Daily Current Affairs – 06-08-2026

Sports News

Praggnanandhaa Leads St. Louis Rapid Chess Event

Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa secured the first position in the Rapid section of the St. Louis Rapid and Blitz Chess Tournament held in St. Louis. He scored 12 points out of 18 and kept his qualification chances alive for the Grand Chess Tour (GCT) Finals. After the rapid section, R. Praggnanandhaa was followed by Javokhir Sindarov with 11 points and Wesley So with 11 points. The tournament includes rapid and blitz formats, with 18 blitz games remaining to decide the winner. The total prize pool of the tournament is $200,000, with $50,000 awarded to the champion.

Science and Technology News

India’s First AI and Innovation City

India’s First AI and Innovation City in Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson, while presenting the Revised Budget 2026–27, announced that India’s first dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Innovation City, named ‘Arivagam’, will be established in Tamil Nadu. The project will include an AI University, an International Skill Development Centre, a Semiconductor Hardware Testing Laboratory, and modern residential infrastructure. A sum of ₹5 crore has been allocated for the feasibility study. The government has signed seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹35,062 crore, expected to generate 14,790 direct and indirect jobs. Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli districts will be declared as a Space Industrial Investment Zone, and an advanced Space Vehicle Common Technical Facility will be established near the Kulasekarapattinam Spaceport in collaboration with IN-SPACe. The government will introduce the AI-powered Guidance 3.0 investment service, establish a Non-Resident Tamil Investment Facilitation Desk, develop new SIPCOT industrial parks in backward districts with an investment of ₹3,200 crore over five years, and has allocated ₹4,414 crore to the Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce Department in the 2026–27 Budget.

Asiatic Lion Conservation Status and Challenges

The population of the Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica) has increased from around 100–150 to more than 1,000 due to six decades of conservation efforts. The species is mainly found in and around the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat. Many lions now live outside protected areas in agricultural lands, grasslands, riverbeds, and coastal regions, including Jafrabad taluka, where around 50 lions are reported. Habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and disease threats remain major conservation challenges. A proposal to divert about 75 hectares of forest land for limestone mining has raised concerns due to possible loss of around 5,000 trees and increased human-lion conflicts. In 2018, an outbreak of Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) caused the death of more than 20 Asiatic lions. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Asiatic Lion as Endangered in the IUCN Red List, improving its status from Critically Endangered.

Economy News

RBI Monetary Policy

RBI Keeps Repo Rate at 5.25%: The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unanimously decided to keep the Repo Rate unchanged at 5.25%. The Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) Rate remains at 5%, while the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) Rate and the Bank Rate continue at 5.5%. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced that the Real GDP growth for 2026–27 is projected at 6.7%, with quarterly growth estimates of 7.0% (Q1), 6.4% (Q2), 6.5% (Q3), and 6.8% (Q4), while Q1 of 2027–28 is projected at 7.3%. The Reserve Bank of India has also decided to resume 'On-Tap' licensing for Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) after more than 20 years, review Concentration Risk Management guidelines for Rural Cooperative Banks (RCBs), and rationalize the interest rate regulatory framework for all regulated entities.

Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Award 2026

Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Award for Environment Protection 2026 was presented on Wednesday to P. Pechiyammal from Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, and Govindhammal from Villupuram, Tamil Nadu for their contributions to environmental conservation. P. Pechiyammal was recognized for collecting ghost gear, including abandoned fishing nets, nylon ropes, and plastic waste from coastal areas, while Govindhammal was honoured for promoting sustainable agriculture and as a member of a Farmers Producer Company (FPO). The awards were presented by Virendra Tiwari, Chairman of the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA). The programme was organized by the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) with the support of the Rotary Club of Madras East and CavinKare Pvt. Ltd.

16th Finance Commission Recommendations (2026–31)

The 16th Finance Commission (FC-16), chaired by Arvind Panagariya, submitted recommendations for the 2026–31 period. It has retained the vertical devolution of 41% of the Central taxes to the States. The Commission recommended ₹9.47 lakh crore as grants-in-aid, lower than the ₹10.1 lakh crore recommended by the 15th Finance Commission, reducing the share of grants in total Finance Commission transfers from 19.4% to 8.3%. It has discontinued Revenue Deficit Grants (RDGs), sector-specific grants, and state-specific grants, restricting grants mainly to local bodies and disaster management. The weight assigned to Income Distance in the horizontal devolution formula has been reduced from 45% to 42.5%. These recommendations are expected to affect fiscally weaker States, including West Bengal and several North-Eastern States.

