Dr Reddy’s gets USFDA nod for lenacapavir PrEP injection
Dr Reddy’s Laboratories announced tentative USFDA approval for its twice‑yearly lenacapavir injection for HIV PrEP in adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg. The approval, under PEPFAR, moves the long‑acting medicine toward use in about 120 countries outside the United States covered by a Gilead‑licence. First supplies are expected before year‑end, with broader access in 2027. Lenacapavir is a first‑in‑class HIV‑1 capsid inhibitor. Gilead granted the licence in 2024; Unitaid, CHAI and Wits RHI support accelerated generic development to reach underserved populations at around $40 per person per year.
USFDA tentative approval for lenacapavir PrEP injection.
Twice‑yearly long‑acting HIV prevention medicine.
Targeted for adults and children ≥35 kg; 120 countries via licence.
First supplies expected before end of 2026; full rollout 2027.
Support from Unitaid, CHAI and Wits RHI to reduce costs.
Oct 27, 2026
Punjab’s Nav Trinjan Promotes Organic Cotton and Weaving
Punjab’s Nav Trinjan initiative, highlighted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mann Ki Baat, combines organic cotton cultivation with traditional handloom weaving to support sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods. Implemented by the Kheti Virasat Mission, the program targets Malwa's cotton belt, encouraging farmers to avoid chemical inputs while strengthening women’s weaving communities. The scheme aims to create local value chains that preserve regional textile skills and promote environmentally friendly production. Officials anticipate improved farmer incomes, greater gender empowerment, and resilient rural economies by linking sustainable cultivation with craft-based livelihoods.
Nav Trinjan links organic cotton farming with handloom weaving.
Implemented by Kheti Virasat Mission in Malwa region.
Focus on women empowerment and sustainable agriculture.
Aims to preserve textile skills and build local value chains.
Supported by Mann Ki Baat discussions and national policy aims.
Oct 15, 2026
UN Women marks International Day of Rural Women with a nature-focused theme
UN Women observed International Day of Rural Women on 15 October 2026. The theme, Rural Women Farmers Caring for Mother Nature, recognises the daily work of rural women in conserving seeds, protecting biodiversity, managing water, and restoring land. Rural women lead livelihoods, feed communities, and safeguard natural resources. The day highlights their knowledge and leadership in building resilient futures. Policy messages emphasise empowering women with resources, climate-friendly farming techniques, and access to education and financial services. The observance aligns with global gender equality and development goals, underscoring the essential role of women in sustainable development and community resilience.
Date: 15 October 2026; theme: Rural Women Farmers Caring for Mother Nature
Focus areas: seeds, biodiversity, water management, land restoration
Impact: women-led livelihoods and community resilience
Connection: gender equality and sustainable development goals
Recognition: UN Women advocacy and awareness
Oct 13, 2026
Assam Launches Nameri Wild Classroom Initiative
The Assam Forest Department launched the Nameri Wild Classroom initiative at Nameri Tiger Reserve to provide students with practical knowledge of wildlife conservation, biodiversity and environmental protection. The programme, announced by Assam’s Forest and Climate Change Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah, offers two‑day and three‑day residential learning programmes for students from Class 8 onwards, including college students. It encourages direct interaction with nature and wildlife ecosystems, fostering awareness and stewardship. The initiative aligns with broader government efforts to strengthen environmental education in the region and to support hands‑on learning through field experiences in protected areas.
Location: Nameri Tiger Reserve, Assam.
Initiative: Nameri Wild Classroom.
Audience: Class 8 onwards and college students.
Duration: 2‑ and 3‑day residential programs.
Minister: Jayanta Malla Baruah.
Oct 08, 2026
CU Denver to establish campus in Hyderabad
The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) announced plans to establish a degree granting campus in Hyderabad, Telangana, following a Letter of Intent from India’s University Grants Commission in October 2026. The LoI makes CU Denver the first public American university to operate a campus in India and the first foreign university campus in Telangana. The project aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 goals to internationalise higher education and expand access. The Hyderabad campus is expected to offer select programs and pursue collaborations with Indian institutions. Final approvals and a concrete timeline for operations are still to be determined.