Lighthouse Prep · Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs 22 September 2026

Daily current affairs for 22 September 2026 — 19 verified news items across Sports, Economy, National & more, with exam-angle notes, keywords and practice MCQs.

Published 22 September 2026 · current affairs · daily digest · sports · economy · national · international

Part of September 2026 current affairs: the month's top stories by topic

Free to start — daily digests, practice questions and a study plan built round your exam.

Sports

India Women’s Cricket Team Wins First Gold at Asian Games 2026

India Women’s Cricket Team Wins First Gold at Asian Games 2026
Photo: The Hindu

At the Asian Games 2026, the Indian women's cricket team secured the country's first gold medal in the event by defeating Sri Lanka in the final. Smriti and Shafali provided a strong start with a 99-run opening partnership, while Richa's cameo helped set a challenging total. The Indian spin quartet then effectively dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup to seal a dominant victory.

Exam angle Questions may focus on India's first gold medal achievement in women's cricket at the Asian Games 2026 and key players involved.
India women's cricket teamAsian Games 2026Sri LankaSmritiShafaliRichaspin quartet

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 Which event did the Indian women's cricket team win to secure India's first gold at the Asian Games 2026?

  • AMen's T20 cricket final
  • BWomen's T20 cricket finalCorrect
  • CMixed doubles badminton final
  • DKabaddi final

Explanation The Indian women's cricket team won the Women's T20 cricket final at the Asian Games 2026, securing India's first gold medal in the event.

Q2 Who provided the 99-run opening partnership for India in the Asian Games 2026 women's cricket final?

  • ARicha and Shafali
  • BSmriti and Richa
  • CSmriti and ShafaliCorrect
  • DShafali and the spin quartet

Explanation Smriti and Shafali provided a scintillating 99-run opening stand in the final.

Q3 What role did the Indian spin quartet play in the women's cricket final at Asian Games 2026?

  • AThey scored the majority of runs
  • BThey set a high target with their batting
  • CThey demolished the Sri Lankan batting lineupCorrect
  • DThey took crucial catches in the field

Explanation The Indian spin quartet effectively dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup to secure the win.

Zaheer Khan appointed Chennai Super Kings head coach for IPL 2027

Zaheer Khan appointed Chennai Super Kings head coach for IPL 2027
Photo: The Hindu

Zaheer Khan, former Indian pacer, has been named the head coach of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the IPL 2027 season. He replaces Stephen Fleming, the New Zealand cricketer who coached CSK from 2009 to 2026. Zaheer's appointment came on the recommendation of former CSK captain MS Dhoni.

Exam angle Questions may focus on recent coaching changes in IPL teams and notable cricket personalities involved.
Zaheer KhanChennai Super KingsStephen FlemingIPL 2027MS Dhoni

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 Who has been appointed as the head coach of Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2027?

  • AStephen Fleming
  • BZaheer KhanCorrect
  • CMS Dhoni
  • DRavindra Jadeja

Explanation Zaheer Khan was appointed as the head coach of CSK for IPL 2027, replacing Stephen Fleming.

Q2 Who did Zaheer Khan replace as the head coach of Chennai Super Kings?

  • AMS Dhoni
  • BStephen FlemingCorrect
  • CTom Moody
  • DMike Hesson

Explanation Stephen Fleming coached CSK from 2009 to 2026 before Zaheer Khan took over in 2027.

Q3 On whose recommendation was Zaheer Khan appointed as CSK head coach?

  • ARavindra Jadeja
  • BStephen Fleming
  • CMS DhoniCorrect
  • DSuresh Raina

Explanation Zaheer Khan's appointment as CSK head coach was made on the recommendation of MS Dhoni.

India to face Sri Lanka in women's cricket final at Asian Games 2026

India to face Sri Lanka in women's cricket final at Asian Games 2026
Photo: The Hindu

At the Asian Games 2026 held in Japan, India secured a place in the women's cricket final by defeating Bangladesh in the semifinal. Shafali Verma played a remarkable unbeaten century, scoring 100 runs off 49 balls, including 9 sixes and 3 fours, helping India post 195 for four. As of September 21, India had won six medals in total, comprising four silver and two bronze, and was set to compete against Sri Lanka in the women's cricket final, awaiting their first gold medal at the event.

