This edition of Daily Current Affairs and GK for 24 October 2026 covers important national and international developments, economy and banking, science and technology, sports, awards and recognition, important days and static GK. It prioritises official government announcements from PIB and other primary sources, supplemented by reliable international reporting.
1. National Current Affairs
1.1 India Achieves Milestone of 11 Crore Farmer IDs
India achieved the target of creating 11 crore Farmer IDs under the Digital Agriculture Mission, five months ahead of the scheduled deadline of 31 March 2027. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare announced the milestone on 24 October 2026.
The target was achieved by the night of 23 October through coordination among the Central Government, state governments and field-level officials.
Key features of Farmer IDs:
Each registered farmer receives a unique digital identity.
The system is intended to simplify access to government schemes, agricultural credit and crop insurance.
It can reduce repeated document submission and verification.
Digital records can improve transparency in agricultural procurement, disaster-relief assistance and benefit delivery.
The initiative supports the broader digital transformation of India's agricultural sector.
Farmer IDs are being developed under the Digital Agriculture Mission of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Exam takeaway: The target was 11 crore Farmer IDs by 31 March 2027, and it was achieved five months ahead of schedule.
Source: PIB – 11 Crore Farmer IDs Created Five Months Ahead of Schedule.
1.2 National Urban Conclave 2026 Inaugurated in Bhubaneswar
The second edition of the National Urban Conclave 2026 was inaugurated in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on 24 October. The two-day event was organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs with the support of the Government of Odisha.
The theme was “Urban Rising – Rethinking Urban Systems, Solutions and Delivery.”
The conclave brought together more than 1,200 participants, including urban development ministers, mayors, representatives of urban local bodies, academics, industry professionals and civil society organisations.
Major areas of discussion included:
Improving urban governance and institutional capacity.
Developing sustainable and inclusive urban infrastructure.
Improving delivery of public services.
Strengthening urban planning and implementation.
Preparing Indian cities for future population growth.
Promoting technology-enabled and citizen-centred urban development.
The Ministry highlighted the growing importance of cities in India's economic development. India's urban population was estimated at around 500 million and is projected to reach approximately 600 million by 2036.
Exam takeaway: The National Urban Conclave is associated with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Its 2026 theme focused on urban systems, solutions and service delivery.
Source: PIB – National Urban Conclave 2026 Inaugurated in Bhubaneswar.
1.3 Eighth All India Conference of GRP Chiefs Concludes
The 8th All India Conference of Government Railway Police (GRP) Chiefs concluded in New Delhi on 23 October 2026. The Ministry of Railways published its report on 24 October.
The conference was convened by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to strengthen railway security and coordination among the RPF, GRP and state police forces.
Major developments included:
GRP personnel were onboarded onto the RailMadad platform to improve passenger grievance redressal and complaint monitoring.
Officials discussed intelligence-led policing and timely information-sharing.
Crowd management during Diwali and Chhath was identified as a priority.
Drone-assisted surveillance and women-led safety initiatives were discussed.
Measures to prevent stone-pelting, trespassing and other security incidents were reviewed.
Project DISHA was highlighted for educating children living near railway tracks about railway safety.
RailMadad is intended to help passengers register complaints and obtain assistance related to railway services.
Exam takeaway: GRP stands for Government Railway Police, while RPF stands for Railway Protection Force. Their functions differ, although both contribute to railway security.
Source: PIB – Eighth All India Conference of GRP Chiefs.
1.4 Viksit Bharat–G RAM G: A New Framework for Rural Employment
A government factsheet published on 24 October explained the provisions of the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), known as VB-G RAM G.
The new framework came into force on 1 July 2026, replacing the previous Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee framework.
Its primary objective is to strengthen rural employment, livelihoods and development through a statutory employment guarantee and technology-enabled implementation.
Important features include:
A statutory guarantee of 125 days of wage employment per financial year for eligible rural households whose adult members volunteer for unskilled manual work.
Participatory planning through Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans.
Greater coordination between rural employment and local development.
Digital systems to improve monitoring and implementation.
