8 October 2026 Daily Current Affairs: RBI Repo Rate Hike, Nobel Prize, Odisha Bandh & More
October 8, 2026, was a landmark day for India and the world. The Reserve Bank of India raised the repo rate to 5.50% in its first hike since February 2023, the 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was announced, the INDIA bloc intensified protests demanding the CEC's resignation, Odisha observed a 12-hour bandh, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the 10th India Mobile Congress, and India mourned the loss of veteran actor Nana Patekar. This comprehensive guide covers every major event of the day for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway, and State PSC aspirants.
📌 Top Highlights of 8 October 2026:
- RBI raises repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.50%
- Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2026 announced
- INDIA bloc protests against CEC Gyanesh Kumar; Odisha bandh observed
- PM Modi inaugurates 10th India Mobile Congress 2026
- Veteran actor Nana Patekar passes away at 75
- Union Cabinet approves Rs 10,000 crore SME fund
- Andhra Pradesh declares drought in 21 districts
- Indian Air Force celebrates 94th Air Force Day
- Two cheetahs released in Madhya Pradesh's Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve
- 57th GST Council meeting held in New Delhi
Economy & Banking: RBI Rate Hike, GST Council Meeting
The economic landscape on October 8, 2026, was dominated by two major events: the Reserve Bank of India's monetary policy decision and the 57th GST Council meeting. Both carry significant implications for India's economic trajectory.
RBI Raises Repo Rate to 5.50%: First Hike Since February 2023
The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) raised the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.50%, marking the first rate hike since February 2023. The decision came after the MPC's meeting held from October 5 to 7, 2026, and was announced by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra.
The MPC also shifted its stance to "calibrated tightening," with a 4-2 split on the stance decision. Governor Malhotra indicated that near-term rate cuts are off the table, signaling a cautious approach amid global uncertainties and inflation concerns. The RBI projected inflation at 5.2% for 2026-27.
Alongside the repo rate hike, the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate was adjusted to 5.25%, and the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate was set at 5.75%. These adjustments are part of the RBI's broader strategy to manage liquidity and inflation in the economy.
Exam Relevance: Banking Awareness, IBPS PO/Clerk, SBI PO/Clerk, RBI Grade B, SSC CGL. The repo rate is a frequent question topic, and candidates must remember the current rate: 5.50%.
📋 Show RBI Monetary Policy Details
Repo Rate: 5.50% (raised by 25 basis points)
Stance: Calibrated Tightening (4-2 split)
Standing Deposit Facility (SDF): 5.25%
Marginal Standing Facility (MSF): 5.75%
Inflation Projection for 2026-27: 5.2%
Governor: Sanjay Malhotra
MPC Meeting Dates: October 5-7, 2026
Significance: First rate hike since February 2023; signals no near-term rate cuts
57th GST Council Meeting Held in New Delhi
The 57th GST Council meeting was held in New Delhi on October 8, 2026. The meeting brought together state finance ministers and central government representatives to discuss key issues related to GST rates, compliance, and administration.
One of the major items on the agenda was the proposal to remove taxmen's arrest powers under GST. Five major states across political divides voiced strong opposition to stripping tax officers of arrest powers, maintaining that strict penal provisions are necessary to deter fraud and fake invoice networks.
Exam Relevance: GST, Indian Economy, Banking Awareness, SSC CGL, State PSC.
📋 Show GST Council Meeting Details
Meeting Number: 57th GST Council Meeting
Date: October 8, 2026
Venue: New Delhi
Key Issue: Proposal to remove taxmen's arrest powers under GST
Opposition: Five major states opposed the proposal, citing need for strict penal provisions
Significance: Critical for GST administration and fraud deterrence
National News: IMC 2026, JOSH Teams, Drought Declaration
PM Modi Inaugurates 10th India Mobile Congress 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 10th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC) on October 8, 2026, at around 10 AM at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi. The event, organised jointly by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), is being held from October 7 to 10, 2026.
The theme of IMC 2026 is "Scale Without Boundaries," reflecting India's growing capabilities in digital innovation, next-generation connectivity, and technology-led growth. The four key pillars of IMC 2026 are: Srishti: Building the Future; Samvardhan: Fueling Growth; Sashakt: Expanding Opportunities; and Suraksha: Strengthening Trust.
The event focuses on innovation and next-generation digital infrastructure, technology-led economic growth, inclusive digital access, and the development of secure and resilient digital ecosystems. IMC 2026 covers nine established anchor sectors, including 5G and 6G, next-generation AI networks, semiconductors, non-terrestrial networks, cyber security, quantum communication, enterprise transformation, circular economy and ESG, and electronics manufacturing. It also expands its sectoral focus to four new domains: smart mobility, stadium experiences, industrial robotics, and transport technology.
