29 July 2026 Current Affairs: Questions and MCQs
Question 1: Which organisation released the Sub-Sectoral Trial Index of Services Production on 29 July 2026?
Answer: The National Statistical Office (NSO).
Question 2: What is the base year of the Sub-Sectoral Trial Index of Services Production?
Answer: 2024–25.
Question 3: What is the total financial outlay of the PARIVARTAN Scheme?
Answer: ₹9,585 crore.
Question 4: How much Central Government support has been allocated under the PARIVARTAN Scheme?
Answer: ₹5,041 crore.
Question 5: Which ministry will implement the PARIVARTAN Scheme?
Answer: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Question 6: Which types of vehicles are primarily covered under the PARIVARTAN Scheme?
Answer: Old and high-emission commercial trucks and buses operating in Delhi-NCR.
Question 7: How many AI use cases have been identified under the IndiaAI Mission?
Answer: 762 AI use cases.
Question 8: The identified AI use cases under the IndiaAI Mission cover how many ministries?
Answer: 62 ministries.
Question 9: How many AI Centres of Excellence have been approved under the IndiaAI Mission?
Answer: 58.
Question 10: How many Data and AI Labs have been approved under the IndiaAI Mission?
Answer: 543.
Question 11: What is the total outlay of the Research, Development and Innovation Scheme?
Answer: ₹1 lakh crore over six years.
Question 12: Which two organisations received assistance of ₹1,000 crore each under the RDI Scheme?
Answer: Technology Development Board and Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council.
Question 13: How many projects have been approved by TDB under the RDI Scheme?
Answer: 22 projects.
Question 14: What is the revised bid submission deadline for the global tender under the REPM Scheme?
Answer: 12 August 2026.
Question 15: What annual manufacturing capacity is targeted under the REPM Scheme?
Answer: 6,000 metric tonnes per annum.
Question 16: What is the approved financial outlay for Semicon 2.0?
Answer: ₹1,27,500 crore.
Question 17: What interest subvention is available to eligible students under the PM-Vidyalaxmi Scheme?
Answer: 3%.
Question 18: Who was appointed as India’s next Ambassador to Mexico on 29 July 2026?
Answer: Ngulkham Jathom Gangte.
Question 19: What decline in tuberculosis incidence was reported by India?
Answer: 21%.
Question 20: What tuberculosis treatment coverage rate was reported for India?
Answer: 92%.
Question 21: When is Global Tiger Day observed every year?
Answer: 29 July.
Question 22: India is home to approximately what percentage of the world’s wild tiger population?
Answer: Approximately 70%.
Question 1. Which organisation released the Sub-Sectoral Trial Index of Services Production on 29 July 2026?
A. Reserve Bank of India
B. National Statistical Office
C. NITI Aayog
D. Finance Commission
Correct answer: B. National Statistical Office
Explanation: The National Statistical Office, under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, released the Sub-Sectoral Trial Index of Services Production for May 2026 on 29 July 2026. The experimental series covers 19 service subsectors and uses 2024–25 as its base year.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: RBI did not release this index.
- B: This is the correct answer.
- C: NITI Aayog is not the issuing organisation.
- D: The Finance Commission does not publish this monthly services index.
Question 2. What is the base year of the Sub-Sectoral Trial Index of Services Production?
A. 2011–12
B. 2022–23
C. 2023–24
D. 2024–25
Correct answer: D. 2024–25
Explanation: According to the official release dated 29 July 2026, the trial series of the Index of Services Production uses 2024–25 as its base year. The series is being released experimentally to assess data quality, test its resilience and obtain feedback from users and other stakeholders.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is not the base year of the trial series.
- B: The official base year is not 2022–23.
- C: The official release does not prescribe 2023–24.
- D: This is the correct answer.
Question 3. What is the total financial outlay of the PARIVARTAN Scheme?
A. ₹5,041 crore
B. ₹7,280 crore
C. ₹9,585 crore
D. ₹1 lakh crore
Correct answer: C. ₹9,585 crore
Explanation: The PARIVARTAN Scheme has a total financial outlay of ₹9,585 crore, including Central Government support of ₹5,041 crore. It seeks to replace old and high-emission commercial trucks and buses operating in Delhi-NCR with cleaner BS-VI-compliant and electric vehicles.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is the Central Government’s share, not the total outlay.
