1. National Current AffairsThe 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit was hosted by India in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026 under India’s BRICS Chairship.The theme of India’s BRICS Chairship was “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”India hosted the BRICS Summit for the fourth time after 2012, 2016 and 2021.The BRICS grouping currently has 11 full members.The New Delhi Declaration 2026 was adopted by consensus at the BRICS Summit.The declaration contained 140 points covering global governance, international security, trade, finance, technology, sustainable development and people-to-people cooperation.The New Delhi Declaration condemned the 22 April 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack.BRICS leaders supported reform of global governance institutions, including greater representation for developing countries.The declaration supported a larger role for India and Brazil in the United Nations system.BRICS countries opposed unilateral trade measures and protectionist actions that affect global trade.BRICS countries supported local-currency settlements and more efficient cross-border payment mechanisms.India proposed a BRICS Continuity and Implementation Mechanism through the BRICS Troika.India also proposed a Seafarers Emergency Support Network.China will hold the BRICS Chairship in 2027.Two commemorative postage stamps marking two decades of BRICS cooperation were released during the summit.Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit.Xi Jinping's September 2026 visit was his first visit to India in seven years.Prime Minister Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held bilateral discussions in New Delhi.India and Russia reiterated the objective of increasing bilateral trade to US$100 billion by 2030.India and Russia reviewed their Programme for Economic Cooperation 2030.Discussions between India and Russia covered defence, energy, civil nuclear cooperation, critical minerals, infrastructure and trade.Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited India for the BRICS Summit and held talks with Prime Minister Modi.President Droupadi Murmu received Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in New Delhi.India reiterated the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and freedom of navigation in the context of West Asian tensions.Prime Minister Modi met UN Secretary-General António Guterres in New Delhi ahead of the BRICS Summit.Discussions included UN reforms, conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine, food and fertiliser security, freedom of navigation and lethal autonomous weapons.Prime Minister Modi met UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines of BRICS.The meeting focused on the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.The BRICS Business Forum was held at Bharat Mandapam on 11 September.India proposed that the BRICS Business Council work towards removing the top 10 intra-BRICS trade barriers.A target was proposed to help 100 startups scale across BRICS markets annually.Another target was to create 1,000 new business partnerships annually.India highlighted the importance of secure sea lanes and safety of seafarers.BRICS represents around 50% of the world's population, around 40% of global GDP and more than 25% of global trade, according to figures highlighted at the Business Forum.The BRICS Bharat Innovates Exposition was held at Bharat Mandapam on 11–12 September.The exposition showcased Indian deep-tech and startup innovations.Around 37 Indian deep-tech innovations were showcased, including AI-enabled healthcare, marine robotics, floating solar technology and advanced mobility solutions.Governance and AdministrationThe Election Commission announced bye-elections to five Assembly constituencies and one Lok Sabha constituency.The Lok Sabha bye-election will be held in Nagaon, Assam.Polling is scheduled for 6 October 2026 and counting for 9 October 2026.EVMs and VVPATs will be used in these bye-elections.Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 28th Western Zonal Council meeting in Panaji, Goa.The Western Zonal Council covers Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.Issues discussed included Fast Track Special Courts, ERSS-112, food safety, Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY, rural banking, railways and environmental clearances.The Zonal Councils were created under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956.The Union Home Minister chairs the Zonal Councils.The Centre held discussions with Ladakh representatives regarding constitutional and administrative safeguards.A proposed Article 371(K)-style framework was discussed for Ladakh.The Ladakh discussions involved the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance.The Sixth Schedule continues to be an important demand of Ladakh groups.Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan addressed a special session of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly in Itanagar.He also visited the Donyi-Polo Mission School and other institutions in Arunachal Pradesh.Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan visited the INA Museum at Moirang, Manipur.Moirang is associated with the first hoisting of the Tricolour on the Indian mainland by the Indian National Army in 1944.Social Sector and HealthIndia crossed 80 lakh HPV vaccine doses under the National HPV Vaccination Campaign.The campaign provides a free, voluntary single dose of HPV vaccine to 14-year-old girls.The campaign was launched in February 2026.Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest absolute number of vaccinations, with more than 22 lakh girls vaccinated.Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram achieved 100% coverage of their identified target cohorts.The 9th Rashtriya Poshan Maah was launched from Varanasi.The theme of Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2026 is “Hamari Anganwadi, Hamari Jimmedari.”The campaign focuses on nutrition, child development and strengthening Anganwadi centres.The Centre launched the first sector-wide CSR framework for Indian coal companies.The framework was prepared by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs.Under Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana, more than 1,050 bone marrow transplants have been supported.The scheme provides assistance of up to ₹10 lakh per patient.2. Economy and FinancePrime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated projects worth more than ₹35,000 crore in Vadodara.Three Western Dedicated Freight Corridor sections covering 326 route kilometres were dedicated.The three sections involved an investment of more than ₹20,700 crore.The overall Dedicated Freight Corridor network reached around 2,800 km in length.The 7th Global Fintech Fest 2026 was inaugurated in Mumbai.GFF 2026 was held from 8–11 September.Its theme focused on Agentic AI, Tokenisation and Quantum technologies for inclusive finance.The RBI launched the September rounds of the Inflation Expectations Survey of Households, Urban Consumer Confidence Survey and Rural Consumer Confidence Survey.The Inflation Expectations Survey and Urban Consumer Confidence Survey covered 19 cities.The Rural Consumer Confidence Survey covered rural and semi-urban households across 31 States/UTs.The survey results are intended to feed into the October 2026 monetary policy assessment.Kharif sowing area stood at 1,086.31 lakh hectares as of 4 September 2026.Rice acreage stood at 421.82 lakh hectares.Pulses acreage increased to 117.13 lakh hectares.Coarse cereals covered around 181.39 lakh hectares.Oilseeds covered around 191.99 lakh hectares.The DGFT launched an Open API for Certificates of Origin through the Trade Connect e-Platform.The API allows exporters to file and verify Certificates of Origin directly through ERP/accounting systems.The system supports both preferential and non-preferential Certificates of Origin.It covers trade arrangements including India-UAE CEPA, India-Australia ECTA, India-Oman CEPA, India-EFTA TEPA and India-UK CETA.India set a target of attracting 10 million medical-value tourists annually.India’s medical tourism ecosystem has received around 3.5 million international patients over seven years.The government highlighted the Heal in India platform as part of the medical tourism strategy.The National Statistics Office released the first district-level estimates for the unincorporated non-agricultural sector.The estimates covered 757 districts under ASUSE 2025.The top 50 districts accounted for nearly one-third of establishments, workers and GVA.Women constituted around one-third of the workforce in 237 districts.India continued efforts to strengthen healthcare supply chains beyond generic medicines, with emphasis on new molecules, biosimilars and biotechnology.Bulk-drug park projects are being developed in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.3. Banking and Financial AwarenessRBI recognised the Unified Fintech Forum (UFF) as the second Self-Regulatory Organisation for the FinTech sector.UFF was formerly known as the Digital Lenders Association of India.The first SRO-FT recognised by RBI was the Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment (FACE) in 2024.RBI introduced its SRO-FT framework in May 2024.UFF had 118 members as of June 2026.The members include NBFCs, loan-service providers, technology companies, credit bureaus and account aggregators.RBI announced a 26-day Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction under the Liquidity Adjustment Facility.The operation was aimed at absorbing surplus liquidity from the banking system.The funds placed in the auction were scheduled to be reversed on 7 October 2026.RBI expanded the currency pairs available through FX-Retail and Bharat Connect.Five new currencies added were Euro, British Pound, Swiss Franc, Canadian Dollar and UAE Dirham.The initial FX-Retail facility had focused on the US dollar.Multicurrency forex services were introduced through Bharat Connect on a controlled-user-group basis.Banks participating in the rollout included SBI, PNB, Axis Bank, Bank of Baroda and