Current Affairs - Places

Bengaluru hosted the BRICS Heads of Space Agencies (HOSA) Meeting 2026, bringing together senior representatives from all eleven BRICS member nations to strengthen cooperation in space exploration and technology. Hosted by ISRO and the Department of Space, the meeting focused on key issues such as space sustainability, satellite coordination, Earth observation, and the proposed BRICS Space Council. Discussions also covered the expansion of the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation to improve disaster management, agriculture monitoring, climate studies, and environmental protection. The event highlighted India's growing leadership in global space diplomacy and its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainable space activities.

Bharat Buildcon 2026 was inaugurated at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in New Delhi by Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar. Organised under the theme “One Nation, One Expo,” the four-day exhibition served as a major platform for showcasing innovations and advancements in the construction sector. The event witnessed participation from more than 90 countries and over 100 Indian cities, attracting over 25,000 visitors on its opening day. With exhibits spanning 24 industry segments such as cement, steel, ceramics, and electrical products, the expo highlighted infrastructure development, international trade opportunities, and the role of Free Trade Agreements in promoting economic growth.

The India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) celebrated its 15th Foundation Day in New Delhi on June 17, 2026. Established in 2011 as the training arm of the Election Commission of India, IIIDEM plays a crucial role in strengthening election management and democratic processes. The institute has conducted 1,885 training programmes and reached more than 1.2 lakh participants across 142 countries. During the celebration, a conference on capacity building and strategic planning was organised, highlighting its focus on national and global training initiatives, research, knowledge development, and the promotion of sustainable democracy and effective election management practices.

France is set to inaugurate its first traditional stone-built Hindu temple in September 2026, marking a significant milestone for the Indian diaspora and cultural heritage in Europe. The temple has been constructed using natural stones sourced from India, with its components crafted in India and later transported and assembled in France by specialised teams. The project is associated with the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, a global Hindu spiritual organisation known for constructing traditional temples worldwide. A 15-day consecration programme is planned for the inauguration. The development highlights the growing cultural presence of the Indian community in France and strengthens people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) in Mohali developed an innovative electrolyte additive named BDIM to improve the performance and lifespan of Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries (AZIBs). The additive helps reduce corrosion, suppress hydrogen evolution reactions, and prevent zinc dendrite growth, which are major challenges in battery technology. Researchers used advanced analytical techniques such as ultramicroelectrodes and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry to study the additive's effectiveness. Led by Dr Ramendra Sundar Dey, the research was published in ACS Electrochemistry. The technology has significant potential for applications in grid-scale energy storage, renewable energy integration, and reliable backup power systems.