CLAT Current Affairs Notes | 13 October 2026 | The Hindu + Indian Express + Times of India

---

1. Presidential Reshuffle: Six New Governors Appointed Across States

Source: The Hindu, Indian Express, PIB | Category: Indian Polity & Constitutional Law — High Offices

What Happened?

President Droupadi Murmu effected a major gubernatorial reshuffle appointing new Governors across six states on October 13, 2026. Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar was shifted to Tamil Nadu, Om Prakash Mathur to Kerala, Dushyant Gautam to Sikkim, Braj Mohan Ram to Odisha, Sudha Yadav to Karnataka, and Dhal Singh Bisen to Uttarakhand. The appointments were made under Article 155 of the Constitution on the aid and advice of the Union Cabinet.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional link: Governors are appointed by the President under Article 155 and hold office "during the pleasure of the President" under Article 156; they can be transferred or recalled at any time — a critical distinction from judges whose removal requires a formal impeachment process.
• Comparative fact: Unlike the President, who is elected by an Electoral College under Article 54, Governors are appointed (not elected), making them agents of the Centre in States under India's federal structure.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT passages frequently test the Governor's constitutional role — discretionary powers (Articles 163, 200), when assent to a bill can be withheld, and landmark cases like the Shamsher Singh case (1974) on the Governor's obligation to act on ministerial advice.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• Article 153 — Governor of each State
• Article 155 — Appointment of Governor by President
• Article 156 — Term: 5 years or pleasure of President, whichever is earlier
• Article 200 — Governor's assent/reservation of bills
• Article 163 — Council of Ministers to aid and advise Governor
• Shamsher Singh v. State of Punjab (1974) — Governor must act on Council of Ministers' advice in most matters
• B.P. Singhal v. Union of India (2010) — Removal of Governor must not be arbitrary

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. Under which Article of the Indian Constitution is a Governor appointed? A. Article 153 B. Article 154 C. Article 155 D. Article 156 Q2. Who appoints the Governor of a State under the Constitution? A. Prime Minister B. Chief Justice of India C. President of India D. Vice President of India Q3. The term of a Governor is: A. Fixed 5 years, non-removable before completion B. 5 years or during the pleasure of the President, whichever is earlier C. Co-terminus with the elected State government D. 6 years like Rajya Sabha members Q4. In which landmark case did the Supreme Court rule that the Governor must act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers in ordinary matters? A. Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala B. Shamsher Singh v. State of Punjab C. S.R. Bommai v. Union of India D. State of Rajasthan v. Union of India Q5. Which of the following is NOT a discretionary function of the Governor? A. Appointment of Chief Minister when no party has a clear majority B. Reserving a bill for the consideration of the President C. Nominating members to the State Legislative Council D. Sending the Annual Budget to the State Legislature Answers: Q1-C, Q2-C, Q3-B, Q4-B, Q5-D

---

2. PM GatiShakti Completes Five Years: Cabinet Approves ITLA

Source: PIB, InsightsOnIndia | Category: National Policies & Government Schemes

What Happened?

The PM GatiShakti National Master Plan completed five years on October 13, 2026 — it was launched on this date in 2021. The Cabinet approved the creation of the Integrated Transport & Logistics Authority (ITLA) to appraise infrastructure projects of ₹500 crore or more. The plan currently links 58 Central Ministries and all 36 States and UTs with 23,493 geospatial data layers, and the Network Planning Group (NPG) has evaluated 396 mega-projects worth ₹18.66 lakh crore. It targets cutting logistics costs from 13–14% of GDP to 8–9% of GDP. Its technology partner is BISAG-N (under MeitY), based in Gandhinagar.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional/legal link: The plan operates under cooperative federalism — Article 282 allows both Union and States to make grants for public purposes, underpinning Centre-State infrastructure coordination.
• Comparative fact: India ranked 38th out of 139 countries in the World Bank Logistics Performance Index (LPI) 2023; the National Logistics Policy (September 2022) targets a top-25 ranking by 2030.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT RC passages on infrastructure, logistics or federal cooperation often test facts about PM GatiShakti — its seven engines (Roads, Railways, Ports, Waterways, Airports, Mass Transport, Logistics) and institutional structure are frequent MCQ targets.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• PM GatiShakti launched: October 13, 2021
• Seven Engines: Roads, Railways, Ports, Waterways, Airports, Mass Transport, Logistics Infrastructure
• Technology partner: BISAG-N (Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geoinformatics), Gandhinagar
• National Logistics Policy — September 17, 2022
• ULIP (Unified Logistics Interface Platform): 46 systems, 12 ministries, 142 APIs
• Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara — India's first university dedicated to transport and logistics