Exam angle Questions may focus on India's performance and key players in the women's cricket event at Asian Games 2026.
Asian Games 2026IndiaSri Lankawomen's cricketShafali VermaBangladeshJapan

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 Who did India defeat to reach the women's cricket final at the Asian Games 2026?

  • ASri Lanka
  • BBangladeshCorrect
  • CPakistan
  • DChina

Explanation India defeated Bangladesh in the semifinal to reach the women's cricket final.

Q2 What was Shafali Verma's contribution in the semifinal match against Bangladesh?

  • AUnbeaten 100 runs off 49 ballsCorrect
  • B50 runs off 30 balls
  • C75 runs off 60 balls
  • DUnbeaten 120 runs off 55 balls

Explanation Shafali Verma scored an unbeaten 100 runs off 49 balls, including 9 sixes and 3 fours.

Q3 As of September 21, 2026, how many medals had India won at the Asian Games?

  • A6 medals: 4 silver, 2 bronzeCorrect
  • B5 medals: 3 gold, 2 silver
  • C7 medals: 2 gold, 3 silver, 2 bronze
  • D4 medals: 1 gold, 2 silver, 1 bronze

Explanation India had won six medals in total: four silver and two bronze, awaiting their first gold.

India Secures Four Silver and Two Bronze Medals at Asian Games 2026

India Secures Four Silver and Two Bronze Medals at Asian Games 2026
Photo: The Hindu

At the 2026 Asian Games held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, India achieved a total of four silver and two bronze medals by the conclusion of Day 3. Notably, Indian fighter Suchika Tariyal made history by winning a bronze medal in the women's traditional 60kg mixed martial arts event. On the opening day, India secured two silver medals and ranked 10th in the medal standings.

Exam angle Questions may focus on India's medal tally and notable achievements at the 2026 Asian Games.
IndiaAsian Games 2026Suchika Tariyalmixed martial artsAichi-Nagoyasilver medalsbronze medals

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 How many silver medals did India win at the 2026 Asian Games by the end of Day 3?

  • ATwo
  • BFourCorrect
  • CSix
  • DEight

Explanation India won four silver medals at the 2026 Asian Games by the end of Day 3.

Q2 Which Indian athlete made history by winning a bronze medal in the women's traditional 60kg mixed martial arts event at the 2026 Asian Games?

  • ASuchika TariyalCorrect
  • BMary Kom
  • CP.V. Sindhu
  • DSaina Nehwal

Explanation Suchika Tariyal secured a bronze medal in the women's traditional 60kg mixed martial arts event, making history for India.

Q3 Where were the 2026 Asian Games held?

  • ANew Delhi, India
  • BAichi-Nagoya, JapanCorrect
  • CBeijing, China
  • DSeoul, South Korea

Explanation The 2026 Asian Games took place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

India Defeats Indonesia 13-1 in Asian Games Men's Hockey Opener

India Defeats Indonesia 13-1 in Asian Games Men's Hockey Opener
Photo: The Hindu

In the Asian Games men's hockey opener, India dominated Indonesia with a 13-1 victory. During the match, India maintained relentless pressure on the Indonesian defense. A notable moment occurred in the 27th minute when Manpreet Singh was fouled inside the 'D' while attempting to score on a rebound, leading to a penalty stroke for India.

Exam angle Questions may focus on India's performance and key moments in the Asian Games men's hockey opener.
IndiaIndonesiaAsian GamesMen's HockeyManpreet SinghPenalty Stroke

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 What was the final score in the Asian Games men's hockey opener between India and Indonesia?

  • A13-1Correct
  • B10-2
  • C5-0
  • D8-3

Explanation India defeated Indonesia with a score of 13-1 in the men's hockey opener at the Asian Games.

