Current Affairs for UPSC, SSC, Banking, IBPS, RRB, NTPC, Railways, State PSC and other competitive examinations
This edition covers major developments reported or announced on 8 October 2026, using PIB, News On AIR, official government releases and reliable national and international news reports.
Target Exams: UPSC CSE, State PSCs, SSC CGL, Banking (IBPS/SBI PO/Clerk), Railways (RRB), and Defence Exams
National
1. India celebrates the 94th Indian Air Force Day
India celebrated the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on 8 October 2026. The main ceremonial parade was held at Air Force Station Hindan in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, and was reviewed by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh.
Theme 2026
“Indian Air Force – Infallible, Impervious and Precise.”
The occasion highlighted the IAF's operational readiness, professional excellence, technological modernisation and role in protecting India's sovereignty.
President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior leaders extended greetings to air warriors, veterans and their families.
The IAF has also been strengthening its operational capabilities through modern aircraft, drones, integrated operations and advanced surveillance technologies.
Exam Point: The Indian Air Force was established on 8 October 1932. Its headquarters is in New Delhi.
2. Prime Minister inaugurates India Mobile Congress 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 10th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026 at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.
The four-day event, scheduled from 7 to 10 October, brings together telecom operators, policymakers, technology companies, start-ups, researchers and international stakeholders.
Theme
“Scale Without Boundaries.”
The event focuses on 5G, the development of 6G, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, semiconductor technologies, cybersecurity and next-generation telecommunications.
The government reported that India's 5G rollout had reached approximately 550 million users across 99.9% of districts. The stated ambition is to connect 1 billion 5G users by 2030.
The Prime Minister highlighted India's transition from being primarily a consumer of technology to becoming an increasingly important creator of digital products, services and innovation.
Exam Point: IMC is organised jointly by the Department of Telecommunications and the Cellular Operators Association of India.
3. Indian Coast Guard conducts SAREX-2026 off Odisha coast
The Indian Coast Guard conducted the 12th National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-2026) off the coast of Paradip, Odisha, on 8 October.
The exercise was held under the National Maritime Search and Rescue Board.
Theme
“Leveraging Technology to Strengthen SAR Preparedness and Maritime Safety.”
It brought together maritime and aviation agencies to demonstrate operational preparedness, coordination and response capabilities during large-scale emergencies at sea.
The exercise involved the Coast Guard, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, shipping authorities, customs, fisheries officials, marine police and other agencies. It also included 32 observers from 30 countries, supporting international cooperation in maritime search and rescue.
Exam Point: SAR stands for Search and Rescue.
4. India completes Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 campaign
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced the successful completion of its Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 campaign, which ran from 17 September to 2 October.
The Ministry and its media units organised 4,710 activities, against a target of 2,943, achieving 160% of the planned target with participation from more than 74,000 people.
The campaign promoted cleanliness, public participation, youth engagement, solid-waste management and collective responsibility.
Campaign theme
“Swachhata Mein Sabki Bhagidari; Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat.”
5. Historic Tamil film prints donated to National Film Archive of India
Three historic Tamil film prints starring legendary actor Sivaji Ganesan and directed by filmmaker A. P. Nagarajan were acquired for the National Film Archive of India in Pune.
The films are:
Thiruvilayadal (1965)
Thiruvarutchelvar (1967)
Thillana Mohanambal (1968)
The acquisition is particularly important because Thiruvarutchelvar had not previously been held by the archive in any format. Preserving these films helps safeguard India's cinematic heritage for future generations.
Exam Point: The National Film Archive of India is based in Pune, Maharashtra.
6.Launch of JOSH Teams under TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan:
Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare J.P. Nadda launched the Joint Squad for Health (JOSH) teams in New Delhi.
Objective: Mobilize youth-led community action and grassroots monitoring to eliminate tuberculosis across India.
International
1. India highlights energy cooperation at East Asia Summit meeting
India participated in the 20th East Asia Summit Energy Ministers' Meeting held in Manila, Philippines.
Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik represented India and emphasised regional cooperation in energy security, clean-energy development, power transmission and resilient electricity systems.
India supported cooperation under the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation 2026–2030 and the ASEAN-India Plan of Action.
An important development was the discussion of a proposed 2,000 MW cross-border electricity interconnection between India and Singapore.
One option under consideration involves a transmission corridor of approximately 3,000 kilometres connecting Imphal in India to Singapore through Myanmar, Thailand and Malaysia.
The proposal remains under exploration; it is not an operational power link.