Support for building a more resilient rural economy.
The framework is aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Exam takeaway: VB-G RAM G is associated with rural employment and livelihood development. Its statutory employment guarantee is 125 days per financial year.
Source: PIB – Viksit Bharat–G RAM G: A New Framework for Rural Development.
1.5 India Chem 2026 concludes in Mumbai, highlighting India’s emergence as global chemicals hub.
The 14th edition of India Chem 2026 held under the theme “Advantage Bharat : An Emerging Global Chemicals Hub” concluded in Mumbai today.
This event, organized jointly by the Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals and FICCI, provided a platform for brainstorming discussions amongst industry leaders and government representatives on specific topics of relevance to the sector, facilitating dialogue on investment prospects, regulatory frameworks, and strategic challenges.Japan, with whom India shares a robust trade relationship, particularly in the chemical and petrochemical sector, was the partner country for the event.
2. International Current Affairs
2.1India Emerges as Third-Largest Arms Exporter to Europe
In an address detailing national defense production growth, the Defence Secretary stated that India has emerged as the third-largest arms exporter to European nations, driven by overseas deliveries of precision artillery systems, ammunition shells, dual-use tactical UAV airframes, and complex structural aerospace assemblies
2.2 Global Observance of United Nations Day (October 24)
Celebrated worldwide marking the 81st anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945, with multilateral forums calling for urgent reform of the UN Security Council and equitable governance for the Global South.
2.3 Typhoon Champi kills one, injures over 500 in Taiwan, disrupts flights and power supply
Typhoon Champi swept past Taiwan today, claiming one life and injuring more than 500, while bringing down trees, disrupting flights and knocking out power to hundreds of thousands of households.
The storm, which had earlier intensified into a super typhoon and ranked among the strongest systems in the Pacific this year, has weakened but continues to pack powerful winds as it moves north towards China’s eastern coast.
3. Economy and Banking
3.1 Urban Mobility India Conference 2026 Concludes in Bhubaneswar
The 19th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition 2026 concluded in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on 24 October. The event was organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs through the Institute of Urban Transport (India), with support from the state government.
Approximately 1,500 delegates and experts attended the two-day conference.
Union Minister Manohar Lal highlighted three pillars for future urban transport: Integration, Inclusiveness and Intelligence.
Important updates announced at the conference:
Nine metro projects covering approximately 174 kilometres had been approved since December 2025, at a combined cost exceeding ₹59,000 crore.
India's operational metro network had expanded to approximately 1,185 kilometres across 26 cities.
An additional 102 kilometres of metro network had become operational during the period discussed.
Around 1,100 electric buses were operating in 28 cities under the PM e-Bus Sewa initiative.
The conference focused on public transport integration, pedestrian-friendly streets, cycling, accessibility and technology-led transport management.
The discussions emphasised integrating urban mobility planning with broader city development to improve connectivity to workplaces, schools, hospitals and other essential services.
Exam takeaway: Urban Mobility India is associated with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Integration, Inclusiveness and Intelligence were highlighted as the three pillars of future urban mobility.
Source: PIB – 19th Urban Mobility India Conference Concludes.
3.2 SBI Assures Depositors on Safe Funds After Cybersecurity Inquiries
Following technical inquiries and social media speculation regarding an alleged data security breach, the State Bank of India (SBI) issued a formal statement assuring depositors that its core banking architecture, account balances, and digital payment databases remain completely safe, resilient, and uncompromised
4. Science and Technology
4.1 Indigenous Air Independent Propulsion System for Indian Navy Submarines Reaches Milestone
India achieved a significant milestone in the development of an indigenous Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system for the Indian Navy's diesel-electric submarines.
The Setting to Work Phase-2 activity for the AIP Energy Module was inaugurated on 24 October 2026 at Larsen and Toubro's AM Naik Heavy Engineering Complex in Hazira, Gujarat.
The system has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation's (DRDO) Naval Materials Research Laboratory.
Key points:
AIP technology allows compatible conventional submarines to remain underwater for longer periods without depending solely on atmospheric oxygen.