Q2 Who was fouled inside the 'D' leading to a penalty stroke for India in the match against Indonesia?

  • AManpreet SinghCorrect
  • BSardar Singh
  • CPR Sreejesh
  • DHarmanpreet Singh

Explanation Manpreet Singh was fouled inside the 'D' while trying to score on a rebound, resulting in a penalty stroke for India.

Q3 At what minute did India earn a penalty stroke in their match against Indonesia?

  • A27th minuteCorrect
  • B15th minute
  • C35th minute
  • D40th minute

Explanation India earned a penalty stroke in the 27th minute after Manpreet Singh was fouled inside the 'D'.

Economy

PhonePe Receives In-Principle Approval for Two Payment Licences in UAE

PhonePe Receives In-Principle Approval for Two Payment Licences in UAE
Photo: Livemint

PhonePe has received in-principle approval from the UAE central bank for two licences covering retail payment services, card schemes, and stored value facilities. This regulatory nod is a significant step for PhonePe as it plans to expand its fintech operations into the UAE market. However, the company must obtain final regulatory approval before it can commence commercial operations in the UAE.

Exam angle Questions may focus on PhonePe's expansion into the UAE and the regulatory approvals required for fintech operations abroad.
PhonePeUAE central bankretail payment servicescard schemesstored value facilitiesfintechpayment licences

Source Livemint

Practice MCQs

Q1 What type of licences has PhonePe received in-principle approval for from the UAE central bank?

  • ARetail payment services and card schemes with stored value facilitiesCorrect
  • BInsurance and investment services
  • CCryptocurrency trading and exchange
  • DTelecommunication and internet services

Explanation PhonePe received in-principle approval for licences covering retail payment services, card schemes, and stored value facilities.

Q2 What must PhonePe obtain before starting commercial operations in the UAE?

  • AFinal regulatory approval from the UAE central bankCorrect
  • BApproval from the Indian government
  • CPartnership with a UAE bank
  • DApproval from the World Bank

Explanation PhonePe must obtain final regulatory approval from the UAE central bank before commencing commercial operations.

Q3 Why is the UAE central bank's approval significant for PhonePe?

  • AIt allows PhonePe to begin commercial payment operations in the UAECorrect
  • BIt grants PhonePe exclusive rights to operate in the UAE
  • CIt permits PhonePe to issue cryptocurrency in the UAE
  • DIt enables PhonePe to merge with a UAE fintech company

Explanation The approval is a regulatory step allowing PhonePe to start commercial payment operations in the UAE.

Starbucks to Establish Global Capability Centre in Chennai, Creating 800 Jobs

Starbucks to Establish Global Capability Centre in Chennai, Creating 800 Jobs
Photo: The Hindu

Starbucks has announced plans to set up its Global Capability Centre (GCC) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, aiming to hire 800 technology professionals. This move highlights Chennai's growing importance as a hub for global tech operations, with the city accounting for roughly a tenth of India's GCC base. Tamil Nadu's Minister S. Keerthana praised the decision as a strong endorsement of the state's talent, capabilities, and business environment.

Exam angle Questions may focus on recent investments by global companies in Indian cities and their impact on employment and economic growth.
StarbucksGlobal Capability CentreChennaiTamil Nadutechnology professionalsS. Keerthana

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 What is the primary purpose of Starbucks setting up a Global Capability Centre in Chennai?

  • ATo open new coffee shops in Chennai
  • BTo hire 800 technology professionalsCorrect
  • CTo manufacture coffee products
  • DTo launch a new beverage line

Explanation Starbucks plans to establish a Global Capability Centre in Chennai to hire 800 technology professionals.

Q2 According to the sources, what percentage of India's GCC base does Chennai account for?

  • AAbout 5%
  • BRoughly a tenthCorrect
  • CNearly half
  • DMore than a quarter

Explanation Chennai accounts for roughly a tenth of the GCC base in India.

Q3 Who commented on Starbucks' decision to set up its GCC in Chennai, highlighting it as an endorsement of Tamil Nadu's talent and business environment?