- B: This is the financial outlay of the REPM Scheme.
- C: This is the correct answer.
- D: This is the outlay of the RDI Scheme.
Question 4. Which ministry will implement the PARIVARTAN Scheme?
A. Ministry of Heavy Industries
B. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
C. Ministry of Power
D. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Correct answer: B. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
Explanation: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways will implement the PARIVARTAN Scheme. Funding will be routed through the National Capital Region Planning Board under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. The programme covers Delhi and NCR districts located in Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: The Ministry of Heavy Industries is not the implementing ministry.
- B: This is the correct answer.
- C: The Ministry of Power has not been assigned implementation.
- D: The scheme has an environmental objective, but this is not its implementing ministry.
Question 5. Consider the following statements about the PARIVARTAN Scheme:
- It covers old commercial trucks and buses.
- It promotes BS-VI-compliant and electric vehicles.
- It is limited to the municipal boundaries of Delhi.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct answer: A. 1 and 2 only
Explanation: The PARIVARTAN Scheme covers old and polluting commercial trucks and buses and promotes their replacement with BS-VI-compliant and electric alternatives. The third statement is incorrect because its geographical coverage extends beyond Delhi to NCR districts in Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is the correct combination.
- B: Statement 3 is incorrect.
- C: Statement 2 is also correct.
- D: All three statements are not correct.
Question 6. The IndiaAI Mission identified 762 AI use cases across how many ministries?
A. 58
B. 62
C. 72
D. 543
Correct answer: B. 62
Explanation: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology informed the Lok Sabha on 29 July 2026 that the IndiaAI Mission had identified 762 AI use cases across 62 ministries. The Mission is promoting AI-based solutions in healthcare, agriculture, governance, climate action, cybersecurity and financial regulation.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is the number of approved AI Centres of Excellence.
- B: This is the correct answer.
- C: The official number is not 72.
- D: This is the number of approved Data and AI Labs.
Question 7. How many Data and AI Labs have been approved under the IndiaAI Mission?
A. 543
B. 762
C. 58
D. 62
Correct answer: A. 543
Explanation: The official update published on 29 July 2026 stated that 543 Data and AI Labs and 58 AI Centres of Excellence had been approved under the IndiaAI Mission. These initiatives are intended to improve AI education, capacity building and access to technology, including in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is the correct number.
- B: This is the number of identified AI use cases.
- C: This is the number of AI Centres of Excellence.
- D: This is the number of ministries covered.
Question 8. Which of the following is not one of the seven pillars of the IndiaAI Mission?
A. IndiaAI Compute
B. IndiaAI FutureSkills
C. Safe and Trusted AI
D. National Semiconductor Export Board
Correct answer: D. National Semiconductor Export Board
Explanation: The seven pillars include IndiaAI Compute, Foundation Models, Application Development Initiative, FutureSkills, AIKosh, Safe and Trusted AI and Startup Financing. The National Semiconductor Export Board is not listed as a pillar of the IndiaAI Mission. Semiconductor development is addressed through other government programmes.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: It is an official pillar.
- B: It is an official pillar focused on AI skills.
- C: It is an official pillar focused on responsible AI.
- D: It is not an IndiaAI Mission pillar.
Question 9. What is the total outlay of the Research, Development and Innovation Scheme?
A. ₹84,084 crore
B. ₹9,585 crore
C. ₹1 lakh crore
D. ₹1,27,500 crore
Correct answer: C. ₹1 lakh crore
Explanation: According to information presented in the Lok Sabha on 29 July 2026, the Research, Development and Innovation Scheme has an outlay of ₹1 lakh crore over six years. Its purpose is to encourage private-sector participation in research, technological development and commercialisation.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is not the notified RDI outlay.
- B: This is the PARIVARTAN outlay.
- C: This is the correct answer.
- D: This is the Semicon 2.0 outlay.
Question 10. Which two organisations received assistance of ₹1,000 crore each under the RDI Scheme?