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. PM GatiShakti National Master Plan was launched on: A. October 13, 2020 B. October 13, 2021 C. January 26, 2021 D. August 15, 2022 Q2. Which institution is the technology partner for PM GatiShakti? A. ISRO, Bengaluru B. IIT Delhi C. BISAG-N, Gandhinagar D. NCAER, New Delhi Q3. How many 'engines' does PM GatiShakti identify for infrastructure development? A. Five B. Six C. Seven D. Nine Q4. The National Logistics Policy, which complements PM GatiShakti, was released in: A. August 2021 B. October 2021 C. September 2022 D. January 2023 Q5. Which new authority was approved by the Cabinet on the 5th anniversary of PM GatiShakti to appraise projects of ₹500 crore or more? A. National Infrastructure Investment Board (NIIB) B. Integrated Transport & Logistics Authority (ITLA) C. National Logistics Regulatory Authority (NLRA) D. Infrastructure Development Finance Corporation (IDFC) Answers: Q1-B, Q2-C, Q3-C, Q4-C, Q5-B

---

3. Supreme Court Orders Government to Plan Drug Price Capping

Source: The Hindu, NextIAS | Category: Indian Polity & Constitutional Law — SC Judgment

What Happened?

The Supreme Court of India asked the Union Government to prepare a concrete plan for capping prices of all drugs, not just essential medicines. The bench raised the concern that millions of patients are unable to afford life-saving medications because only drugs on the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) are currently price-regulated under the Drug Price Control Order (DPCO). The Court's intervention signals the expanding judicial recognition of healthcare access as a justiciable fundamental right flowing from Article 21.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional link: The SC's direction flows from Article 21 (Right to Life) expanded by cases like Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity v. State of West Bengal (1996) — right to health is part of the right to life. The Directive Principle in Article 47 also mandates the state to improve public health.
• Comparative fact: India's drug pricing regulation operates through the DPCO, 2013 (under Essential Commodities Act, 1955), administered by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT often features passages on access to healthcare, public interest litigation and Article 21's expanding scope — the nexus between DPSUs and drug pricing is a recurring legal-reasoning topic.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• Article 21 — Right to Life (includes right to health, per judicial interpretation)
• Article 47 — DPSP: State duty to raise level of nutrition and standard of living, improve public health
• NPPA (National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority) — set up 1997 under MoC&F
• DPCO 2013 — Drug Price Control Order under Essential Commodities Act, 1955
• NLEM (National List of Essential Medicines) — basis for price-capped drugs
• Paschim Banga case (1996) — right to medical treatment is part of Article 21

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. Under which constitutional provision has the Supreme Court primarily grounded the right to health? A. Article 19(1)(g) B. Article 21 C. Article 32 D. Article 47 Q2. Drug price regulation in India is administered by which body? A. CDSCO B. FSSAI C. NPPA D. Medical Council of India Q3. The Drug Price Control Order (DPCO) 2013 is issued under which Act? A. Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 B. Essential Commodities Act, 1955 C. Consumer Protection Act, 2019 D. Pharmacy Act, 1948 Q4. Which directive principle most directly mandates the state to improve public health? A. Article 39A B. Article 44 C. Article 47 D. Article 51A Q5. In which case did the Supreme Court first broadly held that the right to life under Article 21 includes emergency medical care? A. Bandhua Mukti Morcha v. UOI (1984) B. Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity v. State of WB (1996) C. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987) D. Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978) Answers: Q1-B, Q2-C, Q3-B, Q4-C, Q5-B

---

4. Supreme Court on Cauvery Water Dispute: Karnataka Grilled Over Backlog

Source: The Hindu, NextIAS | Category: Indian Polity & Constitutional Law — SC/Inter-State Dispute

What Happened?

