In Current Affairs for 21 October 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 21 October 2026
Police Commemoration Day 2026: Honouring the Sacrifice of Police Personnel
India observes Police Commemoration Day every year on 21 October to pay tribute to police personnel who lost their lives while protecting the nation and performing their duties.
The day commemorates the sacrifice of ten Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel who were killed in an attack by Chinese forces at Hot Springs in Ladakh on 21 October 1959, near the India–China border. Their sacrifice became a significant chapter in the history of India’s police services.
Police Commemoration Day 2026
The main commemorative ceremony in 2026 is scheduled to take place at the National Police Memorial in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. The occasion recognises the courage, dedication and service of police personnel from across the country.
A motorcycle rally is also planned as part of the observance, carrying the theme “Fight Against Drugs.” The initiative highlights the importance of public awareness and collective action against drug abuse and trafficking.
National Police Memorial
The National Police Memorial was dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 21 October 2018, during the Police Commemoration Day ceremony.
The memorial represents the courage and sacrifice of police personnel belonging to state and Union Territory police forces as well as central police organisations. It serves as a national symbol of remembrance for officers who laid down their lives in the line of duty.
Significance of the Day
Police Commemoration Day reminds citizens of the important role played by police forces in maintaining law and order, protecting public safety and safeguarding national security. It also provides an opportunity to honour the families of personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Important Facts for Exams
- Observed on: 21 October every year
- Historical event: Death of ten CRPF personnel in 1959
- Location of the 1959 incident: Hot Springs, Ladakh
- Main ceremony in 2026: National Police Memorial, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
- National Police Memorial dedicated by: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Dedication date: 21 October 2018
- Motorcycle rally theme: Fight Against Drugs
World Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day 2026
World Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day is observed on 21 October to raise awareness about iodine deficiency and its effects on human health. The observance highlights the importance of adequate iodine intake for normal thyroid function, physical growth and brain development.
Iodine is an essential micronutrient required by the thyroid gland to produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and several other bodily functions. An insufficient supply of iodine can affect people of all ages, with particularly serious consequences during pregnancy and childhood.
Importance of Iodine
The thyroid gland uses iodine to synthesise two major hormones:
1. Thyroxine (T4): A thyroid hormone containing four iodine atoms. It plays an important role in regulating metabolism, growth and development.
2. Triiodothyronine (T3): A thyroid hormone containing three iodine atoms. It influences metabolic activity and supports normal bodily functions.
Adequate iodine intake is therefore essential for maintaining normal thyroid hormone production.
Effects of Iodine Deficiency
Insufficient iodine intake can lead to several health problems, including:
- Goitre: Enlargement of the thyroid gland.
- Hypothyroidism: Reduced production of thyroid hormones.
- Developmental disorders: Inadequate iodine during pregnancy and early childhood can adversely affect brain development and physical growth.
The severity of these effects depends on the degree and duration of iodine deficiency.
Major Causes of Iodine Deficiency
The principal factors highlighted in the presentation include:
- Inadequate consumption of iodine-containing foods.
- Use of non-iodised salt instead of adequately iodised salt.
- Limited access to iodine-rich foods in certain geographical areas.
- Increased iodine requirements during pregnancy and lactation.
India’s National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme
India implements the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP) to address iodine deficiency disorders. The programme focuses on prevention and control through measures that promote adequate iodine intake and the use of iodised salt.
Important Facts for Exams
- Observance: World Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day
- Date: 21 October
- Essential micronutrient: Iodine
- Thyroid hormones: T3 and T4
- Deficiency-related conditions: Goitre and hypothyroidism
- Indian programme: National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP)
UNESCO Adds Three Indian Sites to the World Heritage Tentative List
The UNESCO World Heritage Centre has added three Indian sites to the World Heritage Tentative List, an important step in the process of identifying places that may subsequently be considered for World Heritage nomination.
The newly included sites represent India’s geological diversity and archaeological heritage. Two are natural sites located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while the third is a cultural and archaeological landscape in Chhattisgarh.
Three Newly Added Sites
1. Karst-Mud-Volcano Complex of Baratang
Located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this natural site is notable for its limestone caves, karst landforms and mud volcanoes. These geological features contribute to the region’s distinctive natural landscape.
2. Andaman Subduction Volcanoes
Also located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this proposed natural heritage site highlights volcanic geological formations and tectonic processes. The area is also associated with distinctive biodiversity.
3. Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape
Situated in Chhattisgarh, Sirpur is recognised for its archaeological importance, historical trade connections and multi-faith cultural heritage. Its landscape reflects the region’s historical and cultural development.
