In Current Affairs for 22 April 2026, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial for your upcoming NDA, CDS, CDS OTA, AFCAT, TA, Agniveer Army, Agniveer Navy, Agniveer Air Force, Women Military Police, INET, MNS, ACC exams, SCO, PCSL, CAPF, and SSB interviews, and direct entries for Army, Navy, and Air Force like SSC Tech, TGC, JAG, NCC, TES, 10+2 Cadet. Download a PDF file about current events at the end of this article. Let us now see the Current Affairs.
Current Affairs 22 April 2026
Earth Day 2026: A Call for Collective Environmental Action
Earth Day 2026 is observed on April 22, bringing people across the globe together to promote environmental awareness and action. The day emphasizes the urgent need to address major challenges such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
The origins of Earth Day can be traced back to the environmental awakening of the 1960s. A pivotal moment was the publication of Silent Spring by Rachel Carson, which exposed the harmful effects of pollution on ecosystems. The first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970, with participation from over 20 million people.
The theme for 2026, “Our Power, Our Planet,” highlights the role of individuals and communities in driving meaningful environmental change.
Key Indian Initiatives
India continues to play an active role in sustainability through several initiatives:
- National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) – Focuses on renewable energy and climate resilience
- International Solar Alliance – Promotes global solar energy adoption
- Green India Mission – Aims to expand forest cover
- LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) – Encourages sustainable living habits
- Swachh Bharat Mission – Promotes cleanliness and waste management
Goldman Environmental Prize 2026: Celebrating Women Leaders
The Goldman Environmental Prize 2026 marks a historic moment as it honours an all-women group of environmental activists for the first time.
Often called the “Green Nobel,” this prestigious award was established in 1989 by Richard Goldman and Rhoda Goldman. It recognises grassroots leaders working to protect the environment and combat climate change. Each awardee receives a prize of $200,000.
2026 Awardees
- Iroro Tanshi – Africa
- Borim Kim – Asia
- Sarah Finch – Europe
- Theonila Roka Matbob – Islands & Island Nations
- Alannah Acaq Hurley – North America
- Yuvelis Morales Blanco – South & Central America
These leaders have made significant contributions to environmental conservation, biodiversity protection, and climate justice.
IIT Madras Introduces ‘Omega Ball’
Indian Institute of Technology Madras has introduced a new sport called Omega Ball, bringing innovation into the sporting arena.
Omega Ball is a unique variation of football where three teams compete simultaneously on a circular field with three goals. This fast-paced format adds complexity and excitement compared to traditional football.
The institute has also proposed establishing a national-level Omega Ball club to promote the sport across India, reflecting its commitment to innovation beyond academics.
ISSF Junior World Cup 2026 Begins in Cairo
The ISSF Junior World Cup 2026 has commenced in Cairo, Egypt, marking the beginning of the international shooting season for junior athletes.
Hosted at the Egypt International Olympic City, the tournament features top young shooters competing in rifle, pistol, and shotgun categories. India has sent a strong 71-member contingent, highlighting its commitment to nurturing shooting talent.
In the 10m Air Rifle Women category, the Indian team is led by Shambhavi Kshirsagar, an Asian junior record holder and ISSF World Cup champion.
India–South Korea Relations Strengthened
During the state visit of Lee Jae Myung, India and South Korea announced 25 key outcomes, elevating their relationship to a future-oriented strategic partnership.
Major areas of cooperation include:
- Ports and maritime infrastructure
- Steel and supply chains
- Small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
- Science, technology, and innovation
- Climate action and sustainability
- Cultural industries
Both countries aim to increase bilateral trade from $27 billion to $50 billion by 2030. They also plan to upgrade the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), establish an India–Korea Financial Forum, and develop a Korean Industrial Township in India.
India Adds Its 99th Ramsar Site
India has added Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as its 99th Ramsar site, as announced by Bhupender Yadav on April 22, 2026.
Located in Uttar Pradesh’s Aligarh district, the sanctuary plays a crucial role in conserving wetland ecosystems. With this addition, Uttar Pradesh now has 12 Ramsar sites, reinforcing its importance in wetland conservation.
The sanctuary lies along the Central Asian Flyway, a major migratory route for birds.
A Ramsar Convention site refers to wetlands of international importance, vital for biodiversity, migratory birds, and ecological balance.
Review Questions
1. Earth Day is observed every year on which date?
A. April 18
B. April 20
C. April 22
D. May 1
Answer: C. April 22
Explanation: Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22 to promote environmental awareness worldwide.
2. The theme of Earth Day 2026 is:
A. Save Nature Now
B. Climate First
C. Our Power, Our Planet
D. Green Earth Mission
Answer: C. Our Power, Our Planet
Explanation: The 2026 theme emphasizes the role of individuals and communities in environmental protection.
3. Which book played a key role in inspiring the environmental movement?
A. The Green Revolution
B. Silent Spring
C. Earth Matters
D. Nature and Life
Answer: B. Silent Spring
Explanation: Silent Spring by Rachel Carson exposed the harmful effects of pollution and triggered environmental awareness.
4. The Goldman Environmental Prize is also known as:
A. Blue Planet Award
B. Green Nobel
C. Earth Hero Award
D. Global Eco Prize
Answer: B. Green Nobel
Explanation: The Goldman Environmental Prize is popularly called the “Green Nobel” due to its prestige.
5. In which year was the Goldman Environmental Prize established?
A. 1970
B. 1985
C. 1989
D. 1995
Answer: C. 1989
Explanation: The prize was established in 1989 by philanthropists Richard and Rhoda Goldman.
6. Which Indian institution introduced the sport ‘Omega Ball’?
A. IIT Delhi
B. IIT Bombay
C. IIT Madras
D. IISc Bengaluru
Answer: C. IIT Madras
Explanation: Indian Institute of Technology Madras introduced Omega Ball, a three-team football format.
7. Omega Ball differs from traditional football because:
A. It uses two balls
B. It has no goalposts
C. Three teams play simultaneously
D. It is played indoors only
Answer: C. Three teams play simultaneously
Explanation: Omega Ball features three teams competing on a circular field with three goals.
8. The ISSF Junior World Cup 2026 is being held in:
A. Tokyo
B. Cairo
C. Paris
D. Beijing
Answer: B. Cairo
Explanation: The ISSF Junior World Cup 2026 is आयोजित in Cairo, Egypt.
9. India aims to increase its trade with South Korea to what amount by 2030?
A. $40 billion
B. $45 billion
C. $50 billion
D. $60 billion
Answer: C. $50 billion
Explanation: India and South Korea have set a target to boost bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030.
10. Which site became India’s 99th Ramsar Site in 2026?
A. Chilika Lake
B. Keoladeo National Park
C. Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary
D. Wular Lake
Answer: C. Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary
Explanation: Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary was declared India’s 99th Ramsar site in April 2026.