A. DRDO and ISRO
B. CSIR and ICAR
C. SIDBI and NABARD
D. TDB and BIRAC
Correct answer: D. TDB and BIRAC
Explanation: The Technology Development Board and Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council received sanctioned assistance of ₹1,000 crore each under the RDI Scheme. This amounts to total sanctioned assistance of ₹2,000 crore. Of this, ₹500 crore was disbursed to TDB in March 2026.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: These organisations were not the two recipients named in the update.
- B: CSIR and ICAR were not named as recipients.
- C: SIDBI and NABARD were not the recipients mentioned.
- D: This is the correct answer.
Question 11. Consider the following statements about the RDI Scheme:
- It provides only financial grants.
- It can provide long-term, low-interest loans.
- It can use equity and equity-linked instruments.
Which statements are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Explanation: The RDI Scheme does not provide financial grants. Assistance is primarily extended through long-term, low-interest loans, equity and equity-linked instruments. It prioritises projects with the potential to produce significant technological advancement and commercialisation rather than routine or incremental research.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: Statement 1 is incorrect.
- B: This is the correct answer.
- C: Statement 1 is incorrect.
- D: All three statements are not correct.
Question 12. What is the revised bid submission deadline under the REPM Scheme’s global tender?
A. 10 August 2026
B. 11 August 2026
C. 12 August 2026
D. 13 August 2026
Correct answer: C. 12 August 2026
Explanation: On 29 July 2026, the Ministry of Heavy Industries extended the bid submission deadline under the REPM Scheme from 29 July to 12 August 2026. The opening of technical bids was rescheduled from 30 July to 13 August 2026 to provide stakeholders with more time.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is not the revised deadline.
- B: The official deadline is not 11 August.
- C: This is the correct answer.
- D: This is the date for opening the technical bids.
Question 13. What annual integrated manufacturing capacity is targeted under the REPM Scheme?
A. 5,000 metric tonnes
B. 6,000 metric tonnes
C. 7,280 metric tonnes
D. 9,585 metric tonnes
Correct answer: B. 6,000 metric tonnes
Explanation: The Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets aims to establish an integrated manufacturing capacity of 6,000 metric tonnes per annum in India. The Scheme has a financial outlay of ₹7,280 crore and seeks to reduce import dependence in a strategically important sector.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: The official target is not 5,000 MTPA.
- B: This is the correct answer.
- C: ₹7,280 crore is the Scheme’s outlay, not its production capacity.
- D: This figure relates to the PARIVARTAN outlay.
Question 14. What is the approved financial outlay for Semicon 2.0?
A. ₹1,27,500 crore
B. ₹1 lakh crore
C. ₹7,280 crore
D. ₹9,585 crore
Correct answer: A. ₹1,27,500 crore
Explanation: The electronics manufacturing update published on 29 July 2026 stated that Semicon 2.0 had been approved with an outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore. It aims to support Indian-designed chips, fabrication units, advanced packaging, semiconductor materials, gases and equipment. Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is the correct answer.
- B: This is the RDI Scheme’s outlay.
- C: This is the REPM Scheme’s outlay.
- D: This is the PARIVARTAN Scheme’s outlay.
Question 15. What is the maximum annual family income for receiving 3% interest subvention under PM-Vidyalaxmi?
A. ₹4 lakh
B. ₹6 lakh
C. ₹8 lakh
D. ₹10 lakh
Correct answer: C. ₹8 lakh
Explanation: According to the PM-Vidyalaxmi backgrounder published on 29 July 2026, eligible students with an annual family income of up to ₹8 lakh can receive 3% interest subvention. The Scheme offers collateral-free and guarantor-free education loans to students admitted on merit to designated Quality Higher Educational Institutions. Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is not the prescribed limit.
- B: The official limit is not ₹6 lakh.
- C: This is the correct answer.
- D: ₹10 lakh is not the notified limit for this benefit.
Question 16. Who was appointed India’s next Ambassador to Mexico on 29 July 2026?
