Daily Current Affairs for UPSC IAS: 29th Oct 2026

Cyrtodactylus dimensis : New Species Of Gecko

Researchers recently discovered a new species of gecko named Cyrtodactylus dimensis in the Umrangso area of Assam’s Dima Hasao district.

• Cyrtodactylus dimensis is a new species of gecko.
• It was discovered in the Umrangso area of Assam’s Dima Hasao district.
• Dima Hasao forms part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, a region known for its rich variety of plants and animals.
• Cyrtodactylus dimensis belongs to the bent-toed gecko group.
• The species is closely related to Cyrtodactylus vanarakshaka, another gecko species described from Dima Hasao, but differs in its genetic and morphological characteristics.

First Class Order of Zayed II:

Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar recently received the UAE’s First Class Order of Zayed II for his bravery in protecting 174 passengers aboard a Flydubai flight during an alleged attack by his Omani co-pilot.

• First Class Order of Zayed II is one of the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE’s) prestigious civilian decorations.
• It is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the country’s founding President.
• It is generally awarded to foreign diplomats, senior officials, and distinguished international figures whose work has made a significant contribution to the country or its international relations.
• Two former Indian ambassadors to the UAE, Navdeep Singh Suri and Sunjay Sudhir, were previously awarded the same decoration for their contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.

Dearness Allowance (DA) : 3% Hike

The Cabinet recently approved a 3% hike in dearness allowance and dearness relief, benefiting over 1.17 crore central government employees and pensioners.

• Dearness Allowance (DA) is an allowance given to a government employee, public sector employee, and pensioner in India.
• It’s a way to mitigate the impact of rising costs of living and inflation on people’s earnings.
• It ensures that employees are protected against inflation, where the salary components help employees deal with the increasing prices of goods and essential items.
• Is DA Taxable is fully taxable under the Income Tax Act, 1961. Employees are required to declare it separately when filing income tax returns.

Types of DA:

Industrial Dearness Allowance (IDA):

• It is applicable to employees working in the public sector.
• The revision is done on a quarterly basis, depending on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), to successfully change the salaries according to the increasing rate.

Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA):

• It is mostly applicable to employees working in the central government sector.
• The revision is done twice a year based on the changes in the CPI.
• VDA has three parts:
  • Fixed Variable DA
  • Base Index
  • Consumer Price Index (CPI)

Noyyal River : Study

A recent comment by the Tamil Nadu Minister for Environment and Climate Change, that soap and shampoo used by the public can also cause excessive foaming in the Noyyal River, which flows through Tiruppur district, has sparked criticism.

• Noyyal River is an important tributary of the Cauvery River, flowing through Western Tamil Nadu.
• It originates from the Vellingiri Hills, which are part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in the Western Ghats.
• It is a seasonal river with rapid flows during the monsoon periods.
• The Noyyal River has two main tributaries: Cheyyar River (Chadiaar River) and Kanchimanadhi River.
• It is also home to major dams like Aathupalayam Dam and Orathuppalayam Dam.

Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP):

After the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) recently sought an audit of users accessing the Centre’s logistics portal following complaints that multiple apps and websites were selling vehicle information, the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) rejected the allegations of its misuse.

• Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) is a digital gateway that allows industry players to access logistics-related datasets from various Government systems through API-based integration.
• It was conceptualized by the NITI Aayog and was developed under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (PMGS-NMP).
• It was launched as part of the ‘National Logistics Policy (NLP)’ in 2022.
• The platform is maintained and operated by NICDC Logistics Data Services (NLDS).
• NICDC Logistics Data Services (NLDS) is a joint venture between the Government of India, represented by the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT), and Japanese IT major NEC Corporation, with a 50:50 equity participation.
• It covers major logistics databases, including VAHAN, SARATHI, FASTag, FOIS, ICEGATE, and Port Community Systems.
• Objectives:
  • To create a nationwide single window logistics platform for end-to-end visibility.
  • To develop a logistics gateway by integrating information available with various government agencies across the value chain.
  • To provide visibility for optimal usage of various modes of transportation.
  • To provide data which can be utilized by the stakeholders for simplification of complicated processes like compliance, document filing, certifications, and approvals.
  • To offer a platform for data exchange among government and private entities who are directly or indirectly involved in the Indian Logistics ecosystem.
• Benefits:
  • It will give direct and indirect benefits to all logistics stakeholders, like verification of drivers and vehicle details, tracking & tracing of consignment, Route Optimization Planning, and timely updates on the destination of the consignment, etc.
  • It will enable structured planning by helping in decision-making on optimum use of modes of logistics, thereby saving cost and time.

