28 July 2026 Current Affairs (With PDF)

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Sarnath Inscribed as India’s 45th UNESCO World Heritage Site

Why in News?

• Sarnath, located in Uttar Pradesh, has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee held in South Korea.
• With this inscription, India now has 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Sarnath becomes the fourth World Heritage Site in Uttar Pradesh.

About Sarnath

• Sarnath is one of the most revered centres of Buddhism, where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon (Dhammachakkappavattana) after attaining enlightenment.
• It is one of the four principal Buddhist pilgrimage sites, the others being: Lumbini (Birthplace), Bodh Gaya (Enlightenment), Sarnath (First Sermon), Kushinagar (Mahaparinirvana)
• Over different periods, Sarnath has been known by several names, including Rishipatana, Mrigadava (Deer Park), Saranganatha (Lord of the Deer)

Historical Evolution

1. Ancient and Early Medieval Period

• The site flourished as a major centre of Buddhist learning and monastic activity.
• It suffered damage during the Huna invasions but was subsequently restored during the reign of Harshavardhana.

2. Medieval Period

• The complex was plundered during the invasions of Mahmud of Ghazni in the 11th century.
• It was later revived under Mahipala.
• Following the conquest of North India, the site was again destroyed during the campaign of Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1194 CE, leading to its long decline.

Rediscovery and Archaeological Excavations

• The remains of Sarnath were rediscovered in 1787–88 by Babu Jagat Singh, the Diwan of Raja Chait Singh of Benares.
• Later colonial accounts also associated the rediscovery with Jonathan Duncan and Colonel Colin Mackenzie.
• Systematic archaeological excavations were subsequently carried out by Alexander Cunningham during 1834–1836, laying the foundation for the scientific study of the site.

Major Monuments at Sarnath

1. Dhamek Stupa

• Dates largely to around 5th century CE.
• Marks the location traditionally associated with Buddha’s first sermon.
• Noted for its elaborate Gupta-period floral and geometric stone carvings.

2. Chaukhandi Stupa

• Originally constructed around the 5th century CE.
• Commemorates the place where Buddha met his first five disciples.
• An octagonal tower was added in 1588 by Govardhan, son of Raja Todarmal.

3. Dharmarajika Stupa

• Built during the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
• Traditionally believed to have enshrined sacred relics of the Buddha.

4. Ashokan Pillar and Lion Capital

• One of the most celebrated remains at Sarnath is the Ashokan Pillar, erected around 250 BCE.
• Carved from a single block of polished Chunar sandstone.
• Crowned by four back-to-back lions.
• The abacus depicts Bull, Horse, Elephant, Lion
• These figures are separated by Dharma Chakras (wheels).

5. National Importance

• The Lion Capital of Ashoka was adopted as the National Emblem of India in 1950.

6. Monast icEstablishments (Viharas)

7. Dharmachakra Jina Vihara

• Constructed during the 11th century CE.
• Associated with Queen Kumaradevi.

8. Mulagandha Kuti Vihara

• Built during the 1930s by the Mahabodhi Society.
• Famous for its murals depicting important events from the life of Gautama Buddha.

9. Jain Heritage

• Sarnath also preserves important Jain religious monuments, including the Digambara Jain Temple, reflecting the site's multi-religious cultural significance.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

1. Selection Criteria

2. For inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List, a site must:

• Be included on the country's Tentative List;
• Possess Outstanding Universal Value (OUV);
• Satisfy at least one of the ten selection criteria prescribed under the Operational Guidelines of the World Heritage Convention (1972).

3. World Heritage Committee

4. The World Heritage Committee is responsible for:

• Evaluating nominations;
• Inscribing and monitoring World Heritage Sites;
• Administering the World Heritage Fund;
• Providing technical and financial assistance for conservation.

5. India served as a member of the World Heritage Committee from 2021 to 2025.

DISHA 2.0: Technology-Driven Initiative for Expanding Access to Justice

Why in News?

• The Government of India has launched DISHA 2.0 (Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice) to strengthen access to legal services through digital technology and citizen-centric platforms.
• The scheme has been approved with an outlay of ₹255 crore for implementation across the country during 2026–2031.

