Current Affairs for Competitive Exams: 08 April 2026, Daily Roundup
Current Affairs- 08 April 2026
On 8 April 2026, global developments centred on the temporary ceasefire in the US–Iran conflict and continuing energy uncertainty, while India recorded major progress in nuclear technology, defence cooperation, public health expansion, and agricultural support policies.
National
• PFBR Nuclear Milestone: India achieved a historic milestone as the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, attained criticality, marking a major step in the second stage of India’s three-stage nuclear power programme and strengthening long-term energy security.
• Amaravati Recognised as Sole Capital: President Droupadi Murmu granted assent to the bill recognising Amaravati as the sole capital of Andhra Pradesh, resolving prolonged political and legal disputes.
• Environmental Science Made Mandatory: The Supreme Court directed all state education boards to introduce Environmental Science as a compulsory subject for Classes 1–12 beginning the 2026–27 academic session, focusing on climate awareness and sustainability.
• Ayushman Bharat Expanded: The National Health Authority announced inclusion of mental health services under Ayushman Bharat–PMJAY, improving access to psychological and psychiatric treatment.
• Election Commission Dispute: A heated meeting occurred between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) delegation and the Election Commission of India (ECI) over alleged bias by polling officials.
• Fertiliser Subsidy Approved: The Union Cabinet approved Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilisers for Kharif Season 2026, ensuring price stability for farmers.
• RBI Maintains Repo Rate: The Reserve Bank of India retained the repo rate at 5.25%, citing global economic instability.
• Aviation Sector Relief: The Ministry of Civil Aviation reduced landing and parking charges by 25% for domestic airlines for three months to stabilise operations amid rising fuel costs.
International Affairs
• India Welcomes US–Iran Ceasefire: India supported the US–Iran ceasefire agreement, brokered through diplomatic efforts, and emphasised the importance of uninterrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
• Tariff Warning by United States: US President Donald Trump warned of 50% tariffs on countries supplying weapons to Iran, continuing pressure despite the ceasefire.
• Leadership Development: To Lam was re-elected as the President of Vietnam, ensuring continuity in national leadership.
• Diplomatic Outreach: India hosted foreign diplomats in New Delhi to strengthen Global South cooperation and regional engagement.
• UNSC Deadlock: Russia and China vetoed a UN resolution seeking the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, prolonging uncertainty in global shipping routes.
Global Geopolitical Crisis
• Energy Market Instability Continues: Despite the ceasefire, global crude oil prices remained elevated at around $115 per barrel, reflecting prolonged disruptions in supply chains.
• Growth Forecast Adjustments: Major global financial institutions revised India’s 2026 growth outlook downward to approximately 6%, citing inflationary pressures linked to energy disruptions.
Defence
• Exercise Cyclone-IV: An Indian Army contingent departed for Egypt to participate in Joint Special Forces Exercise Cyclone-IV, focusing on counter-terrorism and desert warfare operations.
• Energy Security Review: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a Group of Ministers (GoM) meeting reviewing national preparedness to maintain sufficient supplies of LPG, petrol, and coal.
• INS Sunayna Deployment: Indian naval ship INS Sunayna continued its multinational mission in the Maldives, involving personnel from 16 friendly nations to enhance maritime security under the MAHASAGAR initiative.
Science & Technology
• National Quantum Mission Progress: Government officials reviewed progress of the National Quantum Mission, confirming continued development of indigenous quantum hardware and secure communication networks.
• Nuclear Programme Advancement: Achievement of PFBR criticality strengthened India’s long-term nuclear power expansion strategy and energy diversification goals.
Sports
• Asian Wrestling Championships: Indian wrestler Nitesh won silver, while Sachin and Prince secured bronze medals in Greco-Roman events.
• Para-Archery Achievement: Payal Nag won international gold in Bangkok, marking a significant milestone.
• Cycling Achievement: UP’s Divya Singh became the first Indian woman to cycle to Everest Base Camp.
• Shooting World Record: India secured gold with a world record score in the ISSF World Cup 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event.
Global Observance
• International Romani Day: Observed globally to celebrate Romani culture and highlight challenges faced by Romani communities.
• International Day of Pink: Observed worldwide to promote awareness against bullying and discrimination, especially targeting homophobia.
Miscellaneous One-Liners Current Affairs
• Telangana: Declared cancer as a notifiable disease for improved tracking and treatment.
• Tamil Nadu: Became India’s largest textile exporter in FY 2025–26.
• West Bengal: Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra resigned from a leadership role in the Upper House.
• Banking: Bank of Baroda crossed ₹30 lakh crore global business milestone.
• Environment: The Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav campaign expanded across 100 aspirational districts to promote soil health and bio-fertiliser usage.
