Weekly Current Affairs Test : 1st to 7th October 2026

Karnataka Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister directed the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) to take immediate action against industries allegedly releasing untreated industrial effluents into the Bhima River. The issue concerns industries in the Kadechur–Badiyal industrial area of Yadgir district, Karnataka. Bhima River, also called Chandrabagha River, is the largest tributary of Krishna River. It originates near Bhimashankar Temple in Bhimashankar hills, Western Ghats, Pune District, Maharashtra. It flows southeast through Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana and merges into Krishna River at Raichur, Karnataka.

The Indian women’s compound archery team won the gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. India defeated China 238–234 in the final held at Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park. The gold-medal winning team comprised Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Chikitha Taniparthi and Prithika Pradeep. India reached the final after defeating South Korea 234–233 in the semifinal. India had also won gold in the women’s compound team event at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou.

Uttarakhand is installing up its first real-time glacial lake early-warning system at Vasundhara Lake in Chamoli district. The main objective is to detect conditions that could trigger a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) and provide timely warnings to downstream areas. The system will monitor water level, weather conditions, snow depth, water flow and ground vibrations. Since the lake is in a remote high-altitude area, the equipment will be powered by solar energy. Data will be transmitted through satellite communication, as mobile networks are unavailable in the area.

The 70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC-70) was held in Hobart, Australia, from 28 September to 2 October 2026. The International Whaling Commission (IWC) was established under the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, signed in Washington, D.C., in 1946. The meeting marks the 80th anniversary of the Convention. The IWC has 89 member governments, and India has been a member since 1981. India emphasized science-based conservation, international cooperation and practical solutions to protect whales and other cetaceans.

Botanists have discovered a new plant species, Didymocarpus nautiyalii, from Shi-Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh. The species belongs to the Gesneriaceae family. The plant is a small herb, growing to around 8 cm, with leathery leaves and bluish-purple flowers. It grows mainly on moist rock surfaces, roadside walls and near waterfalls in subtropical evergreen forests above 1,000 metres. The species was named in honour of Prof. Sunil Nautiyal, former Director of the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment.

Delhi Government launched the “One Zone, One Operator” project worth ₹17,969 crore to improve sewerage infrastructure. Delhi will be divided into 6 zones, with one operator responsible for sewer lines, manholes, pumping stations and complaints. Delhi Water & Sewer (Tariff and Metering) Regulations, 2026 replace the 2012 regulations. Delhi Jal Board (DJB) will shift from reactive repairs to planned preventive maintenance, with geo-tagged inspections, real-time monitoring and 100% mechanical/robotic sewer cleaning. DJB currently manages 11,212 km sewer lines, 6.68 lakh manholes and 145 pumping stations across 68 Assembly constituencies.

The Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 2026 came into force on 1 October 2026, replacing the Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 1891. The new Act modernises the rules governing the use of banking records as evidence in legal proceedings. It recognises physical, electronic and digital banking records maintained in the ordinary course of banking business. The Act applies to court proceedings, arbitrations, investigations and inquiries where banking records are required as evidence. Electronic and digital records are legally admissible when their accuracy, authenticity and integrity are maintained and there is no unauthorised alteration or tampering.

The World Congress of Gastroenterology (WCOG 2026) was held in New Delhi from 1–3 October 2026. This is the first time India hosted the World Congress of Gastroenterology. The theme of WCOG 2026 is “Transforming Gastrointestinal Health, Preserving Nature.” The Congress was jointly hosted by the Indian Society of Gastroenterology (ISG) and the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO). The Congress focused on gastrointestinal health, clinical practice, research, innovation and multidisciplinary exchange. The approach gave importance to preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative healthcare. The National Health Policy 2017 marked an important shift towards a comprehensive, holistic and inclusive healthcare system.

Japan’s Coast Guard detected discoloured seawater near the Fukutoku-Okanoba submarine volcano, indicating possible renewed volcanic activity. Fukutoku-Okanoba is an underwater volcano located in the Pacific Ocean, south of Japan’s Izu-Ogasawara (Bonin) Islands. Its eruptions can cause discoloured seawater, floating pumice, ash and temporary formation of volcanic islands. The volcano is located in a region of significant tectonic and volcanic activity, making it important for monitoring potential hazards to shipping and nearby islands.

National Voluntary Blood Donation Day (NVBDD) is observed every year on 1 October across India. The observance focused on promoting regular, voluntary and non-remunerated blood donation to ensure a safe and adequate blood supply. The theme of 2026 is “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives.”