Polymer Currency Notes to be Introduced in India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has planned to introduce polymer currency notes in India from the beginning of the next financial year. The polymer notes, made using plastic-based material, are currently under the pilot testing stage to evaluate their performance under Indian climatic conditions and existing infrastructure. The introduction of these notes will be carried out after necessary security clearances and testing of additional security features. The announcement was made by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra after the meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).

Environment News

Tiger Poaching in Andhra Pradesh

Tiger Poaching in Andhra Pradesh Reserve: Seven persons were arrested for allegedly poaching a tiger in the Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) in Andhra Pradesh. The arrests were made in Giddalur of Markapuram district after the carcass of an adult tiger was found in the Racherla forest beat under Giddalur division on July 31. During the investigation, officials recovered seven tiger claws, limb bones, and a country-made firearm from the accused. The Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) is one of the important tiger reserves in India and is located in Andhra Pradesh.

Mission Clouded Leopard Launched in Meghalaya

Meghalaya has launched Mission Clouded Leopard, a dedicated conservation programme to protect its State animal, the Mainland Clouded Leopard (Neofelis nebulosa). The mission was launched by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday. The programme focuses on habitat protection and restoration, scientific research, long-term monitoring, strengthening wildlife protection measures, landscape connectivity, capacity building of frontline forest staff, community participation, and public awareness. The mission will be implemented under the Meghalaya Clouded Leopard Action Plan, which is being prepared by the Meghalaya Forest and Environment Department.

National News

Article 370 Anniversary and Developments in Jammu & Kashmir

On 5 August 2026, the fifth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A was observed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the constitutional changes implemented on 5 August 2019 marked a new phase in the development of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. According to the government, the regions have witnessed progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and sports since 2019. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also referred to the post-2019 period as one of development. On the same day, the National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) organized protests in Jammu & Kashmir marking the anniversary of the constitutional changes. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha distributed appointment letters to the family members of civilian victims of terrorism in Srinagar.

Article 370 Abrogation and J&K–Ladakh Developments

The Government of India revoked the special constitutional provisions under Article 370 and Article 35A on 5 August 2019, leading to the reorganisation of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The 2026 anniversary marks seven years since the abrogation of these provisions. Since 2019, developments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and sports have been reported in both Union Territories. The year 2026 also marks the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, a founder member of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the significance of the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A.

Supreme Court Judges Strength Increased to 38

The Rajya Sabha passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill to increase the strength of judges in the Supreme Court of India. The Bill, passed by the Lok Sabha, is a Money Bill. The amendment increases the number of Supreme Court judges from 34 to 38, including the Chief Justice of India (CJI). The Bill replaces an Ordinance issued by the Central Government in May 2026. Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State for Law and Justice, stated that increasing the number of judges is aimed at improving judicial efficiency.

States’ News

Mullaperiyar Dam Water Level Issue

The Mullaperiyar Dam, located in Idukki district, Kerala, is a 131-year-old dam operated by Tamil Nadu. In the Tamil Nadu Budget 2026–27, the State announced measures to pursue an increase in the dam's water level. The Kerala Government has reiterated its stand that a new dam should be constructed at Mullaperiyar instead of increasing the water level in the existing dam. The Supreme Court of India has permitted the water level to be maintained at 142 feet and directed that issues relating to the dam's safety be examined. A comprehensive dam safety evaluation is to be completed by 31 December 2026. The Kerala Government has also decided to hold discussions with Tamil Nadu, subject to the approval of the Supreme Court and the Central Government, to arrive at a mutually acceptable solution.

Tamil Nadu News

Chief Minister’s Integrated Urban Development Mission

The Tamil Nadu Government has launched the Chief Minister’s Integrated Urban Development Mission with an allocation of ₹2,117 crore in the Tamil Nadu Budget 2026–27 to transform urban areas by 2031. The scheme focuses on urban infrastructure, public health, and AI-based e-governance. A total of ₹29,863 crore has been allocated to the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department in the revised budget estimates. The mission covers water supply, underground sewerage systems, integrated solid waste management, city roads, urban transport, expansion of green spaces, and protection of urban water bodies. It also includes the Urban Public Health Improvement Mission, safety measures for women and children, and digital governance initiatives. The Greater Chennai Corporation is implementing the Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS), and smart parking facilities will be developed at 20 locations. Modern people-friendly streets with pedestrian pathways, dedicated cycling lanes, improved road connectivity, and LED street lighting will be developed in all Municipal Corporations of Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Nadu Budget 2026–27 Key Highlights