Details of the Newly Added Sites
| Site | State/Union Territory | Category | Major Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Karst-Mud-Volcano Complex of Baratang | Andaman and Nicobar Islands | Natural | Limestone caves, karst features and mud volcanoes |
| Andaman Subduction Volcanoes | Andaman and Nicobar Islands | Natural | Volcanic formations, tectonic processes and biodiversity |
| Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape | Chhattisgarh | Cultural | Archaeology, historic trade routes and multi-faith heritage |
What Is the World Heritage Tentative List?
A Tentative List is an inventory of sites that a country considers suitable for possible future nomination to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Inclusion on this list is an important preparatory stage, but it does not mean that a site has already received World Heritage status.
The process helps countries identify and document places with potential outstanding universal value before proceeding with a formal nomination.
Significance for India
The addition of these sites draws attention to India’s geological formations, biodiversity, archaeological remains and cultural traditions. It can also support heritage conservation, research, responsible tourism and public awareness.
Important Facts for Exams
- Organisation: UNESCO
- Body involved: UNESCO World Heritage Centre
- New sites added: Three
- Natural sites: Karst-Mud-Volcano Complex of Baratang and Andaman Subduction Volcanoes
- Cultural site: Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape
- Sirpur is located in: Chhattisgarh
- Tentative List status: A preparatory stage for possible World Heritage nomination
Indian Para-Athletes Win Gold Medals at the Asian Para Games 2026
Indian para-athletes delivered notable performances at the Asian Para Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, with Praveen Kumar winning gold in the men’s high jump and Sachin Khilari securing gold in the men’s shot put.
Their performances highlighted India’s growing presence in international para-athletics and the achievements of athletes competing in different disability classifications.
Praveen Kumar Wins Gold in Men’s High Jump
Indian para-athlete Praveen Kumar won the gold medal in the men’s high jump T44/64 event on 21 October 2026. He cleared a height of 2.05 metres, setting a new Games record.
India’s Banti secured the silver medal with a personal-best performance of 1.92 metres, while Uzbekistan’s Temurbek Giyazov won bronze with a jump of 1.86 metres.
Understanding T44 and T64 Classifications
T44 and T64 are para-athletics classifications associated with lower-limb impairments. The T64 classification includes athletes with lower-limb amputations who compete using a prosthesis.
Athletes from different eligible classifications may compete together in a combined event category, such as the T44/64 high jump event.
Sachin Khilari Wins Shot Put Gold
Indian para-athlete Sachin Khilari captured gold in the men’s shot put F46 event at the same competition on 21 October 2026.
He achieved a throw of 15.87 metres, establishing a new Games record. India also secured all three medals in the event, completing a podium sweep.
The F46 classification is used in para-athletics for eligible athletes with upper-limb impairments.
About the Asian Para Games
The Asian Para Games is a multi-sport event for athletes with disabilities from across Asia. The competition is governed by the Asian Paralympic Committee.
The first edition took place in Guangzhou, China, in 2010. The Hangzhou edition, originally scheduled for 2022, was held in 2023 after postponement.
Sachin Khilari’s 2026 victory marked his second Asian Para Games gold medal in the men’s shot put F46 event.
Important Facts for Exams
- Event: Asian Para Games 2026
- Host location: Aichi-Nagoya, Japan
- Praveen Kumar’s event: Men’s high jump T44/64
- Praveen Kumar’s winning height: 2.05 metres
- Silver medallist in high jump: Banti of India
- Bronze medallist in high jump: Temurbek Giyazov of Uzbekistan
- Sachin Khilari’s event: Men’s shot put F46
- Sachin Khilari’s winning throw: 15.87 metres
- First Asian Para Games: Guangzhou, China, 2010
- Governing body: Asian Paralympic Committee
ISRO Targets Mid-2028 Launch of GSAT-7B
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is expected to launch GSAT-7B by mid-2028. The satellite is planned as the Indian Army’s first dedicated communication satellite and is intended to strengthen secure communications for troops, military formations and operational units.
The satellite is expected to improve connectivity in remote border regions and challenging terrain, where conventional communication infrastructure can be difficult to establish or maintain.
Purpose of GSAT-7B
GSAT-7B is designed to provide secure, round-the-clock communication services for the Indian Army. Its intended users include forward-deployed troops, military formations, weapon systems and airborne platforms.
One of its important functions will be to support beyond-line-of-sight communication, which enables communication between users who cannot establish a direct communication link through conventional line-of-sight connections.
Satellite communication can help overcome geographical barriers, including mountains and other difficult terrain, allowing information to be transmitted over large distances.
Why Does the Indian Army Need a Dedicated Satellite?
Reliable communication is essential for military coordination, command and control, situational awareness and operational planning. In remote or sensitive areas, ground-based communication networks may be limited or vulnerable to geographical constraints.
