Current Affairs

Current Affairs — 18 September 2026

18 September 2026

U.S. Clears Russia Sanctions Bill: India Faces Tariff Threat

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation authorizing up to 100% secondary tariffs on countries purchasing oil and gas from Russia, alongside targeting the shadow fleet of tankers. This move poses severe implications for India, which imports a substantial share of its crude oil at discounted rates from Russia. While the bill aims to restrict Russia's energy revenues, it threatens India's energy security, domestic inflation, and bilateral relations with the U.S., prompting New Delhi to emphasize its energy security and strategic autonomy.

  • The U.S. House passed legislation authorizing up to 100% tariffs on countries buying Russian oil and gas.
  • India imports 35-40% of its crude oil from Russia, making it a critical supplier of discounted energy.
  • The bill also targets vessels in the shadow fleet and insurers involved in Russian energy trade.
Exam Points
  • India imports 35-40% of its crude oil from Russia.
  • The U.S. legislation authorizes up to 100% tariffs on countries buying Russian oil and gas.
  • The U.S. previously imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods in July 2025 over Russian oil purchases.
Read more

Melanoma in India: Messaging About Skin Cancer Needs to Change

Medical experts emphasize the urgent need for greater awareness, earlier detection, and affordable access to care to tackle the rising burden of melanoma in India. Although melanoma is less common in India compared to Western countries, it is significantly more aggressive and deadly if diagnosed at an advanced stage. Public health messaging must shift from late-stage treatment to early detection through regular skin checks and public education regarding warning signs like the ABCDE rule, particularly among high-risk groups.

  • Melanoma cases are rising in India, though it remains less common than in Western countries.
  • The cancer is highly aggressive, making early detection critical for survival and successful treatment.
  • Public health campaigns must focus on simple skin checks, warning signs, and educating high-risk groups.
Exam Points
  • Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that is more aggressive and spreads quickly if not detected early.
  • The ABCDE rule (Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, Evolution) helps identify suspicious moles.
Read more

The Constitution and Its Values: A Call for Stronger Federalism

The Supreme Court of India has reiterated the vital importance of federalism as a basic feature of the Constitution, emphasizing that a strong Union must work with, not against, the States. The Court warned against the misuse of emergency powers, financial control, and central agencies like Article 356, stating that cooperative governance is essential for national unity. While the Union retains a legitimate role in national security, it must not undermine the democratic autonomy and dignity of States.

  • The Supreme Court reaffirmed that federalism is a basic feature of the Constitution and must be protected.
  • The Union must cooperate with States and refrain from undermining their constitutional autonomy.
  • Misuse of Article 356 or financial control severely harms the balance of Indian federalism.
Exam Points
  • Article 1 of the Constitution establishes India as a Union of States.
  • Article 356 allows President's Rule in a State and must be used only in exceptional cases.
  • Article 263 provides for the establishment of an Inter-State Council.
Read more

Read it. Retain it. Recall it.

Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.

Get it on Google Play