The Tamil Nadu Government presented its first Budget 2026–27 under the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)-led government in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. The 2026–27 Revised Budget Estimates show total revenue receipts of ₹3,50,027 crore, total revenue expenditure of ₹4,05,802 crore, and a revenue deficit of ₹55,775 crore. The capital expenditure is estimated at ₹56,985 crore, while the fiscal deficit is projected at 3% of GSDP and the outstanding debt at 27.01% of GSDP. The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Tamil Nadu is estimated at ₹40,67,312 crore. Major allocations include ₹52,920 crore for Education, ₹39,609 crore for Rural Development, ₹38,715 crore for Urban Development, ₹23,357 crore for Health, ₹22,859 crore for Food and Cooperation, ₹21,524 crore for Highways, ₹15,828 crore for Energy, ₹14,552 crore for Police, ₹13,561 crore for Transport, ₹9,819 crore for Social Welfare, ₹9,264 crore for Water Resources, ₹6,556 crore for Industries and MSME, and ₹3,938 crore for Social Justice.

Tamil Nadu Welfare Schemes in Budget 2026–27

The Tamil Nadu Government has announced welfare measures in the 2026–27 Revised Budget Estimates. Under the ‘Annan Seer’ scheme, eligible women will receive an 8-gram (one sovereign) gold coin and a silk saree on their wedding day, with an allocation of ₹812 crore. The Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department has been allocated ₹9,818 crore. The government will establish integrated homes for senior citizens in all districts with facilities including caregivers, medical personnel, and recreational amenities. In the first phase, 12 senior citizen homes will be established in 12 districts with an allocation of ₹6.6 crore. Senior citizen activity centres with libraries, yoga, meditation, and indoor sports facilities will be set up in five districts. The government will construct 500 Anganwadi centres with basic facilities such as drinking water, toilets, and electricity. For the welfare of the transgender community, skill training will be provided through the Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation, along with subsidy-linked bank loans for self-employment. ‘Aran’ shelter homes will be established in five districts to provide accommodation, food, counselling, and rehabilitation support for transpersons, while short-stay homes will be set up in 15 districts for transgender persons travelling for education, employment, medical treatment, examinations, and training

AI Planning Approval System and MY-HOME Housing Scheme

The Tamil Nadu Government announced new initiatives in the 2026–27 Budget including an AI-based planning approval system and the ‘MY-HOME’ housing scheme. The SPEED (Single Platform for Efficient Expedited Development) platform, an AI-enabled online system, will be introduced to provide faster planning approvals by integrating the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA), Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP), and local bodies. An allocation of ₹40 crore has been provided for this initiative. The Housing and Urban Development Department has been allocated ₹8,852 crore in the revised estimates. The CMDA is preparing the Third Master Plan (2027–2046) for the existing Chennai Metropolitan Area (CMA) covering 1,189 sq. km, and ₹25 crore has been allocated for preparing a comprehensive master plan for the expanded CMA covering 5,904 sq. km. The Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB) will implement the Metropolitan Youth and Family Housing Scheme (MY-HOME) through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to construct one lakh housing units in Chennai over seven years. The scheme involves an estimated investment of ₹15,000 crore with ₹3,500 crore support through the Tamil Nadu Shelter Fund. During the financial year, 24,131 under-construction tenements will be completed, and construction of 14,194 new tenements will begin with an allocation of ₹1,253 crore.

Tamil Nadu Health Budget Allocation 2026–27

The Tamil Nadu Government has increased the allocation for the Health Department to ₹23,357 crore in the 2026–27 Budget, marking an increase of about 6.6%. The health allocation increased from ₹20,197 crore in 2024–25 to ₹21,905 crore in 2025–26. Under the ‘Thai Maaman Thanga Mothiram Thittam’, a one-gram gold ring will be provided to every child born in government hospitals, with an allocation of ₹560 crore. An amount of ₹33 crore has been allocated to establish 1,000 Mobile Geriatric Centres for senior citizens, with teams consisting of a doctor, nurse, and physiotherapist providing health services in village panchayats. Under the ‘Thai Care’ scheme, maternity care and support centres will be established for pregnant women with an allocation of ₹23 crore. A telemedicine system will be developed with an allocation of ₹18.5 crore to provide specialist healthcare access in rural areas. A Hub-and-Spoke model will be implemented for cancer care, along with the establishment of five zonal cancer hospitals. The allocation for medicine supply has been increased by ₹100 crore to ensure continuous availability of medicines.

Miscellaneous News

16th Aero India to be Held in Bengaluru

The 16th edition of Aero India, India's biennial aerospace and defence exhibition, will be held in February 2027 at the Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka. The event will be conducted over five days and is organized with the participation of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Ministry of Defence. The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force are expected to participate in the air displays. A meeting held on 4 August 2026 between senior Indian Air Force officials and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar confirmed Bengaluru as the host city for the event.