Daily Current Affairs 20 June 2026
Daily current affairs for 20 June 2026 — 16 verified news items across National, Science & Tech, Economy & more, with exam-angle notes, keywords and practice…
In this digest · 16 items
National
Centre bans 16 fixed-dose drug combinations over health risks
The Indian government has banned 16 fixed-dose drug combinations (FDCs) due to public health concerns. These FDCs, which contain two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients in a fixed ratio, were found to lack therapeutic justification and pose potential health risks. The ban aims to protect public health by removing unsafe drug combinations from the market.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Why did the Centre ban 16 fixed-dose drug combinations?
- ADue to their high cost
- BBecause they lack therapeutic justification and pose health risksCorrect
- CTo promote traditional medicine
- DDue to manufacturing issues
Explanation The Centre banned 16 fixed-dose drug combinations citing their lack of therapeutic justification and potential health risks.
Q2 What are fixed-dose drug combinations (FDCs)?
- ADrugs with a single active ingredient
- BDrugs containing two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients in a fixed ratioCorrect
- CDrugs used only for chronic diseases
- DDrugs that are administered intravenously
Explanation FDCs are drugs that contain two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients in a fixed ratio.
Q3 Which of the following was included in the banned fixed-dose drug combinations?
- AParacetamolCorrect
- BIbuprofen
- CAmoxicillin
- DMetformin
Explanation Paracetamol was among the fixed-dose drug combinations banned by the Centre.
Vivek Aggarwal Becomes First Indian Vice President of FATF
Vivek Aggarwal, an IAS officer, has been appointed as the vice president of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), marking the first time India holds this position. This appointment is a significant milestone as India strengthens its efforts to combat global terrorist financing and improve financial integrity. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the importance of this role in advancing India's focus on these critical issues.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Who has been appointed as the first Indian vice president of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)?
- AVivek AggarwalCorrect
- BAjay Kumar
- CRajnath Singh
- DSundar Pichai
Explanation Vivek Aggarwal, an IAS officer, was appointed as the first Indian vice president of FATF.
Q2 What is the significance of Vivek Aggarwal's appointment as FATF vice president?
- AIndia's first time holding the FATF vice-presidencyCorrect
- BIndia hosting the FATF headquarters
- CIndia leading the FATF presidency
- DIndia withdrawing from FATF
Explanation This is the first time India holds the vice-presidency of FATF, marking a key milestone.
Q3 According to the Ministry of External Affairs, what focus does India intensify with this FATF appointment?
- ACombating global terrorist financing and enhancing financial integrityCorrect
- BPromoting international trade agreements
- CExpanding digital currency usage
- DIncreasing foreign direct investment
Explanation The appointment highlights India's intensified focus on combating global terrorist financing and enhancing financial integrity.
Nagpur NEET-UG Aspirant Allotted Abu Dhabi Centre for Re-test; NTA Admits Error
Ahead of the NEET-UG re-test scheduled on 21 June 2026, a candidate from Nagpur was mistakenly allotted Abu Dhabi as his exam centre. The National Testing Agency (NTA) acknowledged the error as a technical glitch and assured the student of a corrected local admit card after verification. The incident drew criticism, including from political leader Rahul Gandhi, who slammed the NTA over the mistake.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What mistake did the NTA admit regarding the NEET-UG re-test for a Nagpur candidate?
- AAllotted Abu Dhabi as the exam centreCorrect
- BCancelled the candidate's exam
- CDelayed the exam date
- DChanged the exam syllabus
Explanation The NTA admitted a glitch that led to allotting Abu Dhabi as the exam centre for a Nagpur-based candidate.
Q2 Who criticized the NTA over the NEET re-exam admit card issue?
- ARahul GandhiCorrect
- BNarendra Modi
- CAmit Shah
- DArvind Kejriwal
Explanation Rahul Gandhi slammed the NTA after the Nagpur student was allotted Abu Dhabi as the exam centre.
Q3 What action did the NTA promise after admitting the mistake in the NEET re-test centre allotment?
- AIssuing a revised local admit card after verificationCorrect
- BPostponing the exam indefinitely
- CConducting the exam online
- DIncreasing the exam fee
Explanation The NTA assured the student of a revised local admit card after verification.
