CivilsIASPrep.comUPSC Current Affairs for 2026-08-21
Use this daily collection to understand why each development matters, then verify time-sensitive facts through the linked sources before adding them to notes.
- West Asia LIVE: Iran says Trump's 'Economic D-Day' is a diversion from U.S. domestic problemsInternational Relations · US President Trump announced 'economic warfare' against Iran, threatening any country that trades with it, escalating West Asia tensions.
- Government allows duty-free import of 10 lakh tonnes of raw sugar until October 31Economy · Government allows duty-free import of 10 lakh tonnes raw sugar under TRQ till October 31, 2026, and imposes stockholding limits on bulk consumers to control rising prices.
- NAMASTE to be expanded to rural India, include more workersSocial Justice and Governance · Government proposes expanding NAMASTE scheme to rural areas and including more worker categories, while NCSC flags high rejection rates in self-employment components.
- Construction activities around Pallikaranai marshland can be regulated, not banned: TNSWA tells Madras High CourtEnvironment · TNSWA informed Madras HC that construction around Pallikaranai marshland can be regulated, not banned, based on NCSCM's interim Zone of Influence report.
- Home Minister calls for early resolution of pending water-related issues in south IndiaPolity and Governance · Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 31st Southern Zonal Council meeting, urging early resolution of inter-state water disputes and river interlinking.
- Karnataka third-highest contributor to pollution among southern StatesEnvironment · A CSTEP study quantifies inter-state pollution contributions in South India, revealing Karnataka as the third-highest contributor.
- High Court Bench for Ladakh approved; Centre reaffirms commitment to constitutional safeguardsPolity · Union Cabinet approved a High Court Bench of Jammu and Kashmir High Court in Ladakh to improve judicial access.