Current Affairs Revision Hub

News Item

President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the demise of legendary playback singer S. Janaki Amma, calling her a musical icon whose extraordinary singing enthralled generations. Her career spanned more than six decades, during which she recorded thousands of songs in nearly 20 Indian languages, including Hindi, Odia, Tulu, Urdu, Punjabi and Bengali.

Prelims Facts

• President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the demise of S. Janaki Amma.
• She described S. Janaki Amma as a musical icon.
• S. Janaki Amma’s career spanned more than six decades.
• She recorded thousands of songs in nearly 20 Indian languages.
• Languages mentioned include Hindi, Odia, Tulu, Urdu, Punjabi and Bengali.
• S. Janaki Amma was popularly known as Janaki Amma and Nightingale of South India.
• Her full name was Sistla Janaki.
• She was born on 23 April 1938 at Pallapatla, in present-day Andhra Pradesh.
• She began her playback singing career in 1957.
• She won four National Film Awards.
• She refused the Padma Bhushan in 2013, stating that the recognition came too late.
• Her music is remembered for versatility, voice modulation and emotional expression across languages.

GS Mapping

GS1: Indian Culture, Music, Cinema; GS2: Awards and Honours, Personalities in News

News Item

Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani passed away at the age of 74. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, describing him as a visionary leader who transformed Qatar into a prosperous and globally respected nation, and remembered him as a true friend of India.

Prelims Facts

• Former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani died at the age of 74.
• He ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013.
• He voluntarily handed over power to his son Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in 2013.
• Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani is the current Amir of Qatar.
• PM Narendra Modi described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader and a true friend of India.
• Sheikh Hamad is credited with transforming Qatar into a global player in energy, diplomacy, media and investment.
• Under his rule, Qatar emerged as a major LNG powerhouse.
• Al Jazeera news network was launched in 1996 during his rule.
• Qatar secured the right to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup during his leadership period.
• Qatar expanded its international investments through institutions such as the Qatar Investment Authority.
• India declared one-day national mourning as a mark of respect for the Father Amir of Qatar.
• The National Flag was to be flown at half-mast in India on buildings where it is regularly flown.

GS Mapping

GS2: India-Qatar Relations, Indian Diaspora in Gulf, International Relations; GS3: Energy Security, Global Investment and Sports Diplomacy

News Item

Czech tennis player Linda Noskova defeated fellow Czech player Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-3 in the Wimbledon 2026 women’s singles final to win her first Grand Slam title. The 21-year-old ninth seed became the youngest Wimbledon women’s champion since 2011.

Prelims Facts

• Linda Noskova won the Wimbledon 2026 women’s singles title.
• She defeated Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-3 in the final.
• Both finalists were from the Czech Republic.
• Noskova was the ninth seed.
• She was 21 years old at the time of the win.
• She became the youngest Wimbledon women’s champion since 2011.
• This was Noskova’s first Grand Slam title.
• Karolina Muchova saved five championship points and fought back from a set and a break down before losing in the decider.
• Britain’s Henry Patten and Finland’s Harri Heliovaara won doubles success earlier.
• Great Britain’s Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid also recorded doubles success.

GS Mapping

GS2: Sports Governance and International Events; GS1: Personalities in News

News Item

India and New Zealand are celebrating 100 years of sporting ties in 2026. The relationship began in 1926, when the Indian Army Hockey Team became the first Indian sports team to tour New Zealand. Hockey continues to act as a bridge of friendship between the two countries.

Prelims Facts

• India and New Zealand are celebrating 100 years of sporting ties in 2026.
• The sporting relationship began in 1926 through hockey.
• The Indian Army Hockey Team was the first Indian sports team to tour New Zealand.
• Major Dhyan Chand was part of the historic 1926 team.
• The Indian Women’s Hockey Team won the FIH Women’s Nations Cup in Auckland.
• India defeated host New Zealand in the final of the FIH Women’s Nations Cup.
• Former Hockey New Zealand CEO and 1976 Olympic Gold Medallist Ramesh Patel highlighted the importance of sports cooperation.