IMC 2026 is expected to attract more than 1.5 lakh attendees from over 100 countries, with participation from 500+ partners and exhibitors, 600+ startups, and 900+ thought leaders. The event features more than 2,000 technology use cases and over 120 sessions.
📋 Show India Mobile Congress 2026 Details
Event: 10th India Mobile Congress (IMC 2026)
Inaugurated By: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Date: October 8, 2026 (Event: October 7-10, 2026)
Venue: Yashobhoomi, New Delhi
Theme: "Scale Without Boundaries"
Four Pillars: Srishti, Samvardhan, Sashakt, Suraksha
Anchor Sectors: 5G/6G, AI Networks, Semiconductors, Non-Terrestrial Networks, Cyber Security, Quantum Communication, Enterprise Transformation, Circular Economy & ESG, Electronics Manufacturing
New Domains: Smart Mobility, Stadium Experiences, Industrial Robotics, Transport Technology
Expected Attendance: 1.5 lakh+ attendees from 100+ countries
Union Health Minister Launches JOSH Teams Nationally
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda launched JOSH (Joint Squad for Health) Teams nationally on October 8, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The first phase of the initiative covers 55 districts across 11 states, aiming to mobilise young volunteers for TB elimination.
Exam Relevance: Health Schemes, Government Initiatives, SSC CGL, State PSC.
📋 Show JOSH Teams Details
Initiative: JOSH (Joint Squad for Health) Teams
Launched By: Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda
Date: October 8, 2026
Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
First Phase: 55 districts across 11 states
Objective: Mobilise young volunteers for TB elimination
Andhra Pradesh Declares Drought in 21 Districts
The Andhra Pradesh government declared a drought in 21 of the state's 26 districts, with 388 of 688 mandals classified as drought-affected. Of these, 283 have been categorised as severely affected and 105 as moderately affected after the state recorded a 53.4% rainfall deficit between June and August 2026.
This declaration triggers relief measures for affected farmers and communities, including compensation, water conservation initiatives, and employment generation programmes.
📋 Show Andhra Pradesh Drought Details
State: Andhra Pradesh
Districts Affected: 21 of 26 districts
Mandals Affected: 388 of 688 (283 severely, 105 moderately)
Rainfall Deficit: 53.4% between June and August 2026
Impact: Triggers relief measures for farmers and communities
Union Cabinet Approves Rs 10,000 Crore SME Fund
The Union Cabinet approved a Rs 10,000 crore SME fund to support small and medium enterprises. The fund is designed to provide credit access, technology upgradation support, and market linkages for SMEs across India.
📋 Show SME Fund Details
Approved By: Union Cabinet
Amount: Rs 10,000 crore
Purpose: Support small and medium enterprises
Focus Areas: Credit access, technology upgradation, market linkages
Indian Air Force Celebrates 94th Air Force Day
The Indian Air Force marked its 94th anniversary on October 8, 2026. Central Air Command (CAC) prepared to bring the spirit of Air Force Day celebrations to life with a series of events and displays.
📋 Show Air Force Day Details
Event: 94th Air Force Day
Date: October 8, 2026
Organised By: Central Air Command (CAC)
Significance: Commemorates the founding of the Indian Air Force
Politics: INDIA Bloc Protest, Odisha Bandh
INDIA Bloc Intensifies Protest Against CEC Gyanesh Kumar
The political landscape on October 8, 2026, was dominated by the INDIA bloc's escalating protests against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. Opposition parties intensified their nationwide stir, launching a high-voltage protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar to demand the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar.
Around 300 opposition MPs were expected to join the protest, with leaders demanding Kumar's resignation. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge led the protests, with Kharge inviting INDIA bloc MPs for lunch at 1:45 PM to strategise.
Security was heavily augmented around Jantar Mantar and surrounding areas as opposition MPs prepared to stage a major ground demonstration.
📋 Show INDIA Bloc Protest Details
Protest Against: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar
Protest Location: Jantar Mantar, New Delhi
Number of MPs Expected: Around 300
Key Leaders: Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge
Demand: Resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar
Security: Heavily augmented around Jantar Mantar
Odisha Bandh Disrupts Normal Life
Normal life across Odisha was disrupted as the INDIA bloc called for a 12-hour statewide bandh demanding the immediate resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and state School and Mass Education Minister Nityanand Gond.