About DISHA 2.0

1. DISHA 2.0 is a Central Sector Scheme designed to make legal services more accessible, affordable, and efficient by leveraging technology and community-based support mechanisms.

2. Duration: 2026–2031

3. Coverage: Pan-India implementation

4. Objective

• Improve access to justice through technology-enabled legal services;
• Expand the outreach of citizen-friendly legal assistance platforms;
• Strengthen legal awareness and capacity at the grassroots level;
• Ensure timely legal support for vulnerable and marginalized sections of society.

Major Components of DISHA 2.0

1. Tele-Law

• Tele-Law enables citizens to obtain pre-litigation legal advice through digital platforms.
• Nyaya Sahayaks: The programme also deploys Nyaya Sahayaks, who function as community-based legal facilitators, particularly in Aspirational Blocks, to assist citizens in accessing legal services.

2. Nyaya Bandhu (Pro Bono Legal Services) Programme

• The programme encourages advocates to voluntarily provide legal assistance to economically and socially disadvantaged sections of society.
• The initiative primarily benefits persons eligible under Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
• Current Status: Pro Bono Panels have been established in 23 High Courts across the country. The programme promotes voluntary legal service while expanding access to justice.

3. Legal Literacy and Legal Awareness Programme (LLLAP)

• This component focuses on improving public understanding of legal rights and responsibilities.

4. VIDHI – Sanjeevani

• VIDHI (Vision for Integrated Delivery of Harmonized Legal Initiatives) – Sanjeevani is the technology-enabled monitoring component of DISHA 2.0.
• The scheme aims to reach approximately 50 lakh beneficiaries during the 2026–2031 implementation period.

Significance of DISHA 2.0

1. Technology-Enabled Justice

• Digital platforms can make legal advice more accessible, particularly for individuals living in remote and underserved areas.

2. Strengthening Legal Inclusion

• The scheme seeks to reduce barriers to justice for marginalized and economically weaker sections through free legal assistance and awareness initiatives.

3. Community Participation

• By involving Nyaya Sahayaks, legal professionals, educational institutions and community stakeholders, the programme promotes a more inclusive legal support system.

4. Better Governance

• The centralized monitoring mechanism under VIDHI – Sanjeevani is expected to improve transparency, accountability and efficiency in the delivery of legal services.

BHAVYA Rasayan Scheme: Promoting Integrated Chemical Manufacturing Ecosystems

Why in News?

• The Union Cabinet has approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana Rasayan (BHAVYA Rasayan) under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers to establish three dedicated Chemical Parks across India based on a plug-and-play model.
• The initiative aims to strengthen India's chemical manufacturing ecosystem and enhance the country's competitiveness in the global chemical industry.

About BHAVYA Rasayan

• BHAVYA Rasayan is a Central Government initiative designed to create world-class chemical manufacturing infrastructure through integrated industrial parks equipped with common facilities and modern utilities.

Objective

• Expand India's chemical manufacturing capacity.
• Promote domestic production and industrial competitiveness.
• Attract greater Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into the chemical sector.
• Reduce dependence on imported chemicals and intermediates.
• Lower logistics and infrastructure costs for downstream industries.

Key Features of the Scheme

1. Establishment of Chemical Parks

• Three integrated Chemical Parks will be developed.
• Parks will follow a plug-and-play model, enabling industries to commence operations with ready infrastructure and common utilities.

2. Support for Downstream Industries

• The parks are expected to benefit several manufacturing sectors, including Pharmaceuticals, Textiles, Agrochemicals, Automobiles, Electronics
• By improving access to raw materials and shared infrastructure, the scheme aims to enhance the competitiveness of these industries.

3. Common Infrastructure

• A significant portion of the financial support will be used to establish shared facilities such as Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs); Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs); Other essential industrial infrastructure required for environmentally sustainable operations.

4. Financial Outlay

• Total Allocation: ₹3,030 crore
• Implementation Period: FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31

5. Out of the total allocation:

• ₹3,000 crore has been earmarked for the development of common infrastructure and shared utilities within the chemical parks.

Funding Pattern

• The Central Government will provide grant-in-aid of up to ₹1,000 crore for each Chemical Park.
• Participating State Governments must contribute at least ₹500 crore per park toward project development.