The Supreme Court questioned how Karnataka plans to clear its Cauvery water release backlog to Tamil Nadu during a drought year, while simultaneously directing the question back to Tamil Nadu to find a workable solution. The Cauvery dispute is an inter-state river water conflict governed by the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal Award (2007, modified by SC in 2018) which allocated 177.25 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) annually to Tamil Nadu and 284.75 TMC to Karnataka. The SC's 2018 order increased Tamil Nadu's share from the tribunal's 192 TMC to 177.25 TMC while marginally increasing Karnataka's allocation.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional link: Inter-state river water disputes are governed by Article 262 of the Constitution read with the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 (amended 2019). Article 262(2) bars the Supreme Court's jurisdiction in such disputes — but the SC has held it can intervene to enforce tribunal awards.
• Comparative fact: The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal was constituted in 1990 and gave its final award in 2007 — the longest-pending such tribunal in India. The SC modified it in February 2018.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT passages on federalism, inter-state disputes and water rights frequently cite the Cauvery case as a model — students should know which body adjudicates such disputes and SC's role.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• Article 262 — Adjudication of disputes relating to waters of inter-State rivers
• Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956
• Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal — constituted 1990, final award 2007
• Karnataka's allocation: 284.75 TMC | Tamil Nadu's allocation: 177.25 TMC (as per SC 2018)
• Karnataka River Protection Authority — implementing body

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. Which Article of the Constitution deals with inter-state river water disputes? A. Article 252 B. Article 256 C. Article 262 D. Article 263 Q2. The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal gave its final award in: A. 2000 B. 2004 C. 2007 D. 2010 Q3. Which Act governs the establishment of Inter-State Water Disputes Tribunals in India? A. River Boards Act, 1956 B. Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 C. National Water Policy Act, 2012 D. Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 Q4. Article 262(2) of the Constitution provides that: A. The Parliament shall legislate on inter-state river disputes B. The President may appoint a Water Tribunal C. Parliament may exclude the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in water disputes D. The Governor may be the arbitrator in inter-state river conflicts Q5. In which year did the Supreme Court modify the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal award? A. 2012 B. 2015 C. 2018 D. 2020 Answers: Q1-C, Q2-C, Q3-B, Q4-C, Q5-C

---

5. Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences 2026: Hall and Woodford Honoured

Source: InsightsOnIndia, The Hindu | Category: Economy: Regulation & Financial Instruments / Awards

What Happened?

The 2026 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences was awarded jointly to Robert E. Hall (Stanford University) and Michael Woodford (Columbia University). Hall's research established that consumer spending follows a "random walk" under rational, forward-looking expectations — meaning current consumption already incorporates all available information, making past trends non-predictive. Woodford's work developed the New Keynesian Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) model and pioneered the concept of "forward guidance" — central banks signalling future interest rate paths to anchor market expectations without immediate rate changes.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional/legal link: The RBI Act, 1934 (as amended 2016) mandates the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to maintain price stability while keeping growth in mind — Woodford's forward guidance directly influences modern central banking practices including India's MPC.
• Comparative fact: The Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences (officially the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel) is not one of the original five Nobel Prizes — it was established in 1968 by the Swedish central bank and first awarded in 1969.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT passages sometimes appear on monetary policy, central bank independence, and the role of the RBI — the 2016 amendment inserting Section 45ZA–45ZZA (MPC framework) into the RBI Act is frequently tested.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences — NOT an original Nobel (est. 1968 by Sveriges Riksbank)
• Robert E. Hall — Random Walk Hypothesis of Consumption
• Michael Woodford — New Keynesian DSGE framework; Forward Guidance theory
• RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) — 6 members, set up under RBI Act amendment 2016
• Repo Rate as primary monetary policy tool in India
• Inflation targeting framework in India — CPI target: 4% (±2%), legally binding from 2016

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. The Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences is officially known as: A. Alfred Nobel Prize in Economics B. Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel C. Bank of Sweden Award for Economic Research D. International Economics Prize Q2. In which year was the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences first awarded? A. 1901 B. 1948 C. 1969 D. 1978 Q3. The concept of "forward guidance" in monetary policy means: A. Central banks increasing interest rates preemptively B. Central banks communicating future policy paths to shape market expectations C. Governments directing banks on lending targets D. Advance announcement of annual budget targets Q4. India's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) was established under: A. FRBM Act, 2003 B. Banking Regulation Act, 1949 C. RBI Act, 1934 (amended 2016) D. SEBI Act, 1992 Q5. India's legally binding CPI inflation target is: A. 2% (±1%) B. 3% (±2%) C. 4% (±2%) D. 5% (±1%) Answers: Q1-B, Q2-C, Q3-B, Q4-C, Q5-C

---

6. IMF Raises India's FY2027 Growth Forecast to 7%

Source: Indian Express, NextIAS | Category: Economy: Regulation & Financial Instruments

What Happened?