GS Mapping

GS2: India-New Zealand Relations, People-to-People Ties; Current Affairs: Sports

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome on his arrival in Auckland, beginning his two-day visit to New Zealand. This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in nearly four decades. He was received by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.

Prelims Facts

• PM Narendra Modi arrived in Auckland for a two-day visit to New Zealand.
• It is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in nearly four decades.
• He was received by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
• The Indian community welcomed him with the tricolour and chants of “Kia Ora Modi.”
• Cultural performances included traditions from Punjab and Tamil Nadu.
• The welcome event also featured a fusion of Carnatic and Hindustani classical music.
• A rendition of Vande Mataram was performed.
• PM Modi appreciated the Naad Vocal Ensemble.
• Key areas of expected discussion include trade, investment, education, technology and people-to-people ties.

GS Mapping

GS2: India-New Zealand Relations, Diaspora, Cultural Diplomacy, Bilateral Cooperation

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Parliament of Indonesia in Jakarta. He called for a new era in India-Indonesia relations based on civilisational ties, democratic values, maritime links and shared Indo-Pacific priorities.

Prelims Facts

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Indonesian Parliament.
• The address took place in Jakarta.
• PM Modi described India as the “Mother of Democracy.”
• He highlighted over 2,000 years of India-Indonesia civilisational engagement across the Indian Ocean.
• He referred to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and Indonesia’s motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.
• He linked India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision with Indonesia’s Golden Indonesia 2045 / Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.
• Key cooperation areas mentioned included trade, investment, connectivity, food and energy security, Digital Public Infrastructure and emerging technologies.
• PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to a free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

GS Mapping

GS2: India-Indonesia Relations, ASEAN, Act East Policy, Indo-Pacific, Cultural Diplomacy

News Item

Australia defeated England by 7 wickets at Lord’s, London, to win the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. Chasing England’s 150/4, Australia reached 153/3 in 17.1 overs, with Beth Mooney scoring 64 and Phoebe Litchfield scoring 48.

Background

Australia won the toss and chose to bowl first. England scored 150/4 in 20 overs, with captain Nat Sciver-Brunt making an unbeaten 58 and Freya Kemp scoring 44. Australia completed the chase comfortably and won a record-extending seventh Women’s T20 World Cup title.

Prelims Facts

• Australia defeated England by 7 wickets to win the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
• Venue of the final: Lord’s, London.
• England scored 150/4 in 20 overs.
• Australia scored 153/3 in 17.1 overs.
• Beth Mooney scored 64 runs for Australia.
• Phoebe Litchfield scored 48 runs for Australia.
• England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt scored 58 not out.
• Freya Kemp scored 44 runs for England.
• Player of the Match: Beth Mooney.
• Player of the Tournament / Man of the Series: Beth Mooney.
• Australia won its seventh ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title.
• The first ICC Women’s T20 World Cup was held in 2009 in England.
• Women’s T20 World Cup title count: Australia 7, England 1, West Indies 1, New Zealand 1.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• Australia’s win highlights long-term investment, squad depth and consistency in women’s cricket. The tournament also reflects the rising commercial and public interest in women’s sport. For India, such tournaments show the importance of strengthening domestic women’s cricket, talent pathways, sports infrastructure and media visibility.

GS Mapping

GS2: Sports Governance, Women Empowerment; GS1: Society and Gender; Current Affairs: Sports

News Item

The nation paid homage to Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his birth anniversary. The Ministry of Culture, in association with the West Bengal Government, organised a programme in Kolkata as part of the two-year official commemoration of his 125th birth anniversary.