NTA Conducts Nationwide Mock Drill Ahead of NEET-UG Re-exam
The National Testing Agency (NTA) is conducting a nationwide mock drill on June 20 to test preparedness and coordination among agencies ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination. The re-exam will be held in pen-and-paper mode from 2 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad, involving over 22.79 lakh candidates. The mock drill aims to ensure smooth conduct and enhanced security at examination centres.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What is the primary purpose of the nationwide mock drill conducted by NTA on June 20?
- ATo test preparedness and coordination among agencies for NEET-UG re-examCorrect
- BTo conduct the actual NEET-UG re-examination
- CTo announce the NEET-UG results
- DTo train candidates for the NEET-UG exam
Explanation The mock drill is aimed at testing preparedness at examination centres and streamlining coordination among various agencies involved in the process.
Q2 How many cities in India will host the NEET-UG re-examination?
- A551Correct
- B14
- C22.79 lakh
- D5
Explanation The re-examination will be conducted in 551 cities across India.
Q3 In what mode will the NEET-UG re-examination be conducted?
- AOnline computer-based test
- BPen-and-paper modeCorrect
- COral examination
- DHome-based test
Explanation The re-exam will be conducted in pen-and-paper mode.
NEET Aspirant Dies by Falling from Building in Indore Due to Exam Stress
A NEET-UG aspirant in Indore died after falling from a building. Her family stated that she took her own life due to stress related to the exam. The girl was reportedly disheartened after the recent question paper leak and was also stressed after multiple attempts to clear the test.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What was the primary reason cited by the family for the NEET aspirant's death in Indore?
- AShe took her life due to exam stressCorrect
- BShe died in a road accident
- CShe suffered from a chronic illness
- DShe was a victim of a crime
Explanation The family stated that the girl took her life due to exam stress.
Q2 What additional factor contributed to the NEET aspirant's distress according to reports?
- ARecent question paper leakCorrect
- BFinancial difficulties
- CLack of coaching facilities
- DHealth issues
Explanation The girl was disheartened after the recent question paper leak.
Q3 What challenge had the NEET aspirant faced before her death?
- AMultiple attempts to clear the testCorrect
- BRelocation to another city
- CChange of academic stream
- DParticipation in sports events
Explanation She was stressed after multiple attempts to clear the NEET test.
Kerala Revised Budget Highlights Kasaragod Focus, Kochi Corporation Neglect
The Kerala revised budget has given special focus to Kasaragod district with major measures announced in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and welfare for endosulfan victims. In contrast, the Kochi Corporation has been notably neglected in the budget allocations, receiving short shrift despite its urban significance. These contrasting budgetary priorities have sparked discussions on regional development and resource distribution within Kerala.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which district received special focus in the Kerala revised budget?
- AKochi Corporation
- BThiruvananthapuram
- CKasaragodCorrect
- DErnakulam
Explanation The Kerala revised budget gave special focus to Kasaragod district with major measures in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and welfare.
Q2 What was the budgetary treatment of Kochi Corporation in the Kerala revised budget?
- AReceived increased funding
- BGot special focus
- CReceived short shriftCorrect
- DAllocated funds for new projects
Explanation Kochi Corporation was notably neglected and received short shrift in the Kerala revised budget.
Q3 Which of the following sectors were majorly addressed in Kasaragod district in the Kerala revised budget?
- AHealthcare, education, infrastructure, and endosulfan victim welfareCorrect
- BAgriculture and tourism
- CIndustrial development and transport
- DSports and cultural activities
Explanation The budget announced major measures in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and welfare for endosulfan victims in Kasaragod.
Abhigyan App Enables Instant Fingerprint Scanning for Police
The Abhigyan app has been introduced to assist police and probe agencies in scanning thumb impressions collected via portable scanners. This app allows instant verification against the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS) database within seconds. Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted that this technological advancement will significantly strengthen ground-level policing by enabling quicker identification of suspects on the streets.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What is the primary function of the Abhigyan app introduced for police use?
- ATo scan thumb impressions and verify them against the NAFIS database instantlyCorrect
- BTo track the location of police personnel in real-time
- CTo record audio evidence during investigations
- DTo manage police personnel attendance
Explanation The Abhigyan app allows police to scan thumb impressions collected on portable scanners and check them against the NAFIS database within seconds.