Business establishments, petrol pumps, shops, and many educational institutions were seen closed in the morning, while public transport such as buses and autorickshaws remained off the road. The bandh was called by INDIA bloc parties, though the BJD stayed away from the strike.
📋 Show Odisha Bandh Details
Event: 12-hour statewide bandh in Odisha
Date: October 8, 2026
Called By: INDIA bloc parties
Demand: Resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and State School and Mass Education Minister Nityanand Gond
Impact: Business establishments, petrol pumps, shops, and educational institutions closed; public transport off the road
BJD: Stayed away from the strike
SC Agrees to Examine Plea on Election Commissioners Act
The Supreme Court agreed to examine a plea to recall the split verdict on the Election Commissioners Act, 2023. The plea challenges the constitutional validity of the Act and the process of appointing Election Commissioners.
📋 Show Supreme Court Plea Details
Court: Supreme Court of India
Plea: To recall the split verdict on the Election Commissioners Act, 2023
Issue: Constitutional validity of the Act and appointment process of Election Commissioners
International News: IMEC Interest, Kenya Ebola
Five Nations Express Interest in Joining IMEC
Oman, Egypt, Lebanon, Greece, and Cyprus have formally expressed interest in joining the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), according to the French President's Special Envoy for IMEC. This would widen a corridor announced at the 2023 G20 Delhi summit.
The IMEC aims to connect India, the Middle East, and Europe through a network of rail, road, and maritime routes, along with energy and digital infrastructure. The expansion of the corridor would enhance regional connectivity and economic integration.
📋 Show IMEC Details
Corridor: India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)
Announced At: 2023 G20 Delhi Summit
New Interested Nations: Oman, Egypt, Lebanon, Greece, Cyprus
Source: French President's Special Envoy for IMEC
Significance: Expands connectivity and economic integration across regions
Kenya Reports First Ebola Death
Kenya reported its first Ebola death after a traveller from the Democratic Republic of Congo died in a Nairobi hospital. Authorities have activated emergency response measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is monitoring the situation closely and has deployed teams to support contact tracing and containment efforts.
📋 Show Kenya Ebola Details
Country: Kenya
Event: First Ebola death
Source: Traveller from Democratic Republic of Congo
Location: Nairobi hospital
Response: Emergency response activated; WHO monitoring
Flydubai Seeks Permission to Resume Tel Aviv Flights
Flydubai has sought permission to resume flights to Tel Aviv after an incident involving Indian pilot Smit Machchhar. Israel has so far refused the request, following the reported midair attack on the Indian captain during a flight that was later diverted to Saudi Arabia.
📋 Show Flydubai Details
Airline: Flydubai
Request: To resume flights to Tel Aviv
Incident: Midair attack on Indian pilot Smit Machchhar
Israel's Response: Refused the request
Awards & Recognition: Nobel Prize, TIME100
Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2026 Announced
The 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Henri B. Kagan and Kenso Soai for discovering non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric synthesis. This is the chemistry behind the old puzzle of why life uses molecules of only one handedness.
The discovery has profound implications for pharmaceutical development, materials science, and our understanding of the origins of life.
📋 Show Nobel Prize Chemistry 2026 Details
Award: Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2026
Winners: Henri B. Kagan and Kenso Soai
Contribution: Discovering non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric synthesis
Significance: Explains why life uses molecules of only one handedness
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on TIME100 Next 2026
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was included as the youngest person in the world on the TIME100 Next 2026 list. TIME100 Next recognizes 100 emerging leaders from around the world who are shaping the future in their respective fields.
📋 Show TIME100 Next 2026 Details
List: TIME100 Next 2026
Indian Honoree: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Recognition: Youngest person on the list
Purpose: Recognizes 100 emerging leaders worldwide
Environment: Cheetah Reintroduction, Forest Cover
Two Cheetahs Released in Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve
Two cheetahs were released in Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh's third cheetah site after Kuno and Gandhi Sagar. This marks a significant milestone in India's cheetah reintroduction programme.
The cheetah reintroduction project, which began with the translocation of cheetahs from Namibia in 2022, has now expanded to multiple sites in Madhya Pradesh. The programme aims to establish a viable cheetah population in India and restore the species to its historical range.
📋 Show Cheetah Reintroduction Details
Reserve: Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
Number of Cheetahs Released: 2
Significance: Madhya Pradesh's third cheetah site after Kuno and Gandhi Sagar
Programme: Cheetah Reintroduction Project (began 2022)
India Reports Forest and Tree Cover at 25.17%
At the 28th Session of the FAO Committee on Forestry (COFO 28) in Rome, held from September 28 to October 2, India reported forest and tree cover of 82.74 million hectares, which is 25.17% of its geographical area. The FAO's State of the World's Forests 2026 put globally degraded land at about 1.56 billion hectares.
