Welcome to today’s TNPSC Daily Current Affairs for April 23, 2026.
This comprehensive compilation covers all important events across national politics,
international relations, science & technology, economy, sports, and more.
Sourced from The Hindu, Indian Express, PIB, and other reputed media.
Perfect for TNPSC Group 1, Group 2, Group 2A, and Group 4 exam preparation.

📌 Read in Tamil: தமிழில் படிக்க இங்கே கிளிக் செய்யவும்

🏛️ National Politics & Government

1. MoEFCC Declares Area Around UP’s Barasingha WLS as ESZIn April 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate …

• What happened: MoEFCC Declares Area Around UP’s Barasingha WLS as ESZIn April 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change(MoEFCC)through itsofficial notification declared an area of 408.7 square kilometres (sq. km) around theBarasinghaWildlife Sanctuary(WLS)in Uttar Pradesh (UP), as an Eco-Sensitive Zone(ESZ).
• Key details: About Barasingh WLS:Districts Covered:The newly declared ESZ comprises 307 villages which spans across 5 districts in UP i.e. Muzaffarnagar (138.71 sq. km), Meerut (50.04 sq.
• Key points: This declaration will help in the conservation of rich biodiversity as well as support indigenous communities living in and around the WLS.; In addition, the sanctuary hosts over 280 plant species, including 81 medicinal plant species.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

2. India and Bhutan hold 7th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meeting in Munnar, Kerala

• What happened: India and Bhutan hold 7th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meeting in Munnar, KeralaIn April 2026, the7thJoint Group of Customs(JGC) MeetingbetweenIndiaandBhutanwas held from April 20-21, 2026 inMunnar, Kerala, serving as a key institutional mechanism for customs cooperation, trade facilitation, and border management. Highlights of7th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meetingKey Discussions:During the meeting, both sides discussed priority areas such as Coordinated Border Management (CBM), a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on pre-arrival customs data exchange, strengthening anti-smuggling efforts through intelligence sharing, digitisation of customs processes, and facilitating transit cargo under the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS).Review:They also reviewed issues related to border infrastructure, trade facilitation, and harmonisation of customs procedures.Intelligence Cooperation:The summit facilitates intelligence sharing between customs formations on the ongoing ‘Operation Numkhor’led by the Commissionerate of Customs (Preventive) unit in Kochi.
• Key points: The meeting was co-chaired by Yogendra Garg, Special Secretary and Member (Customs), Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), Government of India, and Sonam Jamtsho, Director General(DG), Department of Revenue and Customs, Ministry of Finance, Government of Bhutan.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

3. MoD Inks Rs.975 Crore Contract for TRAWL Assembly for T-72/T-90 Tanks

• What happened: MoD Inks Rs.975 Crore Contract for TRAWL Assembly for T-72/T-90 TanksOn April 21, 2026, the Ministry of Defence(MoD)signed contracts with Bharat Earth Movers Limited(BEML)andElectro Pneumatics and Hydraulics(India) Private Limited worth approximatelyRs.975 crorefor the procurement ofTRAWL Assembliesfor the Indian Army(IA)’sT-72(Ajeya) andT-90(Bhishma) main battle tanks. AboutTRAWL Assembly:Capability Boost:The TRAWL Assembly for T-72/T-90 tanks, developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO), is a critical system that strengthens the minefield breaching capability of the IA.Operational Advantage:It enables the creation of vehicle-safe lanes through minefields, including those with anti-tank mines fitted with proximity magnetic fuses, thereby enhancing overall operational effectiveness.Impact:This project involves an extensive network of MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) for component manufacturing, which will generate direct and indirect employment.
• Key points: The agreement was signed under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured, IDDM) category in the presence ofRajesh Kumar Singh,Secretary, MoD, in New Delhi, Delhi.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