A. Ngulkham Jathom Gangte
B. Vinay Mohan Kwatra
C. Harsh Vardhan Shringla
D. Sanjay Verma
Correct answer: A. Ngulkham Jathom Gangte
Explanation: The Ministry of External Affairs announced on 29 July 2026 that Ngulkham Jathom Gangte had been appointed India’s next Ambassador to Mexico. For examination purposes, students should remember the name of the appointee, the diplomatic position and the country concerned. Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is the correct appointment.
- B: He was not named in this announcement.
- C: He was not appointed through this release.
- D: This name was not given in the official announcement.
Question 17. What tuberculosis treatment coverage rate was reported for India on 29 July 2026?
A. 72%
B. 82%
C. 87%
D. 92%
Correct answer: D. 92%
Explanation: Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda stated during the “Parliamentarians Championing a TB Mukt Bharat” meeting that India had recorded a 21% decline in TB incidence and achieved a treatment coverage rate of 92%. The meeting emphasised early detection, community participation and district-level monitoring. Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: The official figure was not 72%.
- B: The treatment coverage rate was not 82%.
- C: The release did not report 87%.
- D: This is the correct answer.
Question 18. Consider the following statements about the TB update published on 29 July 2026:
- India reported a 21% decline in TB incidence.
- India reported 92% treatment coverage.
- The meeting focused only on hospital construction.
Which statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct answer: A. 1 and 2 only
Explanation: The Health Ministry reported a 21% decline in TB incidence and treatment coverage of 92%. The meeting was not limited to hospital construction. It highlighted community participation, early detection, district-level monitoring, indigenous innovation, AI-enabled diagnostics and patient support as important components of the TB elimination effort.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: This is the correct combination.
- B: Statement 3 is incorrect.
- C: Statement 2 is also correct.
- D: All three statements are not correct.
Question 19. Global Tiger Day is observed annually on:
A. 22 May
B. 5 June
C. 29 July
D. 4 October
Correct answer: C. 29 July
Explanation: Global Tiger Day is observed every year on 29 July to increase awareness about tiger conservation and the protection of tiger habitats. Its establishment is associated with the 2010 St. Petersburg Tiger Summit and the Global Tiger Recovery Program. Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: 22 May is observed as the International Day for Biological Diversity.
- B: 5 June is World Environment Day.
- C: This is the correct answer.
- D: 4 October is observed as World Animal Day.
Question 20. Consider the following statements about Global Tiger Day:
- It is observed on 29 July.
- Its establishment is associated with the 2010 St. Petersburg Tiger Summit.
- India is home to approximately 70% of the world’s wild tiger population.
Which statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct answer: D. 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: All three statements are correct. Global Tiger Day is observed on 29 July and is associated with the 2010 St. Petersburg Tiger Summit. According to the official government update published on 29 July 2026, India is home to approximately 70% of the global wild tiger population.
Why are the other options incorrect?
- A: Statement 3 is also correct.
- B: Statement 2 is also correct.
- C: Statement 1 is also correct.
- D: This is the correct answer.
Section 3: Quick Revision Quiz
- Which organisation released the Services Production Index on 29 July 2026?
- What is the base year of the trial Services Production Index?
- What is the total outlay of the PARIVARTAN Scheme?
- How many AI use cases were identified under the IndiaAI Mission?
- How many projects were approved by TDB under the RDI Scheme?
- What is the revised bid deadline under the REPM Scheme?
- What is the approved outlay for Semicon 2.0?
- What interest subvention is available under PM-Vidyalaxmi?
- Who was appointed India’s next Ambassador to Mexico?
- When is Global Tiger Day observed?
Answer Key
- National Statistical Office
- 2024–25
- ₹9,585 crore
- 762
- 22 projects
- 12 August 2026
- ₹1,27,500 crore
- 3%
- Ngulkham Jathom Gangte
- 29 July
Daily Current Affairs 29 July 2026: Important Current Affairs for Competitive Exams
This Daily Current Affairs article covers only examination-relevant news and official updates published on 29 July 2026. Important topics include the Services Production Index, PARIVARTAN Scheme, IndiaAI Mission, Research, Development and Innovation Scheme, rare-earth magnet manufacturing, Semicon 2.0, PM-Vidyalaxmi, India’s tuberculosis elimination efforts, a diplomatic appointment and Global Tiger Day.