Selection of Chemical Parks

• States will be selected through a competitive, challenge-based process.
• Each proposed Chemical Park must have a minimum contiguous land area of 2,000 acres (approx 8 sq. km).
• Encumbrance-free land to facilitate timely project implementation.

East Asia Summit (EAS)

Why in News?

The External Affairs Minister of India participated in the 16th East Asia Summit (EAS) Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in Manila, Philippines, where he underscored the importance of ensuring the security and freedom of international waterways and called for their uninterrupted use in accordance with international law.

About the East Asia Summit (EAS)

• The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a leaders-led regional forum that promotes dialogue and cooperation on strategic, political and economic issues affecting the Indo-Pacific and East Asia.
• It serves as an important platform for strengthening regional peace, stability, sustainable development and economic prosperity through consensus-based engagement.
• The East Asia Summit was launched in 2005.
• The first EAS was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
• The EAS is a leaders-led dialogue mechanism;
• Focused on strategic, political and economic cooperation;
• Convened annually with the participation of Heads of State or Government of member countries.
• The forum addresses regional and global issues of common concern while encouraging cooperation among participating nations.

Membership

• At its inception, the Summit comprised 16 countries, including the 10 ASEAN Member States, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea (South Korea)
• Expansion of Membership: In 2011, the Summit expanded with the admission of United States and Russian Federation
• The EAS now comprises 18 participating countries.

Objectives of the East Asia Summit

• Promote peace, security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Strengthen political and strategic dialogue among member countries.
• Enhance regional economic cooperation and sustainable development.
• Address emerging challenges through consultation and consensus.
• Reinforce ASEAN's central role in the evolving regional architecture.

Significance of the East Asia Summit

1. Strategic Dialogue Platform

• The EAS provides an opportunity for leaders to discuss major geopolitical and security developments affecting the Indo-Pacific.

2. ASEAN-Centric Regional Architecture

• The Summit reinforces ASEAN Centrality, with ASEAN playing a coordinating role in regional cooperation initiatives.

3. Economic Cooperation

• It facilitates collaboration on trade, connectivity, sustainable development, energy, health, education and other areas of mutual interest.

4. Regional Security

• The forum serves as an important platform for addressing issues such as Maritime security; Freedom of navigation; Disaster management; Counter-terrorism; Emerging strategic challenges.

India's Role in the EAS

• India is a founding participant of the East Asia Summit and actively supports a free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific; Respect for international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS); ASEAN Centrality in regional architecture; Enhanced connectivity, maritime cooperation and regional stability.

Black Sea

Why in News?

• India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MV OMORFI in the Black Sea, reportedly within Russian territorial waters, in which an Indian crew member lost his life.
• The incident has once again highlighted the strategic significance of the Black Sea amid ongoing regional security challenges.

About the Black Sea

• The Black Sea is a marginal inland sea situated at the crossroads of Southeastern Europe and Western Asia. It occupies a strategically important position, serving as a maritime link between Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean region, and the Caucasus.

Connectivity

1. The Black Sea is connected to adjoining water bodies through a series of important straits:

• Bosporus Strait → Connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.
• Sea of Marmara → Linked to the Mediterranean Sea through the Dardanelles Strait.
• Kerch Strait → Connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Azov.
• These waterways make the Black Sea a vital maritime corridor for commercial shipping and naval movement.

2. Countries Bordering the Black Sea

• The Black Sea is bordered by six countries: Turkey (South), Bulgaria (West), Romania (West), Ukraine (North), Russia (Northeast), Georgia (East)

Strategic Importance

1. Maritime Trade

• The Black Sea serves as an important maritime route connecting Eastern Europe with the Mediterranean and global shipping networks.

2. Geopolitical Significance

• Its location makes it strategically important for regional security, energy transportation, naval operations and international trade.
• The sea has gained greater geopolitical attention in recent years due to ongoing conflicts and heightened military activity in the region.

Montreux Convention, 1936

• The movement of naval vessels through the Turkish Straits is governed by the Montreux Convention of 1936.

1. Key Provisions

• Grants Turkey control over the Bosporus and Dardanelles Straits.
• Regulates the passage of naval warships through these strategic waterways.
• Places restrictions on the tonnage and duration of stay of warships belonging to non-Black Sea states, while providing special rights to Black Sea littoral countries.