  • APrime Minister of India
  • BMinister S. KeerthanaCorrect
  • CCEO of Starbucks
  • DGovernor of Tamil Nadu

Explanation Minister S. Keerthana stated that Starbucks choosing Chennai is a strong endorsement of the state's talent and business environment.

India's Core Sector Growth Slows to 4.8% in August 2026

India's Core Sector Growth Slows to 4.8% in August 2026
Photo: Livemint

India's core sector growth eased to 4.8% in August 2026. The slowdown was due to contractions in coal, oil, gas, and fertilizer output. Gains in cement, electricity, and iron ore production were not sufficient to offset the declines. Energy supply issues and reduced fertilizer production were key factors contributing to the deceleration in core sector growth.

Exam angle Questions may focus on recent trends and factors affecting India's core sector growth.
Indiacore sector growthcoaloilfertilizerscementelectricityiron ore

Source Livemint

Practice MCQs

Q1 What was the core sector growth rate in India for August 2026?

  • A4.8%Correct
  • B6.2%
  • C3.5%
  • D5.5%

Explanation The core sector growth in August 2026 was reported as 4.8%.

Q2 Which sectors showed a decline contributing to the easing of core sector growth in August 2026?

  • ACoal, oil, gas, and fertilizersCorrect
  • BCement, electricity, and iron ore
  • CSteel and textiles
  • DAutomobiles and electronics

Explanation Declines in coal, oil, gas, and fertilizers output led to the slowdown in core sector growth.

Q3 What were the main reasons cited for the slowdown in India's core sector growth in August 2026?

  • AEnergy supply issues and fertilizer production declineCorrect
  • BLabor strikes and export restrictions
  • CMonsoon failure and inflation
  • DGlobal demand slump and currency depreciation

Explanation Energy supply issues and fertilizer production decline were the main reasons for the slowdown.

Government Plans ₹10,000 Crore Investment to Modernise Weather Forecasting

Government Plans ₹10,000 Crore Investment to Modernise Weather Forecasting
Photo: Livemint

The Indian government is considering a proposal by the Ministry of Earth Sciences to invest ₹10,000 crore to modernise the country's weather forecasting capabilities. The finance ministry is currently reviewing the fiscal impact of this proposal and is expected to make a decision soon. The initiative aims to enhance prediction models and establish a robust early-warning system to improve weather forecasting accuracy and disaster preparedness.

Exam angle Focus on government initiatives to improve weather forecasting and disaster management in India.
Ministry of Earth SciencesFinance Ministryweather forecastingearly-warning systemIndia

Source Livemint

Practice MCQs

Q1 What is the proposed investment amount to modernise India's weather forecasting?

  • A₹1,000 crore
  • B₹5,000 crore
  • C₹10,000 croreCorrect
  • D₹15,000 crore

Explanation The proposal aims for a ₹10,000 crore investment to modernise weather forecasting in India.

Q2 Which ministry proposed the plan to strengthen weather prediction models in India?

  • AMinistry of Finance
  • BMinistry of Earth SciencesCorrect
  • CMinistry of Environment
  • DMinistry of Home Affairs

Explanation The Ministry of Earth Sciences proposed the plan to enhance weather forecasting.

Q3 What is the main objective of the ₹10,000 crore weather forecasting proposal?

  • ATo build new meteorological stations
  • BTo create an ecosystem for better prediction models and early-warning systemsCorrect
  • CTo increase rainfall in drought-prone areas
  • DTo develop new climate change policies

Explanation The proposal aims to strengthen prediction models and set up a robust early-warning system.

ASML Partners with Tata Electronics to Boost India's Semiconductor Ecosystem

ASML Partners with Tata Electronics to Boost India's Semiconductor Ecosystem
Photo: Livemint

ASML has entered India through a partnership with Tata Electronics, aligning with the development of India's semiconductor ecosystem. This collaboration is particularly linked to Tata Electronics' upcoming 300 mm semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera, Gujarat, marking a significant step in advancing the country's semiconductor ambitions.