4. IIT Ropar Launches India’s First Integrated Agricultural Intelligence Ecosystem

• What happened: IIT Ropar Launches India’s First Integrated Agricultural Intelligence EcosystemIn April 2026, the Indian Institute of Technology(IIT) Ropar, Punjab, launched an advancedAgricultural Intelligence Ecosystem, markingIndia’sfirstfully integrated Artificial Intelligence(AI)-based system for smart farming and agricultural decision-making. AboutIntegrated Agricultural Intelligence Ecosystem:Components:It comprises key components, including ‘Swan’, advanced weather stations; Krishi Intelligence Call Centres; and the Annam Chat Engine (ACE).Objective: Improve agricultural productivity and risk management usingAI.AI Layers:The AI architecture consists of three layers: Infrastructure Layer (data collection), Intelligence Layer (data analysis), and Engagement Layer (farmer advisory).
• Key points: It has been launched by the IIT Ropar’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in AI for Agriculture, ANNAM.AI(Alliance for Next-Gen Nourishment through Agriculture Modernisation).
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

5. FedEx, IIT-M Completes India’s 1st Intra-City Drone Delivery

• What happened: FedEx, IIT-M Completes India’s 1st Intra-City Drone DeliveryIn April 2026, Federal Express Corporation(FedEx)in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology Madras(IIT-M),Chennai(Tamil Nadu, TN), successfullycompleted India’s first intra-city drone delivery flight trialsin Bengaluru, Karnataka. Key Details:Research Framework:The flight trials were conducted under the research framework of the FedEx SMART Centre at IIT Madras, representing the centre’s commitment to advancing next-generation, technology-enabled supply chains.
• Key details: Implementing Agency:The project was implemented in collaboration with Amber Wings, an IIT-M incubated deep-tech start-up.Key Result:The trials validated a mid-mile aerial logistics link between Electronic City Phase II and site near Bangalore International Airport Limited.Travel Time:The trials also showed a 53 kilometer(km) road journey which generally takes 60 minutes, can be replaced by a 39-42 km flight route, thereby reducing the one-way transit time toapproximately 21 minutes.
• Key points: The initiative is part of FedEx’s international efforts which aimed at developing safe and scalable logistics.; The flights were conducted in coordination with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation(DGCA),Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA).
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

🌍 International Affairs

6. Overview of Vice President C P Radhakrishnan Visit to Sri Lanka from April 19-20, 2026

• What happened: Overview of Vice President C P Radhakrishnan Visit to Sri Lanka from April 19-20, 2026The Vice President (VP) of India Chanrapuram Ponnusami(C.P.) Radhakrishnanundertook a two-day official visit toSri Lankafrom April 19, to 20, 2026. This marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian Vice President to Sri Lanka.Highlights of the Visit:Bilateral Meeting:During his visit, VP C.P.Radhakrishnan met Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of Sri Lanka, at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo(Sri Lanka), where both leaders reviewed bilateral initiatives, including progress on India-supported development projects in Sri Lanka.
• Key details: MoUs:During the Presidential visit, India and Sri Lanka signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in healthcare and regional development.Announcements:Completion of Phase III of the Indian Housing Project (4,000 houses), restoration of the Northern Railway Line and Bailey bridges under post-Cyclone Ditwah support, expansion of CEWET(Ceylon Estate Workers Education Trust) scholarships (350 to 700 with higher stipends), and Sri Lanka’s agreement to join the International Big Cat Alliance(IBCA).
• Key points: He also held discussions with Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister (PM) of Sri Lanka along with other senior leaders.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: International Relations (GS Paper 2). Bilateral and multilateral agreements.

💰 Economy & Banking

7. RBI issues e-mandate framework for digital payments

• What happened: RBI issues e-mandate framework for digital paymentsIn April 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the new‘Digital Payments – E-mandate Framework, 2026’consolidating the existing regulations while introducing stricter safeguards, clearer notification and greater flexibility for users.Applicable to:The directions shall be applicable to all payment system providers and payment system participants.Applicable Channels:The new rules apply across:.
• Key points: Unified Payment Interface (UPI) auto-pay; Debit and Credit cards; Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPI)
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

8. Electronic-Mandate (E-Mandate)

• What happened: Electronic-Mandate (E-Mandate)Registration:The following guidelines define the rules for e-mandate registration and management:.
• Key points: A customer must complete one-time registration with Additional Factor Authorisation (AFA) validation to set up e-mandate.; Every e-mandate registered by the issuer shall specify thevalidityperiod of the e-mandate.; An e-mandate can be for a fixed or variable amount, with a cap and option to set amaximum limitfor recurring transactions.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