Greater underwater endurance can improve operational flexibility and stealth.
The indigenous system is intended to strengthen India's submarine capabilities.
The next stage involves energising the module for power production and conducting tests under Indian Navy protocols.
After testing, the system is expected to be handed over to Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited for integration with a Kalvari-class submarine, with integration planned for early 2027.
The project demonstrates collaboration among DRDO, the Indian Navy and Indian industry in developing advanced defence technology.
Exam takeaway: AIP stands for Air Independent Propulsion. DRDO's Naval Materials Research Laboratory is responsible for developing the system's Energy Module.
Source: PIB – Indigenous AIP System Achieves Key Milestone.
5. Sports and Culture
5.1 India Defeats New Zealand in Second T20I
India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the second T20 International at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on 24 October 2026, taking a 2–0 lead in the five-match series.
New Zealand scored 180 for five in 20 overs. India chased the target, finishing at 181 for six in 19.5 overs.
Key performances:
Tilak Varma: Unbeaten 51 runs off 26 balls; named Player of the Match.
Nitish Kumar Reddy: Unbeaten 26 runs.
Naman Dhir: 31 runs off 17 balls.
Mitchell Santner: Took four wickets for 21 runs for New Zealand.
Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy shared an unbeaten 69-run partnership for the seventh wicket, helping India complete the chase after losing six wickets.
The result gave India a 2–0 lead in the five-match T20I series.
Source: International Cricket Council – Tilak and Nitish Help India Take a 2–0 Lead.
5.2 P V Sindhu enters French Open final after hard-fought semifinal win over Hina Akechi
In Badminton, two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu has entered the final of the French Open after defeating Japan’s Hina Akechi in a hard-fought semifinal at the Arena Grand Paris today. Sindhu registered a 21-10, 20-22, 21-16 win over world No. 22 Akechi
5.3 Asian Para Games: India sign-off with best-ever haul of 114 medals comprising 30 gold
India concluded its campaign with a record haul of 114 medals, including 30 gold, 35 silver and 49 bronze after a strong final-day finish yesterday. India’s medal tally received a significant boost yesterday, with athletes from para-badminton, archery and shooting contributing to the gold medal count. For the first time at these Games, para-athletics was not India’s leading source of gold medals. The country surpassed the previous edition medal count of 108 medals comprising 27 gold, 32 silver and 49 bronze medals, achieved at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China.
6. Awards and Recognition
6.1 Professor Ashoke Sen Becomes First Indian to Receive Oskar Klein Medal
Renowned Indian theoretical physicist Professor Ashoke Sen has been awarded the prestigious Oskar Klein Medal for 2026, becoming the first Indian physicist to receive the international honour. The award recognizes his pioneering contributions to string theory which seeks to explain the fundamental nature of the universe, black hole entropy and string field theory, which have significantly shaped modern theoretical physics.
6.1 Urban Mobility India Awards Recognise Best Practices in Urban Transport
The 19th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition presented awards recognising innovative projects and best practices in public transport and sustainable mobility.
The awards highlighted initiatives undertaken by Indian cities and transport organisations to improve connectivity, accessibility and operational efficiency.
Notable awardees included:
Award category | Winner |
|---|---|
Best Green Transport Initiative | Bhubaneswar – Capital Region Urban Transport |
Best Non-Motorised Transport System | Chennai – Greater Chennai Corporation |
Excellence in Innovation and Smart Mobility Solutions | Delhi Transport Corporation and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation |
Best Public Transport System | Delhi Transport Corporation |
Best Multimodal Integration at a Metro Station | Kochi Metro Rail Limited |
Best Use of Big Data for Transport Planning | Delhi Transport Corporation |
The conference also recognised Bengaluru Traffic Police with a commendation in the big-data category.
These awards showcase the importance of greener transport, integrated mobility systems and technology-driven urban planning.
Source: PIB – Urban Mobility India Conference Awards.
7. Days Observed
7.1 United Nations Day – 24 October
United Nations Day is observed on 24 October every year to commemorate the entry into force of the United Nations Charter in 1945.