📋 Show Forest Cover Details
Event: 28th Session of the FAO Committee on Forestry (COFO 28)
Location: Rome, Italy
Dates: September 28 - October 2, 2026
India's Forest and Tree Cover: 82.74 million hectares (25.17% of geographical area)
Global Degraded Land: About 1.56 billion hectares (FAO's State of the World's Forests 2026)
Defence: Air Force Day, Defence Test Ranges
Indian Air Force Celebrates 94th Air Force Day
The Indian Air Force marked its 94th anniversary on October 8, 2026. Central Air Command (CAC) prepared to bring the spirit of Air Force Day celebrations to life with a series of events and displays across the country.
The IAF chief, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, addressed the nation on the occasion, highlighting the force's readiness and future plans, including the induction of new fighter jets and the AMCA programme.
📋 Show Air Force Day 2026 Details
Event: 94th Air Force Day
Date: October 8, 2026
Organised By: Central Air Command (CAC)
IAF Chief: Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh
Key Themes: Induction of new fighter jets, AMCA programme, AI-augmented force
Revised SOP Opens Defence Test Ranges to Industry
A revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has opened defence test ranges to industry, allowing private companies to use these facilities for testing and development. This is a significant step towards promoting indigenous defence manufacturing and reducing dependence on imports.
📋 Show Defence Test Ranges Details
Initiative: Revised SOP to open defence test ranges to industry
Purpose: Promote indigenous defence manufacturing
Beneficiaries: Private sector defence companies
Significance: Reduces dependence on imports
Appointments & Personnel
Key Appointments in the News
Several important appointments were announced on October 8, 2026. These appointments are significant for their respective sectors and are likely to appear in current affairs questions for various competitive exams.
📋 Show Key Appointments Details
Sidharatha Mishra: Appointed as Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company (October 2026).
CEC Gyanesh Kumar: Under pressure from INDIA bloc protests demanding resignation.
Nityanand Gond: State School and Mass Education Minister, Odisha; resignation demanded by INDIA bloc.
Note: More appointments may be announced during the day; check official sources for the latest updates.
Sports & Entertainment: Nana Patekar, Messi
Veteran Actor Nana Patekar Passes Away at 75
Veteran actor Nana Patekar passed away at the age of 75 following a severe cardiac arrest at his home in Goa. Medical teams administered continuous CPR for 45 minutes, but he could not be revived. The National Award-winning icon leaves behind an extraordinary cinematic legacy across Hindi and Marathi cinema.
His last rites were performed with full state honours at his farmhouse in Donje village near Pune on October 8, 2026, at 4 PM. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled his passing, saying, "Few actors possessed the intensity, individuality, and unmistakable presence that Shri Nana Patekar Ji had. His contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema was immense."
📋 Show Nana Patekar Death Details
Full Name: Vishwanath Patekar (Nana Patekar)
Date of Death: October 8, 2026
Time of Death: 5:20 AM IST
Place of Death: Manipal Hospital, Dona Paula, Goa
Cause of Death: Cardiac Arrest
Age: 75
Last Rites: With full state honours at Donje village, Pune
Lionel Messi Retires from International Football
Lionel Messi officially retired from international football. The Argentine legend, who captained his country to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, announced his retirement after a storied career representing Argentina.
📋 Show Lionel Messi Retirement Details
Player: Lionel Messi
Event: Retirement from international football
Country: Argentina
Key Achievement: 2022 FIFA World Cup winner
Bhuvneshwar Kumar's Fitness Comeback
Pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's explosive return to peak fitness has been driven by a disciplined nutritional transition, adopting a zero-sugar, zero-gluten, zero-lactose diet.
📋 Show Bhuvneshwar Kumar Details
Player: Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Sport: Cricket
Focus: Fitness comeback
Diet: Zero-sugar, zero-gluten, zero-lactose
Technology: GPT-6 Launch, Starlink Gateway
OpenAI Launches GPT-6
OpenAI officially rolled out GPT-6, featuring multimodal reasoning capabilities, real-time interactive visuals, and accelerated response times designed for complex enterprise and research applications.
📋 Show GPT-6 Details
Model: GPT-6
Developer: OpenAI
Features: Multimodal reasoning, real-time interactive visuals, faster processing
Target Audience: Enterprise and research applications
Starlink Sets Up 20 Gateway Sites in India
Starlink used the IMC 2026 stage to announce that it has set up 20 gateway sites in India. This development is significant for satellite broadband expansion in the country.