Federal Bank.The next planned currency additions include Japanese Yen, Australian Dollar, Singapore Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar and New Zealand Dollar.The Financial Intelligence Unit–India issued PMLA non-compliance notices to 15 Virtual Digital Asset Service Providers.The action was taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.VDA platforms operating in India are required to register with FIU-IND as reporting entities.The Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 2026 will come into force from 1 October 2026.It replaces the Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 1891.The new law recognises physical, electronic, digital, virtual and cloud-based banking records.Courts will need to record special cause in writing before summoning bank officials when the bank is not a party to the case.The new Bankers’ Books Evidence Act received Presidential assent on 13 August 2026.India continued discussions around digital payments and cross-border payment interoperability under the BRICS framework.BRICS leaders supported greater use of local currencies for trade settlements but did not endorse a common BRICS currency.India clarified that there is currently no proposal for a common BRICS currency.NPCI introduced UPI Tap and Pay and My UPI features during the Global Fintech Fest.UPI Tap and Pay uses NFC-based contactless technology.Eligible transactions up to ₹5,000 can be made without entering a UPI PIN under the new facility.4. International Current AffairsThe 18th BRICS Summit became the most significant international event of the week.BRICS adopted the New Delhi Declaration by consensus.The declaration called for stronger multilateralism and reform of global governance institutions.BRICS supported reform of the IMF and greater representation for emerging and developing economies.BRICS countries called for diplomatic solutions to international conflicts.The declaration called for maximum restraint amid escalating tensions in West Asia.BRICS reiterated the importance of freedom of navigation and secure international trade routes.BRICS countries opposed unilateral trade and economic measures that negatively affect developing economies.BRICS continued work on cross-border payment interoperability and local-currency settlement.The BRICS Payment Task Force continued examining mechanisms for more efficient cross-border payments.BRICS supported the development of practical financial cooperation without creating a single common currency.The grouping emphasised cooperation in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, science and innovation.India promoted a BRICS digital public infrastructure repository and other technology-related initiatives.BRICS initiatives included greater cooperation in health, agriculture, skills and smart grids.India and Russia agreed to continue efforts towards the US$100 billion bilateral trade target by 2030.India and Germany marked 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.Prime Minister Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz discussed trade, investment, advanced technologies, clean energy, defence, education and talent mobility.Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India for the BRICS Summit.Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited India for the BRICS Summit.UN Secretary-General António Guterres visited New Delhi in connection with the BRICS Summit.India and Iran discussed regional stability, freedom of navigation and West Asian developments.China announced that it will host the next BRICS Chairship in 2027.China Southern Airlines announced plans to restart Guangzhou–New Delhi flights from 21 September 2026 after a six-year gap.Nepal continued to deal with the consequences of severe flash floods, with casualty and missing-person figures rising sharply during the week.Indonesia faced major aviation disruption following volcanic activity, with multiple airports affected.Germany's Saxony-Anhalt state election was won by the Alternative for Germany in exit-poll projections, but the party did not secure an absolute majority.5. Defence and SecurityDefence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Sri Lanka from 8–10 September 2026.It was described as the first visit by an Indian Defence Minister to Sri Lanka in around 38 years.The visit was linked with India’s Neighbourhood First policy and MAHASAGAR vision.INS Udaygiri, an indigenous stealth guided-missile frigate, arrived at Colombo during the visit.India and Sri Lanka signed three defence-related MoUs.The agreements included cooperation involving L70 gun upgrades.The Indian Air Force's Sarang helicopter display team participated in the 2nd El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt.Sarang operates the indigenous ALH Dhruv helicopters.Sarang demonstrated manoeuvres including the Dolphin Leap and Spot Stall Turn.The 22nd India-US Army exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026 commenced in September.The exercise is being conducted in India.Indian Army Para Special Forces participated in Super Garuda