Q2 According to Home Minister Amit Shah, what is the expected impact of the Abhigyan app on policing?
- AIt will reduce paperwork in police stations
- BIt will strengthen ground-level policingCorrect
- CIt will increase the number of police personnel
- DIt will improve traffic management
Explanation Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the app will strengthen ground-level policing by enabling quick identification of suspects.
Q3 Which database does the Abhigyan app use to verify fingerprints?
- ANational Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)
- BNational Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS)Correct
- CCentral Bureau of Investigation (CBI) database
- DInterpol fingerprint database
Explanation The app checks thumb impressions against the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS) database.
Science & Tech
OpenAI's Healthcare Transformation Led by Indian Researcher Karan Singhal
OpenAI is making significant investments in healthcare, focusing on improving medical and wellness advice through AI. This initiative is led by Karan Singhal, an Indian researcher and former Google scientist. The company's latest AI models are being developed to provide better health guidance as millions of users increasingly rely on ChatGPT for medical information.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Who is leading OpenAI's healthcare initiative focused on AI-driven health guidance?
- ASundar Pichai
- BKaran SinghalCorrect
- CSatya Nadella
- DArvind Krishna
Explanation Karan Singhal, a former Google researcher, is leading OpenAI's healthcare efforts.
Q2 What is the primary focus of OpenAI's latest AI models in healthcare?
- ADeveloping new pharmaceuticals
- BProviding better health guidanceCorrect
- CManaging hospital logistics
- DConducting medical research
Explanation OpenAI's latest AI models are designed to deliver better health guidance.
Q3 Which AI platform are millions increasingly using for medical and wellness advice, as mentioned in the article?
- AGoogle Health
- BIBM Watson
- CChatGPTCorrect
- DMicrosoft Azure
Explanation Millions are increasingly turning to ChatGPT for medical and wellness advice.
Economy
Nirmala Sitharaman Urges Strategic Use of Development Finance in Northeast
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that externally aided project funding to India's Northeast has increased nearly eightfold to ₹76,000 crore since 2014. She emphasized the importance of using this development finance strategically to improve governance and service delivery in the region.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 By how much has externally aided project funding to India's Northeast increased since 2014 according to FM Nirmala Sitharaman?
- ANearly eightfoldCorrect
- BNearly fivefold
- CDoubled
- DRemained the same
Explanation Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that externally aided project funding to Northeast India has risen nearly eightfold since 2014.
Q2 What is the approximate amount of externally aided project funding to Northeast India since 2014 as mentioned by FM Sitharaman?
- A₹76,000 croreCorrect
- B₹50,000 crore
- C₹100,000 crore
- D₹25,000 crore
Explanation The funding to Northeast India has reached nearly ₹76,000 crore since 2014.
Q3 According to FM Nirmala Sitharaman, what should states use the development finance for in Northeast India?
- ATo strengthen governance and service deliveryCorrect
- BTo increase industrial production
- CTo build more highways
- DTo promote tourism
Explanation FM Sitharaman urged states to use development finance strategically to improve governance and service delivery.
AI Boom Supports Asia-Pacific Amid West Asia Conflict, Moody's Analytics
Moody's Analytics reported that AI-driven exports and investments have helped the Asia-Pacific region, including India, to withstand the economic impact of the West Asia conflict. However, the outlook remains cautious due to risks such as rising oil prices, inflation, trade tensions, and weather-related disruptions, which could potentially slow down growth in the coming years.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 According to Moody's Analytics, what has helped the Asia-Pacific region withstand the economic impact of the West Asia conflict?
- AAI-led exports and investmentCorrect
- BIncreased agricultural production
- CGovernment subsidies
- DForeign aid from Europe
Explanation Moody's Analytics stated that AI-led exports and investment have helped Asia-Pacific weather the fallout from the West Asia conflict.
Q2 Which of the following risks did Moody's Analytics highlight as potential factors that could slow growth in Asia-Pacific?
- AHigher oil prices, inflation, trade tensions, and weather disruptionsCorrect
- BDecline in AI technology adoption
- CReduced foreign direct investment from the US
- DDecrease in population growth
Explanation The report mentions higher oil prices, inflation, trade tensions, and weather-related disruptions as risks that could slow growth.