2. The Convention continues to play a central role in maintaining the strategic balance in the region.

Significance for India

• It is a key international shipping route used by Indian merchant vessels.
• Regional instability can affect maritime trade and global supply chains.
• The safety of Indian seafarers operating in the region remains a significant concern.
• Developments in the Black Sea have wider implications for global energy markets, food security and geopolitical stability.

ContactSeek: AI-Powered Tool for Safer DNA Base Editing

Why in News?

• Researchers have developed ContactSeek, an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based computational tool that enhances the precision and safety of DNA base editing by improving the understanding of interactions between gene-editing proteins and DNA.
• The innovation is expected to reduce unintended genetic modifications while preserving the efficiency of genome-editing technologies.

What is ContactSeek?

• ContactSeek is an AI-driven computational platform designed to analyse how gene-editing proteins interact with DNA at the molecular level.
• The tool assists researchers in identifying structural features responsible for unintended or off-target genetic edits, thereby enabling the development of safer genome-editing systems.

How Does ContactSeek Work?

1. Powered by AlphaFold3

• ContactSeek utilizes AlphaFold3, Google's advanced artificial intelligence model capable of predicting the three-dimensional structures and interactions of biological molecules.

2. Protein–DNA Interaction Mapping

• The tool predicts how different amino acid residues of gene-editing proteins physically interact with DNA.
• This enables researchers to map protein–DNA contact points; identify regions responsible for off-target editing; improve the structural design of genome-editing proteins.

3. Improving Gene Editing

• Using ContactSeek, researchers have engineered enhanced versions of CRISPR-based base editors, including Cas9, to Reduce unintended DNA modifications; Improve editing precision; Retain high editing efficiency.

What is DNA Base Editing?

• DNA base editing is an advanced genome-editing technique that allows scientists to directly change one DNA base into another without cutting both strands of the DNA molecule.
• Unlike conventional genome-editing methods, it performs targeted chemical conversion of individual nucleotides, making the process more precise and reducing the likelihood of unintended DNA damage.

DNA Base Editing vs Conventional CRISPR-Cas9

Mirabai Chanu

Why in News?

• Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won the gold medal in the women’s 48 kg weightlifting event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
• With this achievement, she became only the second Indian athlete, after wrestler Vinesh Phogat, to secure three consecutive individual gold medals at the Commonwealth Games.

Major Sporting Achievements

1. Commonwealth Games Success

• Mirabai Chanu has won three successive Commonwealth Games gold medals: Gold Coast 2018 – Gold Medal, Birmingham 2022 – Gold Medal, Glasgow 2026 – Gold Medal
• This remarkable consistency has established her as one of India's most successful Commonwealth Games athletes.

2. Olympic Achievement

• At the Tokyo Olympics 2020, Mirabai Chanu won the silver medal in weightlifting.

3. Historic Milestone

• She became the first Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic silver medal, marking a landmark achievement in Indian weightlifting history.

4. World Record Performance

• During the 2020 Asian Weightlifting Championships (held in 2021), Mirabai Chanu set a world record in the clean and jerk in the 49 kg category by lifting 119 kg.

5. National Honours

• In recognition of her outstanding contributions to Indian sports, Mirabai Chanu has received several prestigious national awards: Padma Shri (2018), Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2018), Arjuna Award (2018)

One-Liners

• Ken–Betwa Link Project: India’s first major inter-basin river-linking project, designed to transfer water from the Ken River in Madhya Pradesh to the water-scarce Betwa River in Uttar Pradesh, is facing protests over concerns related to displacement, compensation, and environmental impacts.
• 3rd BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Risk Reduction: Hosted by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) under India’s BRICS Chairship 2026 theme, “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” the meeting adopted the BRICS Joint Statement on Disaster Risk Reduction to advance the implementation of the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Work Plan (2025–2028).
• Kargil Vijay Diwas: The year 2026 marks the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorating India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War, with nationwide tribute programmes such as the Shaurya Vijay Yatra, Sanchar Shakti Expedition, and Tiger Hill Expedition honouring the courage and sacrifice of the Armed Forces.

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