Shield 2026 in Indonesia.Super Garuda Shield involved 21 participating countries.India deployed around 40 paratroopers for the exercise.A three-day Colombo Security Conclave tabletop exercise concluded at Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam.The exercise focused on maritime terrorism, narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, illegal fishing and maritime-domain awareness.The exercise was linked with India's MAHASAGAR vision.The National Investigation Agency conducted searches at 10 locations in Jammu and Kashmir in an alleged Lashkar-e-Taiba-linked conspiracy case.India continued to emphasise maritime security and freedom of navigation amid instability around major global shipping routes.6. Science and TechnologyISRO rejected reports suggesting that the organisation would be privatised.ISRO reiterated that it would remain India's principal institution for advanced space research and national and strategic missions.ISRO referred to the post-2020 space-sector reforms and the Indian Space Policy 2023.The EOS-05 satellite successfully completed its final orbit-raising manoeuvre.EOS-05 was launched by GSLV-F17 on 4 September 2026.EOS-05 is India's first dedicated geosynchronous imaging satellite.The final orbit after the manoeuvre was approximately 34,903 km × 35,884 km.EOS-05 has a mass of around 2,367 kg.Bengaluru-based space start-up GalaxEye received a US patent for its OptoSAR satellite-imaging technology.OptoSAR combines optical and Synthetic Aperture Radar imaging.The technology enables simultaneous aligned imaging of the same location using optical and SAR sensors.Prime Minister Modi addressed the first International Space Summit in Paris through video conference.India reiterated its target of establishing an Indian space station by 2035.India has set a target of sending an Indian astronaut to the Moon by 2040.NIELIT Digital University was integrated with Saylor University of the United States.The initiative aims to expand access to digital-skilling content.BHASHINI continued work on multilingual AI and inclusive digital governance.A healthy female Badri calf was produced through OPU-IVF technology.The calf was born after transfer of a Badri embryo into a Sahiwal recipient.The work involved ICAR-NDRI, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology and the Uttarakhand Biotechnology Council.The Badri cattle breed is associated with Uttarakhand.Digital India BHASHINI continued development of population-scale Indian-language AI systems.7. Environment and EcologySwachh Vayu Diwas 2026 was observed on 7 September.Lucknow ranked first among million-plus cities in the 5th Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan.Indore ranked second and Jabalpur third.Under the National Clean Air Programme, 108 of 130 cities showed improvement in PM10 levels compared with the 2017–18 baseline.Fourteen cities met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards under the assessment.The Supreme Court directed the high-powered committee examining the definition of the Aravalli Hills and Range to submit its final report by 30 November 2026.The committee is headed by ICFRE Director General Kanchan Devi.The Global Dryland Congress 2026 was held in New Delhi from 10–12 September.It was organised by ICRISAT and ICAR.The theme was “Transforming Dryland Agriculture through South–South Cooperation.”More than 800 experts were expected to participate.A 1.85-km road in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, built using processed steel-slag aggregates received a Guinness World Records recognition.The project was developed by CSIR-CRRI with Jindal Steel.Around 200,000 tonnes of processed steel slag were used in the road project.The project demonstrates the potential use of industrial waste in sustainable infrastructure.8. Agriculture and Rural DevelopmentThe 9th ASEAN–India Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture and Forestry was held in New Delhi.The meeting focused on low-emission rice cultivation, water productivity, AI-enabled agriculture and resilient agricultural value chains.The proposed ASEAN–India Medium-Term Plan of Action for Agriculture and Forestry covers 2026–2030.ASEAN–India goods trade was cited at around US$128 billion in FY 2025–26.Kharif crop coverage stood at 1,086.31 lakh hectares as of 4 September.Rice acreage declined compared with the previous year.Pulses acreage increased compared with the previous year.The government held consultations on a proposed new Seeds Bill.The proposed legislation is intended to replace the Seeds Act, 1966 and Seeds (Control) Order, 1983.The proposed law seeks to address developments in seed technology, private participation and seed trade.Rural demand for employment under the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) increased significantly in August.The scheme replaced MGNREGA from July 2026.Andhra Pradesh recorded the highest number of reported job seekers under the scheme during the period.9. Sports Current AffairsBadmintonSatwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won the men's