2. India calls for climate finance and technology transfer ahead of COP31
At the UNFCCC Pre-COP31 meeting in Fiji, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav called for flexibility, pragmatism and mutual respect to achieve balanced climate negotiations.
India stressed the need to move beyond declarations towards implementation, particularly in the areas of:
Climate finance for developing countries.
Technology transfer.
Capacity-building.
Implementation of existing climate commitments.
Respect for nationally determined development pathways.
India maintained that developing countries require adequate financial and technological support to pursue climate action while addressing poverty, development and energy-access needs.
3. India and EFTA expand trade cooperation
The India–European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement continued to attract attention as it completed its first year of implementation.
Government reporting on 8 October highlighted that approximately 8,000 Rules of Origin certificates had been issued under the agreement during its first year. Indian exporters have also begun shipping some products to EFTA markets that they had not previously supplied.
The agreement supports India's efforts to expand exports, attract investment and strengthen trade relationships with European economies.
EFTA members: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
Economy and Banking
1. GST Council recommends major changes to simplify tax administration
The 57th meeting of the GST Council was held in New Delhi on 8 October 2026 under the chairpersonship of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
The Council recommended a series of process and compliance reforms designed to improve the ease of doing business, reduce unnecessary legal complexity and make GST administration more taxpayer-friendly.
Major recommendations
- Higher prosecution threshold: The Council recommended increasing the threshold for prosecution from ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore.
- Reduction in general penalty: It recommended reducing the general penalty from ₹25,000 to ₹10,000.
- Simplified procedures: Proposed changes cover GST registration, return filing, refunds and adjudication.
- Faster refunds: The Council recommended greater use of automated, system-based refund processing to improve business cash flow.
- E-commerce registration: Simplified registration measures were proposed to enable eligible small sellers to expand their operations across states.
- Optional scheme for small businesses: The Council approved in principle a concept for an optional Annual Return Quarterly Payment scheme for eligible businesses with turnover of up to ₹5 crore that supply exclusively to unregistered consumers.
- The Council also recommended common standards for GST notices and proceedings and measures to facilitate exports of services.
Important clarification: These are Council recommendations and proposed changes; individual measures may require amendments to laws or rules before taking effect.
Source: PIB – Recommendations of the 57th GST Council Meeting
2. India records highest-ever monthly electric-vehicle retail sales
India recorded 333,634 electric-vehicle retail sales in September 2026, a year-on-year increase of approximately 74%, according to data released by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations.
Electric-vehicle penetration across vehicle categories reached approximately 13%, compared with about 10% a year earlier.
Key figures
| Indicator | September 2026 |
|---|---|
| Total EV retail sales | 333,634 |
| Year-on-year growth | 74% |
| Electric two-wheeler sales | 207,314 |
| Electric passenger-vehicle sales | 36,108 |
| Electric three-wheeler sales | 86,024 |
| EV penetration across categories | About 13% |
Festive-season demand, a broader range of vehicles, lower running costs and continuing policy support contributed to the rise.
Exam Point: FADA stands for the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations.
Source: India Brand Equity Foundation – EV retail sales
3. Windergy India 2026 highlights India's renewable-energy ambitions
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi inaugurated the eighth edition of Windergy India 2026 in Chennai.
The conference brought together companies, policymakers and experts from the wind-energy sector.
India's installed wind-power capacity reached 59.20 GW as of 30 September 2026. The government outlined a pathway towards 100 GW of wind-power capacity by 2030.
The event included participation from approximately 400 exhibitors representing more than 20 countries, with country pavilions from Denmark, Germany and Spain.
Wind energy is important to India's energy transition because it can diversify electricity generation, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and support domestic manufacturing.
Source: PIB – Windergy India 2026
4. India highlights progress in power generation and rooftop solar
At the East Asia Summit Energy Ministers' Meeting, India highlighted its electricity-generation capacity and renewable-energy expansion.
As reported by the Ministry of Power:
Total installed electricity-generation capacity reached 558.8 GW as of 30 September 2026.
Non-fossil-fuel capacity reached 308 GW, accounting for approximately 55% of the total.
The PM Surya Ghar programme had recorded approximately 5.01 million rooftop solar installations, benefiting around 5.95 million households, as of 29 September 2026.
India's growing non-fossil capacity includes renewable energy and other non-fossil sources such as nuclear power.
Source: PIB – Regional energy cooperation and energy security
Science and Technology
1. India targets 10% of global 6G patents and standards
At the 3rd International Bharat 6G Symposium 2026 in New Delhi, Union Minister of State for Communications Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani outlined India's ambition to strengthen its role in developing and standardising sixth-generation mobile communications.