The material is useful for SSC, Banking, Railway, UPSC, Defence, Teaching and State-Level Competitive Examinations. The one-liners support quick revision, while the MCQs test factual understanding and exam readiness. Current Affairs and related Static GK have been presented separately to help students distinguish the latest development from permanent background information.
Current Affairs at a Glance
No.Major updateCategoryPublication dateKey examination fact1Services Production Index releasedEconomy29 July 2026Base year 2024–252PARIVARTAN Scheme details publishedEnvironment and transport29 July 2026Total outlay of ₹9,585 crore3IndiaAI Mission updateScience and technology29 July 2026762 AI use cases identified4RDI Scheme progress reportedScience and technology29 July 2026Total outlay of ₹1 lakh crore5REPM tender deadline extendedManufacturing29 July 2026Revised deadline: 12 August 20266Electronics manufacturing updateEconomy and technology29 July 2026Semicon 2.0 outlay: ₹1,27,500 crore7PM-Vidyalaxmi backgrounder publishedEducation29 July 20263% interest subvention8Ambassador to Mexico appointedAppointment29 July 2026Ngulkham Jathom Gangte9TB Mukt Bharat meeting heldHealth29 July 2026TB incidence declined by 21%10Global Tiger Day observedEnvironment29 July 2026India has approximately 70% of the world’s wild tigers
National News
PARIVARTAN Scheme for Cleaner Commercial Vehicles in Delhi-NCR
The Government published detailed information about the PARIVARTAN Scheme on 29 July 2026. The programme seeks to replace old and high-emission commercial trucks and buses operating in Delhi-NCR with cleaner BS-VI-compliant and electric vehicles.
- Publication date: 29 July 2026
- Total financial outlay: ₹9,585 crore
- Central Government support: ₹5,041 crore
- Implementing ministry: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
- Funding route: National Capital Region Planning Board
- Coverage: Delhi and NCR districts in Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh
- Objective: To reduce vehicular pollution by modernising the commercial vehicle fleet
- Exam importance: Remember its outlay, implementing ministry, vehicle category and geographical coverage.
- One-line revision: PARIVARTAN focuses on replacing old commercial trucks and buses in Delhi-NCR with cleaner alternatives.
The initiative itself had received Union Cabinet approval on 3 June 2026, while its detailed official update was published on 29 July 2026. PM-Vidyalaxmi Supports Access to Higher Education
An official backgrounder on the PM-Vidyalaxmi Scheme was published on 29 July 2026. The Scheme seeks to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent meritorious students from accessing quality higher education.
- Ministry: Ministry of Education
- Beneficiaries: Students admitted on merit to designated Quality Higher Educational Institutions
- Loan facility: Collateral-free and guarantor-free education loans
- Interest assistance: 3% interest subvention for eligible students with annual family income up to ₹8 lakh
- Application system: A unified digital portal
- Portal functions: Loan application, status tracking, interest-subvention claims and grievance submission
- Exam importance: Focus on the beneficiary category, income limit and interest-subvention rate.
- One-line revision: PM-Vidyalaxmi provides collateral-free and guarantor-free education loans to eligible students.
The Scheme supports progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 4, which concerns inclusive and equitable quality education. Parliamentarians Asked to Support TB Elimination
Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda chaired a meeting titled “Parliamentarians Championing a TB Mukt Bharat” with Members of Parliament from West Bengal on 29 July 2026. The meeting was held at the Extended Parliament House Annexe in New Delhi.
The Health Ministry reported that:
- India had recorded a 21% decline in TB incidence.
- India’s TB treatment coverage rate had reached 92%.
- The decline in incidence was described as nearly twice the global pace.
- Early detection, community participation and district-level monitoring require continued strengthening.
- Indigenous innovations, AI-enabled diagnostics and improved patient support are important components of the elimination effort.
- The broader objective is to strengthen progress towards eliminating tuberculosis by 2030.
One-line revision: India reported a 21% decline in TB incidence and 92% treatment coverage. International News
Ngulkham Jathom Gangte Appointed India’s Next Ambassador to Mexico
The Ministry of External Affairs announced on 29 July 2026 that Ngulkham Jathom Gangte had been appointed India’s next Ambassador to Mexico.
