NATIONAL UPDATES:
1. CSIR-IIIM & HAPICO Industries Sign MoU for Collaborative Biopesticide Development: The CSIR – Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, signed an MoU with M/S HAPICO Industries Private Limited to jointly develop novel biopesticides.This strategic partnership aims to address the detrimental impact of chemical pesticides on human health and the environment.Given the rich biodiversity of medicinal and aromatic plants, the collaboration seeks to harness their potential for developing innovative and sustainable biopesticide solutions.The agreement signing ceremony was jointly organized by the RMBD&IST and FMB Divisions, under the overall supervision of Er Abdul Rahim, Head, RMBD&IST Division, and under the CSIR-IIIM, Jammu.
2. Disclosure of Form 17C: Voter turnout data is vital for ensuring electoral integrity. In July 2024, an analysis revealed discrepancies in voter turnout across constituencies. In many cases, the votes counted did not match the votes polled. This raised concerns among opposition parties about the credibility of election results. They argue that immediate access to Form 17C would facilitate accountability and transparency.Opposition parties have been vocal about the need for immediate publication of Form 17C data. They argue that discrepancies in vote counts undermine public trust in the electoral process. The ECI has been accused of delaying the release of accurate voter turnout figures. Critics contend that this lack of transparency can lead to manipulation and erode democratic principles.
INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:
1. India to host third Central Asian youth delegation under International Youth Exchange Programme: The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports will host the third Central Asian Youth Delegation to India from March 22 to 28, as part of the International Youth Exchange Programme (IYEP).This initiative aims to foster youth collaboration, promote cultural exchange, and strengthen diplomatic ties between India and the five Central Asian nations: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.The youth exchange program is in line with the vision articulated during the India-Central Asia Summit in January 2022, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed an annual youth exchange initiative to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation among young leaders from the region.These meetings will emphasize the importance of youth diplomacy and underscore the need for strengthened international cooperation.
2. Kirsty Coventry becomes 1st female president of IOC: Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry has been elected as President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). She has become the first female President in IOC history.The 41-year-old Zimbabwean was elected at the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece.Coventry will succeed the ninth IOC President, Thomas Bach, whose 12-year tenure will officially end after June 23.Kirsty Coventry secured 49 votes out of the 97 votes cast and was declared elected.The term of the IOC President is eight years. The President is eligible for re-election once for a period of four years.
3. 20 March – French Language Day: French Language Day, observed on March 20, is an annual celebration established by the United Nations to promote the French language and its cultural significance worldwide.The day coincides with the International Day of La Francophonie, recognizing the global community of French-speaking nations.The UN created Language Days to highlight multilingualism and cultural diversity, assigning March 20 to French in 2010.The date marks the foundation of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) in 1970, which promotes cooperation among French-speaking countries.
French is an official language in 29 countries and one of the six official languages of the UN.
4. 21 March – World Poetry Day: World Poetry Day is celebrated every year on 21 March.It was established by UNESCO in 1999 to promote the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry, recognizing its role in cultural and linguistic expression worldwide.The day supports linguistic diversity by encouraging poetic expression in endangered languages, honoring poets and strengthening ties between poetry and other arts like music and dance.
5. 21 March – World Down Syndrome Day: World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is observed annually on March 21 to raise awareness about Down Syndrome and advocate for the rights, inclusion, and well-being of individuals with the condition.Theme 2025 – Improve Our Support SystemsThe day promotes early intervention, education, and healthcare access to improve the quality of life for individuals with Down Syndrome.In December 2011, the General Assembly declared 21 March as World Down Syndrome Day (A/RES/66/149). The General Assembly decided, with effect from 2012, to observe World Down Syndrome Day on 21 March each year.
OTHER UPDATES:
DEFENCE
1. What are Sonic Weapons?: Sonic weapons have emerged as contentious tools in crowd control. Recent protests in Serbia have brought into light their potential use. President Aleksandar Vucic denied allegations of using a banned sonic weapon against demonstrators. This raises questions about the legality and ethics of such devices. Sonic weapons can produce loud sounds designed to disperse crowds. They have been in use since the early 1990s, with military applications becoming prominent in the 2000s.Sonic weapons, also known as acoustic weapons, emit loud sounds over long distances. They can produce both audible and inaudible sound waves. These devices are capable of delivering voice messages or other sounds. The technology has evolved since its inception, focusing on crowd control and military applications.