📋 Show Starlink India Details
Company: Starlink
Announcement: 20 gateway sites in India
Platform: India Mobile Congress 2026
Significance: Satellite broadband expansion in India
Quick Revision Points: 8 October 2026
Here is a fast revision list of all important points from October 8, 2026. Use this for last-minute revision before your exam.
📝 Show Quick Revision Points
- RBI Repo Rate: Raised to 5.50% (first hike since February 2023); stance: calibrated tightening.
- Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2026: Henri B. Kagan and Kenso Soai for non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric synthesis.
- India Mobile Congress 2026: 10th edition inaugurated by PM Modi at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi; theme: "Scale Without Boundaries."
- JOSH Teams: Launched by J.P. Nadda to mobilise young volunteers for TB elimination in 55 districts across 11 states.
- Andhra Pradesh Drought: Declared in 21 of 26 districts; 388 of 688 mandals affected; 53.4% rainfall deficit.
- SME Fund: Union Cabinet approves Rs 10,000 crore fund for small and medium enterprises.
- Air Force Day: IAF celebrates 94th anniversary.
- INDIA Bloc Protest: Against CEC Gyanesh Kumar; protests at Jantar Mantar; Odisha bandh observed.
- Odisha Bandh: 12-hour statewide bandh called by INDIA bloc; BJD stayed away.
- Supreme Court: Agrees to examine plea on Election Commissioners Act, 2023.
- IMEC: Oman, Egypt, Lebanon, Greece, and Cyprus express interest in joining.
- Kenya Ebola: First Ebola death reported after traveller from DRC died in Nairobi.
- Cheetah Reintroduction: Two cheetahs released in Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, MP.
- Forest Cover: India reports 82.74 million hectares (25.17%) forest and tree cover at COFO 28.
- Nana Patekar: Veteran actor passes away at 75 in Goa; last rites with full state honours.
- Lionel Messi: Retires from international football.
- GPT-6: OpenAI launches next-generation AI model with multimodal reasoning.
- Starlink: Sets up 20 gateway sites in India.
- SME Fund: Rs 10,000 crore approved by Union Cabinet.
- Integrated Transport and Logistics Authority (ITLA): Approved as apex body for transport planning across 8 domains.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What was the RBI's repo rate decision on October 8, 2026?
The RBI raised the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.50%, the first hike since February 2023. The stance was shifted to "calibrated tightening" with a 4-2 split.
❓ Who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2026?
Henri B. Kagan and Kenso Soai won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2026 for discovering non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric synthesis.
❓ What is the theme of India Mobile Congress 2026?
The theme of IMC 2026 is "Scale Without Boundaries." The event is being held from October 7-10, 2026, at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.
❓ Why is Odisha observing a bandh on October 8, 2026?
The INDIA bloc called for a 12-hour statewide bandh in Odisha demanding the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and state School and Mass Education Minister Nityanand Gond.
❓ How did Nana Patekar die?
Nana Patekar died of a cardiac arrest at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa, on October 8, 2026. He was 75. His last rites were performed with full state honours at his farmhouse in Donje village near Pune.
❓ What is the JOSH initiative launched on October 8, 2026?
JOSH (Joint Squad for Health) Teams were launched nationally by Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda to mobilise young volunteers for TB elimination, with the first phase covering 55 districts across 11 states.
❓ Which state declared drought in 21 districts on October 8, 2026?
Andhra Pradesh declared a drought in 21 of its 26 districts, with 388 of 688 mandals classified as drought-affected after a 53.4% rainfall deficit.
❓ What was the 57th GST Council meeting about?
The 57th GST Council meeting was held in New Delhi on October 8, 2026. A key issue was the proposal to remove taxmen's arrest powers under GST, which five major states opposed.
❓ What is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)?
IMEC is a corridor announced at the 2023 G20 Delhi Summit to connect India, the Middle East, and Europe through rail, road, and maritime routes, along with energy and digital infrastructure. Oman, Egypt, Lebanon, Greece, and Cyprus recently expressed interest in joining.
❓ Where were cheetahs released on October 8, 2026?
Two cheetahs were released in Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh's third cheetah site after Kuno and Gandhi Sagar.
❓ What is the significance of Air Force Day 2026?
The Indian Air Force celebrated its 94th Air Force Day on October 8, 2026. The IAF chief highlighted the force's readiness and future plans, including new fighter jet inductions and the AMCA programme.
❓ Did Lionel Messi retire from international football?
Yes, Lionel Messi officially retired from international football on October 8, 2026, after a storied career with Argentina, including winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
0 टिप्पणियाँ