Daily Current Affairs 26 September 2026 – IAS Current Affairs

Current Affairs 26 September 2026 focuses on the Prelims-Mains perspective. Major events are :

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SEMICON India 2026

Source: PIB
GS III: Science and Technology, Indigenization of technology and Infrastructure

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Why in the News?

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology highlighted India’s growing semiconductor capabilities through SEMICON India 2026, held at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, from 17 to 19 September 2026.

News in Brief

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• SEMICON India 2026 brought together over 600 exhibiting companies, along with industry leaders, start-ups, academic institutions and policymakers.
• India’s semiconductor ecosystem is expanding beyond chip design to include manufacturing, advanced packaging, research, materials and system-level applications.
• Under the Semicon India Programme, 12 semiconductor projects have been approved across six states, involving investment commitments exceeding ₹1.64 lakh crore. Three facilities have commenced commercial production.
• Semicon 2.0, approved in July 2026 with an outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore, focuses on strengthening the entire semiconductor value chain.

Key Highlights of SEMICON India 2026

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Indigenous Chip Design and Computing Capabilities

•  Centre for Development of Advance Computing  (C-DAC) has developed the AUM HPC-AI Processor and RUDRA-AUM compute node for high-performance computing and artificial intelligence.
• Indian start-ups and institutions are developing processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and system solutions for telecommunications, automotive applications, AI and surveillance.
• Vervesemi Microelectronics is developing semiconductor solutions for motor control, energy meters and data acquisition, with applications in consumer appliances, electric mobility and drones.

These developments indicate a gradual expansion from chip design towards indigenous computing systems and electronics manufacturing.

RISC-V and Indigenous Processor Development

• RISC-V is an open-standard Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) that enables the development of customized processors.
• C-DAC’s indigenous 64-bit RISC-V processor supports high-performance computing and emerging digital applications.
• InCore Semiconductors develops RISC-V processor intellectual property (IP) and system-on-chip (SoC) design automation tools. Its processor IP has been silicon-proven across customer chips and technology nodes ranging from 180 nm to 16 nm.
• Aheesa Technology has developed an indigenous internet connectivity device offering speeds of up to 1 Gbps and connecting approximately 64 homes through a single Optical Line Terminal (OLT).
• It operates on Vihan, an Indian-developed software platform, and uses C-DAC’s 64-bit RISC-V processor.

Indigenous processor development can reduce dependence on foreign intellectual property, enable customized technological solutions and strengthen India’s technological self-reliance.

AI, Vision and Smart Surveillance

• Netrasemi is an Indian semiconductor start-up developing AI-capable System-on-Chips (SoCs) for secure surveillance, smart sensors, robotics, drones and mobility.
• It has taped out an indigenously designed AI SoC for CCTV surveillance using a 12 nm process node.
• The chip integrates AI/ML accelerators, vision processing and video engines.

These technologies support applications in edge computing, machine vision, smart infrastructure, intelligent surveillance and autonomous systems.

Development Across the Semiconductor Value Chain

• India’s semiconductor ecosystem extends beyond chip fabrication and includes several interconnected activities:
  • Chip design and intellectual property development.
  • Semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs).
  • Semiconductor equipment and raw materials.
  • Assembly, testing, marking and packaging (ATMP).
  • Advanced packaging, research and development.
  • Skilled workforce development and system integration.
• Developing these capabilities together is essential for building a complete domestic semiconductor ecosystem and connecting indigenous innovation with global semiconductor value chains.

Government Initiatives

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Semicon India Programme 

• The Semicon India Programme supports the development of semiconductor and display manufacturing capabilities in India.
  • Twelve semiconductor projects have been approved across six states.
  • Investment commitments exceed ₹1.64 lakh crore.
  • Three facilities have commenced commercial production.
• The programme aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing, attract investment and reduce dependence on imported semiconductor technologies.