Prelims Facts

• Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee was born on 6 July 1901 in Kolkata.
• His death anniversary is observed on 23 June.
• He founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951.
• He served as India’s first Minister for Industry and Supply.
• He was associated with Calcutta University and served as its Vice-Chancellor.
• The Ministry of Culture is observing his 125th birth anniversary through a two-year commemoration from 2025 to 2027.
• A programme was organised in Kolkata as part of the commemoration.
• A groundbreaking ceremony was planned for a 125-feet statue of Syama Prasad Mookerjee at Eco Park, New Town, Kolkata.

GS Mapping

GS1: Modern Indian History, Personalities; GS2: Political Development in Post-Independence India

News Item

President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the demise of renowned Pandavani singer Teejan Bai. They highlighted her role in bringing the Mahabharata-based folk tradition of Chhattisgarh to national and global recognition.

Prelims Facts

• Teejan Bai was a renowned Pandavani singer from Chhattisgarh.
• Pandavani narrates stories from the Mahabharata through singing, narration and performance.
• Teejan Bai was known for popularising the Kapalik style of Pandavani.
• She received Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan.
• She was awarded Padma Vibhushan in 2019 in the field of Art.
• President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to her.

GS Mapping

GS1: Indian Culture, Folk Traditions; GS4: Values, Dedication and Cultural Contribution

News Item

The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) upheld birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment and struck down President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14160, which sought to deny automatic citizenship to certain children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents. The ruling reaffirmed that children born on U.S. soil are citizens at birth, except narrow traditional exceptions such as children of foreign diplomats and invading forces.

Background

Birthright citizenship in the U.S. comes mainly from the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868 after the Civil War. It was meant to overturn the legacy of slavery and the Dred Scott ruling, which had denied U.S. citizenship to Black people. The issue returned to politics after President Trump attempted to restrict citizenship through an executive order.

Prelims Facts

• SCOTUS ruled on 30 June 2026 on birthright citizenship.
• The Court struck down President Trump’s Executive Order 14160.
• The ruling upheld birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment.
• The 14th Amendment was ratified in 1868.
• The Citizenship Clause covers persons born or naturalised in the U.S. and subject to its jurisdiction.
• Traditional exceptions include children of foreign diplomats and invading forces.
• Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857) denied citizenship to Black people.
• Civil Rights Act, 1866 declared birth-based citizenship with limited exceptions.
• United States v. Wong Kim Ark (1898) is a key precedent for birthright citizenship.
• Trump’s order had sought to deny citizenship documents to some children born after February 19, 2025 to parents unlawfully or temporarily present in the U.S.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The judgment is significant because it reaffirms constitutional citizenship against executive restriction. It also shows how the meaning of citizenship in the U.S. is historically linked to slavery, civil rights and racial equality. The case is useful for comparing India and the U.S.: India does not follow unconditional jus soli today, while the U.S. continues to protect broad birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment.

GS Mapping

GS2: Comparative Constitution, Citizenship, Judiciary, Migration; GS1: World History, Slavery and Civil Rights

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Keiko Fujimori on her victory in the Peruvian Presidential elections. He said India values its close friendship with Peru and remains committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors.

Prelims Facts

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Keiko Fujimori on her victory in the Peruvian Presidential elections.
• Peru is located in South America.
• India expressed commitment to strengthening its bilateral partnership with Peru across diverse sectors.
• The Prime Minister wished Keiko Fujimori a successful tenure.

GS Mapping

GS2: International Relations, India-Latin America Relations

News Item

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to Swami Vivekananda on his death anniversary. They highlighted his role in spreading India’s culture, spirituality, civilisational consciousness and message of service, character and nation-building.

Prelims Facts

• Swami Vivekananda’s death anniversary is observed on 4 July.
• He was born on 12 January 1863 as Narendranath Datta.
• He was a disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
• He represented India at the World’s Parliament of Religions, Chicago, 1893.
• He founded the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897.
• His birth anniversary, 12 January, is observed as National Youth Day in India.
• Prime Minister Modi said Vivekananda’s ideas continue to guide youth and support the vision of Viksit Bharat.