SPORTS
1. India to host 11th Asian Swimming Championship in Ahmedabad: India will host the 11th Asian Swimming Championship at the Naranpura Sports Complex in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.The Swimming Federation of India announced that it has received in-principle approval from both the Gujarat government and Asia Aquatics to organize the championship.The event will take place from October 1 to 15. The championship will feature swimming, diving, artistic swimming, and water polo.Swimmers from Japan and South Korea are expected to compete at the continental meet, marking the event’s first-ever edition in the country. The 10th Asian Age Group Championships in 2019 was the last international swimming event hosted by India.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. What is Noma?: Noma, also known as cancrum oris, is a severe, gangrenous disease primarily affecting children aged 2 to 6 years. It is classified as a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization (WHO) as of December 2023. Noma is most prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa but has also been reported in parts of Asia and the Americas. The disease is characterised by rapid progression, often leading to severe disfigurement and social stigma.Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. At the acute necrotising gingivitis stage, interventions include improved oral hygiene, antibiotics, and nutrition supplements. Proper treatment can prevent long-term complications. However, survival rates are low; approximately 15% of children survive acute noma. Survivors often face severe disfigurements, requiring reconstructive surgery and ongoing rehabilitation.
2. Chandrayaan-4: Chandrayaan-4 is India’s fourth lunar mission, set to launch in October 2027. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) aims to achieve a remarkable feat by not only soft landing on the Moon but also collecting lunar samples and returning them to Earth. This mission represents advancement in India’s space exploration capabilities.Chandrayaan-4 will consist of two crafts, each weighing approximately 4,750 kg. Instead of a single massive craft, ISRO will use two LVM3 rockets for launch. The mission will involve intricate docking and undocking procedures in space, enhancing India’s technological expertise.
BANKING AND FINANCE
1. Fitch retains FY26 India growth at 6.5%: Fitch Ratings has maintained its GDP growth forecast for India at 6.5% for the fiscal year 2025-26 (FY26), reflecting confidence in India’s economic resilience despite global trade uncertainties, driven by strong domestic spending and business confidence.The agency raised its GDP growth projection for India in fiscal year 2026-27 (FY27) to 6.3%, up from the previous 6.2%, citing sustained investment growth fueled by high government capital expenditure and a lower cost of capital.Indian economy gained momentum in the December quarter, expanding 6.2% from a seven-quarter low of 5.6% in the quarter before, led by improved consumer spending.
2. IDFC FIRST Bank introduces “Ace” feature on its mobile app to provide 2500 plus MF options: IDFC FIRST Bank has incorporated an “Ace” feature on its mobile banking app that will provide details on more than 2500 mutual funds. This is aimed at promoting ‘do-it-yourself’ investing among its customers.The private sector bank’s customers can browse through various fund categories (like Equity, Debt, Tax-Saving, Hybrid, and Index funds) and choose the right need-based fund to build a diversified portfolio.They can also access detailed information – like historical fund performance (1Y, 3Y & 5Y), holding patterns (by sectors, companies, and market cap), and expert ratings on each fund (Morningstar Rating).
AWARDS AND HONOURS
1. Hydrologist Günter Blöschl wins 2025 Stockholm Water Prize: Austrian hydrologist Günter Blöschl has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Stockholm Water Prize for his groundbreaking contributions to flood risk management and water resource engineering.Blöschl, recognized as the world’s leading flood hydrologist, was honoured for his innovative work linking climate change to increased flood risks, advancing global understanding of regional flood processes.The award will be presented to Blöschl by King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden during World Water Week in Stockholm in August 2025.His research has significantly influenced sustainable water management practices, earning praise from the Stockholm Water Prize Committee for its impact on addressing climate-related challenges.The Stockholm Water Prize is awarded by the Stockholm Water Foundation in cooperation with the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.
2. Sustainable Eri Silk from Northeast India Secures Global Recognition with Oeko-Tex Certification from Germany: The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC) secured the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification from Germany for Eri silk.
The certification ensures international buyers that eri silk meets international safety and quality standards, boosting consumer confidence and facilitating its acceptance in high-end markets.Known as the world’s only vegan silk, Eri silk from Northeast India, particularly Assam, is produced ethically without harming silkworms, aligning with global demands for chemical-free, environmentally responsible fabrics.
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