Semicon 2.0

• The Union Cabinet approved Semicon 2.0 with an outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore.
• Its six strategic pillars are:
  • Semiconductor design.
  • Machines and materials.
  • More semiconductor fabrication facilities.
  • Advanced packaging.
  • Research and development.
  • Talent development.
• The programme builds on the foundation of Semicon 1.0 and adopts a broader ecosystem-based approach.

Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme

• The DLI Scheme supports domestic semiconductor chip-design projects.
• Supported areas include:
  • Video surveillance and drone detection.
  • Energy meters and microprocessors.
  • Satellite communications.
  • Broadband and Internet of Things (IoT) SoCs.
• It aims to promote domestic chip-design capabilities and encourage innovation by Indian companies and start-ups.

Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme

• The C2S Programme promotes semiconductor design capabilities among students researchers, academic institutions and start-ups.
• The ChipIN Centre provides access to advanced design tools, fabrication services and specialised training, contributing to the development of a skilled semiconductor workforce.

Significance for India and Challenges

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• Strategic autonomy- Indigenous chip design and manufacturing can reduce vulnerabilities arising from dependence on foreign suppliers.
• Economic growth- Semiconductor manufacturing can support electronics production, attract investment and generate skilled employment.
• Digital infrastructure- Domestic processors and SoCs can strengthen telecommunications, broadband, AI and computing infrastructure.
• National security- Indigenous technologies have applications in defence electronics, surveillance and secure communications.
• Innovation ecosystem- Collaboration between industry, academia and start-ups can strengthen research, technology development and commercialisation.

Challenges

• Despite progress, building a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem involves several challenges:
  • High capital investment and long gestation periods for fabrication facilities.
  • Dependence on specialised equipment, advanced manufacturing technologies and imported materials.
  • Need for continuous research, skilled professionals and technology upgradation.
  • Global competition and the complexity of integrating design, fabrication, packaging and testing.
  • Infrastructure requirements, including reliable electricity, water supply and logistics.

Way Forward and Concluison

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SEMICON India 2026 reflects India’s gradual transition from a semiconductor design-focused ecosystem towards a broader system encompassing manufacturing, advanced packaging, research and computing technologies.

Sustained investment, technological innovation, skilled human resources and resilient supply chains will be essential to strengthen India’s semiconductor self-reliance and its integration into global value chains.

UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

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With reference to SEMICON India 2026, consider the following statements:

1. The Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme aims to develop semiconductor design capabilities among students and researchers.
2. RISC-V is an open-standard instruction set architecture.
3. The Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme supports domestic semiconductor chip-design projects.
4. Semiconductor fabrication involves processes such as photolithography, etching and doping.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A) 1,2 and 3 only

B) 2,3 and 4 only

C) 1, 3 and 4 only

D) 1,2 ,3 and 4

Answer: D) 1,2,3 and 4

Mains Practice Question

Q) Discuss the significance of developing an indigenous semiconductor ecosystem for India’s economic growth, technological self-reliance and national security. Examine the major challenges and suggest measures to address them. (250 words)

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Andhra Pradesh Introduces Gender-Neutral Textbooks And AI Learning

Source: Indian Express
GS II: Education, Social Justice, Government Policies and Intervention, GS IV: Human Values, Gender Equality and Ethics.

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Why in the News?

The Andhra Pradesh government is introducing gender-neutral content in school textbooks to challenge traditional gender stereotypes and promote equality among children.

News in Brief

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• Andhra Pradesh is revising textbooks for Classes 1 and 2 to challenge gender stereotypes through illustrations and everyday examples, such as fathers working in the kitchen and girls playing drums.
• The new textbooks will introduce children to both the benefits and limitations of Artificial Intelligence, helping them understand its responsible and effective use.
• The state is developing technology-enabled, or “gamified”, classrooms through its Learning Management System (LMS), while expanding teacher recruitment and digital learning facilities.