Q3 What is the economic outlook for India and the Asia-Pacific region according to Moody's Analytics?
- AGrowth supported by AI but threatened by inflation and oil price risksCorrect
- BRapid growth due to agricultural exports
- CDecline due to lack of technological investment
- DStable growth with no significant risks
Explanation Moody's Analytics notes that AI supports growth but risks like inflation and oil prices could slow it down.
Tata Consumer Products Aims for 17% EBITDA Margin in 3 Years
Tata Consumer Products is planning to increase its EBITDA margin from the current 13.9% to 17% within three years. The company aims to achieve this by overhauling its distribution model and capitalizing on the growth of quick commerce. Additionally, recent acquisitions have expanded Tata Consumer's presence into the food services and pharmacy sectors, supporting its margin improvement strategy.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What EBITDA margin target has Tata Consumer Products set for the next three years?
- A13.9%
- B15%
- C17%Correct
- D20%
Explanation Tata Consumer Products aims to increase its EBITDA margin to 17% within three years from the current 13.9%.
Q2 Which sectors has Tata Consumer Products recently entered through acquisitions?
- AAutomobile and textiles
- BFood services and pharmacyCorrect
- CReal estate and banking
- DTelecom and IT
Explanation Recent acquisitions have helped Tata Consumer Products expand into the food services and pharmacy sectors.
Q3 What strategy is Tata Consumer Products using to improve its margins?
- AReducing workforce
- BEnhancing distribution channels and leveraging quick commerceCorrect
- CIncreasing product prices
- DFocusing only on traditional retail
Explanation The company is improving margins by overhauling its distribution model and leveraging the growth of quick commerce.
Jio Files for India's Biggest Ever IPO Worth ₹35,000-₹40,000 Crore
Jio has filed for an initial public offering (IPO) estimated between ₹35,000 crore and ₹40,000 crore, aiming to become India's largest-ever IPO. Mukesh Ambani stated that this listing will showcase India's ability to build technology companies with global scale and value. This IPO surpasses the recent filing by NSE for a ₹30,000 crore IPO, which was also set to be India's biggest public issue but had faced regulatory delays for nearly a decade.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which company has filed for India's biggest-ever IPO estimated between ₹35,000 crore and ₹40,000 crore?
- ANSE
- BJioCorrect
- CReliance Industries
- DTata Consultancy Services
Explanation Jio has filed for an IPO estimated between ₹35,000 crore and ₹40,000 crore, making it India's biggest-ever IPO.
Q2 What milestone did Mukesh Ambani say the Jio IPO would demonstrate?
- AIndia's dominance in agriculture
- BIndia's ability to build technology companies of global scale and valueCorrect
- CIndia's leadership in manufacturing
- DIndia's financial market stability
Explanation Mukesh Ambani stated that the Jio IPO will demonstrate India's ability to build technology companies of global scale, capability, and value.
Q3 Which other company recently filed for an IPO that was set to be India's biggest before Jio's filing?
- ATata Motors
- BNSECorrect
- CInfosys
- DHDFC Bank
Explanation NSE filed for a ₹30,000 crore IPO, which was set to be India's biggest public issue before Jio's larger filing.
Bata India Appoints Sanjay Rao as MD & CEO, Shares Surge Over 16%
Bata India has appointed Sanjay Rao, a former Nike Retail executive, as its new Managing Director and CEO. He succeeds Gunjan Shah, who is concluding his five-year tenure leading the company. Following the announcement, Bata India's shares surged over 16%. The company is focusing on a turnaround plan aimed at attracting Gen-Z shoppers.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Who has been appointed as the new MD & CEO of Bata India?
- AGunjan Shah
- BSanjay RaoCorrect
- CRatan Tata
- DMukesh Ambani
Explanation Sanjay Rao, a former Nike Retail executive, has been appointed as the new MD & CEO of Bata India.
Q2 What was the immediate market reaction to the appointment of Bata India's new CEO?
- AShares fell by 10%
- BShares surged over 16%Correct
- CNo change in shares
- DShares surged over 5%
Explanation Following the announcement of Sanjay Rao as CEO, Bata India's shares surged over 16%.