Exercise IN-RoKN:

Indian Naval Ship Sahyadri is participating in the India-Republic of Korea Navy (IN-RoKN) Bilateral Exercise which is taking place at Busan Naval Harbour, Republic of Korea.

• Exercise IN-RoKN is a bilateral naval exercise conducted between Indian Navy (IN) and South Korea Navy (RoKN).
• Phases
  • Harbour phase: During this phase personnel of both navies will participate in professional interactions, cross-deck visits, cross-training activities and sporting events.These activities will facilitate the exchange of operational experiences and Best Practices, while fostering mutual understanding and professional camaraderie.
  • Sea Phase: It involves INS Sahyadri and ROKS Munmu the Great, providing opportunities to strengthen operational coordination, enhance interoperability and consolidate professional ties between the two navies.It underscores the shared commitment of India and the Republic of Korea to strengthening maritime cooperation and contributing to peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.

INS Sahyadri:

• INS Sahyadri is the third ship of the Shivalik-class guided-missile stealth frigates. It was built by Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai.
• It is indigenously designed, constructed and commissioned in 2012.
• It is equipped with cutting-edge weapons and sensors to identify and eliminate threats from the air, the surface, and the subsurface.
• The ship is capable of carrying Barak-1 and Shtil-1 3S90M missiles, BrahMos anti-ship missiles, anti-submarine rocket launchers.
• It is equipped with a versatile array of weapons and sensors and can carry multi-role helicopters. It represents the ‘coming of age’ of India’s warship building capabilities.

Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme:

The Union Cabinet has approved the Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme (CMPS).

• Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme aims to establish a globally competitive container manufacturing ecosystem by promoting domestic manufacturing and encouraging investment across the value chain.
• The initiative seeks to reduce import dependence and strengthen supply-chain resilience.
• It also supports new manufacturing facilities and expands existing container manufacturing units.
• The scheme provides assistance through major components: investment support, operational expenditure and testing and certification.
• Components under Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme:
  • Interest Subvention Assistance (ISA):
    • ISA provides a 3% per annum interest subvention on eligible term loans (capital loans) availed by container manufacturers to set up greenfield facilities and brownfield expansion of existing manufacturing capacity.
    • To qualify for this support, projects must meet the following criteria:
    • Greenfield facilities must have an annual capacity of at least 1,00,000 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs)
    • Brownfield expansions must add at least 25,000 TEUs of annual capacity to be commissioned within three years of in-principle approval, and comply with global container standards.
  • Operational Expenditure Assistance (OEA): The component provides a financial outlay to support containers manufactured as per global shipping standards and sold by eligible manufacturers.
• Eligibility Criteria: To avail support, manufacturers must meet a minimum local-content requirement of 70% through FY 2031-32.
• These criteria will further rise to 90% from FY 2032-33 to strengthen the domestic supply chain.
• Testing and certification assistance: A financial outlay has been allocated to support the setting up of common facilities for testing, including dynamic longitudinal impact testing.

Liechtenstein:

India and Liechtenstein reaffirmed commitment to strengthen multilateral institutions.

• Liechtenstein is a small, alpine and ‘doubly landlocked’ country.
• It is bordered by Austria in the north and east; and by Switzerland in the south and west.
• It is situated on the banks of the Rhine River in Central Europe.
• Capital City: Vaduz
• Geographical Features of Liechtenstein
  • The Alpine mountains cover the eastern half of the country. The western part is dominated by the Rhine River valley.]
  • Highest Point: Vorder Grauspitz
  • Lake: Gampriner Seele.
  • Rivers: The Rhine and Samina.

Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme:

The Union Cabinet has approved the Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme.

• Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme aims to promote investment, manufacturing, innovation and exports, and strengthen India’s position in the global sports goods sector.
• It provides support across the sports goods manufacturing value chain, from infrastructure and investment to research, skills, certification and market development.
• Time Period: 2026 to 2033-34.
• It has two parts: incentives that support manufacturing and interventions that build the wider ecosystem.

