UPSC Current Affairs — 1 August 2026
7 syllabus-tagged briefs · 5-question sprint · sources named on every item. How this brief is made →
Air Marshal Sandeep Thereja appointed DGAFMS
Why in news: Air Marshal Sandeep Thereja has been appointed as Director General Armed Forces Medical Services effective 31 August 2026.
Air Marshal Sandeep Thereja has been appointed Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) with effect from 31 August 2026. This appointment represents a key administrative reshuffle in India's defence establishment. DGAFMS oversees medical services across all branches of the Indian armed forces.
NHRC steps in on malaria deaths in Chhattisgarh
Why in news: The National Human Rights Commission took suo moto cognisance of five deaths from malaria reported within 13 days in Kanker district, Chhattisgarh.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo moto (on its own motion) cognisance of five deaths from malaria reported within 13 days in Kanker district, Chhattisgarh. This intervention highlights concerns over disease outbreak management and public health emergency response in the state. The NHRC's action represents judicial and constitutional oversight of state health administration.
Cabinet approves Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana for floating solar
Why in news: The Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana to promote floating solar installations on water bodies.
The Cabinet has approved a scheme to promote floating solar power plants under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana. The scheme targets installation of 5,000 MW of floating solar capacity on water bodies by 2030-31. Floating solar combines renewable energy generation with water conservation, making efficient use of existing water resources while reducing evaporation losses.
Cabinet approves ₹84,008 crore Samudra Manthan programme for deep-sea exploration
Why in news: The Union Cabinet approved an ₹84,008-crore programme to accelerate deep-sea oil and gas exploration.
The Union Cabinet has approved the Samudra Manthan programme worth ₹84,008 crore to accelerate deep-sea oil and gas exploration. This initiative aims at strengthening India's energy security through exploration of hydrocarbon reserves in deep-sea regions. The approval also extended the PM-Kisan scheme for an additional five years, reinforcing support for agricultural livelihoods.
India climbs 25 places in global competitiveness ranking
Why in news: India improved its position by 25 places in global competitiveness rankings following domestic economic reforms.
India has climbed 25 places in the global competitiveness ranking as a result of comprehensive domestic economic reforms. These reforms include GST implementation, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), improvements in business environment, and trade facilitation measures. The improvement underscores how structural economic reforms reduce market distortions and enhance competitive positioning.
Supreme Court directs DNA testing for Indians killed in Russia-Ukraine war
Why in news: The Supreme Court ordered the Centre to facilitate DNA testing for identification of Indians killed in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The Supreme Court has directed the Union Ministry to facilitate DNA testing for identification of mortal remains of Indians killed in the Russia-Ukraine war. The order also requires the Ministry to ensure families of deceased receive legal aid for pursuing compensation claims. This judicial intervention balances state responsibility with families' rights to dignified identification and rightful compensation.
GeM launches 10-day celebration ahead of 10th Foundation Day
Why in news: The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) initiated a 10-day celebration prior to its 10th Foundation Day and unveiled a commemorative logo.
The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has launched a 10-day celebration ahead of its 10th Foundation Day, unveiling a commemorative logo as part of the commemoration. GeM serves as a major digital platform for government procurement, transforming public purchasing processes and improving transparency and efficiency in government spending.
Test yourself: today's 5-question sprint
- Air Marshal Sandeep Thereja
- Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar
- Air Vice Marshal Sandeep Singh
- Wing Commander Ajay Verma
Show answer
According to the PIB release, Air Marshal Sandeep Thereja was appointed DGAFMS effective 31 August 2026.
- Raipur
- Kanker
- Durg
- Bilaspur
Show answer
The NHRC took suo moto cognisance of five malaria deaths within 13 days in Kanker district, Chhattisgarh.
- 2,500 MW
- 5,000 MW
- 7,500 MW
- 10,000 MW
Show answer
The scheme targets installation of 5,000 MW of floating solar capacity on water bodies by 2030-31.
- ₹42,000 crore
- ₹65,000 crore
- ₹84,008 crore
- ₹100,000 crore
Show answer
The Cabinet approved the Samudra Manthan programme worth ₹84,008 crore to accelerate deep-sea oil and gas exploration.
- 10 places
- 15 places
- 25 places
- 35 places
Show answer
India has climbed 25 places in the global competitiveness ranking following domestic economic reforms including GST, IBC, and business environment improvements.
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