GS Mapping

GS1: Modern Indian Thinkers, Culture; GS4: Ethics, Values and Personality Development

News Item

Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth unveiled a roadmap titled VIJAY to transform the Indian Army into a technology-enabled, future-ready force. The roadmap focuses on vigilance, innovation, jointness, self-reliance and soldier-centric development for modern multi-domain warfare.

Background

General Dhiraj Seth was appointed as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff with effect from the afternoon of 30 June 2026. His roadmap comes in the context of the Indian Army’s transformation needs, changing nature of warfare, emerging security threats and greater emphasis on indigenous defence capabilities.

Prelims Facts

• General Dhiraj Seth is the 31st Chief of the Army Staff.
• He unveiled the VIJAY roadmap for a technology-enabled, future-ready Indian Army.
• V stands for Vigilance and Readiness.
• I stands for Innovation and Transformation.
• J stands for Jointness and Integration.
• A stands for Aatmanirbharta.
• Y stands for Yodha First.
• The roadmap emphasises multi-domain operational capability, indigenous technologies, civil-military fusion and a Whole-of-Nation approach.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The VIJAY roadmap is significant because future warfare will require speed, technology, integration and indigenous capability. Its focus on jointness can improve coordination among the three services, while Aatmanirbharta can reduce import dependence. However, effective implementation will need faster procurement, strong domestic research, training reforms, cyber and drone capabilities, and better civil-military coordination.

GS Mapping

GS3: Defence and Security, Technology, Internal and External Security

News Item

India is proudly celebrating National Doctors' Day today, July 1, to honour the relentless service, sacrifices, and healing touch of medical professionals. This special day is dedicated to the memory of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy (B.C. Roy), a legendary physician, freedom fighter, and visionary leader, marking both his birth and death anniversaries.

Background

First observed in 1991 by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), National Doctors' Day highlights the critical role doctors play in saving lives and improving public health. Historically, medicine in India has been a noble profession, but Dr B.C. Roy transformed it into an organized modern system. By establishing key institutions and setting high ethical standards, he bridged the gap between colonial-era medicine and a newly independent, self-reliant India. Today, the day also serves as a reminder to ensure better safety, respect, and working conditions for frontline healthcare workers.

Prelims Facts

• National Doctors' Day is celebrated annually on July 1.
• The day was instituted in 1991 by the Indian Medical Association (IMA).
• It commemorates both the birth and death anniversary of Dr B.C. Roy (July 1, 1882 – July 1, 1962).
• Dr Roy was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1961.
• The prestigious B.C. Roy National Award was instituted by the Medical Council of India in 1976 to recognize outstanding contributions to medicine, science, and the arts.

GS Mapping

GS1: Modern Indian History, GS2: Health, GS2: Human Resources

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to tribal heroes including Sido, Kanhu, Chand, Bhairav, and Phulo-Jhano on the occasion of 'Hul Diwas'. He stated that their struggle and sacrifice against the injustice of foreign rule to protect tribal dignity will continuously inspire the nation.

Background

Hul Diwas is observed annually on June 30th to commemorate the Santhal Rebellion (Hul) of 1855-56. This massive tribal uprising took place in the Damin-i-Koh region (present-day Jharkhand) against the oppressive land revenue system of the British East India Company and the exploitation by *zamindars* (landlords) and *mahajans* (moneylenders). The rebellion was a significant precursor to the 1857 revolt, demonstrating the fierce resistance of indigenous communities against colonial exploitation.

Prelims Facts

• Hul Diwas is celebrated on June 30th to mark the beginning of the Santhal Rebellion in 1855.
• The rebellion occurred in the Damin-i-Koh region, the forested tracts of Rajmahal Hills where the British had settled the Santhals.
• Outsiders, particularly merchants and moneylenders who exploited the Santhals, were referred to as Dikus.
• The rebellion's suppression led to the creation of the Santhal Parganas as a non-regulation district to appease the tribal population.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The Santhal Rebellion highlights the deep-rooted agrarian and economic exploitation of tribal communities under colonial rule. Recognizing events like 'Hul Diwas' is essential for acknowledging tribal contributions to India's freedom struggle, promoting cultural integration, and addressing contemporary issues of tribal land alienation and inclusive development.