- Appointee: Ngulkham Jathom Gangte
- Position: India’s next Ambassador
- Country: Mexico
- Announcement date: 29 July 2026
- Exam importance: Questions may ask the name of the appointee and the country of appointment.
- Static GK: Mexico’s capital is Mexico City, and its currency is the Mexican peso.
- One-line revision: Ngulkham Jathom Gangte was appointed India’s next Ambassador to Mexico.
The official announcement did not provide confirmed information about the predecessor; therefore, no assumption has been made. Economy and Banking
Sub-Sectoral Trial Index of Services Production Released
The National Statistical Office, under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, released the Sub-Sectoral Trial Index of Services Production for May 2026 on 29 July 2026.
The news belongs to the current affairs of 29 July because that was its publication date. However, the statistical reference period of the report was May 2026.
Important findings included:
- Base year: 2024–25
- Number of service subsectors covered: 19
- Subsectors recording positive annual growth: 16
- Subsectors recording double-digit growth: 8
- Accommodation and food: 27.4%
- Real estate: 17.7%
- Retail trade: 13.3%
- Banking: 12.1%
- Telecommunications: 11.8%
- Air transport: –2.8%
- Postal and courier: –1%
- Information and broadcasting: –7.6%
The monthly indices are being published experimentally. Data for railways, banking and insurance are provisional and may undergo annual revision.
An official electronics manufacturing update published on 29 July 2026 stated that:
- Electronics production had increased sevenfold to more than ₹13 lakh crore over the previous 12 years.
- Electronics exports had increased elevenfold to more than ₹4 lakh crore.
- The electronics manufacturing ecosystem supported approximately 25 lakh jobs.
- Mobile manufacturing accounted for approximately 12 lakh jobs.
- Women constituted nearly 70% of the workforce in high-precision manufacturing segments.
The update also referred to Semicon 2.0, which had been approved with an outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore.
Semicon 2.0 seeks to support:
- Indian-designed chips
- Semiconductor fabrication units
- Advanced packaging
- Semiconductor materials and gases
- Equipment required for semiconductor manufacturing
- Development of the broader semiconductor ecosystem
One-line revision: Semicon 2.0 has an approved outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore.
Science and Technology
IndiaAI Mission Identifies 762 AI Use Cases
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology informed the Lok Sabha on 29 July 2026 that the IndiaAI Mission had identified 762 AI use cases across 62 ministries.
Other important achievements included:
- AI Centres of Excellence approved: 58
- Data and AI Labs approved: 543
- National-level hackathons and innovation challenges launched: 11
The seven pillars of the IndiaAI Mission are:
- IndiaAI Compute
- Foundation Models
- IndiaAI Application Development Initiative
- IndiaAI FutureSkills
- AIKosh
- Safe and Trusted AI
- IndiaAI Startup Financing
The Mission is developing AI solutions in healthcare, agriculture, governance, climate action, cybersecurity and financial regulation. An IndiaAI Safety Institute is also being established to support indigenous research, standards, testing and risk assessment related to AI safety.
One-line revision: IndiaAI Mission identified 762 AI use cases across 62 ministries.
Progress of the Research, Development and Innovation Scheme
Information presented in the Lok Sabha on 29 July 2026 highlighted the progress of the Research, Development and Innovation Scheme.
- Total outlay: ₹1 lakh crore over six years
- Primary objective: Encourage private-sector participation in research and development
- Assistance sanctioned to TDB: ₹1,000 crore
- Assistance sanctioned to BIRAC: ₹1,000 crore
- Amount disbursed to TDB in March 2026: ₹500 crore
- Projects approved by TDB: 22
- Total cost of TDB-approved projects: ₹4,744 crore
- RDI Fund support involved: ₹2,192 crore
- Projects shortlisted by BIRAC: 8
- Proposed BIRAC support: ₹390.35 crore
The RDI Scheme does not provide financial grants. Assistance is delivered primarily through long-term, low-interest loans, equity and equity-linked instruments. Applications are evaluated according to their potential for technological advancement and commercialisation.
