Current affairs — 12 October 2026

Gaurav Yadav Appointed as Regular DGP of Punjab

After serving as officiating DGP for over four years—the longest period in any Indian state—Gaurav Yadav (IPS:1992:PB) has been appointed as the regular Director General of Police of Punjab. The appointment was confirmed on October 9, 2026.

Why it matters: Senior administrative and police appointments at state level are relevant for governance and static GK portions.

Nineteen Officers Empanelled for Joint Secretary Level Posts

The Central Government cleared the empanelment of nineteen officers to hold Joint Secretary level posts at the Centre on October 6, 2026. The empanelment process is crucial for filling key administrative positions in various ministries and departments.

Why it matters: Central government administrative structure and appointment procedures are tested in polity and governance.

Pankaj Kumar Singh's Tenure as Additional Secretary Extended

The tenure of Pankaj Kumar Singh (IDAS:1994), Additional Secretary in the GST Council Secretariat, Department of Revenue, has been extended for a period of six months beyond September 9, 2026. The extension was announced on October 7, 2026.

Why it matters: GST Council and revenue administration appointments are relevant for economy and governance topics.

Three New Judges Sworn in to Supreme Court of India

Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant administered the oath of office to three new judges on October 6, 2026: Justice Sunita Agarwal, Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya, and one other judge. The appointment strengthens the judicial bench of the Supreme Court.

Why it matters: Supreme Court appointments and judiciary composition are important for polity and governance sections.

INS Kulish Arrives in Singapore During Eastern Fleet Deployment

Indian Navy warship INS Kulish arrived at Tuas Terminal in Singapore on October 6, 2026, for an operational turnaround during the Eastern Fleet's operational deployment. The visit is aimed at strengthening India-Singapore maritime relations. Naval personnel also visited the Kranji War Memorial during the port call.

Why it matters: Bilateral naval engagements under Act East Policy strengthen Indo-Pacific partnerships—relevant for IR and defence topics.

Indian Coast Guard Conducts 12th National Maritime SAR Exercise SAREX-2026

The Indian Coast Guard conducted the 12th National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise, SAREX-2026, off the coast of Paradip, Odisha, on October 8, 2026. The exercise was organised under the guidance of the National Maritime Search and Rescue Board. It involved 15 Coast Guard ships, three Dornier aircraft, three Advanced Light Helicopters, one Chetak helicopter, Indian Air Force C-130J and Mi-17 aircraft, and two Indian Navy ships along with civilian and state resources.

Why it matters: National-level defence exercises showcase multi-agency coordination and maritime security preparedness—important for defence and current affairs.

RBI Hikes Repo Rate by 25 Basis Points to 5.50%

The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee raised the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.50% on October 7, 2026, marking the first rate hike since 2023. The MPC unanimously voted for the increase and shifted its policy stance from 'neutral' to 'calibrated tightening'. The Standing Deposit Facility rate stands at 5.25%, while the Marginal Standing Facility and Bank Rate are at 5.75%. RBI projected CPI inflation at 5.2% and GDP growth at 7.1% for 2026-27.

Why it matters: Monetary policy changes directly impact inflation, credit growth, and loan EMIs—frequently tested in banking and economy sections.

ISRO Plans Human Space Analog Habitat at Astronaut Training Facility

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), through its Human Space Flight Centre, has issued a tender for the design and establishment of a Human Space Analog System at its Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru. The proposed facility will simulate isolated, confined and resource-limited conditions that astronauts may encounter during long-duration space missions, representing an important step in India's preparations for future human spaceflight.

Why it matters: Gaganyaan mission preparations and ISRO developments are frequently asked in prelims and mains GS3 science & technology.