Q3 Who did Sanjay Rao succeed as the MD & CEO of Bata India?
- AGunjan ShahCorrect
- BSundar Pichai
- CAnand Mahindra
- DNarayana Murthy
Explanation Sanjay Rao succeeded Gunjan Shah, who completed his five-year tenure as MD & CEO of Bata India.
Sports
Morocco Captain Achraf Hakimi to Stand Trial for Rape During World Cup 2026
Morocco football captain Achraf Hakimi, currently participating in the FIFA World Cup 2026, is set to stand trial for a rape case. Hakimi expressed on social media that he is waiting 'impatiently' for the trial and stated he feels like 'an easy target.' This development has drawn significant attention as it unfolds during the ongoing World Cup event.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What legal issue is Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi currently facing during the FIFA World Cup 2026?
- AStanding trial for a rape caseCorrect
- BAccused of match-fixing
- CCharged with doping violation
- DInvolved in a contract dispute
Explanation Achraf Hakimi is set to stand trial for a rape case during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Q2 How did Achraf Hakimi describe his situation regarding the trial on social media?
- AHe said he is confident of winning
- BHe called himself an easy targetCorrect
- CHe denied all allegations publicly
- DHe requested privacy and silence
Explanation Hakimi stated on social media that he feels like 'an easy target' and is waiting impatiently for the trial.
Q3 During which major sporting event is Achraf Hakimi facing the trial?
- AFIFA World Cup 2026Correct
- BUEFA European Championship 2026
- CCopa America 2026
- DOlympic Games 2026
Explanation The trial is taking place while Achraf Hakimi is participating in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Government Schemes
Kerala Budget Grants Industry Status and Benefits to Tourism Sector
The Kerala Budget announced industry status and associated benefits for the tourism sector. Stakeholders have welcomed this move, highlighting its potential to boost the industry. The budget also includes provisions for necessary legal amendments to increase land availability for tourism development in the plantation sector, aiming to enhance growth opportunities within the tourism industry.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What significant status was granted to the tourism sector in the Kerala Budget?
- AIndustry statusCorrect
- BAgricultural status
- CEducational status
- DHealthcare status
Explanation The Kerala Budget granted industry status to the tourism sector.
Q2 What legal change did the Kerala Budget propose to support tourism development?
- AAmendments to increase land availability in the plantation sectorCorrect
- BNew tax laws for tourism businesses
- CRestrictions on land use in urban areas
- DSubsidies for hotel construction
Explanation The budget includes legal amendments to make more land available for tourism in the plantation sector.
Q3 How did stakeholders react to the Kerala Budget's announcement on tourism?
- AThey hailed the industry status granted to tourismCorrect
- BThey opposed the budget proposals
- CThey demanded more subsidies
- DThey requested removal of legal amendments
Explanation Stakeholders hailed the granting of industry status to the tourism sector.
Tamil Nadu
Kerala Revised Budget Approves Cheemeni Industrial Park and MT Cultural Park
Kerala's revised budget includes in-principle approval for the Cheemeni industrial park in Trikaripur, expected to generate around 15,000 jobs. Additionally, ₹50 crore has been allocated for a multidisciplinary cultural park in memory of MT, designed to host various art forms. These initiatives are part of the state's development plans to boost employment and cultural heritage.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What is the expected employment generation from the Cheemeni industrial park approved in Kerala's revised budget?
- A10,000 jobs
- B15,000 jobsCorrect
- C20,000 jobs
- D25,000 jobs
Explanation The Cheemeni industrial park is expected to generate around 15,000 employment opportunities as per the revised budget.
Q2 How much money has Kerala allocated for the cultural park in memory of MT?
- A₹25 crore
- B₹50 croreCorrect
- C₹75 crore
- D₹100 crore
Explanation Kerala has allocated ₹50 crore for the proposed multidisciplinary cultural park in memory of MT.
Q3 Which constituency is the Cheemeni industrial park project associated with?
- ATrikaripurCorrect
- BKozhikode
- CThiruvananthapuram
- DAlappuzha
Explanation The Cheemeni industrial park project is among development initiatives approved for the Trikaripur constituency.
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