Current Affairs - July 14, 2026 Current Affairs

The 84,000 cubic metre Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) water reservoir was inaugurated at the IISCO Steel Plant in Burnpur by Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries H.D. Kumaraswamy. The reservoir is designed to meet the water requirements of COB-10 and the future 4.08 MTPA expansion project through a closed-loop water circulation system supported by a newly constructed Booster Pump House. The plant also achieved significant production milestones during FY 2025–26, increased capital expenditure, and introduced measures to enhance procurement transparency, digital technology adoption, and workforce safety.

India's Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation increased to 9.87% in June 2026, up from 9.68% in May 2026. The rise was primarily driven by higher prices of food products, mineral oils, basic metals, and chemicals, reflecting continued cost pressures across multiple sectors. During the same period, the Wholesale Price Index increased from 109.9 to 110.2. While fuel and power inflation moderated compared to the previous month, elevated food and manufacturing-related prices continued to keep wholesale inflation at a high level, indicating persistent inflationary trends in the economy.

West Bengal introduced new legal provisions that authorise preventive detention without trial and permit the attachment of properties belonging to individuals identified as rioters. Under these provisions, detention orders must receive approval from the State Government within 15 days, while every case is to be reviewed by an Advisory Board within three weeks. The board must be chaired by a serving or retired High Court judge. These measures operate within the constitutional framework of preventive detention provided under Article 22 of the Constitution of India, which also lays down safeguards regarding the duration and review of detention.

The 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) 2026 was organised in Bucaramanga, Colombia. The event witnessed participation from 381 students representing 87 countries, making it one of the world's leading physics competitions for school students. India achieved an outstanding milestone by winning five gold medals, with every member of its team earning a gold medal. This performance helped India secure a joint first position alongside China, Kazakhstan, Russia, South Korea, and Taiwan, reflecting the country's consistent excellence in international science Olympiads.

Spain's Submer Group announced a $2 billion investment to strengthen the semiconductor and data centre ecosystem in Madhya Pradesh. The project is expected to create around 5,000 direct employment opportunities and includes the development of Global Capability Centres along with advanced technological infrastructure. About 15 acres of land have been allotted in the Acharpura industrial area for the data centre project, with the approval and land allotment completed in a record six days. The investment is expected to boost industrial growth, technology development, and employment in the region.

India's merchandise trade deficit reached $30.43 billion in June 2026, compared to $19.10 billion in June 2025, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 59%. During the month, merchandise exports stood at $40.41 billion, while imports were significantly higher at $70.84 billion, resulting in a wider trade gap. The increase was driven by elevated import costs, weaker export momentum compared to the previous month, and challenging global economic conditions. A persistently high trade deficit can put pressure on the current account, currency stability, and inflation, making trade policy and export growth key priorities.

Vivo entered into a joint venture with Dixon Technologies (India) Limited for manufacturing smartphones and other electronic devices in India. The venture has an equity structure of 51% held by Dixon Technologies and 49% by Vivo Mobile India, ensuring majority Indian ownership in compliance with Press Note 3 regulations. Approved by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the partnership is expected to strengthen domestic electronics manufacturing, promote local production, and support India's growing mobile device manufacturing ecosystem.

Unjha cumin and Unjha fennel were awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag to recognise their unique qualities and strong connection with the Unjha region. Gujarat is home to Unjha, one of Asia's largest spice trading centres, where these premium spices are cultivated and traded extensively. The GI certification protects the products from imitation, strengthens their regional identity, improves export opportunities, and enhances consumer confidence in their authenticity. It is also expected to help farmers secure better prices, promote value addition in the spice supply chain, and further strengthen the agricultural economy of Gujarat.

Jio Platforms announced a leadership transition as part of its preparations for a landmark Initial Public Offering (IPO). Pankaj Pawar assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer on March 24, 2026, succeeding Kiran Thomas. With around 30 years of experience in the telecommunications and digital services sector, he also serves as the Managing Director of Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd. The company aims to raise approximately ₹37,700 crore through its proposed IPO, which, if successful, would become the largest public issue in India's history.

AU Small Finance Bank partnered with Zaggle to introduce the AU Zaggle Co-branded Retail Credit Card, offering rewards on UPI and contactless payments. The card is available on both Visa and RuPay networks, giving customers flexibility in their preferred payment method. It provides Zagg Coins on eligible transactions, cashback redemption through the zagg. money app, airport lounge access, fuel surcharge waivers, and curated value passes for dining, grocery, and utility payments. The collaboration aims to enhance digital payment experiences by combining banking services with fintech-driven spend management solutions.