The day highlights the UN's work in promoting international peace and security, human rights, sustainable development and humanitarian cooperation.
Important facts:
Date: 24 October.
Year the UN officially came into existence: 1945.
Headquarters: New York City, United States.
Number of founding member states: 51.
The observance provides an opportunity to review the role of international cooperation in responding to conflicts, humanitarian emergencies, poverty and global development challenges.
Source: United Nations – United Nations Day.
7.2 World Polio Day – 24 October
World Polio Day is observed on 24 October to raise awareness of global efforts to eradicate poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio.
The 2026 campaign carried the message “Make Polio History!”
Polio is a highly infectious viral disease that can cause permanent paralysis, particularly in children. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent it.
The Global Polio Eradication Initiative and its partners continue to work on immunisation, disease surveillance and outbreak response.
Important facts:
Date: 24 October.
Disease: Poliomyelitis.
Primary preventive measure: Vaccination.
Major international initiative: Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).
Source: Global Polio Eradication Initiative – World Polio Day 2026.
7.3 Indo-Tibetan Border Police Raising Day – 24 October
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) marks its Raising Day on 24 October every year.
The force was raised in 1962 following the India–China conflict to strengthen border security along the Himalayan frontier.
ITBP personnel serve in high-altitude areas and undertake border surveillance, security duties and rescue operations.
The force is also involved in disaster response, mountain rescue and other duties in challenging terrain.
Exam takeaway: ITBP stands for Indo-Tibetan Border Police. It functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Source: PIB – Prime Minister Extends Greetings to ITBP Personnel on Raising Day.
7.4 202nd Kittur Utsav Celebrations in Karnataka
7.5 World Development Information Day (October 24)
Established by the UN General Assembly in 1972 (Resolution 3038) to focus world public attention on international developmental cooperation.
8. Static GK for Exam Preparations
Topic | Important fact |
|---|---|
Digital Agriculture Mission | Supports technology-driven agricultural services |
Farmer ID target achieved | 11 crore, five months ahead of schedule |
VB-G RAM G | Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) |
Rural employment guarantee under VB-G RAM G | 125 days per financial year |
National Urban Conclave 2026 | Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
Urban Mobility India Conference | Organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs |
GRP | Government Railway Police |
RPF | Railway Protection Force |
RailMadad | Railway passenger grievance-redressal platform |
AIP | Air Independent Propulsion |
DRDO | Defence Research and Development Organisation |
Naval Materials Research Laboratory | DRDO laboratory responsible for the indigenous AIP Energy Module |
United Nations Day | 24 October |
World Polio Day | 24 October |
ITBP Raising Day | 24 October |
9. Quiz Revision Questions – 24 October 2026
Revise the major facts from today's current affairs with these direct questions and answers.
Q1. How many Farmer IDs did India create under the Digital Agriculture Mission by 23 October 2026?
Answer: 11 crore Farmer IDs.
Q2. What was the theme of the National Urban Conclave 2026?
Answer: “Urban Rising – Rethinking Urban Systems, Solutions and Delivery.”
Q3. Where was the National Urban Conclave 2026 inaugurated?
Answer: Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Q4. What is the full form of VB-G RAM G?
Answer: Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin).
Q5. How many days of wage employment are guaranteed annually under VB-G RAM G?
Answer: 125 days per financial year for eligible rural households.
Q6. Which platform was used to onboard Government Railway Police personnel for passenger grievance redressal?
Answer: RailMadad.
Q7. Which international organisation observes United Nations Day on 24 October?
Answer: The United Nations.
Q8. Which DRDO laboratory developed the Energy Module for the indigenous submarine AIP system?
Answer: Naval Materials Research Laboratory.
Q09. Which Indian city received the Best Green Transport Initiative award at the Urban Mobility India Conference 2026?
Answer: Bhubaneswar.
Q10. When is World Polio Day observed, and what was the 2026 campaign message?
Answer: 24 October; “Make Polio History!”
Q11. Which Indian border-guarding force celebrates its Raising Day on 24 October?
Answer: Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
Comments
Post a Comment