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) revised upward its growth forecast for India for the financial year 2026–27 to 7%, citing resilient domestic demand, strong public investment, and a stabilising global trade environment. India continues to be the world's fastest-growing major economy according to IMF projections, outpacing China (estimated ~4.5% for 2027). This forecast was part of the IMF's World Economic Outlook (WEO) update released in October 2026.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional link: The Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog, replaced in 2015) monitored India's growth under Article 263-type advisory mechanisms; fiscal management under the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, 2003, shapes the fiscal envelope in which growth targets are set.
• Comparative fact: The IMF is an international financial institution headquartered in Washington D.C., established through the Bretton Woods Conference (1944), with 190 member nations. India is among the top 10 shareholders.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT Legal Reasoning passages about international economic law and institutions (WTO, IMF, World Bank) are common; the IMF's mandate (balance of payments support, exchange rate stability) vs. the World Bank's (development lending) distinction is a popular MCQ.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• IMF — established: 1945; HQ: Washington D.C.; MD: traditionally European (Christine Lagarde → Kristalina Georgieva pattern)
• World Economic Outlook (WEO) — IMF's flagship publication, released twice yearly
• FRBM Act, 2003 — India's fiscal discipline law; fiscal deficit target 3% of GDP
• NITI Aayog — replaced Planning Commission in 2015; it is NOT a constitutional body
• India's GDP (nominal) — approx. $4+ trillion in 2026, 5th largest economy globally

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) was established in: A. 1919 (Paris Peace Conference) B. 1944 (Bretton Woods Conference) C. 1945 (San Francisco Conference) D. 1947 (Havana Charter) Q2. The IMF's World Economic Outlook is: A. An annual report on member countries' fiscal compliance B. A publication released twice yearly projecting global growth C. A quarterly banking supervision report D. A five-year plan for developing economies Q3. Which Act governs India's fiscal deficit targets? A. Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 B. Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 C. Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2003 D. Companies Act, 2013 Q4. The Planning Commission of India was replaced by NITI Aayog in: A. 2013 B. 2014 C. 2015 D. 2016 Q5. India is currently ranked approximately ______ globally by nominal GDP. A. 3rd B. 4th C. 5th D. 7th Answers: Q1-B, Q2-B, Q3-C, Q4-C, Q5-C

---

7. INS Mangrol Inducted: Navy Strengthens Anti-Submarine Warfare

Source: The Hindu, Indian Express | Category: National Policies & Government Schemes — Defence

What Happened?

The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mangrol, its third Mahe-class anti-submarine warfare (ASW) shallow water craft, dedicated to detecting and countering underwater threats in coastal and littoral zones. The ship is indigenously built and is part of India's push to strengthen submarine detection capability around its coastline. The induction is significant given increasing submarine activity by adversarial navies in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), particularly linked to the broader strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional link: Defence (including the Navy) falls under Entry 1 of the Union List (Schedule VII), making it an exclusive Central subject under Article 246. The President is the Supreme Commander of all armed forces under Article 53.
• Comparative fact: INS stands for "Indian Naval Ship." India has three naval commands — Western Command (Mumbai), Eastern Command (Visakhapatnam), and Southern Command (Kochi, training). The Navy's motto is "Sha No Varuna" (May Varun be propitious unto us).
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT passages on defence, strategic autonomy, or constitutional powers often touch on civil-military relations, the Union List, and India's maritime doctrine.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• Article 53 — President as Supreme Commander of Defence Forces
• Article 246 + Seventh Schedule, Union List Entry 1 — Defence an exclusive Union subject
• India's three Naval Commands: Western (Mumbai), Eastern (Visakhapatnam), Southern (Kochi)
• Indian Ocean Region (IOR) — strategic importance: 80% of global seaborne oil trade
• QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) — India, USA, Australia, Japan — maritime security focus
• Exercise KONKAN — India-UK bilateral naval exercise (since 2004)