A dedicated satellite communication capability is expected to give the Army greater control over its communication requirements and improve connectivity across operational areas.
According to the presentation, the Indian Army currently relies on the Indian Air Force’s GSAT-7A for satellite-based communication. GSAT-7B is intended to provide a dedicated capability for the Army.
Technical Features of GSAT-7B
GSAT-7B is planned as a five-tonne geostationary communication satellite, which would make it India’s heaviest communication satellite to date if launched as described.
A geostationary satellite orbits above the equator at an altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometres. Its orbital period matches Earth’s rotation, allowing it to remain apparently stationary relative to a fixed point on Earth’s surface.
This orbital configuration is useful for communication services requiring continuous coverage of designated regions.
Strategic Significance
GSAT-7B is expected to strengthen India’s military communication infrastructure by improving connectivity for personnel deployed in remote areas. It also reflects the increasing importance of space-based systems in defence operations.
Secure and reliable satellite links can support coordination between different military units and platforms, particularly when terrestrial communication networks are unavailable or insufficient.
Review Questions
Q1. Police Commemoration Day in India is observed every year on which date?
A) 15 October
B) 21 October
C) 26 October
D) 31 October
Correct Answer: B) 21 October
Explanation: Police Commemoration Day honours police personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. It commemorates the death of ten CRPF personnel at Hot Springs, Ladakh, in 1959.
Q2. The National Police Memorial was dedicated to the nation by which Indian Prime Minister?
A) Manmohan Singh
B) Atal Bihari Vajpayee
C) Narendra Modi
D) Rajiv Gandhi
Correct Answer: C) Narendra Modi
Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the National Police Memorial in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, on 21 October 2018.
Q3. Which of the following thyroid hormones contains four iodine atoms?
A) Triiodothyronine (T3)
B) Thyroxine (T4)
C) Insulin
D) Adrenaline
Correct Answer: B) Thyroxine (T4)
Explanation: Thyroxine (T4) contains four iodine atoms, whereas triiodothyronine (T3) contains three. Iodine is essential for normal thyroid hormone production.
Q4. Which of the following sites in Chhattisgarh was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List, according to the provided material?
A) Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape
B) Kanger Valley National Park
C) Chitrakote Waterfalls
D) Bastar Palace
Correct Answer: A) Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape
Explanation: Sirpur is recognised for its archaeological significance, historical trade routes and multi-faith cultural heritage.
Q5. The Karst-Mud-Volcano Complex of Baratang is located in which Union Territory?
A) Lakshadweep
B) Jammu and Kashmir
C) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
D) Puducherry
Correct Answer: C) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Explanation: The site is known for its limestone caves, karst landforms and mud volcanoes.
Q6. Praveen Kumar won gold in which event at the Asian Para Games 2026, according to the supplied presentation?
A) Men’s shot put F46
B) Men’s high jump T44/64
C) Men’s long jump T64
D) Men’s javelin throw F46
Correct Answer: B) Men’s high jump T44/64
Explanation: Praveen Kumar cleared 2.05 metres, setting a new Games record. India’s Banti won silver with a jump of 1.92 metres.
Q7. Sachin Khilari won the gold medal in which event at the Asian Para Games 2026?
A) Men’s discus throw F46
B) Men’s shot put F46
C) Men’s high jump T44
D) Men’s javelin throw F64
Correct Answer: B) Men’s shot put F46
Explanation: Sachin Khilari recorded a throw of 15.87 metres, setting a new Games record. According to the presentation, India secured all three medals in this event.
Q8. The first edition of the Asian Para Games was held in which city in 2010?
A) Tokyo, Japan
B) Seoul, South Korea
C) Guangzhou, China
D) Bangkok, Thailand
Correct Answer: C) Guangzhou, China
Explanation: The inaugural Asian Para Games took place in Guangzhou, China, in 2010. The event is governed by the Asian Paralympic Committee.
Q9. GSAT-7B is being developed primarily to provide dedicated satellite communication capabilities to which Indian armed force?
A) Indian Navy
B) Indian Air Force
C) Indian Army
D) Indian Coast Guard
Correct Answer: C) Indian Army
Explanation: GSAT-7B is intended to provide secure communication for Army personnel, military formations, weapon systems and airborne platforms, including in remote border regions.
Q10. What is the approximate altitude of a geostationary satellite above Earth’s equator?
A) 3,578 km
B) 18,000 km
C) 35,786 km
D) 42,164 km
Correct Answer: C) 35,786 km
Explanation: A geostationary satellite orbits at approximately 35,786 km above the equator, with an orbital period matching Earth’s rotation. GSAT-7B is planned as a geostationary communication satellite.