Gender Stereotypes in Education

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• Gender stereotypes are preconceived ideas about the roles, abilities and responsibilities of men and women.
• They influence children’s understanding of occupations, household responsibilities, leadership and social participation.
• Examples;
  • Assuming that household work is exclusively a women’s responsibility.
  • Associating certain occupations or academic subjects with a particular gender.
  • Discouraging girls from participating in sports, science or technical activities.
• School textbooks, classroom practices and teacher attitudes can either reinforce these stereotypes or help eliminate them.

Gender-Neutral Textbooks and Elimination of Stereotypes

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• The state is introducing gender-neutral representations in textbooks for Classes 1 and 2, with the objective of challenging traditional gender roles from the early stages of childhood.
• Earlier textbooks often portrayed household chores as activities performed entirely by women.
• The revised textbooks aim to show that household responsibilities can be shared equally by men and women.
• Around 50% of  household chores are intended to be depicted as being performed by men and 50% by women.
• This illustrations include fathers working alongside mothers in the kitchen, girls playing drums and participating in musical performances, and men and women standing in line to collect water from public taps.

Examples of gender-neutral representation

Traditional Stereotype	Gender-Neutral Representation
Women are responsible for household chores.	Men and women share domestic responsibilities.
Girls are less involved in musical or physical activities.	Girls participate in playing drums and other performances.
Men are primarily associated with agricultural work.	Women are shown selling vegetables and working in agricultural fields.
Women are confined to traditional occupations.	Women are depicted in diverse economic and professional roles.

• The objective is to ensure that children do not internalize gender-based restrictions from an early age and develop an understanding of equal opportunities and shared responsibilities.

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence in School Education

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• Students will be introduced to both the positive and negative aspects of Artificial Intelligence through the new textbooks.
• The aim is to help children understand the potential benefits, limitations and responsible use of AI in different fields.
• AI education is intended to encourage critical thinking and enable students to use technology effectively rather than relying on it without understanding its limitations.
• This approach seeks to build early digital literacy and prepare students for an increasingly technology-driven society.

Gamified Classrooms and Digital Learning

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• The Andhra Pradesh government is working on the introduction of technology-enabled and gamified classrooms to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.

Key features of the proposed system;

• Under the proposed approach, after every 45-minute class, students would watch a video summarising the lesson.
• The video would be followed by four questions to assess students’ understanding of the topic.
• Students would actively participate in answering the questions through technology-enabled learning platforms.
• The Learning Management System (LMS) would help identify individual learning gaps and provide prescribed homework and targeted learning content.
• The system is also intended to make learning materials accessible to parents and  teachers through the LEAP app, enabling greater participation in children’s education.

Value-Based and Practical Education

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• The state is introducing a “No Bag Day” on Saturdays in government schools to promote value-based and practical learning.
• The activities are intended to extend learning beyond textbooks and examinations.
• Key areas of focus include;
  • Value-based education and gender sensitivity.
  • Technology-enabled learning and curriculum reform.
  • Industry-linked skill development.
  • Practical exposure through agricultural field visits and other experiential activities.
  • Lessons on managing family budgets and agricultural budgets.
• These initiatives aim to connect classroom education with real-life situations and develop practical skills among students.

Teacher Recruitment and Improvement in School Education

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• The government is also focusing on strengthening the availability of teachers and improving classroom instruction.
  • According to the report, only around 3 % of schools had one teacher per class in 2024.
  • The proportion has since increased to approximately 33%, reflecting efforts to improve teacher availability.
  • The state has recruited more than 16,000 teachers as part of its efforts to address teacher shortages.
  • Teacher recruitment is being undertaken every year to improve the teacher-student ratio and classroom learning.
• The government is also working to improve the quality of teaching through technology-enabled resources and more effective classroom practices.

Significance of the initiative

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• Promotes gender equality- Introducing gender-neutral representations at an early age can help children question traditional gender roles and develop respect for equal participation.
• Improves learning outcomes- Gamified learning, regular assessments and targeted homework can help identify learning gaps and provide personalized support.
• Strengthens digital literacy- Early exposure to AI and digital learning can help students develop technological awareness and critical thinking skills.
• Encourages experimental learning- Practical activities, agricultural visits and budget-management lessons can connect classroom knowledge with everyday life.
• Improves parental participation- Making learning resources accessible to parents can strengthen cooperation between schools and families.