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. Under which entry of the Union List does "Naval forces" fall? A. Entry 1 B. Entry 2 C. Entry 11 D. Entry 33 Q2. Who is the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces? A. Prime Minister B. Defence Minister C. President of India D. Chief of Defence Staff Q3. The Eastern Naval Command of India is headquartered at: A. Mumbai B. Kochi C. Visakhapatnam D. Goa Q4. India's navy motto "Sha No Varuna" refers to: A. May India's seas be safe B. May Varun be propitious unto us C. Sea power protects the nation D. Strength through unity Q5. Exercise KONKAN is a bilateral naval exercise between India and: A. United States B. France C. United Kingdom D. Australia Answers: Q1-A, Q2-C, Q3-C, Q4-B, Q5-C

---

8. IBSAMAR 2026: India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime Exercise

Source: PIB, NextIAS | Category: International Relations & Global Summits

What Happened?

India, Brazil, and South Africa conducted the IBSAMAR (India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime) exercise in 2026 as part of the IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Dialogue Forum. IBSAMAR is a bilateral naval exercise conducted among these three democracies from the Global South, focusing on maritime interoperability, anti-piracy, anti-submarine warfare, and search-and-rescue operations. The exercise reinforces the strategic maritime partnership among these three major emerging democracies and the importance of the Global South in international relations.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional link: India's international treaties and foreign policy engagements fall within the Union Government's exclusive domain under Article 253 (Parliament's power to legislate for implementing international treaties) and Entry 14 of the Union List (entering into treaties and agreements with foreign countries).
• Comparative fact: The IBSA Dialogue Forum was established in 2003 (Brasília Declaration). Its three members are all emerging powers — Brazil (South America), India (South Asia), and South Africa (Southern Africa). IBSAMAR is distinct from other BRICS exercises.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT passages on India's multilateral engagements, South-South cooperation, and international groupings like BRICS, G20, and IBSA are very common.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• IBSA — established 2003 via Brasília Declaration; three democracies from Global South
• IBSAMAR — naval component of IBSA; focuses on maritime security
• Article 253 — Parliament can legislate to implement international treaties
• Union List Entry 14 — Entering into treaties with foreign countries
• BRICS vs IBSA — BRICS includes Russia and China; IBSA is India, Brazil, South Africa only (democracies)

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. IBSA Dialogue Forum was established through the: A. New Delhi Declaration (2002) B. Brasília Declaration (2003) C. Johannesburg Declaration (2005) D. Rio Declaration (2004) Q2. Which of the following is NOT a member of the IBSA Dialogue Forum? A. India B. Russia C. Brazil D. South Africa Q3. Under which Article of the Constitution does Parliament derive power to legislate on matters covered by international treaties? A. Article 249 B. Article 250 C. Article 252 D. Article 253 Q4. IBSAMAR is a: A. Space cooperation agreement among IBSA nations B. Naval exercise among India, Brazil and South Africa C. Trade facilitation mechanism under IBSA D. Scientific research initiative among Global South nations Q5. What distinguishes IBSA from BRICS in terms of membership? A. IBSA includes China; BRICS does not B. IBSA consists of three democracies from Global South; BRICS includes Russia and China C. IBSA is a UN body; BRICS is not D. IBSA focuses only on defence; BRICS is purely economic Answers: Q1-B, Q2-B, Q3-D, Q4-B, Q5-B

---

9. PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana Completes One Year

Source: PIB, InsightsOnIndia | Category: National Policies & Government Schemes

What Happened?

PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana completed its first year on October 11, 2026. The scheme, approved by the Cabinet on July 16, 2025, and launched on October 11, 2025, covers 100 aspirational agricultural districts across all states. It allocates ₹24,000 crore annually for six years, targeting approximately 1.7 crore farmers in low-productivity, low-credit districts. The scheme converges 36 Central schemes from 11 ministries with State schemes, monitored through 121 indicators. Gaya (Bihar), Nagaur (Rajasthan), and Umaria (Madhya Pradesh) were the top-performing districts in year one.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional link: Agriculture falls under Entry 14 of the State List (Schedule VII) — it is primarily a State subject. However, Parliament can legislate on agriculture-related financial assistance under the Concurrent List (Entry 40) and through the Union's spending power (Article 282). Such cross-list convergence is a frequent CLAT theme.
• Comparative fact: The scheme is modelled on the Aspirational Districts Programme (2018) initiated by NITI Aayog and the Aspirational Blocks Programme (2023). PM Dhan-Dhaanya Samitis, chaired by the District Collector, provide grassroots implementation governance.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT passages on Centre-State relations, Seventh Schedule disputes, and agricultural reform commonly test students on which list Agriculture falls in and the limits of Central intervention.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• Agriculture — State List, Entry 14 (Schedule VII)
• Article 282 — Union and States may make grants for any public purpose even outside their legislative competence
• PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana: Cabinet approval July 16, 2025; launched Oct 11, 2025
• ₹24,000 crore/year × 6 years; 100 districts; ~1.7 crore farmers targeted
• Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) — launched 2018, predecessor scheme
• Khet Bachao Abhiyan — soil health/fertiliser campaign, October–November 2026

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. "Agriculture" as a legislative subject appears under which list in the Seventh Schedule? A. Union List B. Concurrent List C. State List D. Residuary List Q2. PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana was launched on: A. July 16, 2025 B. August 15, 2025 C. October 11, 2025 D. January 1, 2026 Q3. How many districts does PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana cover? A. 50 B. 75 C. 100 D. 115 (one per district in each state) Q4. Which body chaired the District Dhan-Dhaanya Samitis set up to govern the scheme at the grassroots? A. Block Development Officer B. District Collector C. Gram Panchayat President D. State Agriculture Secretary Q5. The predecessor programme that inspired PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana is the: A. MGNREGS (2005) B. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (2016) C. Aspirational Districts Programme (2018) D. PM KISAN (2019) Answers: Q1-C, Q2-C, Q3-C, Q4-B, Q5-C

---

10. NHRC Celebrates 33rd Foundation Day

Source: InsightsOnIndia, PIB | Category: Indian Polity & Constitutional Law — Constitutional Bodies

What Happened?

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) celebrated its 33rd Foundation Day on October 12, 2026, having been established on October 12, 1993. The NHRC was set up under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (amended in 2019), which also provides for State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs). The Commission functions in adherence to the Paris Principles — international standards on national human rights institutions. The NHRC's Chairperson is a retired Chief Justice of India.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional link: While the NHRC is a statutory body (not a constitutional one), it derives its legitimacy from the constitutional mandate to protect fundamental rights under Part III. Its powers mirror those of a civil court (Section 13 of the PHR Act), and it can recommend compensation, remedial action, or prosecution.
• Comparative fact: The NHRC is NOT a constitutional body (like the Election Commission under Article 324 or CAG under Article 148) but a statutory body created by Parliament under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 — this distinction is a very popular CLAT question.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT frequently tests the distinction between constitutional, statutory, and non-statutory bodies; powers and limitations of the NHRC (cannot investigate complaints more than 1 year old; cannot investigate armed forces directly); and the Paris Principles.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• NHRC established: October 12, 1993 under Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993
• Chairperson: Retired Chief Justice of India; Members: Retired SC/HC judges
• Paris Principles (1991, adopted by UN 1993) — criteria for national human rights institutions: independence, mandate, pluralism, adequate powers, accessibility
• NHRC cannot: investigate complaints over 1 year old (time-barred); directly investigate armed forces (can only seek reports from govt)
• NHRC powers = powers of a Civil Court in certain matters (Section 13, PHR Act)
• SHRCs (State HRCs) set up under the same Act