9. Karnataka Bank Partners with Pine Labs to Enhance Digital Payment Solutions

• What happened: Karnataka Bank Partners with Pine Labs to Enhance Digital Payment SolutionsIn April 2026,Karnataka Bank Limited,an Indian private sector bank, entered into a partnership withPine Labs Limited, a leading provider of Point-of-Sale (PoS) solutions, to strengthen itsdigital payment ecosystemacross India.Partnership OverviewKey Features:The collaboration enables advanced PoS payment services, seamless and secure transactions, and pan-India availability across all branches.Vision:It supports Karnataka Bank’s goal of becoming a‘Digital Bank of the Future’and strengthens its digital banking capabilities.Impact:This collaboration will enable retail and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) customers to easily access advanced PoS terminals, promoting digital adoption and supporting mutual growth. NBBLOnboardsPLI as Insurance Biller on Bharat Connect PlatformIn April 2026, NPCI Bharat Bill Pay Limited(NBBL),a wholly-owned subsidiary of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), onboarded Postal Life Insurance(PLI)as abillerunder the insurance category on theBharat Connectplatform.
• Key details: Key Details:Significance:This move will enable thepolicyholders of both PLI and Rural Postal Life Insurance (RPLI) to pay renewal premiums via Bharat Connect-enabled platforms as well as offline agent networks.BOU:India’s largest Public Sector Bank (PSB), State Bank of India(SBI)acted as the Biller Operating Unit (BOU) to facilitate the onboarding process on the platform.Customer Access:This development will now enable the customers to access recurring premium payment services via multiple digital and assisted channels across the country.PLI:It is operated by India Post which works under the Department of Posts (DoP), Ministry of Communications.
• Key points: With the inclusion of PLI, the number of insurance billers on the platform has increased to65.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

10. ADNIC Secures Licence to Establish Reinsurance Branch at GIFT City, Gujarat

• What happened: ADNIC Secures Licence to Establish Reinsurance Branch at GIFT City, GujaratIn April 2026, Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC), a United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based insurance and reinsurance provider, received regulatory approval toestablish a reinsurance branchin India’s Gujarat International Finance Tec-City(GIFT City), Gandhinagar, Gujarat. About ADNIC Expansion into GIFT City:Overview:ADNIC is a multiline insurance and reinsurance provider offering global services across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom (UK).Objective:The expansion strengthens ADNIC’s global strategy by establishing its presence in India, boosting cross-border insurance capabilities, diversifying revenue, and supporting long-term growth in high-growth markets.Impact:The move strengthens India–UAE economic ties by boosting trade, investment, and financial cooperation, while supporting India’s goal of becoming a global financial services hub.GIFT:GIFT City in Gujarat functions as a global hub for reinsurance, banking, and offshore financial services, attracting international insurers and financial institutions.
• Key points: The license, granted by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), became effective onApril 1, 2026.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

11. Tata Steel Signs Pact with SMS Group to Deploy World’s First EASyMelt Technology

• What happened: Tata Steel Signs Pact with SMS Group to Deploy World’s First EASyMelt TechnologyIn April 2026,Tata SteelLimited announced a definitive agreement withPaul Wurth S.A.(SMS Group,Germany) to set up theworld’s firstlarge-scaleEASyMelt(Electrically Assisted Syngas Smelter)technologyat its Jamshedpur plant inJharkhand, aiming to significantly reduce carbon emissions in steel production. About EASyMelt Technology:Technology:EASyMelt is a retrofit solution that can be installed on existing blast furnaces, replacing coal with syngas and using plasma torches to improve efficiency and reduce fossil fuel use, with flexibility to operate on multiple fuels.
• Key details: Objective:The collaboration aims to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by over 50% compared to traditional blast furnaces, marking a major step in decarbonising the steel industry.Net-Zero Goal:This initiative marks a major step in Tata Steel’s plan to achieve net zero emissions by 2045, one of the most ambitious targets in the global steel industry.
• Key points: This project follows a successful engineering study carried out after an initial agreement signed in June 2023.; It enables Tata Steel to decarbonise existing plants without replacing expensive infrastructure.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

12. AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

• What happened: AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

13. Six Women Win 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize, Marking a Historic First

• What happened: Six Women Win 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize, Marking a Historic FirstIn April 2026, theGoldman Environmental Foundationnamed6 womenas recipients of the2026 Goldman Environmental Prize,often called the‘Green Nobel’,marking the first time all winners were female, recognised for their efforts in combating climate change and protecting biodiversity.
• Key points: The winners were officially felicitated at a ceremony held in San Francisco, the United States of America (USA).
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

14. 2026 Goldman Environmental Award

• What happened: 2026 Goldman Environmental Awardees:2026 Winners:This year winners include: Iroro Tanshi (Nigeria); Borim Kim (South Korea); Sarah Finch (the UK); Theonila Roka Matbob (Papua New Guinea); Alannah Acaq Hurley (the USA); Yuvelis Morales Blanco (Colombia).Background:The award was established in1989 by philanthropists Richard and Rhoda Goldman, to recognise grassroots environmental activists across different regions of the world who take significant actions to protect the environment.Selection:The recipients are selected from each of the world’s 6 main regions: Africa, Asia, Europe, Islands & Island Nations, North America, and South & Central America.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

15. Laureus World Sports Awards 2026: Carlos Alcaraz & Aryna Sabalenka Win Sportsman & Sportswoman of the Year

• What happened: Laureus World Sports Awards 2026: Carlos Alcaraz & Aryna Sabalenka Win Sportsman & Sportswoman of the YearOn April 20, 2026, the Laureus World Sports Academy presented the26thannualLaureus World Sports Awardsat Cibeles Palace, inMadrid, Spain, recognizing global sporting excellence for outstanding performances during the 2025 season. About Laureus World Sports Awards 2026:Hosts:The ceremony was co-hosted for the first time by Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic, a five-time Laureus winner and 24-time Grand Slam champion, alongside Chinese-American Olympic freestyle skiing champion Eileen Gu.Categories:The awards recognized winners across 11 major categories.Team:Paris Saint-Germain won World Team of the Year after a historic 2025 season featuring six trophies, including their first Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Champions League title with a 5–0 final win over Inter Milan.Milestones:Notable age-related achievements included 18-year-old Lamine Yamal becoming the youngest athlete to win two Laureus awards.
• Key points: Spain’sCarlos Alcarazwon the Sportsman of the Year award for their outstanding 2025 performances, while Belarusian tennis playerAryna Sabalenkawas named Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

16. APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

• What happened: APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

17. WEF’s Young Global Leaders Class of 2026: 10 Indians Featured Including Jay Shah and

• What happened: WEF’s Young Global Leaders Class of 2026: 10 Indians Featured Including Jay Shah andIsha AmbaniIn April 2026, the World Economic Forum(WEF) announced theYoung Global Leaders (YGL) Class of 2026,recognising118 leadersfrom 55 countries for their contributions across sectors. About Young Global Leaders Class of 2026:YGL Initiative:The YGL initiative was established in2004by the WEF to identify leadersunder 40 yearsof age for a structured five-year leadership programme.Notable Leaders:These seven leaders represent a glimpse of the 118 individuals in the 2026 cohort, including Kemi Lala Akindoju (Nigeria; Founder, The Make It Happen Production Company Ltd), Nick Frosst (Canada; Co-founder, Cohere), Thea LaFond (Dominica; Track & Field athlete), Isha Ambani (India; Director, Reliance Retail Ventures), Dan Wu (China; Founder & CEO, Hero Games), Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri (Indonesia; Vice Minister of Trade), and Paola Longoria (Mexico; Athlete and member of Congress).Programme:The selected leaders will participate in a five-year leadership programme based in Geneva( Switzerland), aimed at fostering collaboration and addressing global challenges.
• Key points: From India, the YGL Class of 2026 includes prominent leaders from government, business, and social sectors such as Jay Shah, Isha Ambani, Sumit Gupta, Abhishek Bansal, Ameve Sharma, Suhani Jalota, Aniket Doegar, Supriya Paul, Dr Edmond Clint Fernandes, and Natsuki Sugai.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