Exam angle Focus on India's semiconductor industry growth through international partnerships and infrastructure development.
ASMLTata Electronicssemiconductor ecosystem300 mm fabrication facilityDholeraGujaratIndia

Source Livemint

Practice MCQs

Q1 What is the primary focus of ASML's partnership with Tata Electronics in India?

  • ADeveloping a 300 mm semiconductor fabrication facilityCorrect
  • BLaunching a new software company
  • CBuilding a renewable energy plant
  • DEstablishing a new automobile manufacturing unit

Explanation ASML's partnership with Tata Electronics is closely connected to the development of a 300 mm semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera, Gujarat.

Q2 Where is Tata Electronics' upcoming semiconductor fabrication facility located?

  • ABengaluru, Karnataka
  • BDholera, GujaratCorrect
  • CHyderabad, Telangana
  • DChennai, Tamil Nadu

Explanation The upcoming 300 mm semiconductor fabrication facility by Tata Electronics is located in Dholera, Gujarat.

Q3 How does ASML's expansion relate to India's semiconductor ambitions?

  • AIt supports the development of India's semiconductor ecosystemCorrect
  • BIt focuses on agricultural technology
  • CIt aims to improve India's textile industry
  • DIt is unrelated to India's semiconductor sector

Explanation ASML's expansion is closely connected with the development of India's semiconductor ecosystem, supporting the country's semiconductor ambitions.

National

California Governor Declares Statewide Emergency Amid Historic El Niño Threat

California Governor Declares Statewide Emergency Amid Historic El Niño Threat
Photo: Livemint

California is bracing for historic El Niño storms, which could become the strongest on record. In response, Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a statewide emergency to protect communities and infrastructure. Several counties have already declared local emergencies due to recent flooding, and authorities are preparing for severe weather conditions linked to the El Niño phenomenon.

Exam angle Questions may focus on the impact of El Niño on California and the government's emergency response measures.
CaliforniaEl NiñoGavin Newsomstatewide emergencyflooding

Source Livemint

Practice MCQs

Q1 Why did California Governor Gavin Newsom declare a statewide emergency?

  • ADue to historic El Niño storms threatening the stateCorrect
  • BBecause of a major earthquake
  • CFollowing a wildfire outbreak
  • DDue to a drought crisis

Explanation Governor Newsom declared a statewide emergency in response to historic El Niño storms threatening California.

Q2 What have several counties in California done in response to recent flooding?

  • ADeclared local emergenciesCorrect
  • BIssued evacuation orders
  • CRequested federal military aid
  • DClosed all schools

Explanation Several counties affected by recent flooding have declared local emergencies.

Q3 What is the main purpose of the measures taken by California authorities amid the El Niño threat?

  • ATo protect communities and infrastructureCorrect
  • BTo promote tourism
  • CTo increase agricultural production
  • DTo reduce air pollution

Explanation The measures aim to protect communities and infrastructure as authorities prepare for severe weather.

Maharashtra Likely to Declare 100% Drought by Month-End: Minister

Maharashtra Likely to Declare 100% Drought by Month-End: Minister
Photo: The Hindu

Maharashtra is expected to declare 100% drought by the end of the month due to a severe dry spell, according to Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil. The government has initiated relief measures including fee waivers for students, electricity bill waivers, and deployment of water tankers to mitigate the impact of the drought.

Exam angle Questions may focus on drought conditions in Maharashtra and government relief measures.
MaharashtradroughtBabasaheb Patilfee waiverelectricity bill waiverwater tankers

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 What percentage of Maharashtra is likely to be declared drought-affected by the end of the month?

  • A50%
  • B75%
  • C100%Correct
  • D25%

Explanation The Cooperation Minister stated that 100% drought is likely to be declared in Maharashtra by month-end.

Q2 Which of the following relief measures has the Maharashtra government initiated to address the drought?

