Japan’s Coast Guard detected discoloured seawater near the Fukutoku-Okanoba submarine volcano, indicating possible renewed volcanic activity. Fukutoku-Okanoba is an underwater volcano located in the Pacific Ocean, south of Japan’s Izu-Ogasawara (Bonin) Islands. Its eruptions can cause discoloured seawater, floating pumice, ash and temporary formation of volcanic islands. The volcano is located in a region of significant tectonic and volcanic activity, making it important for monitoring potential hazards to shipping and nearby islands.

National Voluntary Blood Donation Day (NVBDD) is observed every year on 1 October across India. The observance focused on promoting regular, voluntary and non-remunerated blood donation to ensure a safe and adequate blood supply. The theme of 2026 is “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives.”

Delhi Government launched the “One Zone, One Operator” project worth ₹17,969 crore to improve sewerage infrastructure. Delhi will be divided into 6 zones, with one operator responsible for sewer lines, manholes, pumping stations and complaints. Delhi Water & Sewer (Tariff and Metering) Regulations, 2026 replace the 2012 regulations. Delhi Jal Board (DJB) will shift from reactive repairs to planned preventive maintenance, with geo-tagged inspections, real-time monitoring and 100% mechanical/robotic sewer cleaning. DJB currently manages 11,212 km sewer lines, 6.68 lakh manholes and 145 pumping stations across 68 Assembly constituencies.

The World Congress of Gastroenterology (WCOG 2026) was held in New Delhi from 1–3 October 2026. This is the first time India hosted the World Congress of Gastroenterology. The theme of WCOG 2026 is “Transforming Gastrointestinal Health, Preserving Nature.” The Congress was jointly hosted by the Indian Society of Gastroenterology (ISG) and the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO). The Congress focused on gastrointestinal health, clinical practice, research, innovation and multidisciplinary exchange. The approach gave importance to preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative healthcare. The National Health Policy 2017 marked an important shift towards a comprehensive, holistic and inclusive healthcare system.

The Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 2026 came into force on 1 October 2026, replacing the Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 1891. The new Act modernises the rules governing the use of banking records as evidence in legal proceedings. It recognises physical, electronic and digital banking records maintained in the ordinary course of banking business. The Act applies to court proceedings, arbitrations, investigations and inquiries where banking records are required as evidence. Electronic and digital records are legally admissible when their accuracy, authenticity and integrity are maintained and there is no unauthorised alteration or tampering.