GS Mapping

GS1: Modern Indian History

News Item

General Dhiraj Seth has assumed command as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), succeeding General Upendra Dwivedi upon his superannuation. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune, he was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986 and brings nearly four decades of extensive experience across operational and strategic domains.

Background

Throughout his distinguished career, General Seth has significantly contributed to the Indian Army's combat effectiveness and transformation. His key command assignments include leading an Armoured Regiment in the Desert Sector, an Armoured Brigade in the Western Theatre, and a Counter-Insurgency Force in Jammu & Kashmir. Before this, he commanded the Sudarshan Chakra Corps (a premier strike formation) and served as General Officer Commanding (GOC), Delhi Area.

Prelims Facts

• General Dhiraj Seth is the 31st Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army.
• He was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986.
• Notable previous commands include the Sudarshan Chakra Corps (a strike corps of the Indian Army).

GS Mapping

GS3: Various Security Forces and Agencies and their Mandate

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the Guardian of the Blue Horizon, Seychelles' highest distinction, by President Dr. Patrick Herminie. The award recognizes his leadership in environmental conservation, sustainable development, and advancing the Blue Economy and the interests of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Prelims Facts

• First Recipient: PM Narendra Modi is the first person to receive the 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon' award.
• Awarding Nation: Seychelles (Conferred by President Dr. Patrick Herminie).
• Previous Environmental Honours for PM Modi: UN Champion of the Earth, Agricola Medal (FAO), and the Seoul Peace Prize.
• India's Highlighted Green Initiatives: International Solar Alliance (ISA), Mission LiFE, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA).

GS Mapping

GS2: International Relations, GS3: Environment

News Item

In the 135th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's recent achievements in defence indigenisation, sports, environmental conservation, and social initiatives. He emphasized the power of public participation (Jan Bhagidari) in tackling global challenges and preserving the nation's cultural and ecological heritage.

Background

'Mann Ki Baat' is an Indian radio programme hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, broadcast on the All India Radio network. Since its inception in October 2014, the monthly programme has served as a primary platform for the Prime Minister to address the nation, highlighting grassroots innovations, cultural heritage, civic duties, and the impact of government initiatives.

Prelims Facts

• Defence Indigenisation: INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak, and INS Agray were recently inducted into the Indian Navy in Kolkata. They are indigenously designed and manufactured.
• Aerospace: The first 'Made in India' C-295 aircraft successfully completed its maiden flight. A total of 40 such aircraft are being manufactured in India.
• Missile Technology: DRDO and Indian Industries Partners successfully tested the indigenous 'Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile'.
• Sports: India topped the medal tally at the World Yogasana Championship in Ahmedabad, winning 114 medals, including 102 gold medals.
• Grassroots Sports in Nagaland: The state is promoting talent through the 'Nagaland Baby League' (football for 5-12 year olds) and the 'Nagaland Women Futsal League' (indoor football with 5 players per team).
• Education & Heritage: Nalanda University has revived the ancient tradition of 'Shastrarth' (debate and discussion). Meanwhile, the Central Sanskrit University in Delhi is starting a B.Tech Programme in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science to link traditional knowledge with modern technology.
• Global Cultural Footprint: 'Brahmakamal Dominicana', a Spanish-speaking team in the Dominican Republic, is actively learning and chanting Vedic mantras like Purusha Suktam and Sri Rudram.
• Waste Management: Women in Biaora, Rajgarh district (Madhya Pradesh) have initiated a campaign to convert plastic waste and empty bottles into eco-bricks to beautify public spaces.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The integration of indigenous technological advancements in defence and aerospace reflects India's robust progression towards 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. Furthermore, grassroots conservation efforts, such as the Hargila Army in Assam and the preservation of living root bridges in Meghalaya, demonstrate the efficacy of community-led environmental governance and the harmonization of traditional knowledge with ecological sustainability.