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was established under: A. The Constitution of India (Article 315) B. Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 C. Human Rights Commission Act, 1990 D. Fundamental Rights (Protection) Act, 1986 Q2. The Chairperson of the NHRC must be: A. A serving Chief Justice of India B. A retired Chief Justice of India C. A retired Judge of a High Court D. A distinguished jurist nominated by the President Q3. The NHRC cannot investigate a complaint that is: A. Filed by an NGO B. Relating to an event over one year old C. Against a private individual D. Directed against a serving minister Q4. What are the Paris Principles? A. Guidelines for the UN Security Council on humanitarian intervention B. International standards for national human rights institutions C. Norms for conduct of international armed conflicts D. Rules governing bilateral human rights treaties Q5. Which of the following is a CORRECT distinction between the NHRC and the Election Commission of India? A. NHRC is constitutional; ECI is statutory B. NHRC is statutory; ECI is constitutional C. Both are constitutional bodies D. Both are statutory bodies Answers: Q1-B, Q2-B, Q3-B, Q4-B, Q5-B

---

11. Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary: Karnataka Blocks Mining Proposals

Source: InsightsOnIndia | Category: Environment, Climate & Energy

What Happened?

The Karnataka State Board for Wildlife (SBWL) rejected four stone-quarrying proposals that were located 422 to 997 metres from the Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary in Gadag district, Karnataka. The rejection was based on the mandatory prohibition on mining activities within 1 km of wildlife sanctuaries' Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ). Kappatagudda was upgraded to a Wildlife Sanctuary in May 2019 and received its final Eco-Sensitive Zone notification in June 2025. The sanctuary has a core area of 244.15 sq km and a notified ESZ of 423.7 sq km.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional/legal link: Forests and wildlife protection straddle Article 246 and the Concurrent List (Entry 17A — forests; Entry 17B — protection of wild animals and birds, inserted by 42nd Amendment, 1976). The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 governs sanctuaries and national parks. The Supreme Court's "1 km ESZ" rule from T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. UOI (ongoing forest case) is central.
• Comparative fact: The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) headed by the Prime Minister is the apex body; below it are State Boards for Wildlife (SBWL) headed by Chief Ministers. Projects within 10 km of tiger reserves or national parks need NBWL clearance.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: CLAT passages on environmental law, ESZs, and the role of NBWL/SBWL in balancing development vs. conservation are frequently tested.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 — governs wildlife sanctuaries and national parks
• Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ) — declared under Environment Protection Act, 1986
• 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976) — inserted Entries 17A (Forests) and 17B (Wild animals & birds) in Concurrent List
• NBWL (National Board for Wildlife) — chaired by PM; SBWL — chaired by Chief Minister
• T.N. Godavarman case — ongoing green bench case on forest conservation
• Kappatagudda: Gadag district, Karnataka; core area 244.15 sq km; ESZ 423.7 sq km

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. Protection of wild animals and birds is found in which list under the Seventh Schedule? A. Union List B. State List C. Concurrent List D. Residuary List Q2. Eco-Sensitive Zones are declared under which Act? A. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 B. Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 C. Environment Protection Act, 1986 D. Biodiversity Act, 2002 Q3. The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) is chaired by: A. Minister of Environment B. Chief Justice of India C. Prime Minister of India D. President of India Q4. The 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976) transferred "Forests" from the State List to: A. Union List B. Concurrent List C. It remained in the State List D. Created a new separate list Q5. Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which district of Karnataka? A. Mysuru B. Belagavi C. Gadag D. Dharwad Answers: Q1-C, Q2-C, Q3-C, Q4-B, Q5-C

---

12. CJI: Right to Life Includes Right to Pollution-Free Water and Air

Source: Indian Express, NextIAS | Category: Indian Polity & Constitutional Law — SC Judgment

What Happened?

The Chief Justice of India stated in a significant judicial observation that the right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution includes the right to pollution-free water and air. This remark came during a hearing on environmental pollution, extending the already broad judicial interpretation of Article 21 to expressly cover clean environment as a fundamental right. The observation reinforces the line of cases beginning with the M.C. Mehta judgments of the 1980s and the more recent T.N. Godavarman forest protection cases.

Why is this IMPORTANT for CLAT?

• Constitutional link: Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) has been progressively expanded by the Supreme Court to include the right to a clean environment, the right to livelihood, right to dignity, right to privacy (Puttaswamy 2017), right to health, and right to education (prior to Article 21A insertion). DPSP Article 48A specifically directs the state to protect and improve the environment.
• Comparative fact: The Supreme Court first held in Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar (1991) that the right to live includes the right to enjoyment of pollution-free water and air. The M.C. Mehta cases (1987 onwards) established the polluter-pays principle and absolute liability (Oleum gas case) in Indian environmental law.
• Likely passage/MCQ theme: Article 21's expanding scope is one of the most tested CLAT topics — CLAT passages will often set a scenario of a fundamental rights violation and ask about the correct Article, the appropriate remedy (Article 32 before SC, Article 226 before HC), and key precedents.