Key Features of Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme:

• Developing Integrated Manufacturing Zones: These zones will bring together manufacturers, suppliers, testing facilities, design and prototyping centres, and ancillary enterprises.
• These will be developed through convergence with the BHAVYA Scheme and NICDC Industrial Parks.
• Attracting Investment and Expanding Production: The scheme earmarks a combined ₹1,130 crore for Anchor Investment Support and Turnover Linked Support.
• Anchor Investment Support will encourage leading domestic and global manufacturers, brands and retail chains to establish facilities in the designated zones.
• Turnover Linked Support will incentivize higher production, capacity expansion and sustained manufacturing growth.
• Upgrading existing clusters and supporting MSMEs: Existing sports goods manufacturing clusters will receive support for upgrading common facilities and shared infrastructure through cost-sharing with States, helping smaller enterprises strengthen their manufacturing capabilities.
• Supporting international certification: To improve access to international markets, ₹105 crore has been allocated to help manufacturers obtain and renew certifications from International Sports Federations.
• Advancing research and start-up innovation: Centres of Excellence in premier educational and research institutions will support research in sports equipment, material sciences, protective gear and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Research co-funding will be encouraged through convergence with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation. DPIIT-registered sports start-ups will be eligible for grants of up to ₹20 lakh.
• Developing industry-aligned skills: Skill development initiatives will be implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and relevant industry stakeholders to meet evolving workforce requirements.
• Promoting Indian sports goods globally: Branding, outreach and market development initiatives will draw on the Export Promotion Mission to improve the visibility of Indian sports goods and expand their international reach.

Emerging Science, Technology, and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026:

During his address at the inauguration of the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026, the Prime Minister of India called on India’s scientists to create innovations that strengthen self-reliance and benefit humanity.

• Emerging Science, Technology, and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) is India’s premier STI platform, bringing together ministries, innovators, and global visionaries.
• A flagship annual event, ESTIC fosters collaboration, showcases disruptive innovation, and drives forward the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”
• It will showcase cutting-edge research, deep-tech breakthroughs, and thought-provoking discussions with Nobel Laureates, global experts, policymakers, and emerging leaders – igniting a new era of scientific leadership.

ESTIC 2026:

• Theme: “Creative Minds, Catalysing Science, Empowering Technologies.”
• It is organised by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) under the guidance of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.

Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana:

The Union Cabinet has approved the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana (PM VGSY).

• Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) aimed at strengthening grassroots governance and rural development across the country.
• Time Period: 2026-27 to 2030-31
• The scheme will extend to all States/UTs, including institutions of rural local government (traditional local bodies) in non-Part IX areas where Panchayats do not exist.

Key Features of Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana:

• Annual planning target: Support preparation of55 lakh Gram Panchayat Development Plans on the eGramSwaraj portal, bringing together village priorities, departmental interventions and available resources.
• Capacity building: Train and provide digital support to around 32 lakh elected representatives, Panchayat functionaries and other stakeholders annually.
• Financial accountability: Support at least 2.55 lakh online audit plans annually and timely completion of the corresponding audits through AuditOnline, alongside better accounting, public disclosure and mobilisation of Panchayats’ own revenue.
• Citizen engagement: Each coordinated awareness exercise is intended to reach at least one crore citizens.
• The scheme will use Gram Sabhas and existing outreach tools, including PANCHAM, a two-way platform available in 17 Indian languages.
• Implementation: States and Union Territories will submit annual action plans for appraisal by a Central Empowered Committee. No permanent posts will be created under the scheme, although need-based contractual staff may provide technical support.

Macrophages : Study

Emerging evidence indicates that macrophage behavior emerges from the coordinated integration of ontogenetic imprinting, environmental sensing, metabolic rewiring, and epigenetic remodeling.

• Macrophages are specialised white blood cells (WBCs) that play an important role in the body’s immune system by engulfing and destroying pathogens, dead cells, and cellular debris.
• Most macrophages develop from monocytes, a type of WBC produced in the bone marrow. Some tissue-resident macrophages originate from embryonic cells.
• Macrophages do not travel through the blood. Instead, they remain in one part of the body, within specific tissues.
• Macrophages have receptors on the outside that they use like antennae. These antennae get signals from substances in the environment around them.
• If a macrophage detects something it should get rid of, it swallows or “eats” it (a process called phagocytosis, or “cell eating”).

Types:

• Macrophages have two modes (phenotypes):
  • M1, or inflammatory mode: M1 macrophages destroy germs and cancer cells and alert immune cells to infections.
  • M2, or anti-inflammatory mode: M2 macrophages help with wound healing, clearing out dead cells, and tissue repair.
• Macrophages are known for their ability to destroy foreign substances that get into the body. They also help in:
  • Activating B cells and T cells, which helps them target pathogens.
  • Removing dead and damaged cells.
  • Releasing proteins like cytokines that alert other immune cells to infections.
  • Repairing tissue, healing wounds, and reducing inflammation.
  • Breaking down old red blood cells and recycling the iron.
  • Regulating fetal tissue development.
  • Regulating organ function and maintaining homeostasis.