One-line revision: The RDI Scheme has an outlay of ₹1 lakh crore and does not provide financial grants.
REPM Global Tender Deadline Extended
On 29 July 2026, the Ministry of Heavy Industries extended the bidding schedule for the global tender issued under the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets.
- Previous bid deadline: 29 July 2026
- Revised bid deadline: 12 August 2026
- Revised date for opening technical bids: 13 August 2026
- Scheme outlay: ₹7,280 crore
- Target manufacturing capacity: 6,000 metric tonnes per annum
Rare Earth Permanent Magnets are used in:
- Electric vehicles
- Wind turbines
- High-end electronics
- Aerospace systems
- Defence systems
The Scheme seeks to establish an integrated domestic value chain from NdPr oxide to finished magnets and reduce import dependence.
One-line revision: The revised REPM bid submission deadline is 12 August 2026.
Environment and Ecology
Global Tiger Day 2026
Global Tiger Day is observed every year on 29 July to promote awareness about tiger conservation and the protection of tiger habitats.
Its establishment is associated with the 2010 St. Petersburg Tiger Summit, where 13 Tiger Range Countries launched the Global Tiger Recovery Program and adopted the TX2 ambition of doubling the world’s wild tiger population by 2022.
According to the official government update published on 29 July 2026:
- India is home to approximately 70% of the world’s wild tiger population.
- The day promotes international cooperation and public participation.
- It provides an opportunity to review progress in tiger and habitat conservation.
No officially verified theme was clearly provided in the cited government release. Therefore, no theme has been stated.
One-line revision: Global Tiger Day is observed on 29 July, and India has approximately 70% of the world’s wild tigers.
Defence News
No separate major defence development published on 29 July 2026 could be verified from the selected official sources. The defence applications of Rare Earth Permanent Magnets have already been covered under Science and Technology. No unrelated defence story has been added merely to fill this section.
Sports News
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games were ongoing on 29 July 2026. Since the relevant events had not all concluded on that date, ongoing competitions have not been presented as final results.
Commonwealth Sport reported that approximately 100 delegates from the Commonwealth and the global major-events sector participated in a three-day Future Host Observer Programme in Glasgow. Since this programme had limited direct value for the targeted examinations, it was not used to create MCQs.
Appointments and Resignations
PersonAppointmentOrganisation/CountryPredecessorDateAdditional factNgulkham Jathom GangteIndia’s next AmbassadorMexicoNot provided in the official announcement29 July 2026Appointment announced by the Ministry of External Affairs
Awards and Honours
No major award or honour officially announced on 29 July 2026 was identified from the selected authoritative sources. No award from another date has been added to fill this section.
Reports and Indices
Report or indexIssuing organisationIndia’s rank/statusTop countryPublication dateKey factSub-Sectoral Trial Index of Services ProductionNSO, MoSPIMeasures 19 Indian service subsectorsNot applicable29 July 2026Base year 2024–25
This is a domestic production index and not an international ranking. Therefore, India’s rank and a top-performing country are not applicable.
Government Schemes and Campaigns
SchemeMinistryObjectiveTarget group or regionUpdate published on 29 JulyPARIVARTANMinistry of Road Transport and HighwaysReplace old commercial vehicles with cleaner alternativesDelhi-NCRTotal outlay of ₹9,585 crorePM-VidyalaxmiMinistry of EducationImprove access to higher educationEligible students in designated QHEIs3% interest subventionRDI SchemeDepartment of Science and TechnologyEncourage private R&D investmentEligible technology entitiesTDB had approved 22 projectsREPM SchemeMinistry of Heavy IndustriesPromote domestic rare-earth magnet manufacturingSelected manufacturersBid deadline extended to 12 August
Important Days
DayDateOfficial themeObjectiveImportant factGlobal Tiger Day29 JulyOfficial confirmation not available in the cited releasePromote tiger conservationIndia has approximately 70% of the world’s wild tigers
State News
No state-level update published on 29 July 2026 was identified from the selected official sources that was sufficiently important for national competitive examinations. No local or unverified report has been added merely to fill this section.