doubles title at the China Masters Super 750.They defeated China's He Jiting and Ren Xiangyu in the final.The victory gave the Indian pair their maiden China Masters title.It was their 10th BWF World Tour title.It was also their second Super 750 title of 2026.South Korea's An Se-young won the women's singles title at the China Masters.She won the China Masters title for the third consecutive time.She defeated Japan's Tomoka Miyazaki in the final.HockeyIndia defeated Japan 7–0 in the AHF Women's Junior Asia Cup.India advanced to the quarter-finals with nine points from three matches.India defeated South Korea 7–3 in the Men's Junior Asia Cup.India later defeated Malaysia 3–1 in the men's semifinal.India reached its fourth consecutive Junior Men's Asia Cup final.Captain Anmol Ekka scored twice against Malaysia.India defeated South Korea 5–1 in the Women's Junior Asia Cup semifinal.India advanced to the women's final.CricketIn the Women's T20 Asia Cup 2026, India reached the final after defeating Bangladesh by 40 runs.Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by four wickets in the second semifinal.India and Sri Lanka were scheduled to meet in the final on 13 September in Dubai.India defeated Pakistan by seven wickets earlier in the tournament.Pakistan were bowled out for 55 against India.Harmanpreet Kaur became the first captain to lead a side in 150 Women's T20 Internationals.Ishan Kishan scored 270 runs off 334 balls in the Duleep Trophy final.East Zone posted 708 runs against South Zone.The Duleep Trophy final was played at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.GolfViraj Madappa won the Chennai Open 2026.He finished at 22-under 266.He shot a bogey-free 64 in the final round.The tournament carried a purse of ₹1 crore.ArcherySheetal Devi won women's compound individual gold at the Ahmedabad Para Series.India recorded multiple medals at the event.Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar also set a world record of 1,400 points in compound mixed team competition.FootballThe 2026 Ballon d'Or men's nomination list was released.Major nominees included Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Rodri, Lamine Yamal, Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior.10. Awards, Appointments and Important PersonalitiesJustice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi was sworn in as the 50th Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court.Justice Ravindra Vithalrao Ghuge was sworn in as Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court.Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati was sworn in as the 39th Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.Amit Shah presented the President’s Colour to Goa Police in Panaji.The President’s Colour recognised the force's long record of service.The 72nd National Film Awards will be presented on 22 September 2026 at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat.Article 370 was named Best Feature Film.Yami Gautam won Best Actress for Article 370.Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan shared the Best Actor award for Bramayugam and Chandu Champion respectively.Bhangaar won Best Non-Feature Film.Amitabh Dube, Country President and Managing Director of Novartis India, was appointed President of the Organisation of Pharmaceutical Producers of India for a two-year term beginning September 2026.Rani Mukerji received the Raj Kapoor Special Contribution Award at the Maharashtra State Film Awards.11. Government Schemes, Programmes and ReportsThe National HPV Vaccination Campaign crossed 80 lakh administered doses.The campaign targets 14-year-old girls with a free single-dose HPV vaccine.The 9th Rashtriya Poshan Maah was launched with the theme “Hamari Anganwadi, Hamari Jimmedari.”The proposed Seeds Bill seeks to replace the Seeds Act, 1966.The Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) replaced MGNREGA from July 2026.The first sector-wide CSR framework for coal companies was launched.Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana continued providing support for bone marrow transplantation.The government continued implementation of Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY and other health-sector initiatives.India continued its medical-value tourism push through the Heal in India ecosystem.The National Clean Air Programme continued performance-linked funding for cities.The government continued efforts to expand digital financial inclusion through fintech and payment innovations.12. Important Days and Themes: 6–12 September 20267 September — International Day of Clean Air for Blue SkiesObserved annually on 7 September.Focuses on air pollution, clean air and environmental health.India marked the occasion through Swachh Vayu Diwas and the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan.8 September — International Literacy DayObserved annually on 8 September.Focuses on literacy as a fundamental human right and an essential component of sustainable development.Literacy and lifelong learning remained key themes in the 2026 observance.9 September — Himalaya DiwasHimalaya Diwas is observed on 9 September.Uttarakhand officially declared the day in 2014.It focuses on Himalayan ecology, conservation and sustainable development.10 September — World Suicide Prevention DayObserved annually on 10 September.The 2026 theme was “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”11 September — Vinoba Bhave JayantiAcharya Vinoba Bhave was born on 11 September 1895.He was closely associated with the Bhoodan Movement.His birth anniversary is observed on 11 September.11 September — 25th Anniversary of the 9/11 Attacks11 September 2026 marked 25 years since the terrorist attacks in the United States in 2001.In the United States, the date is observed as Patriot Day.India reiterated its opposition to terrorism in all its forms.12 September — United Nations Day for South-South CooperationObserved on 12 September.The 2026 theme was “Solidarity Rising: Global Alliance for Inclusive and Innovative Development.”13. Quick Revision: Most Important Facts of the WeekBRICS Summit 2026 — New DelhiBRICS Summit — 18thBRICS Summit dates — 12–13 September 2026India’s BRICS Chairship theme — Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and SustainabilityNew Delhi Declaration — 140 pointsBRICS Chair 2027 — ChinaIndia-Russia trade target — US$100 billion by 2030BRICS common currency — No current proposalBRICS local-currency settlement — SupportedBRICS Payment Task Force — Cross-border payment interoperabilityBRICS Business Forum — 11 SeptemberBRICS Business Forum startup target — 100 startups annuallyBRICS Business Forum partnership target — 1,000 partnerships annuallyBRICS trade-barrier target — Top 10 intra-BRICS barriersBankers’ Books Evidence Act — 2026New Bankers’ Books Act effective from — 1 October 2026Act replaced — Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 1891Second RBI SRO-FT — Unified Fintech ForumFirst RBI SRO-FT — FACENew FX-Retail currencies — EUR, GBP, CHF, CAD, AEDNew VRRR auction — 26 daysUPI Tap and Pay limit — ₹5,000 without PIN for eligible transactionsEOS-05 launch vehicle — GSLV-F17EOS-05 — India’s first dedicated geosynchronous imaging satelliteIndian space station target — 2035Indian astronaut on Moon target — 2040HPV vaccination target group — 14-year-old girlsHPV doses crossed — 80 lakhRashtriya Poshan Maah — 9th editionPoshan Maah 2026 theme — Hamari Anganwadi, Hamari JimmedariInternational Literacy Day — 8 SeptemberWorld Suicide Prevention Day — 10 SeptemberWorld Suicide Prevention Day 2026 theme — Changing the Narrative on SuicideHimalaya Diwas — 9 SeptemberSouth-South Cooperation Day — 12 SeptemberSwachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026 million-plus winner — LucknowGlobal Dryland Congress — New DelhiGlobal Dryland Congress theme — Transforming Dryland Agriculture through South-South CooperationSatwik–Chirag — China Masters Super 750 championsAn Se-young — China Masters women's singles championSheetal Devi — Para Archery compound individual goldIndia Women's Junior Hockey — 5–1 win over South Korea in semifinalIndia Men's Junior Hockey — 3–1 win over Malaysia in semifinalDuleep Trophy — Ishan Kishan scored 270Chennai Open Golf — Viraj MadappaIndia Women's T20 Asia Cup final — India vs Sri Lanka72nd National Film Awards Best Feature Film — Article 370Best Actress — Yami GautamBest Actor — Mammootty and Kartik AaryanPresident’s Colour — Goa PoliceWestern Zonal Council meeting — 28thWestern Zonal Council venue — Panaji, GoaCCEA railway projects — 8 projectsRailway network addition — about 1,196 kmRailway project investment — ₹20,804 croreWorldSkills 2026 — ShanghaiIndia’s WorldSkills participation — 63 of 64 skillsNew skills for India — 11India–Germany diplomatic relations in 2026 — 75 yearsChina Southern route restart — Guangzhou–New DelhiBadri cattle achievement — OPU-IVF female calfSteel-slag road Guinness record — Raigarh, ChhattisgarhRoad length — 1.85 km9/11 anniversary in 2026 — 25 yearsVinoba Bhave — Bhoodan MovementNext BRICS Chair — China, 2027Exam FocusFor Banking and RRB exams, give special priority to RBI's SRO-FT recognition, VRRR auction, new forex currency pairs, Bankers’ Books Evidence Act 2026, UPI Tap and Pay, BRICS payment mechanisms and fintech developments.For SSC and Railway exams, focus on appointments, awards, important days, sports winners, EOS-05, Dedicated Freight Corridor, government schemes and constitutional/governance developments.For UPSC, focus particularly on the New Delhi BRICS Declaration, BRICS institutional reforms, local-currency settlement, UN reform, India-Russia relations, West Asian maritime security, Ladakh safeguards, climate/environmental issues, dryland agriculture and space-sector developments.

