UPSC Current Affairs for 2026-07-31

Use this daily collection to understand why each development matters, then verify time-sensitive facts through the linked sources before adding them to notes.

• To fix unemployment, fix the economy firstEconomy · The Cockroach Janta Party movement has spotlighted the political urgency of economic reforms to generate youth employment.
• ‘Not even our grandfathers saw this’: Upper Assam reels as floods wash away entire villagesEnvironment · Unprecedented flash floods in Upper Assam on July 19, 2026, caused by heavy rains in Naga Hills, devastated villages like Nepalikhuti.
• Assam floods toll rises to 78, heavy rain forecast keeps state on edgeDisaster Management · Assam floods have claimed 78 lives, affected over 3 lakh people, with IMD forecasting more heavy rain.
• India’s R&D spending crosses 0.8% of GDP for first time since 2010Economy · India's R&D spending crossed 0.8% of GDP for the first time since 2010, with private industry contributing over half of total expenditure.
• ISRO’s NavIC system can no longer provide navigation data independently: GovernmentScience and Technology · Government acknowledged in Parliament that NavIC cannot provide standalone positioning service due to insufficient operational satellites.
• ISRO’s NavIC system can no longer provide navigation data independently: GovtScience and Technology · Government acknowledged in Parliament that NavIC cannot provide standalone positioning service due to only three operational satellites.
• Minister in Rajya Sabha: Potential conflict of interest in RDI Fund disbursementPolity · Minister disclosed in Rajya Sabha that RDI Fund investment committee members had personal stakes in 15 selected companies.
• Parliament passes paper leak Bill as Opposition walks out of Rajya SabhaPolity · Parliament passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, amid Opposition walkout.
• E20 Fuel in India: What is its impact on vehicles and why is it not cheaper than petrol? | ExplainedEconomy · Government cited a joint study in Parliament claiming E20 fuel does not require engine modifications, amid rising consumer complaints.
• U.S. Senate fast-tracks Act that could see 100% tariffs on India for its Russian oil importsInternational Relations · U.S. Senate fast-tracks a Bill that could impose up to 100% tariff on India for importing Russian oil.