Daily Morning Brief - 18 July - Top News Updates from India, world, economy and odisha

India

1. PM Modi Flags Off India's First Hydrogen-Powered Train in Haryana

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India's first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana. Built by the Integral Coach Factory, the train marks a major step toward green rail transport and places India among countries adopting hydrogen-powered railway technology.

2. India Participates in Multinational Air Combat Exercise Pitch Black 2026

The Indian Air Force is participating in Exercise Pitch Black 2026 in Australia with Rafale fighter aircraft. The multinational exercise involves 20 countries and aims to enhance combat readiness, interoperability, and strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

3. Deletion of Name from NPR Does Not Mean Loss of Citizenship: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court clarified that removing a person's name from the National Population Register (NPR) does not result in the loss of Indian citizenship. The Court stated that citizenship can only be determined under the provisions of the Citizenship Act and due legal process.

World

4. Andy Burnham Set to Become the Next Prime Minister of the United Kingdom

The UK Labour Party has confirmed Andy Burnham as its new leader, paving the way for him to become the country's next Prime Minister. Burnham has pledged to improve public services and restore public confidence in governance.

5. Trump Accuses China of Interfering in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election

 U.S. President Donald Trump has again alleged that China interfered in the 2020 presidential election. The renewed claim has revived political debate, although no new official evidence has been presented to support the allegations.

6. U.S. Conducts Airstrike on Iran's Chabahar Port

Reports of a U.S. airstrike targeting Iran's strategic Chabahar Port have heightened regional tensions. The development is significant for India, which has invested heavily in the port to strengthen trade connectivity with Central Asia and Afghanistan.

Economy

7. New ₹10 and ₹20 Plastic Currency Notes to Be Introduced

Authorities are preparing to introduce polymer-based ₹10 and ₹20 banknotes. Compared to paper notes, polymer currency is more durable, water-resistant, environmentally friendly, and equipped with enhanced security features to reduce counterfeiting.

8. Apple Overtakes Nvidia to Become the World's Most Valuable Company

Apple has regained its position as the world's most valuable listed company by surpassing Nvidia in market capitalization. Strong investor confidence, steady product demand, and advances in artificial intelligence contributed to Apple's renewed market leadership.

9. Government Considers Fee on High-Value UPI Transactions Above ₹1 Crore Annually

The government is considering introducing charges on annual UPI transactions exceeding ₹1 crore, along with platform fees on certain digital payments. The proposal aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of India's rapidly expanding digital payment ecosystem.

Odisha

10. NITI Aayog Recommends New Airport in Odisha's Bhadrak District

NITI Aayog has recommended establishing a new airport in Bhadrak district to improve regional connectivity and support industrial growth. The proposed airport is expected to strengthen logistics, attract investment, and boost economic development in northern Odisha.

11. Odisha Ranks Fifth in Investment Friendliness Index

Odisha has secured the fifth position in the national Investment Friendliness Index, reflecting its strong performance in ease of doing business, infrastructure development, industrial policies, and its growing ability to attract domestic and foreign investments.