MENTORING FOR A BRIGHTER TOMORROWIMPORTANT ISSUES · EXAM RELEVANCE · CLEAR TAKEAWAYS
Daily Current Affairs for UPSC
The day’s most relevant developments, organised for serious preparation.
GS-III · Science & Technology, Innovation & Emerging TechnologiesEmerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2026 Begins in New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 27 October. The three-day conclave will bring together scientists, researchers, policymakers, startups, industry leaders and international experts.
Why it mattersRead update
ESTIC aims to strengthen India’s science and innovation ecosystem by promoting collaboration between research institutions, industry and government in emerging technologies.
Key takeaways
- • ESTIC 2026 is being held from 27–29 October 2026.
- • Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
- • It covers 12 thematic areas.
- • Focus areas include Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Advanced Materials, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Energy, Climate and Ocean Sciences.
- • A new Global Connect Networking Event will bring together more than 300 participants.
- • The initiative aims to strengthen international research partnerships and industry–academia collaboration.
GS-I · Physical Geography | GS-III — Disaster ManagementCyclone Arnab Intensifies into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm
Cyclone Arnab over the west-central Bay of Bengal has intensified into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm. IMD expects it to cross the Andhra Pradesh–Yanam coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, by the forenoon of 28 October.
Why it mattersRead update
The Bay of Bengal is highly prone to severe tropical cyclones. Such systems can cause storm surges, intense rainfall, flooding, coastal erosion and large-scale disruption.
Key takeaways
- • Arnab developed over the Bay of Bengal.
- • It intensified into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm.
- • Expected landfall: Andhra Pradesh–Yanam coast.
- • Likely crossing zone: between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam.
- • Maximum sustained wind speed at landfall is forecast at around 115–125 kmph, gusting to 140 kmph.
- • The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) has reviewed preparedness for the cyclone.
GS-III · Defence Technology, Indigenisation & SecurityDefence Acquisition Council Clears Proposals Worth ₹2.12 Lakh Crore
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has granted Acceptance of Necessity for capital acquisition proposals worth around ₹2.12 lakh crore for the Armed Forces.
Why it mattersRead update
The approvals reflect India’s focus on military modernisation, counter-drone capabilities, air defence, surveillance and long-range precision-strike systems.
Key takeaways
- • DAC is chaired by the Defence Minister.
- • Total approved proposals: about ₹2,12,000 crore.
- • Approval is in the form of Acceptance of Necessity (AoN).
- • Army proposals include VSHORADS, counter-UAS systems, surveillance UAVs and long-range kamikaze drones.
- • High Mobility Vehicles and Self-Propelled Tracked Gun Systems have also received approval.
- • AoN is an in-principle administrative approval, not the final procurement contract.