently asked in GA sections.
ISRO Bharatiya Antariksh Hackathon Grand Finale on August 6-7, 2026
ISRO announced that the Bharatiya Antariksh Hackathon (BAH) 2026 Grand Finale will be held at NRSC Hyderabad during August 6-7, 2026. Shortlisted teams will compete in this space technology innovation event promoting young talent in the aerospace sector.
Why it matters: ISRO initiatives and space technology programs are frequently tested in science and technology sections.
India Wins Gold Medals in Judo at Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026
Indian judokas Harsh Singh and Asmita Dey won gold medals at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026. Harsh Singh won gold in men's judo category while Asmita Dey won gold in the Women's 48 kg Judo Final. PM Modi congratulated both athletes.
Why it matters: Major international sporting achievements; Commonwealth Games results are standard current affairs questions.
Khelo India Scheme Enhanced with ₹36,441 Crore for 2026-31
The Union Cabinet approved expanded Khelo India Scheme and enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs) with combined outlay of ₹36,441 crore for 2026-27 to 2030-31. The scheme focuses on youth development through sports.
Why it matters: Major sports development initiative; relevant for current affairs on youth and sports policy.
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