UPSC Current Affairs — 21 September 2026
7 syllabus-tagged briefs · 5-question sprint · sources named on every item. How this brief is made →
NGT International Conference on Climate Dynamics
Why in news: President of India addressed the closing session of NGT's international conference on environmental and climate dynamics in New Delhi.
India's President addressed the closing session of the National Green Tribunal's international conference titled 'Future of Environment and Climate Dynamism' in New Delhi. The conference brought together stakeholders to discuss environmental governance and climate policy frameworks. High-level participation at such forums reinforces India's commitment to environmental jurisprudence and sustainable development at the international level.
DISHA 2.0 Regional Workshop in Goa
Why in news: Department of Justice organizing regional workshop under DISHA 2.0 scheme on 21 September in Goa.
The Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, will organize a regional workshop under the DISHA 2.0 scheme in Goa on 21 September. DISHA 2.0 represents the government's initiative to strengthen access to justice and legal awareness at the grassroots level. Such regional workshops facilitate the dissemination of legal information and strengthen the institutional framework for delivering justice services across states.
India-Sri Lanka Maritime Exercise (SLINEX-26)
Why in news: Annual bilateral maritime exercise between India and Sri Lanka scheduled.
India and Sri Lanka conducted their annual bilateral maritime exercise known as SLINEX-26. Such exercises strengthen naval interoperability, enhance maritime security cooperation, and reinforce the bilateral relationship between the two countries. Maritime drills are crucial mechanisms for building trust and coordinating on shared maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean region.
EPFO Wage Ceiling Revision and Minimum PF Pension
Why in news: EPFO wage ceiling revision announced, which will increase minimum PF pension benefits.
The Employees' Provident Fund Organization revised its wage ceiling, leading to an increase in the minimum PF pension for retired workers. This revision ensures that lower-income retirees receive better pension protection, addressing income inequality among the retired workforce. The policy change reflects the government's focus on enhancing social security coverage for vulnerable sections of the organized sector workforce.
Agricultural Production Records: Pulses and Cereals Surge
Why in news: India achieved record pulses production and higher cereals output in 2025-26, stabilizing food prices.
India's pulses production reached a record 27.4 million tonnes in 2025-26, up from 25.6 million tonnes the previous year, driven by increased output of crops such as chana and moong. Cereals production also increased, contributing to stable food prices during the period. Strong agricultural output in key food commodities helps control inflation and enhances food security, which are critical macroeconomic indicators for sustainable growth.
Monsoon Retreat with Persistent Regional Deficits
Why in news: Monsoon retreat has begun while 43% of India remains in rain deficit condition.
As the monsoon season begins to retreat, 43% of India continues to face rain deficit conditions, posing challenges for agriculture and water resources. Uneven monsoon distribution across regions creates vulnerability for agricultural productivity and groundwater replenishment. Understanding regional climate variability and monsoon patterns is essential for effective water management and agricultural planning at the national level.
BRICS Export Growth: China Drives 34% Surge
Why in news: India's exports to BRICS partners surged 34% in April-August 2026-27, with China leading the growth.
India's exports to BRICS partners increased 34% during April-August 2026-27, with China accounting for a 39% surge. Exports to other nations like Japan, Italy, and South Korea also gained momentum. This growth reflects deepening trade ties within BRICS and India's expanding commercial engagement with key global partners, signifying strengthened economic interdependence.
Test yourself: today's 5-question sprint
- UNESCO World Heritage Forum
- National Green Tribunal's conference on 'Future of Environment and Climate Dynamism'
- Global Climate Action Summit
- International Environmental Law Conference
Show answer
The President addressed the closing session of the National Green Tribunal's international conference titled 'Future of Environment and Climate Dynamism' in New Delhi, as stated in source item 0.
- 25.6 million tonnes
- 27.4 million tonnes
- 29.2 million tonnes
- 26.8 million tonnes
Show answer
According to source item 29, pulses production reached a record 27.4 million tonnes in 2025-26, up from 25.6 million tonnes in the previous year.
- 25%
- 35%
- 43%
- 50%
Show answer
Source item 24 clearly states that 43% of India remains in rain deficit condition as the monsoon retreat begins.
- 20%
- 28%
- 34%
- 45%
Show answer
According to source item 26, India's exports to BRICS partners surged 34% in April-August 2026-27, with China seeing a 39% increase.
- BIMSTEC Naval Exercise
- SLINEX-26
- Indian Ocean Rim Alliance Exercise
- South Asian Maritime Partnership Drill
Show answer
Source item 4 mentions India-Sri Lanka annual bilateral maritime exercise as SLINEX-26, which strengthens naval interoperability and maritime security cooperation.
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