Daily Current Affairs Digest | April 20th 2026

Daily Current Affairs Digest | April 20th 2026

PM Modi Holds Talks with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung


Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in New Delhi, highlighting South Korea’s importance as a key partner for India in technology, investment, and the Indo-Pacific region. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in trade, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and broader strategic collaboration. The meeting reaffirmed India’s intent to deepen engagement with advanced Asian economies and strengthen long-term partnerships in emerging sectors.

Vice President Meets Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to discuss several important bilateral issues. The talks covered the Trincomalee energy hub, the proposed India–Sri Lanka oil pipeline, housing projects, fishermen-related concerns, and the welfare of Indian-origin Tamils. The interaction reinforced India’s Neighbourhood First policy and underlined the importance of sustained regional cooperation in South Asia.

India–US Bilateral Trade Agreement Talks Resume in Washington

India and the United States resumed Bilateral Trade Agreement talks in Washington, D.C., from April 20 to 22. The discussions are centered on tariffs, USTR probes, and the need to recalibrate the trade framework in response to changing US tariff policies and wider global trade dynamics. These negotiations are significant as they could influence the next phase of India–US economic ties and shape strategic trade cooperation between the two countries.

IMD Forecasts Heatwaves Across Large Parts of India

The India Meteorological Department has forecast heatwave conditions over north, central, and eastern India. These conditions are being driven by high-pressure systems, dry winds, and clear skies, all of which are contributing to a rise in temperatures. Coastal regions are also expected to face hot and humid weather due to moisture-laden winds and already high temperature levels. The forecast raises concerns for public health, water availability, agriculture, and electricity demand.

India and Russia Operationalise RELOS Agreement

India and Russia have operationalised RELOS, an agreement that enables mutual access to military bases for logistics, deployments, and exercises. This step is expected to strengthen India’s strategic reach, maritime capability, and expeditionary operations. It also reflects India’s continued policy of multi-alignment, where it builds defence and strategic ties with multiple global powers while maintaining strategic autonomy.

Jonnagiri Gold Project Marks a Milestone in India’s Mining Sector

The Jonnagiri gold project in Andhra Pradesh has emerged as India’s first large-scale private gold mine since Independence. The project is expected to increase domestic gold production, reduce dependence on imports, conserve foreign exchange, and promote mineral self-reliance under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. It marks an important step in unlocking private investment in the mining sector and strengthening India’s resource security.

Union Cabinet Extends PMGSY-III Till 2028

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has extended Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III till 2028 with a higher outlay. Originally launched in 2000, the scheme aims to provide all-weather rural road connectivity. Its extension is expected to improve access to markets, strengthen transportation in rural areas, and contribute to socio-economic development by connecting remote and underserved regions.

Iran Rejects Talks with US, Tensions Escalate in West Asia

Iran rejected the second round of talks with the United States, citing blockade-related concerns and demands. It also closed the Strait of Hormuz, sharply escalating tensions in the region. Donald Trump warned of force amid stalled negotiations and rising instability. This development has serious implications for regional security, global oil supply routes, and the broader geopolitical environment in West Asia.