  • AFee waiver for students
  • BElectricity bill waiver
  • CDeployment of water tankers
  • DAll of the aboveCorrect

Explanation The government has initiated fee waivers for students, electricity bill waivers, and deployment of water tankers as relief measures.

Q3 Who is the Cooperation Minister of Maharashtra who spoke about the drought situation?

  • ABabasaheb PatilCorrect
  • BDevendra Fadnavis
  • CUddhav Thackeray
  • DAjit Pawar

Explanation Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil commented on the severe dry spell and drought declaration.

Supreme Court Orders Fresh Probe into 2012 Karnataka Rape-Murder Case

Supreme Court Orders Fresh Probe into 2012 Karnataka Rape-Murder Case
Photo: The Hindu

The Supreme Court has directed the Karnataka State government to constitute a new Special Investigation Team (SIT) that is tech-savvy and efficient, excluding any officers from the previous probe team. This fresh investigation pertains to the 2012 rape-murder case near Dharmasthala. The court has mandated that the investigation be completed within three months. The lone accused in the case was acquitted by a CBI court in 2023.

Exam angle Focus on judicial directives for fresh probes in unresolved criminal cases and the role of SITs in Karnataka.
Supreme CourtKarnatakaDharmasthala2012 rape-murderSpecial Investigation TeamCBI court2023 acquittal

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 What did the Supreme Court direct Karnataka to do regarding the 2012 rape-murder case near Dharmasthala?

  • AConstitute a new tech-savvy SIT excluding old probe officers and complete investigation in three monthsCorrect
  • BClose the case permanently due to lack of evidence
  • CReinstate the old investigation team to continue the probe
  • DTransfer the case to a central agency without time limit

Explanation The Supreme Court ordered Karnataka to form a new, tech-savvy SIT without any officers from the previous team and complete the investigation within three months.

Q2 What was the outcome of the lone accused in the 2012 Dharmasthala rape-murder case as per the CBI court in 2023?

  • AConvicted and sentenced to life imprisonment
  • BAcquitted by the CBI courtCorrect
  • CDeclared a juvenile and sent to reform school
  • DFled the country and remains at large

Explanation The lone accused was acquitted by the CBI court in 2023.

Tamil Nadu Justifies Demand for Clearing 16 TMC Ft Cauvery Water Backlog

Tamil Nadu Justifies Demand for Clearing 16 TMC Ft Cauvery Water Backlog
Photo: The Hindu

Tamil Nadu has explained to the Cauvery Authority the rationale behind its demand for clearing a backlog of 16 thousand million cubic feet (TMC ft) of Cauvery water. The state bases its demand on the principle of pro-rata share in the flows realized. Both the Cauvery tribunal and the Supreme Court have referred to the concept of pro-rata for adoption during times of water distress, supporting Tamil Nadu's position.

Exam angle Understanding Tamil Nadu's demand for Cauvery water backlog based on pro-rata share principle is crucial for questions on inter-state water disputes.
Tamil NaduCauvery AuthorityCauvery tribunalSupreme Courtpro-rata share16 TMC ftwater backlog

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 On what principle has Tamil Nadu based its demand for clearing the backlog of 16 TMC ft of Cauvery water?

  • AFirst-come, first-served
  • BPro-rata share in the flows realizedCorrect
  • CEqual distribution irrespective of flows
  • DTribunal's discretion

Explanation Tamil Nadu's demand is based on the principle of pro-rata share in the flows realized, as referred to by the Cauvery tribunal and the Supreme Court.

Q2 Which authorities have referred to the concept of pro-rata for adoption in times of water distress in the Cauvery dispute?

  • ACauvery Authority and Central Government
  • BCauvery tribunal and Supreme CourtCorrect
  • CState Governments of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka
  • DNational Green Tribunal and Supreme Court

Explanation Both the Cauvery tribunal and the Supreme Court have referred to the concept of pro-rata for adoption during times of distress.

Q3 What is the volume of the Cauvery water backlog Tamil Nadu has demanded to be cleared?