Challenges and Way Forward

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Despite its potential, the initiative requires careful implementation.

• Teacher training- Teachers need appropriate training to use digital tools, explain AI concepts and promote gender-sensitive classroom practices.
• Digital divide- Differences in access to smartphones, internet connectivity and electricity can limit the benefits of technology-enabled education.
• Responsible AI use- AI education must address misinformation, algorithmic bias, privacy and overdependence on technology.
• Monitoring outcomes- The government should regularly assess whether gender-neutral textbooks and gamified classrooms improve learning outcomes and reduce discriminatory attitudes.
• Inclusive curriculum- Textbooks should reflect diverse social backgrounds and ensure that gender equality is integrated across subjects and classroom activities.

Conclusion

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Andhra Pradesh’s initiative  highlights the role of school education in addressing gender stereotypes and preparing children for a technology-driven society. Combining gender-sensitive textbooks, responsible AI education, experiential learning and improved teacher availability can contribute to more inclusive and effective schooling.

UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

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With reference to gender equality and school education in India, consider the following statements:

1. Article 15(3) enables the State to make special provisions for women and children.
2. Article 21A provides free and compulsory education to children between 6 and 14 years of age.
3. The NIPUN Bharat Mission primarily focuses on providing digital devices to all school students.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only.

Mains Practice Question

Q) How can education help eliminate gender stereotypes and promote social equality in India? Illustrate with suitable examples. (150 words)

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India’s Defence Self-Reliance: Indigenization, Production And Exports

Source: PIB
GS III: Internal Security, Defence Technology, Indigenization of Technology, Science and Technology

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Why in the News?

The PIB highlighted India’s transformation into a more self-reliant defence power through increased domestic production, defence exports, indigenous research and development and military modernization.

News in Brief

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• India’s defence budget increased from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2013–14 to ₹7.85 lakh crore in 2026–27, while domestic defence production reached a record ₹1.78 lakh crore in 2025–26.
• Defence exports rose from ₹686 crore in 2013–14 to ₹38,424 crore in 2025–26, with exports reaching more than 80 countries.
• The government has expanded indigenous procurement, defence corridors, technology transfer, and private-sector participation to strengthen the domestic defence industrial base.
• Indigenous missile systems, naval platforms, fighter aircraft and advanced defence technologies are enhancing India’s operational preparedness across land, air and maritime domains.

Growth in defence investment and production

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• India has increased investment in the defence sector to modernize its armed forces and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities.
  • Higher defence spending supports the acquisition of modern weapons, equipment and military platforms.
  • Greater capital investment enables the armed forces to upgrade existing systems and improve operational preparedness.
  • Domestic defence production is expanding, with both public-sector enterprises and private industries contributing to the manufacturing ecosystem.
• The growing focus on indigenous production is aimed at reducing import dependence and strengthening India’s defence industrial base.

Expansion of Defence Exports

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• India’s defence exports have expanded, reflecting improvements in domestic manufacturing capabilities and the growing international demand for Indian defence equipment.
• Indian defence products are reaching international markets, strengthening India’s position as a defence manufacturing and exporting country.
• Both private companies and Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) contribute to defence exports.
• The government aims to increase defence production and exports by encouraging domestic manufacturing, innovation and international cooperation.
• Expanding defence exports can support economic growth, generate employment and strengthen India’s strategic partnerships with other countries.

Strengthening defence research and development

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• Indigenous research and technological innovation are essential for reducing dependence on foreign defence technologies and improving military capabilities.
• The government is encouraging greater participation of industries, start-ups and academic institutions in defence research and development.
• The Defence Testing Portal provides domestic manufacturers and innovators access to specialized testing facilities in DRDO laboratories.
• Collaboration between research institutions and private industries helps translate indigenous research into practical defence applications.
• These efforts aim to develop advanced technologies within the country and strengthen India’s ability to meet its future defence requirements.