GS Mapping

GS2: Government Policies & Interventions, GS3: Indigenization of Technology, GS3: Environment & Conservation

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to former Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao on his birth anniversary (June 28), acknowledging his enduring contribution to India's progress during a crucial period in its history and his legacy as a capable administrator and distinguished scholar.

Prelims Facts

• Birth Date: June 28, 1921.
• Key Policy Initiated: 'Look East Policy' (now 'Act East Policy').
• Economic Milestone: Spearheaded the 1991 LPG reforms.
• Civilian Honour: Awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2024.
• Notable Book: *The Insider*.

GS Mapping

GS1: Post-independence Consolidation, GS2: Indian Constitution and Polity, GS3: Indian Economy

News Item

Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan attended the 517th birth anniversary celebrations of Nadaprabhu Sri Kempegowda in Bengaluru and paid tributes to the founder of Bengaluru. The event highlighted Kempegowda’s legacy in planned urban development, water conservation, inclusive governance, social harmony and cultural preservation.

Prelims Facts

• Nadaprabhu Kempegowda is associated with the founding and planned development of Bengaluru.
• He was linked with the Vijayanagara Empire and is remembered for lake-building and civic planning.
• The Vice-President highlighted Kempegowda’s contribution to sustainable development, social harmony and inclusive governance.

GS Mapping

GS1: History, Art and Culture; GS2: Governance; GS3: Environment

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj on his birth anniversary. The PM acknowledged his lifelong dedication to the upliftment of the underprivileged, exploited, and backward sections of society, noting that his ideals continue to guide the nation.

Prelims Facts

• Birth: Born on June 26, 1874, in Kagal, Kolhapur.
• Reign: He was crowned the Maharaja of Kolhapur in 1894.
• Social Initiatives: Established Vedic schools for non-Brahmins to challenge caste-based Vedic education.
• Vision: He envisioned a society free from the barriers of caste and social inequality.

GS Mapping

GS1: Modern Indian History (Social Reformers)

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the legendary literary figure Bankim Chandra Chatterjee on his birth anniversary. The PM lauded his immense contribution to Indian literature and highlighted his pivotal role in fostering patriotism and national pride among generations of Indians through his iconic writings. The PM also emphasized the significance of the 150th anniversary of the national song, 'Vande Mataram', which continues to serve as an enduring source of inspiration for the nation.

Prelims Facts

• Birth: Born on June 26, 1838, in Kanthalpara, West Bengal.
• Anandamath: Published in 1882, the novel is set against the backdrop of the Sannyasi Rebellion.
• Literary Legacy: He was one of the first graduates of the University of Calcutta (1858).
• Vande Mataram: Adopted as the National Song of India in 1950.

GS Mapping

GS1: Art and Culture / Modern Indian History

News Item

Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid homage to Baba Banda Singh Bahadur on his martyrdom day, honoring his legacy as the first general of the Khalsa Army. He was recognized for his immense valour in liberating regions from Mughal oppression and his dedication to establishing a just governance system for farmers.

Prelims Facts

• He is famously known as the first general of the Khalsa Army.
• He led the struggle against the Mughal Empire in the early 18th century.
• He is noted for his land reforms and for refusing to accept religious conversion despite severe torture.

GS Mapping

GS1: History

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Nikol Pashinyan on his victory in the parliamentary elections in Armenia. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral partnership across trade, defence, and technology, while PM Modi thanked Armenia for facilitating the evacuation of Indian nationals stranded in Iran.

Prelims Facts

• Nikol Pashinyan was recently re-elected as the Prime Minister of Armenia.
• India and Armenia have a growing defence partnership; India has exported military equipment like Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers and Swathi weapon locating radars to Armenia.
• Armenia acted as a crucial transit and facilitation point for the evacuation of Indians from Iran during recent geopolitical tensions.

GS Mapping

GS2: International Relations