1) 🇮🇳 NationalThe 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit continues in New Delhi, with India holding the BRICS Chairship for 2026.The New Delhi Declaration 2026 was adopted by consensus at the summit, covering cooperation in areas including global governance, trade, technology, energy, health, climate and sustainable development.BRICS leaders strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and reaffirmed a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism.India proposed a BRICS Working Group on Sports Technology to promote cooperation in sports innovation, research and technology.A BRICS Sports Goods Manufacturing Conclave has also been proposed, with the event planned for November 2026 in Udaipur, Rajasthan.A network of BRICS Centres of Excellence for Mental Health has been proposed, with NIMHANS, Bengaluru, designated as the coordinating institution.2) 🌍 InternationalThe New Delhi Declaration called for maximum restraint and dialogue amid escalating conflicts in West Asia.BRICS countries expressed concern over unilateral sanctions and measures that affect international trade and developing economies.The grouping called for greater representation of developing countries in major multilateral institutions, including the UN, IMF and World Bank.BRICS leaders reiterated support for peaceful exploration and use of outer space and greater cooperation on space-debris mitigation.The BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation, involving satellites from member countries including India, China and Russia, received further attention for cooperation in space applications.3) 💰 EconomyIndia’s foreign-exchange reserves reached a record US$785.706 billion for the week ended September 4, 2026.The reserves increased by a record US$44.903 billion in one week, the largest weekly rise recorded so far.India has overtaken Russia to become the fourth-largest holder of foreign-exchange reserves globally, after China, Japan and Switzerland.Foreign Currency Assets increased by approximately US$47.498 billion during the week.The RBI has announced an Open Market Sale of government securities worth ₹1 lakh crore, beginning September 16, to absorb excess liquidity.BRICS leaders backed greater use of local currencies in trade and investment and encouraged stronger interoperability between national payment systems.4) 🗓 Date’s importanceInternational Chocolate Day – September 13September 13 is observed as International Chocolate Day.The date is associated with the birth anniversary of Milton S. Hershey, the American chocolatier and founder of the Hershey chocolate company.Chocolate is produced primarily from the seeds of the cacao tree.World Sepsis Day – September 13Observed annually to raise awareness about sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body's extreme response to infection.The day highlights the importance of early recognition, prevention and timely treatment of sepsis.5) 👱‍♂👩‍🦳 Person of the dayMilton S. HersheyBorn: September 13, 1857.American chocolatier, businessman and philanthropist.Founder of the Hershey Chocolate Company.Established the Hershey Industrial School, later known as Milton Hershey School, for orphaned boys.His innovations helped make milk chocolate affordable and accessible to a mass market.September 13 is associated with his birth anniversary and is observed as International Chocolate Day.6) 🏅 SportsThe India–Afghanistan three-match T20I series begins today at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.Afghanistan is the designated host, while all three matches are being played in Delhi.The remaining matches are scheduled for September 15 and September 17.Shreyas Iyer is leading India, with Tilak Varma as vice-captain.The series is being played ahead of the 2026 Asian Games, which begin in Japan on September 19.India last played a bilateral T20I series against Afghanistan in January 2024, winning the series 3–0.7) 🏆 AwardsThe New Delhi Declaration 2026 has given importance to sports as a tool for social development, people-to-people exchanges and healthy societies.BRICS has backed the proposal for a Sports Technology Working Group, aimed at encouraging innovation and research in sports.The proposed BRICS Sports Goods Manufacturing Conclave is expected to strengthen cooperation in sports manufacturing and technology among member countries.8) ⭐️ Other important significanceBRICS 2026: India’s chairmanship theme is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”New Delhi Declaration: Adopted by consensus and covering major issues such as terrorism, global conflicts, trade, energy, AI, health and institutional reform.Sports Technology: India’s proposal for a dedicated BRICS Working Group marks a new focus on the role of technology in athlete performance, welfare and sports governance.Mental Health: NIMHANS, Bengaluru will coordinate the proposed BRICS network of Centres of Excellence for Mental Health.Foreign-Exchange Reserves: India’s record US$785.706 billion reserve level has moved the country to the 4th position globally.Asian Games 2026: The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games will be held from September 19 to October 4, 2026.📚 Word of the dayConsensus — general agreement among a group of people or countries.Example: BRICS leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration by consensus.