The government set a target for India to contribute 10% of global 6G patents and standards.
The symposium, held from 7 to 9 October at Yashobhoomi, featured international cooperation on AI-native networks, sustainable communications, spectrum, trials, testbeds and industry applications.
The Bharat 6G Alliance signed five memoranda of understanding and released nine white papers on 6G technology. A progress report on the New Delhi Declaration was also released.
Why is 6G important?
6G is expected to extend the capabilities of 5G through more advanced connectivity, AI-integrated networks, improved sensing and communication, and new applications in industrial automation and immersive digital systems.
Exam Point: The Bharat 6G Alliance brings together industry, academia, research institutions and government stakeholders.
Source: PIB – International Bharat 6G Symposium 2026
2. India seeks stronger indigenous telecom capabilities
During India Mobile Congress 2026, the Ministry of Communications highlighted efforts to strengthen indigenous technologies and India's position across the telecom value chain.
The priorities include reducing dependence on imported critical network technologies, developing AI-native network systems, improving telecom security and increasing participation in international standard-setting.
The government also highlighted expansion of India's 5G network and the development of indigenous telecom equipment and software.
Source: PIB – India Mobile Congress 2026
3. Artificial intelligence and advanced networks take centre stage at IMC
A high-level industry round table at India Mobile Congress examined the future of telecommunications, sovereign technology capabilities and digital innovation.
The discussions brought together representatives from telecom operators, network-equipment manufacturers, technology companies and consulting organisations.
The focus was on developing India's end-to-end telecom ecosystem, encompassing equipment, software, infrastructure and innovation.
Source: PIB – Future of Telecom CEO Round Table
Sports and Culture
1. Indian pair creates history at WTT China Smash
Indian table-tennis players Manush Shah and Diya Chitale became the first Indian mixed-doubles pair to reach the semifinals of a WTT Grand Smash event.
They achieved the milestone at the China Smash in Beijing after defeating Romania's Eduard Ionescu and Bernadette Szocs 3–0.
The result marked an important achievement for Indian table tennis at one of the sport's major international events.
Source: News On AIR – Sports
2. P. V. Sindhu advances at Arctic Open
Indian badminton star P. V. Sindhu advanced to the women's singles quarterfinals of the Arctic Open Super 500 in Vantaa, Finland.
She defeated Japan's Riko Gunji to progress to the next round.
The Arctic Open is part of the Badminton World Federation's international tournament circuit.
Source: News On AIR – Sports updates
3. Shreyas Iyer rises to seventh in ICC T20I batting rankings
India's T20I captain Shreyas Iyer climbed 18 places to a career-best seventh position in the ICC men's T20I batting rankings following his maiden T20I century against the West Indies.
He scored an unbeaten 102 off 43 balls in India's eight-wicket victory in the first T20I.
India also continued to have Shubman Gill ranked No. 1 in the ODI batting rankings.
Source: News On AIR – ICC rankings
Awards and Recognition
1. Anne Carson wins Nobel Prize in Literature 2026
Canadian poet, essayist and translator Anne Carson won the 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature on 8 October.
The Swedish Academy honoured her for her innovative literary work, which engages creatively with classical traditions and develops new forms of contemporary literature.
Carson is known for blending poetry, prose, translation, classical scholarship and experimental writing.
Important works
Autobiography of Red
Eros the Bittersweet
The Beauty of the Husband
Nox
Wrong Norma
Born in Toronto, Canada, Carson has taught classics at universities in North America and is recognised internationally for her distinctive literary style.
Exam Point: Anne Carson is the 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature laureate and a Canadian writer.
Sources: Swedish Academy – Nobel Prize in Literature 2026 | Associated Press report
Obituary
Veteran Indian actor Nana Patekar passes away at 75
Veteran Indian actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar died on 8 October 2026 at the age of 75, according to reports by the Associated Press and Indian Express.
Patekar built a distinguished career spanning Hindi and Marathi cinema, becoming known for intense performances and roles in films including:
Krantiveer
Parinda
Salaam Bombay!
Natsamrat
He received three National Film Awards and the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honours.
His work made him a prominent figure in both mainstream cinema and Indian parallel cinema.
Sources: Associated Press | The Indian Express
Days Observed
1. Indian Air Force Day – 8 October
Indian Air Force Day is observed annually on 8 October to commemorate the establishment of the Indian Air Force in 1932.
The day recognises the service, courage and professionalism of air warriors and highlights the IAF's role in national defence, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
2026 theme: “Indian Air Force – Infallible, Impervious and Precise.”