Rogun Hydropower Project is a major hydroelectric project being constructed on the Vakhsh River in Tajikistan. The dam is planned to reach a height of 335 metres, which would make it the world’s tallest dam after completion. The project is located upstream of the Nurek Hydropower Plant and about 110 km from Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s capital. The completed project is planned to have six generating units, each of 600 MW, giving a total installed capacity of 3,600 MW. The Vakhsh River is an important tributary of the Amu Darya river system, making the project significant for regional water and energy management.

Scientists from the University of Sydney identified two new species of giant stick insects named Anchiale robusta and Anchiale mabiensis in Australia. The research focused on the stick insect genus Anchiale. A species that had been misidentified for decades was also recognised as a separate species, Anchiale robusta. Another newly described species is Anchiale mabiensis, found in the Mabi rainforest of Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands. Australia has around 130 known stick insect species, while about 3,609 species are known worldwide. The findings could help in forestry and agriculture, as some stick insects can reach very high populations and damage trees by feeding on leaves.

Bimal N. Patel, an Indian jurist, has been appointed as a Judge of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) in 2026. He assumed office in October 2026 for a nine-year term. ITLOS is an international judicial body dealing with disputes related to the Law of the Sea. Dr. Patel previously served on India’s National Security Advisory Board and the Law Commission of India. He also served as the Vice-Chancellor of Rashtriya Raksha University. His appointment continued India’s representation at ITLOS. Earlier Indian judges at ITLOS were Neeru Chadha and P. Chandrasekhara Rao.

Tamil Nadu Government launched the ‘Vetri Payanam Thittam’ (Journey to Success Scheme). The scheme provides zero-fare bus travel for women, non-binary and transgender persons. Free travel is available in designated ordinary town buses operated by State Transport Undertakings (STUs). The scheme aims to reduce commuting costs and improve access to employment and education. It is intended to promote women’s workforce participation and social independence. The Tamil Nadu government reimburses the public transport corporations through the state budget.

Gujarat became the second state in India to get approval to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) after President Droupadi Murmu gave assent to the legislation. The Gujarat Assembly passed the UCC Bill in March 2026 after a discussion lasting around seven and a half hours. The UCC provides a common legal framework for marriage, divorce, succession and live-in relationships, irrespective of religion. The Gujarat government will frame and announce the rules, after which the UCC will come into effect in the state. Uttarakhand was the first state to implement the UCC, in February 2024.

Jawahar Dweep Marine Oil Terminal at Mumbai Port has been declared plastic-free. It became the first marine oil terminal in India to completely eliminate single-use plastics. The declaration was made by the Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) during Swachhata Abhiyan 2026. The initiative is part of MbPA’s broader effort to reduce single-use plastics across its docks, residential colonies and coastal areas. Jawahar Dweep handles crude oil and petroleum products and has five jetties. The terminal is located at Mumbai Port, Maharashtra.

India won the women’s hockey gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. India defeated defending champions China 1–0 in the final. Lalremsiami scored the decisive goal for India. This was India’s first Asian Games women’s hockey gold in 44 years. India had last won the women’s hockey gold at the 1982 Asian Games. The victory also secured direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia played a crucial role in defence, including saving a penalty stroke.

NABKISAN Finance Ltd, a subsidiary of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), listed India’s first Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) social bond on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). The proceeds of this social bond are exclusively earmarked for funding projects that improve clean water access, sanitation facilities, and hygiene infrastructure. This issuance marks a significant milestone in India’s sustainable finance sector, leveraging the “use-of-proceeds” model where the debt obligation remains with the issuer while generating measurable, positive social outcomes for underserved communities.

Ukraine has used its FP-7 tactical ballistic missile in combat for the first time. The missile was developed by Ukrainian defence company Fire Point. The FP-7 is a short-range tactical ballistic missile and is also developed for possible use as a ballistic missile interceptor. Ukraine is also developing the FP-9, a longer-range missile with a range of up to 850 km. The FP-7 and FP-9 are part of Ukraine’s efforts to strengthen its indigenous missile capabilities amid the war with Russia.

Scientists have discovered two new gecko species in Telangana. Hemidactylus cairnicola was discovered in Nalgonda district. Hemidactylus koyaorum was identified in Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, Warangal. The discovery was made through joint research involving the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and other institutions. With these discoveries, the number of endemic reptile species in Telangana increased to six. H. cairnicola is associated with traditional stone cairns, while H. koyaorum was named in honour of the Koya tribal community.