1) 🇮🇳 NationalThe 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit begins today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, with India hosting the summit as the 2026 BRICS Chair.The summit will be held on September 12–13, 2026, with discussions focusing on global governance, economic cooperation, technology, energy security, food security, trade and resilient supply chains.Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hosting several bilateral meetings with visiting leaders on the sidelines of the summit.India has proposed greater CBDC interoperability among BRICS countries to facilitate faster and more efficient cross-border payments.The BRICS Summit is expected to bring together leaders from the expanded 11-member BRICS grouping.2) 🌍 InternationalChinese President Xi Jinping is visiting India for the BRICS Summit, marking his first visit to India since 2019.Russian President Vladimir Putin is also attending the New Delhi BRICS Summit.The expanded BRICS grouping consists of 11 members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.BRICS countries collectively represent a significant share of the world's population, territory and global economic output.The summit is taking place amid major geopolitical concerns involving West Asia, global energy security and disruptions to international trade routes.3) 💰 EconomyIndia’s foreign-exchange reserves reached a record US$785.706 billion for the week ended September 4, 2026.The reserves increased by approximately US$44.903 billion in a single week.Foreign Currency Assets (FCA) increased by around US$47.498 billion to approximately US$648.168 billion.The sharp increase in reserves has been supported by significant foreign-currency inflows into India.Large capital inflows have also contributed to surplus liquidity in the domestic banking system, requiring active liquidity management by the RBI.The RBI has announced an Open Market Sale of government securities worth ₹1 lakh crore to absorb excess liquidity.4) 🗓 Date’s importanceInternational Day for South-South Cooperation – September 12Observed annually on September 12.The day promotes cooperation among countries of the Global South through sharing knowledge, technology, expertise and resources.The date is associated with the Buenos Aires Plan of Action of 1978, which promoted technical cooperation among developing countries.The observance was established by the United Nations General Assembly.Saragarhi Day – September 12Observed in memory of the Battle of Saragarhi, fought on September 12, 1897.21 soldiers of the 36th Sikh Regiment, led by Havildar Ishar Singh, defended the Saragarhi post against a much larger force.The soldiers fought until the last man and are remembered for their exceptional courage, sacrifice and military valour.The battle is considered one of the most remarkable last stands in military history.5) 👱‍♂👩‍🦳 Person of the dayHavildar Ishar SinghCommander of the 21 Sikh soldiers who defended Saragarhi on September 12, 1897.Served in the 36th Sikh Regiment of the British Indian Army.Led his men against a vastly superior opposing force.His leadership and sacrifice made him an enduring symbol of military courage and duty.The Battle of Saragarhi is commemorated annually on September 12.6) 🏅 SportsEast Zone won the Duleep Trophy 2026, ending a 13-year wait for the title.East Zone secured the championship after taking a massive first-innings lead against South Zone in the final.East Zone captain Ishan Kishan scored a spectacular 270 runs in the final.Mohammad Kounian Quraishi scored an unbeaten 116, registering his maiden first-class century.India won six medals — 2 gold and 4 bronze at the World Archery Para Series Stage III in Ahmedabad.Sheetal Devi won individual gold in the women’s para compound category.Harvinder Singh and Bhawna won gold in the para recurve mixed-team event.The 2026 Asian Games will be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4.7) 🏆 AwardsChabila won the Best Feature Film award at the 62nd Maharashtra State Film Awards.Sthal emerged as the most-awarded film, winning six awards.Rani Mukerji received the Raj Kapoor Special Contribution Award.Salim Khan was honoured with the Raj Kapoor Lifetime Achievement Award.Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar received the V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award.The awards recognised significant contributions to Marathi cinema and the Indian film industry.8) ⭐️ Other important significanceBRICS 2026: India’s chairmanship focuses on resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.CBDC interoperability: India is promoting stronger digital-payment connectivity among BRICS nations.Foreign-exchange reserves: India’s reserves crossing US$785 billion provide a stronger external financial buffer.Saragarhi: September 12 commemorates one of the most celebrated examples of military valour and sacrifice.Asian Games 2026: The Aichi-Nagoya Games will be held from September 19–October 4, 2026.📚 Word of the dayResilience — the ability to withstand difficulties and recover or adapt effectively.Example: Strong foreign-exchange reserves increase India’s resilience against external economic shocks.