THE HINDU — Monday, 31 August 2026

18 exam-focused current-affairs briefs with analysis, key points, English vocabulary and GK for UPSC and State PSC aspirants.

1.International

India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership Agreement

India and Uzbekistan agreed to elevate their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, setting a $5 billion annual trade target by 2030.

2.Society

NEET-PG Examination Disrupted Due to Power Failure

The NEET-PG examination was disrupted at 13 centers in Jaipur due to an internal power failure, and a re-examination will be conducted on September 5.

3.Schemes

MGNREGA Workers' e-KYC Process

The Rural Development Ministry clarified that the e-KYC process does not prevent workers from demanding or receiving employment under MGNREGA.

4.Schemes

Delhi Lakshmi Yojana Scheme for RD Interest

The Delhi Lakshmi Yojana scheme, providing Rs. 2,500 per month to eligible women, is set to mature in 2029. The scheme aims to provide financial support and interest on recurring deposits.

5.Environment

Himalayan Warning and GLOFs

Authorities warn of potential GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood) in Medog, China, due to global warming and seismic activity.

6.Polity

Bihar Congress Plans Unique Code for Caste Enumeration

Bihar Congress leaders plan to stage a peaceful sit-in outside party headquarters and demand a unique code for every caste during the Census.

7.Polity

BJP National President Discusses Youth Outreach Initiative

The BJP national president Nitin Nabin discussed the youth outreach initiative with young leaders, focusing on engaging youth and expanding the party's voter base.

8.Polity

Bihar Congress Leaders Write to Union Government on OBC Issues

Bihar Congress leaders wrote to the Union government demanding that caste enumeration be made mandatory in the national Census and assigning a separate code to every caste.

9.Schemes

Investment in Gold via Mutual Funds

Investing in gold through Mutual Funds (MFs) offers a structured way to accumulate wealth, with tax implications and options for regular investments.

10.International

Libya Signs UN-Backed Election Agreement

Libya’s rival political groups signed a UN-backed agreement to hold presidential and legislative elections within 24 months.

11.International

Venezuela Retains Sovereignty in Oil Deal with US

Venezuela retains control of its oil under a new agreement that allows the US significant access to its resources.

12.Economy

Uttarakhand's Economic Growth and Policy Reforms

Under PM Modi and CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttarakhand has seen significant policy reforms, financial incentives, and institutional support, making it an attractive destination for MSMEs and startups.

13.Economy

Investor Conference in Uttarakhand

An investor conference was held to discuss policy reforms, financial incentives, and institutional support for MSMEs and startups in Uttarakhand.

14.Economy

Uttarakhand MSME Policy

Uttarakhand government unveiled a new MSME policy to boost the sector, focusing on sustainable, inclusive growth and skill development.

15.Economy

Uttarakhand MSME Sector Growth

Uttarakhand's MSME sector has shown significant growth, with a CAGR of 11.97% from 2014 to 2019, driven by government policies and initiatives.

16.Schemes

Support for AYUSH Manufacturing and Healthcare in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is offering various incentives and support to AYUSH manufacturing units and healthcare facilities, aiming to strengthen the state's traditional healthcare sector.

17.Sports

Kaverappa's Performance in Duleep Trophy Semifinal

Kaverappa, a pacer from Karnataka, took four wickets in a four-wicket burst, helping South Zone to victory over North Zone in the Duleep Trophy semifinal.

18.Science & Tech

Observation of Vacuum Birefringence

Astronomers observed vacuum birefringence around magnetar 1E 1547.0-5408 using NASA’s IXPE satellite and other instruments, supporting QED predictions.

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