📘 General Knowledge & Miscellaneous

18. Ex-Rajya Sabha Member Dr Gopalrao Patil Passed Away

• What happened: Ex-Rajya Sabha Member Dr Gopalrao Patil Passed AwayIn April2026, former Rajya Sabha member and renowned PaediatricianDr. Gopalrao Patil, popularly known as‘Devmanus(Godly man), passed away at the age of 94 in Latur, Maharashtra.
• Key details: He was born in October 3, 1931 atKavtha village in Dharashiv district, Maharashtra.About Dr. Gopalrao Patil:Profile:He was a doctor and social worker known for his contributions to public service, rural healthcare, and education.Education Reformer:He was the visionary behind the ‘Latur Pattern’ of education, a disciplined and result-oriented coaching model.Institutional Leadership:As head of Shiv Chhatrapati Shikshan Sanstha, he transformed Rajarshi Shahu Mahavidyalaya, Latur into a centre of academic excellence.Key Role: He served as the first president of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP’s) local branch, and provided free medical services in the Murud region for 12 years. Political Career:A senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP), he served as a member of the Rajya Sabha (1994–2000), contributing to committees on Commerce, External Affairs, and Railways.
• Key points: He worked as a lecturer in medical colleges and served as a medical officer.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: General Knowledge. Important for TNPSC prelims.

19. World Creativity and Innovation Day 2026– April 21

• What happened: World Creativity and Innovation Day 2026– April 21The United Nations (UN) annually observes the World Creativity and Innovation Day(WCID) on21 Aprilto highlight the role of creativity and innovation in driving human development and sustainable growth. Background:Resolution:The United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) adopted Resolution A/RES/71/284 on 27 April 2017, declaring 21 April as World Creativity and Innovation Day (WCID).First Observance:The day was first observed on21 April 2018following UN recognition.Role of UNESCO:The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization(UNESCO), through the2005 Convention, supports countries in strengthening creative industries and advancing artistic freedom.World Creativity & Innovation Week (WCIW) 2026:Observed from 15–21 April 2026, aligning with the birth anniversary ofLeonardo da Vincion 15 April.
• Key points: 2026 Theme:“Harnessing Creativity for Global Progress”(Not an official theme)
• Why it matters for TNPSC: General Knowledge. Important for TNPSC prelims.

20. International Mother Earth Day 2026 – April 22

• What happened: International Mother Earth Day 2026 – April 22The United Nations(UN) International Mother Earth Dayor Earth Day is observed annually onApril 22to promote environmental awareness, highlight human–Earth interdependence, and encourage balanced, sustainable development. Background:Establishment:Officially recognized in 2009 through United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/63/278, introduced by Bolivia with support from over 50 member states, with the first observance held on April 22, 2009.Origins:First proposed by American peace activist John McConnell at a 1969 UNESCO conference in San Francisco, United States of America (USA).First observance:The inaugural Earth Day was celebrated onApril 22, 1970.Initiative:The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) aims to prevent, halt, and reverse global ecosystem degradation while supporting poverty reduction, climate action, and biodiversity conservation.
• Key details: *******.
• Key points: 2026 Theme:“Our Power, Our Planet”
• Why it matters for TNPSC: General Knowledge. Important for TNPSC prelims.

📝 Practice Questions (MCQs)

Test your knowledge with these questions based on today’s current affairs:

Q1. Which of the following is related to: MoEFCC Declares Area Around UP’s Barasingha WLS as ESZIn April 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate …?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q2. Which of the following is related to: India and Bhutan hold 7th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meeting in Munnar, Kerala?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q3. Which of the following is related to: MoD Inks Rs.975 Crore Contract for TRAWL Assembly for T-72/T-90 Tanks?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q4. Which of the following is related to: IIT Ropar Launches India’s First Integrated Agricultural Intelligence Ecosystem?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q5. Which of the following is related to: FedEx, IIT-M Completes India’s 1st Intra-City Drone Delivery?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details