2. World Sight Day – 8 October 2026
World Sight Day is observed on the second Thursday of October every year. In 2026, it fell on 8 October.
The global campaign is associated with #LoveYourEyes and promotes accessible, available and affordable eye care for everyone.
The campaign encourages individuals to prioritise eye health and urges governments and health systems to improve access to vision screening, treatment and preventive services.
The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 2.2 billion people globally live with vision impairment, with a substantial proportion of cases preventable or treatable.
Source: WHO South-East Asia – World Sight Day | International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness
Static GK for Exam Preparations
1. Indian Air Force – Quick Facts
| Topic | Fact |
|---|---|
| Established | 8 October 1932 |
| Headquarters | New Delhi |
| Service | Air warfare branch of India's armed forces |
| Head | Chief of the Air Staff |
| Air Force Day | 8 October |
| 2026 anniversary | 94th |
| 2026 theme | Infallible, Impervious and Precise |
2. GST Council – Quick Facts
| Topic | Fact |
|---|---|
| Constitutional provision | Article 279A |
| Established | 2016 |
| Chairperson | Union Finance Minister |
| Members | Union and state representatives |
| Main function | Recommend GST-related measures |
| Relevant meeting on 8 October 2026 | 57th GST Council meeting |
3. India Mobile Congress – Quick Facts
| Topic | Fact |
|---|---|
| Event | India Mobile Congress |
| 2026 edition | 10th |
| Venue | Yashobhoomi, New Delhi |
| Dates | 7–10 October 2026 |
| Theme | Scale Without Boundaries |
| Organisers | Department of Telecommunications and COAI |
| Emerging focus | AI, 5G, 6G, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure |
4. European Free Trade Association – Quick Facts
EFTA stands for European Free Trade Association.
Its four members are:
Switzerland
Norway
Iceland
Liechtenstein
EFTA promotes free trade and economic integration among its members and maintains trade agreements with partner economies.
5. Renewable Energy in India – Quick Facts
| Topic | Fact |
|---|---|
| Wind capacity at 30 September 2026 | 59.20 GW |
| Wind capacity ambition for 2030 | 100 GW |
| Total installed electricity capacity | 558.8 GW |
| Non-fossil capacity | 308 GW |
| Share of non-fossil capacity | Approximately 55% |
| Rooftop solar programme | PM Surya Ghar |
Source: PIB – Windergy India 2026 and Ministry of Power.
6. Nobel Prize in Literature 2026 – Quick Facts
| Topic | Fact |
|---|---|
| Winner | Anne Carson |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Profession | Poet, essayist, translator |
| Award | Nobel Prize in Literature |
| Main recognition | Innovative writing engaging with classical traditions |
| Famous work | Autobiography of Red |
Quick Revision – 8 October 2026 Current Affairs
Which anniversary of the Indian Air Force was celebrated in 2026? – 94th anniversary.
What was the IAF Day theme for 2026? – “Infallible, Impervious and Precise.”
Who inaugurated India Mobile Congress 2026? – Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
What was the theme of IMC 2026? – “Scale Without Boundaries.”
How many 5G users had India reached, according to the government? – Approximately 550 million.
What is India's 5G user target for 2030? – One billion users.
Which exercise was conducted off Paradip, Odisha? – SAREX-2026.
What was the theme of SAREX-2026? – “Leveraging Technology to Strengthen SAR Preparedness and Maritime Safety.”
How many observers from foreign countries participated in SAREX-2026? – 32 observers from 30 countries.
What prosecution threshold did the GST Council recommend? – An increase from ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore.
What was India's installed wind-power capacity at the end of September 2026? – 59.20 GW.
What is India's wind-capacity ambition for 2030? – 100 GW.
Which Indian mixed-doubles pair reached a WTT Grand Smash semifinal for the first time? – Manush Shah and Diya Chitale.
Who won the 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature? – Anne Carson.
Who was the veteran Indian actor who died on 8 October 2026 at the age of 75? – Nana Patekar.
When is World Sight Day observed? – The second Thursday of October; 8 October in 2026.
Which organisation coordinates the global World Sight Day campaign? – The International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB).
Which three historic Tamil films were added to the National Film Archive of India's collection? – Thiruvilayadal, Thiruvarutchelvar and Thillana Mohanambal.
Which country hosted the 20th East Asia Summit Energy Ministers' Meeting? – The Philippines.
What is EFTA's full form? – European Free Trade Association.
Comments
Post a Comment