  • A10 TMC ft
  • B16 TMC ftCorrect
  • C20 TMC ft
  • D25 TMC ft

Explanation Tamil Nadu has demanded clearing a backlog of 16 thousand million cubic feet (TMC ft) of Cauvery water.

NHAI Introduces Uniform Design Norms for High-Speed Access-Controlled Highways

NHAI Introduces Uniform Design Norms for High-Speed Access-Controlled Highways
Photo: Livemint

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has established a uniform design framework for high-speed access-controlled national highways. This initiative aims to standardize the planning and design of high-speed corridors as India expands its network of such roads. The move is intended to ensure consistency and efficiency in the development of these highways across the country.

Exam angle Questions may focus on recent infrastructure policy changes by NHAI regarding highway design standards.
National Highways Authority of IndiaNHAIhigh-speed highwaysaccess-controlled highwaysdesign normshigh-speed corridors

Source Livemint

Practice MCQs

Q1 What recent initiative has the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) taken regarding high-speed highways?

  • AIntroduced a uniform design framework for high-speed access-controlled highwaysCorrect
  • BLaunched a new toll collection system
  • CStarted construction of the longest highway in India
  • DReduced speed limits on national highways

Explanation NHAI has introduced a uniform design framework for high-speed access-controlled national highways to standardize their planning and design.

Q2 What is the primary purpose of the uniform design norms introduced by NHAI?

  • ATo increase toll charges on highways
  • BTo standardize planning and design of high-speed corridorsCorrect
  • CTo privatize national highways
  • DTo reduce the number of highways in India

Explanation The uniform design norms aim to standardize how high-speed access-controlled corridors are planned and designed.

International

US Sets September 23 Deadline to Shut Down Iranian Airlines Globally

US Sets September 23 Deadline to Shut Down Iranian Airlines Globally
Photo: Livemint

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that Iranian airlines will be globally shut down by September 23. He warned that countries allowing Iranian aircraft to land may face secondary sanctions, including exclusion from the US dollar financial system.

Exam angle Focus on US sanctions policy against Iran and its global financial implications.
US Treasury Secretary Scott BessentIranian airlinesSeptember 23 deadlinesecondary sanctionsdollar system

Source Livemint

Practice MCQs

Q1 What deadline did the US Treasury Secretary set for the global shutdown of Iranian airlines?

  • ASeptember 23Correct
  • BOctober 1
  • CAugust 31
  • DDecember 31

Explanation The US Treasury Secretary announced that Iranian airlines will be shut down globally by September 23.

Q2 What consequence did Scott Bessent warn for countries allowing Iranian aircraft to land?

  • AThey may face secondary sanctions including exclusion from the dollar systemCorrect
  • BThey will receive US financial aid
  • CThey will be exempt from sanctions
  • DThey will be invited for diplomatic talks

Explanation Countries allowing Iranian aircraft to land may face secondary sanctions, including exclusion from the US dollar financial system.

Q3 Who announced the shutdown of Iranian airlines by September 23?

  • AUS Treasury Secretary Scott BessentCorrect
  • BUS President
  • CIranian Foreign Minister
  • DUN Secretary-General

Explanation US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the global shutdown of Iranian airlines by September 23.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to Visit US from Sept 23 to 25 for Key Discussions

Chinese President Xi Jinping to Visit US from Sept 23 to 25 for Key Discussions
Photo: Livemint

Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to visit the United States from September 23 to 25. During this state visit, Xi Jinping will engage in an in-depth exchange of views with US President Donald Trump. The discussions will focus on major issues concerning bilateral ties between China and the US, as well as topics related to world peace and development.

Exam angle Questions may focus on the significance of Xi Jinping's 2026 US visit and the key issues discussed between China and the US.
Xi JinpingUnited StatesDonald Trumpbilateral tiesworld peacestate visit

Source Livemint

Practice MCQs

Q1 When is Chinese President Xi Jinping scheduled to visit the United States in 2026?

  • ASeptember 20 to 22
  • BSeptember 23 to 25Correct
  • COctober 1 to 3
  • DAugust 15 to 17

Explanation Xi Jinping's state visit to the US is scheduled from September 23 to 25, 2026.