Defence Acquisition Reforms

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• The government has introduced reforms in defence procurement to promote indigenous manufacturing, simplify acquisition procedures and reduce dependence on imported equipment.

Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)

• The Defence Acquisition Council is India’s apex defence procurement body.
• It promotes indigenous acquisition by supporting the procurement of systems designed by DRDO and manufactured by Indian industries.
• Major indigenous acquisitions include Tejas Mk-1A fighter aircraft and LCH Prachand helicopters, which support the development of India’s domestic aerospace and defence manufacturing capabilities.

Major Procurement Frameworks

• Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP), 2016- Streamlined defence acquisitions and promoted domestic manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.
• Defence Acquisition procedure (DAP), 2020– Strengthened indigenous procurement and expanded opportunities for Indian companies in defence design, development and production.
• Defence Procurement Manual (DPM), 2025- Simplified revenue procurement, facilitated faster approvals and provided greater support for indigenous projects through long-term orders.
• Draft Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP), 2026- Proposes simpler acquisition categories and greater emphasis on indigenous design, development and domestic content.

These reforms seek to create a more predictable procurement environment and encourage greater participation of Indian industries in defence manufacturing.

Promoting Defence Innovation and Technology Development

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The government has introduced various initiatives to encourage start-ups, MSMEs and innovators to develop indigenous defence technologies.

Key Initiatives

•  Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX): Encourages start-ups, MSMEs and individual innovators to develop technological solutions for the armed forces. It promotes innovation and connects emerging enterprises with defence requirements.
• ADITI Scheme: Provides financial support for the development of innovative defence technologies through the Defence Innovation Organisation. It focuses on accelerating the development of advanced and strategically important technologies.
• Technology Development Fund (TDF): Supports the development of critical defence technologies by providing financial assistance to industries and innovators, particularly for emerging and deep technologies.

Technology transfer and Industry Participation

• DRDO promotes technology transfer and industrial collaboration to facilitate the commercialisation and production of indigenous defence technologies.
• Its Development cum Production Partner framework enables companies to participate in the development and manufacturing of defence systems.
• Access to technologies and intellectual property also encourages private-sector innovation and strengthens domestic manufacturing capabilities.
• These initiatives help bridge the gap between research, product development and the eventual induction of indigenous technologies into the armed forces.

Indigenization and Domestic Manufacturing

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India is strengthening its defence manufacturing ecosystem through domestic sourcing, industrial infrastructure and greater private-sector participation.

Positive Indigenization Lists

• The government has introduced Positive Indigenization Lists covering defence items to be manufactured domestically.
• These lists encourage Indian industries to develop indigenous alternatives to imported equipment and components, thereby reducing external dependence and strengthening domestic supply chains.

Srijan Defence Equipment Empowerment Platform (DEEP)

• Srijan DEEP is a digital platform that promotes indigenous defence sourcing by connecting domestic vendors with defence manufacturers and procurement opportunities.
• It supports the identification of Indian suppliers and encourages industries to develop and manufacture defence equipment within the country.

Defence Industrial Corridors

• The Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridors aim to develop integrated defence manufacturing ecosystems by attracting investments, establishing industrial facilities and encouraging collaboration among manufacturers.
• The BrahMos Integration and Testing Facility in Lucknow has also begun missile manufacturing, contributing to the expansion of India’s indigenous missile production capabilities.
• Together, these initiatives support regional industrial development, strengthen domestic supply chains and create opportunities for defence-related industries.

Ease of Doing Business and Defence Trade

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• The government has introduced regulatory and administrative reforms to facilitate investment and improve the ease of doing business in the defence sector.
• Industrial licensing reforms have provided greater flexibility to defence manufacturers and supported long-term investment in production facilities.
• The revamped Defence Exim Portal simplifies defence trade through online application processing, company verification, registration and real-time tracking.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)  reforms allow greater participation of foreign investor in India’s defence manufacturing sector, subject to the prescribed approval requirements.
• These measures seek to attract investment, improve the business environment and encourage technology transfer and domestic manufacturing.
• Overall, the reforms are intended to strengthen India’s defence industrial base and support the transition from indigenous research to large-scale manufacturing and deploymeny.

