State PCS - Karnataka (KPSC)

• 18 Apr 2026

PM Inaugurated Sri Guru Bhairavaikya Mandira in Karnataka

Why in News? 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sri Guru Bhairavaikya Mandira at Sri Kshetra Adichunchanagiri in Mandya district of Karnataka. 

Key Points 

• Inauguration: The Sri Guru Bhairavaikya Mandira was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Karnataka. 
  • The temple is associated with the Sri Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana Math, a prominent spiritual and socio-religious institution in southern India. 
• Spiritual Legacy: The Mandira has been constructed in memory of Dr. Sri Sri Sri Balagangadharanatha Mahaswamiji, the former head of the Math known for his contributions to education, healthcare and social welfare. 
  • The Math is presently headed by Dr. Sri Sri Sri Nirmalanandanatha Mahaswamiji. 
• Prime Minister’s Address: During the event, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of service, spirituality and community welfare in nation-building. 
  • The Prime Minister also urged citizens to adopt nine commitments, including water conservation, tree plantation under “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, cleanliness, promoting local products, domestic tourism, natural farming, healthy lifestyle, fitness, and community service. 

Read More: Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 

R Vaishali Wins FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026

Why in News? 

Indian chess Grandmaster R. Vaishali won the FIDE Women's Candidates Tournament 2026, earning the right to challenge reigning world champion Ju Wenjun of China for the Women’s World Chess Championship title later in 2026. 

Key Points 

• Venue: The tournament was held in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus. 
• Organised by: The International Chess Federation (FIDE). 
• Tournament Victory: R. Vaishali secured the title of the FIDE Women's Candidates Tournament 2026 by defeating Russian Grandmaster Kateryna Lagno in the final round.  
  • She finished with 8.5 points out of 14 rounds, clinching the tournament by half a point. 
  • With this victory, she earned the opportunity to challenge reigning champion Ju Wenjun in the Women’s World Chess Championship match scheduled later in 2026. 
• Historic Achievement: The 24-year-old Grandmaster became the first Indian woman to win the Women’s Candidates Tournament, marking a major milestone for Indian chess. 
• FIDE:FIDE currently has its headquarters in Lausanne. 
  • It was recognized by the International Olympic Committee as a Global Sporting Organization in 1999. 
  • It was initially founded in 1924 in Paris under the motto “Gens una Sumus” (Latin for “We are one Family”).

Upgraded HAL Aerospace Museum Opens in Bengaluru

Why in News? 

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Aerospace Museum in Bengaluru was officially reopened to the public today following an extensive upgrade. The revamped facility serves as a premier destination for witnessing the evolution of India's indigenous aerospace industry and the milestones achieved by HAL.  

Key Points: 

• New Additions and Enhancements:The upgraded museum features a dedicated gallery for Tejas (LCA), India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft, and the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv. 
  • Virtual Reality (VR) Experience: A new state-of-the-art VR zone allows visitors to experience a simulated flight in a fighter cockpit, bridging the gap between historical displays and modern technology. 
  • Restored Heritage Aircraft: Several vintage aircraft, including the Marut (HF-24)—India's first indigenous supersonic fighter—and the Lakshya (PTA), have been meticulously restored for better display.  
• Strategic Significance: The museum aims to inspire the next generation of engineers and pilots by detailing the technical journey from the era of the HT-2 (India's first trainer) to the modern era of Stealth and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). 
  • Promoting 'Atmanirbharta': By documenting the history of aeronautical design and manufacturing in India, the facility highlights the nation's progress toward self-reliance in the defense sector.  
• Tourism and Cultural Impact:As India’s first aerospace museum (established in 2001), the upgrade solidifies its status as a key landmark in Bengaluru, the country's "Aviation Capital." 
  • Public Engagement: The facility includes a renovated library, an aero-modeling club, and an updated sustainability park, making it a comprehensive center for both leisure and learning.