Q2 What is the main purpose of Xi Jinping's visit to the US as stated by the spokesperson?

  • ATo sign a new trade agreement
  • BTo have an in-depth exchange of views on bilateral ties and world peaceCorrect
  • CTo attend a cultural festival
  • DTo discuss climate change exclusively

Explanation The spokesperson stated that Xi Jinping will have an in-depth exchange of views with US President Trump on major issues concerning bilateral ties and world peace and development.

Q3 Who will Xi Jinping meet during his visit to the United States?

  • AUS Vice President
  • BUS Secretary of State
  • CUS President Donald TrumpCorrect
  • DUS Congress members

Explanation Xi Jinping will meet US President Donald Trump during his state visit.

Ebola Vaccine Tested Amid DR Congo Outbreak with Over 3,600 Deaths

Ebola Vaccine Tested Amid DR Congo Outbreak with Over 3,600 Deaths
Photo: The Hindu

The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently facing an Ebola epidemic that has resulted in 3,639 deaths out of 7,541 confirmed cases. In response to this outbreak, an Ebola vaccine is being tested within the affected zones to control the spread and reduce fatalities.

Exam angle Questions may focus on the current Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and the testing of vaccines as a response measure.
EbolaDemocratic Republic of CongoEbola vaccineoutbreakepidemic

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 How many deaths have been reported in the current Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo?

  • A3,639Correct
  • B7,541
  • C5,000
  • D2,000

Explanation The latest figures from DR Congo authorities report 3,639 deaths in the current Ebola epidemic.

Q2 What is being tested in the Democratic Republic of Congo to combat the Ebola outbreak?

  • AEbola vaccineCorrect
  • BAntiviral drugs
  • CQuarantine measures
  • DNew diagnostic tests

Explanation An Ebola vaccine is being tested in the outbreak zone to help control the epidemic.

Q3 How many confirmed Ebola cases have been reported in the current DR Congo outbreak?

  • A7,541Correct
  • B3,639
  • C10,000
  • D5,000

Explanation There have been 7,541 confirmed cases of Ebola in the current outbreak in DR Congo.

Government Schemes

Government of India Dissolves 37-Year-Old Digital Communications Commission

Government of India Dissolves 37-Year-Old Digital Communications Commission
Photo: The Hindu

The Government of India has officially decided to dissolve the Digital Communications Commission, an entity that has been in existence for 37 years. The dissolution takes effect from the date of publication of the official notification. This marks the end of the commission's role in overseeing digital communications in the country.

Exam angle Questions may focus on recent structural changes in India's digital communication governance.
Government of IndiaDigital Communications Commissiondigital communicationsnotification

Source The Hindu

Practice MCQs

Q1 What recent decision has the Government of India taken regarding the Digital Communications Commission?

  • AIt has expanded its powers
  • BIt has dissolved the commissionCorrect
  • CIt has renamed the commission
  • DIt has merged it with another department

Explanation The Government of India has decided to dissolve the Digital Communications Commission as per the official notification.

Q2 How long had the Digital Communications Commission been in existence before its dissolution?

  • A25 years
  • B30 years
  • C37 yearsCorrect
  • D40 years

Explanation The commission was 37 years old at the time of its dissolution.

Q3 When did the dissolution of the Digital Communications Commission take effect?

  • AFrom the start of the financial year
  • BFrom the date of publication of the resolutionCorrect
  • CFrom the next calendar year
  • DFrom the date of the government's announcement

Explanation The dissolution took effect from the date of publication of the official resolution.

Frequently asked questions

What are the key current affairs of September 22, 2026?
19 items spanning Sports, Economy, National. Each item carries a short summary, an exam-relevance note, and 2 to 3 MCQs you can practise immediately.
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TNPSC, SSC (CGL, CHSL), Banking (IBPS, SBI), RRB and GATE General Awareness sections. The exam-relevance line under each item highlights the most likely question angle.
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