Section 6: Static GK Connection
Current Affairs topicRelated Static GKFact to rememberServices Production IndexNSO functions under MoSPIThe trial index uses 2024–25 as its base yearPARIVARTANDelhi-NCR includes districts from three neighbouring statesHaryana, Rajasthan and Uttar PradeshIndiaAI MissionIt is associated with MeitYIt has seven pillarsRDI SchemeTDB and BIRAC are implementation-related institutionsThe Scheme uses financial instruments, not grantsREPM SchemeRare Earth Permanent Magnets are strategically importantUsed in EVs, wind turbines, aerospace and defencePM-VidyalaxmiQHEI means Quality Higher Educational InstitutionLoans are collateral-free and guarantor-freeIndia-Mexico relationsCapital of MexicoMexico CityIndia-Mexico relationsCurrency of MexicoMexican pesoTB eliminationTB is caused by a bacteriumMycobacterium tuberculosisGlobal Tiger DayAssociated with the 2010 St. Petersburg Tiger SummitObserved annually on 29 JulySemicon 2.0Semiconductor ecosystemCovers chips, fabs, packaging, materials and equipment
Section 7: Current Affairs Summary
The important current affairs of 29 July 2026 covered the economy, technology, education, health, diplomacy and the environment. The National Statistical Office released the experimental Services Production Index with 2024–25 as its base year. The PARIVARTAN Scheme, with an outlay of ₹9,585 crore, aims to replace old commercial trucks and buses in Delhi-NCR with cleaner alternatives.
The IndiaAI Mission identified 762 AI use cases across 62 ministries and approved 543 Data and AI Labs. The RDI Scheme has a total outlay of ₹1 lakh crore, while Semicon 2.0 has an approved outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore. Under PM-Vidyalaxmi, eligible students can receive 3% interest subvention on education loans.
Ngulkham Jathom Gangte was appointed India’s next Ambassador to Mexico. India also reported a 21% decline in TB incidence and 92% treatment coverage. Global Tiger Day was observed on 29 July, with India accounting for approximately 70% of the world’s wild tiger population. For examinations, students should focus particularly on the figures, institutions, ministries and appointments associated with these developments.
Section 8: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What were the most important current affairs of 29 July 2026?
The major topics included the Services Production Index, PARIVARTAN Scheme, IndiaAI Mission, RDI Scheme, Semicon 2.0, PM-Vidyalaxmi, the TB elimination update, India’s Ambassador to Mexico and Global Tiger Day.
2. Which facts are most likely to be asked in competitive examinations?
Important facts include the PARIVARTAN outlay, IndiaAI use cases, RDI outlay, REPM bid deadline, Semicon 2.0 outlay, PM-Vidyalaxmi interest subvention and the Ambassador appointed to Mexico.
3. Does this article include news from 28 July 2026?
No. The main news items, one-liners and MCQs are based on official updates published on 29 July 2026.
4. Why does the Services Production Index contain May 2026 data?
The report was published on 29 July 2026, but its statistical reference period was May 2026. It is therefore a current affairs update for 29 July, although the data describe May.
5. Which examinations will this Current Affairs material help with?
It is useful for SSC, Banking, Railway, UPSC, Defence, Teaching and State-Level Competitive Examinations.
Section 9: Source Verification
Source or institutionRelated updatePublication dateDirect URLMoSPI/NSOSub-Sectoral Trial Index of Services Production29 July 2026Official reportPIB/Ministry of Road Transport and HighwaysPARIVARTAN Scheme29 July 2026Official releasePIB/MeitYIndiaAI Mission29 July 2026Official releasePIB/Ministry of Science and TechnologyRDI Scheme29 July 2026Official releasePIB/Ministry of Heavy IndustriesREPM tender extension29 July 2026Official releasePIB/MeitYElectronics manufacturing and Semicon 2.029 July 2026Official releasePIB/Education backgrounderPM-Vidyalaxmi29 July 2026Official backgrounderMinistry of External AffairsAmbassador to Mexico29 July 2026Official announcementPIB/Ministry of Health and Family WelfareTB Mukt Bharat meeting29 July 2026Official releasePIB/Ministry of EnvironmentGlobal Tiger Day29 July 2026Official release
Fact-check completed.
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