Advancing Operational Self-Reliance in FY 2025-26

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• India’s defence indigenization now covers ammunition, missiles, air defence, naval platforms and advanced propulsion technologies.

Land and Air Defence Capabilities

• The Indian Army achieved approximately 91% self-sufficiency by indigenizing 159 out of 175 ammunition variants in its inventory.
• India successfully tested the Agni-4 intermediate Range Ballistic Missile and Agni-5 Long RangeSurface-to-Surface Ballistic Missile, validating their operational and technical parameters.
• The TARA Glide Weapon and RudraM-II air-to-surface missile demonstrated indigenous precision-strike capabilities against ground targets.
• DRDO advanced indigenous systems, including the Kusha Long Range Air Defence Missile and Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS).
• An integrated air-defence system combining missile interceptors, short-range weapons and laser technologies was successfully tested.
• DRDO conducted a 12-minute ground test of an actively cooled scramjet combustor, supporting the development of hypersonic missiles.

Maritime Defence and Naval Capabilities

• The Indian Navy has strengthened its maritime preparedness through indigenous warships, submarines, surveillance vessels and missile systems.
• The Indian Navy commissioned 12 warships and submarines, including INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer.
• INS Mahendragiri, a stealth frigate with over 75% indigenous content, entered service.
• SHACHI, the first of 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels, was launched.
• INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray were commissioned, completing the indigenous Sandhayak-class survey fleet and expanding maritime surveillance and survey capabilities.
• DRDO successfully tested the Naval Anti-Ship Missile–Medium Range and demonstrated multi-layered Ballistic Missile Defence capabilities.
• These developments strengthen India’s ability to respond to maritime threats, improve surveillance across its maritime zones and protect its strategic interests.

 

 

Significance of Defence Self-Reliance

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• National Security- Reduces dependence on foreign suppliers during conflicts and geopolitical disruptions.
• Strategic autonomy- Enhances India’s ability to take independent decisions on defence and foreign policy.
• Economic growth- Promotes manufacturing, investment, employment and technological development.
• Technology development- Encourages indigenous research in aerospace, electronics, propulsion, artificial intelligence and advanced weapons.
• Export potential- Strengthens India’s position as a defence equipment supplier and supports international strategic partnerships.

Challenges in achieving defence self-reliance

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• Technological dependence- Critical technologies, specialised components and advanced manufacturing capabilities may continue to require foreign inputs.
• Research and development- Developing sophisticated defence systems requires sustained investment, specialised expertise and long development cycles.
• Private-sector participation- Greater collaboration between government institutions, start-ups and private manufacturers is needed to expand innovation and production capacity.
• Import dependence-Indigenous production must increasingly cover critical components and technologies, not merely final assembly.
• Procurement and testing- Defence projects require rigorous testing, timely approvals and coordination between research institutions, manufacturers and the armed forces.

Conclusion

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India’s defence transformation reflects a shift towards greater technological self-reliance, indigenous manufacturing and operational preparedness. Sustained investment in research, innovation and domestic production, along with stronger public-private collaboration, will be essential for reducing import dependence and building a technologically advanced defence ecosystem by 2047.

UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

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With reference to India’s defence sector, consider the following statements:

1. The iDEX scheme promotes innovation and participation of start-ups and MSMEs in defence technology development.
2. The Defence Testing Portal provides domestic manufacturers access to specialised testing facilities across DRDO laboratories.
3. Foreign Direct Investment in the defence sector is permitted up to 100% under the automatic route.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only.

Mains Practice Question

Q) Discuss the role of defence indigenization in strengthening India’s strategic autonomy and national security. Examine the major initiatives undertaken to promote self-reliance in the defence sector and the challenges that remain. (250 words)

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