Current affairs — 7 October 2026

RBI Hikes Repo Rate by 25 bps to 5.50% in October 2026 Policy

The Reserve Bank of India raised the benchmark repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.50% on October 7, 2026, marking the central bank's first rate hike in nearly four years. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced the decision with all six MPC members voting unanimously in favour. The monetary policy stance has been shifted from 'neutral' to 'calibrated tightening' to tackle rising inflation, which is expected to average 5.8% over the next three quarters.

Why it matters: Repo rate changes affect EMIs, inflation control, and monetary policy—a major topic for all exam GS/GA sections

RBI Raises GDP Growth Forecast for FY 2026-27 to 7.1%

In its October 2026 monetary policy announcement, the Reserve Bank of India raised its GDP growth forecast for FY 2026-27 to 7.1%, up from the previous estimate of 6.7%. The central bank also revised inflation projections upward, with headline inflation expected to average 5.2% and core inflation at 4.4%. Bank credit growth has reached 18.8% as of October 2026.

Why it matters: GDP forecasts and inflation targets are core economic indicators tested across all government exams

4.9-Magnitude Earthquake Tremors Felt Across Delhi-NCR

Tremors from a 4.9-magnitude earthquake, with its epicenter located in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, were felt across Delhi and its adjoining National Capital Region late on Tuesday night, October 6, 2026. Authorities reported no immediate damage in the Delhi-NCR area following the seismic activity.

Why it matters: Earthquake zones and disaster management are tested in geography and general studies sections

Union Environment Minister Inaugurates 18 Namo Oxygen Parks in Delhi

On October 6, 2026, the Union Environment Minister officially inaugurated 18 new Namo Oxygen Parks across Delhi. This initiative aims to increase green cover and improve air quality in the national capital.

Why it matters: Environment and urban development schemes are increasingly important for prelims and mains on sustainability

By-elections Held on October 6 in Puducherry and Tamil Nadu

By-elections were conducted on October 6, 2026, for multiple assembly constituencies including Thattanchavady (Puducherry) and several seats in Tamil Nadu—Maduranthakam, Dharapuram, Perundurai, Karur, Tiruchirappalli East, Viralimalai, and Ambasamudram. The polls were necessitated by resignations of sitting MLAs earlier in 2026.

Why it matters: Electoral processes and by-election outcomes are important for polity and current affairs sections

CBI Arrests DGCA Deputy Director in Chennai Over Alleged Bribe

The Central Bureau of Investigation arrested a Deputy Director of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation in Chennai on October 7, 2026. The arrest was reportedly made in connection with an alleged bribe for aircraft airworthiness clearance.

Why it matters: Anti-corruption cases involving central agencies are frequently tested in ethics and current affairs sections

Rajya Sabha Nomination Filing Deadline: October 6, 2026

October 6, 2026, marked the last date for filing nominations for the November 2026 Rajya Sabha elections. Scrutiny of nominations is scheduled for October 7, with the last date for withdrawal on October 9. Polling and declaration of results, if necessary, will take place on October 16, 2026.

Why it matters: Rajya Sabha election procedures and timelines are crucial for understanding legislative processes

Tamil Nadu Government Establishes Additional Court for NIA Cases

On October 6, 2026, the Tamil Nadu government announced the establishment of an additional court to fast-track cases related to the National Investigation Agency. The decision aims to expedite trials in national security and terrorism-related cases.

Why it matters: Judicial infrastructure for national security cases tests understanding of federal agencies and legal procedures

8th Pay Commission: Salary Hike Projections and Basic Pay Revisions

Under the 8th Pay Commission, estimates suggest central government employees could see basic salary increases ranging from 20-50% depending on the final fitment factor (expected between 1.83 and 2.86). For example, with a fitment factor of 2.28, minimum basic pay of ₹18,000 would rise to ₹41,040. The existing DA of 60% (as of January 2026) is expected to be merged into revised basic pay, after which DA will reset and begin accumulating afresh.

Why it matters: Pay Commission mechanics and fitment factors are crucial knowledge for aspirants planning government careers

DA Hike Expected in October 2026 for Central Government Employees

Central government employees are expecting a Dearness Allowance (DA) hike announcement in October 2026 for the second half of the year (July-December 2026 period). This would be the second DA revision under the 8th Pay Commission era. The DA currently stands at 60% of basic pay as of January 2026, and a further 2-3% increase is anticipated, potentially raising cumulative DA to approximately 62-63%.

Why it matters: DA revisions directly impact lakhs of aspirants' future salaries and are regularly tested in awareness sections

Maharashtra CM Launches 'Participate Mumbai' Initiative on October 6

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis launched the 'Participate Mumbai' initiative on October 6, 2026, a platform designed to encourage public involvement in the city's development. The initiative promotes citizen participation in urban governance and planning.

Why it matters: Urban governance and participatory planning schemes are important for public administration and polity questions

2026 Asian Games Concluded: India Finishes 12th with 37 Medals

India concluded its participation at the 2026 Asian Games held in Aichi and Nagoya, Japan (September 19 - October 4, 2026) with a total of 37 medals—4 Gold, 16 Silver, and 17 Bronze—finishing 12th overall. Manu Bhaker and Pawan Sehrawat were the flag bearers, and India fielded 495 competitors across 36 sports.

Why it matters: Major international sporting events and India's medal tally are standard current affairs questions