Key Static Concepts to Link

• Article 21 — Right to Life and Personal Liberty (expanded by SC to include: right to health, livelihood, education, clean environment, privacy, dignity)
• Article 48A (DPSP) — State duty to protect and improve environment
• Article 51A(g) — Fundamental duty to protect environment
• M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987) — absolute liability; Oleum Gas Leak case
• Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar (1991) — right to pollution-free water and air part of Article 21
• Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) — right to privacy as part of Article 21
• Article 32 — SC remedy for FR violation; Article 226 — HC writ jurisdiction

Possible CLAT Questions

Q1. In which case did the Supreme Court first hold that the right to live includes the right to pollution-free water and air? A. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987) B. Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar (1991) C. Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India (1996) D. T.N. Godavarman v. Union of India (1997) Q2. Article 48A of the Constitution, which directs the state to protect the environment, is classified as: A. A Fundamental Right B. A Directive Principle of State Policy C. A Fundamental Duty D. A constitutional mandate with direct enforceability Q3. The principle of "absolute liability" (stricter than strict liability) in Indian environmental law was established in: A. Rylands v. Fletcher (1868) B. Oleum Gas Leak case (M.C. Mehta, 1987) C. Bhopal Gas Tragedy Case (1989) D. Sterlite Industries case (2013) Q4. Article 51A(g) is best described as: A. A Fundamental Right to clean environment B. A Fundamental Duty to protect and improve the environment C. A DPSP directing the state to establish pollution boards D. A directive to Parliament to legislate environmental law Q5. Under which Article can a citizen move the HIGH COURT for enforcement of fundamental rights? A. Article 32 B. Article 131 C. Article 226 D. Article 227 Answers: Q1-B, Q2-B, Q3-B, Q4-B, Q5-C

---

📊 Quick Revision Snapshot

#	Topic	Key Fact	CLAT Category
1	Governor Appointments — 6 States	President appointed new Governors for TN, Kerala, Sikkim, Odisha, Karnataka, Uttarakhand under Art. 155	Polity — High Offices
2	PM GatiShakti — 5 Years	Launched Oct 13, 2021; Cabinet approved ITLA; 23,493 geospatial layers; tech partner: BISAG-N	National Policies
3	SC on Drug Price Capping	SC directed Govt to plan capping ALL drug prices; NPPA regulates under DPCO 2013 (Essential Commodities Act)	Constitutional Law
4	SC on Cauvery Water Dispute	SC questioned Karnataka's backlog; TN allocation 177.25 TMC; governed by Art. 262 + ISRWD Act 1956	Constitutional Law
5	Nobel Prize in Economics 2026	Robert E. Hall (Stanford) & Michael Woodford (Columbia); Random Walk + Forward Guidance theories	Economy — Awards
6	IMF India Growth Forecast FY27	IMF raised India growth to 7%; fastest-growing major economy; WEO October 2026	Economy
7	INS Mangrol Commissioned	3rd Mahe-class ASW ship; Defence under Union List Entry 1; President is Supreme Commander (Art. 53)	Defence — Polity
8	IBSAMAR 2026	India-Brazil-South Africa naval exercise; IBSA established 2003 via Brasília Declaration	International Relations
9	PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana	1-year review; 100 districts; ₹24,000 cr/yr; Agriculture in State List Entry 14	National Policies
10	NHRC 33rd Foundation Day	Est. Oct 12, 1993 under PHR Act 1993; statutory (NOT constitutional); Paris Principles	Constitutional Bodies
11	Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary	Karnataka SBWL rejected 4 mining proposals within ESZ; WPA 1972; NBWL chaired by PM	Environment
12	CJI: Art. 21 & Clean Environment	CJI: Art. 21 includes right to pollution-free water and air; Subhash Kumar 1991 precedent	Constitutional Law

---

📌 Prepared by CLATians Editorial Desk | For CLAT 2027 & CLAT 2028 Preparation | Based on The Hindu, Indian Express, Times of India, PIB, ANI