Recently, Odisha launched India’s first dedicated incentive portal for MICE tourism to attract investment and promote business tourism. MICE stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions and involves organised travel for professional and business purposes. It aims to promote Odisha as a destination for corporate conventions and simplify applications for financial incentives. The government also plans to encourage destination weddings, sports events and cultural heritage-related tourism.

India finished fourth at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026 with 85 medals – 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze. Athletics was India’s biggest medal-producing sport, winning 24 medals including one gold. The women’s 4×400m relay team won India’s only athletics gold, while Vithya Ramraj broke P.T. Usha’s 400m hurdles national record. India achieved first-time Asian Games medals in mixed martial arts, soft tennis, women’s pole vault and men’s skiff sailing. Anahat Singh became the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games singles silver in squash. India’s campaign was marked by several records, historic firsts, gold medals and Olympic qualification achievements.

World Habitat Day 2026 is observed on 5 October 2026, as it falls on the first Monday of October every year. The day encourages governments, organisations and communities to reflect on the condition of human settlements and reaffirm adequate shelter as a fundamental human right. The 2026 theme is “Adequate Housing for All”, focusing on housing insecurity, informal settlements and the growing gap between housing demand and affordability. The global observance is held in Muscat, Oman, from 5–8 October 2026. The campaign aims to promote solutions that make safe, affordable and dignified housing accessible to everyone.

Recently, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment distributed 662 aids and assistive devices worth over ₹10 lakh to 114 senior citizens in Delhi-NCR under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY). The programme was held on 2 October 2026 on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti and Lal Bahadur Shastri’s birth anniversary. Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) was launched on 1 April 2017 to provide physical aids and assisted-living devices to senior citizens in need. The scheme aims to improve mobility, independence, dignity and quality of life among elderly beneficiaries. It is implemented by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Recently, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) commenced their joint military exercise MOUNTAIN GUARDIAN 2026 in Uttarakhand. The exercise was conducted from 5 to 18 October 2026 at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubatia. It focuses on mountain warfare and aims to improve interoperability, mutual understanding and military cooperation. A total of 92 personnel, with equal participation from both armies, are taking part.

Recently, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched India’s first indigenously designed and built Fleet Support Ship (FSS), named ‘Surya’, at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam. He also laid the keel of the fifth Fleet Support Ship (FSS-5). Fleet Support Ships are designed to provide at-sea replenishment, logistics and maintenance support to naval vessels, helping the Navy operate for longer periods in distant maritime areas. These ships will have large cargo and fluid capacity, maintenance workshops, helicopter decks and self-defence systems.

The National Statistics Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), conducted India’s first-ever National Household Travel Survey (July 2025 – June 2026), covering 14,274 villages, 10,377 urban blocks, and over 20.34 lakh individuals. Two-wheelers emerged as the primary mode of commuting to fixed workplaces, used by 42.6% of workers. The average national monthly expenditure on workplace commuting stands at Rs 785 per worker, with urban commuters spending significantly more (Rs 1,044) than rural commuters (Rs 612). The survey establishes baseline empirical data to guide evidence-based policy formulation, multimodal infrastructure investments, and urban-rural regional transit planning.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) launched ‘Project Jagrook’ to enhance investor education and raise awareness against financial frauds in the securities market. This initiative includes the “Samajh Se Investing Simple” campaign and the MUST (Market Useful Safety Tips) initiative. Project Jagrook aims to empower retail investors by simplifying financial concepts, promoting risk awareness, explaining the process of dematerialisation, and warning against unauthorized digital financial influencers. It helps investors navigate stock exchanges and depositories safely.

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar has developed ‘AVNI’, a child-oriented digital platform. AVNI leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to teach children about plants, crops, and agriculture through interactive, observation-based activities. Available in both Hindi and English, the application aims to spark early interest in farming and botany. By utilizing computer vision, the app helps identify plants and leaves based on physical features like shape and color. This initiative bridges the gap between technology and agricultural education for the younger generation.

Recently, the Ichamati River in Taki, West Bengal, has been in the news for its historic Bijoya Dashami Durga idol immersion tradition involving people from India and Bangladesh. The Ichamati River serves as a natural international boundary separating India (Taki, North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal) and Bangladesh (Debhata, Satkhira district). It is one of the bifurcations of the Mathabhanga River, which is a distributary of the Padma River. The river originates at Mahjdia village in Nadia district of West Bengal.