NATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Assam
Launches Mission Basundhara 3.0 Land Pattas: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched
the distribution of land pattas to over one lakh indigenous landless families
and public institutions under Mission Basundhara 3.0, reinforcing the
government’s commitment to resolving long-pending land disputes through a
transparent framework. The state-level programme was inaugurated at Deuri
Beel in Dhemaji district, where digital land pattas and allotment letters were
handed over to beneficiaries. Mission
Basundhara was launched to streamline historically disorganised land records
that denied families legal ownership and access to institutional credit. Over
five years, land-related grievances of nearly 10 lakh families have been
addressed. Mission Basundhara 1.0 resolved issues such as
conversion of annual pattas to periodic pattas and record corrections,
benefitting 5.82 lakh families. Version 2.0 focused on granting land rights to
indigenous communities residing on government land, benefiting 2.29 lakh
families, largely from Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and OBC groups.
2. Jammu
University Hosts Goonj 2026 Youth Festival: The University of Jammu is set to organise the
third edition of its flagship multi-genre youth festival, Goonj 2026, bringing
together students and faculty in a celebration of creativity and institutional
spirit. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who serves as the Chancellor of the
University, will inaugurate the two-day event. The valedictory function will be
attended by Professor Bechan Lal, former Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University
and Advisor to the Governor of Assam. Launched in 2024, Goonj was conceived to promote
holistic student development and foster a deeper sense of belonging within the
university community. Goonj
serves as a platform for students to explore their talents beyond academics. By
encouraging participation, collaboration and interaction, the festival seeks to
nurture leadership, teamwork and creative expression. This year, around 600 students from teaching
departments, off-site campuses, affiliated colleges and neighbouring
universities have registered, with participation expected to rise further.
3. Tripura
to Pilot Nari Adalat in 10 Panchayats: The Tripura government has approved the
rollout of the Centre’s Nari Adalat scheme as a pilot initiative across 10
selected gram panchayats spanning all eight districts of the state. The
decision, taken by the council of ministers, seeks to strengthen grassroots
mechanisms for addressing women’s social issues and ensuring timely redressal
of grievances. The
Nari Adalat scheme, spearheaded by the Union ministry of social justice and
empowerment, is designed as a panchayat-level arbitration forum. It aims to
handle cases of violence, abuse and other atrocities against women within the
community framework.
The model focuses on early
intervention and counselling, while facilitating prompt police action in cases
requiring legal enforcement. By situating the forum at the village level, the
scheme intends to make justice delivery more accessible and less intimidating
for women.
4. Sonowal
Launches Three Brahmaputra Waterway Projects: Union minister for ports,
shipping and waterways Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated three major inland
waterways infrastructure projects on National Waterway-2 (River Brahmaputra)
in Assam, signalling a renewed thrust on
river-based connectivity and trade. The projects were launched at a public
event in Dibrugarh and are aimed at strengthening cross-border commerce,
improving logistics efficiency, and preserving the region’s riverine heritage. The Customs and Immigration Complex at Bogibeel has been
developed as a modern tourist-cum-cargo terminal. It integrates customs,
immigration and Inland Waterways
Authority of India (IWAI) administrative functions within
a single facility. The complex includes dedicated arrival and departure halls,
cargo storage areas, administrative offices, staff amenities and integrated
security systems. The facility is expected to streamline
operations under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol routes and promote seamless cargo
movement. By reducing procedural delays, it aims to enhance trade
competitiveness and position the Brahmaputra as a reliable economic corridor.
5. DST
Institute Develops Novel Biosurfactant from Ghee: An institute under India’s Department of
Science and Technology (DST) in North
East India has synthesised a novel biosurfactant using natural substances,
offering a potential alternative to synthetic surfactants widely used in
cosmetics and medicines. The compound demonstrates promising antibacterial and
cleansing properties, particularly against skin pathogens. The breakthrough was achieved by researchers at the
Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), led by Director
Prof. Ashis K. Mukherjee, along with Prof. M. R. Khan and senior research
fellow Anushree Roy. The
team synthesised the biosurfactant using the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus
plantarum JBC5. Ghee, a lipid-rich dairy product with deep cultural relevance
in India, was used as the primary substrate.
Production was optimised
through response surface statistical analysis, enabling efficient yield of a
lipopeptide biosurfactant. The approach highlights the potential of combining
traditional food-based substrates with modern biotechnology.
6. Rare
Smew Sighted in Kaziranga for First Time: The rare smew, a striking white diving duck,
has been recorded for the first time in Kaziranga
National Park during the 7th Waterbird Count. The sighting
occurred at the Rowmari-Donduwa beels in the Laokhowa buffer of the Kaziranga
Tiger Reserve, marking a significant ornithological milestone for the UNESCO
World Heritage Site. The smew emerged as the ‘star species’ of this year’s
census, which documented over 1.05 lakh waterbirds across Kaziranga’s wetlands. The Smew (Mergellus
albellus) is a winter migrant to India from the Eurasian taiga. Males are
distinctive with a black mask on a predominantly white body, while females
display mottled brown plumage. In India, sightings are rare and typically localised to
northern and central wetlands. Previous records include Haiderpur in Uttar Pradesh and
earlier observations around Corbett. The species favours fish-rich, sheltered
waters and is usually seen singly or in small flocks. Globally, the smew
population is estimated at around 1.3 lakh mature individuals. Although
considered abundant, numbers are declining due to habitat loss and removal of
nesting snags.
7. South
Central Railway Launches Rail Parcel App: South Central Railway (SCR) has launched the
next-generation ‘Rail Parcel Application’, a digital e-marketplace offering
seamless door-to-door parcel booking and delivery services through trains. The
initiative marks a major step in the digital transformation of parcel logistics
within Indian Railways. The application was formally launched by SCR
General Manager Sanjay Kumar Srivastava at a Rail Parcel Logistics conclave.
SCR becomes the first railway zone in India to implement this comprehensive
digital parcel platform. The
application integrates first-mile pick-up, mid-mile transportation by rail, and
last-mile delivery into a unified digital system. This end-to-end integration
simplifies logistics operations for individuals, businesses and industry stakeholders. Users can book consignments, track shipments in
real time and manage deliveries through a single interface. The system aims to
streamline coordination between logistics partners and railway operations.
8. Telangana
Police Launch Operation Crackdown on Cybercrime: The Telangana Police has launched “Operation
Crackdown”, a statewide drive aimed at dismantling organised cybercrime
networks and curbing financial fraud. The initiative is being spearheaded by
the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) in coordination with district
police units and commissionerates. The operation will be conducted in phases over the
coming months, focusing initially on mule bank accounts used to channel
proceeds of cyber fraud. Data
analysis by TGCSB revealed that 4,775 mule accounts were operated in Telangana
during 2025. In the first phase, 1,888 suspected mule accounts across 137 bank
branches in 16 districts were taken up for verification. These accounts are linked to 9,431 cybercrime
connections nationwide, including 782 cases within Telangana. Police deployed
137 teams comprising 512 personnel to conduct simultaneous inspections at the
identified branches, collecting KYC documents and examining transaction
records.
9. BRO
Restores Chungthang–Lachen Axis in North Sikkim: Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth inaugurated
the restored Chungthang–Lachen axis and a 400-foot Bailey Suspension Taram Chu
Bridge in North Sikkim, marking a major milestone in post-disaster recovery.
The critical infrastructure has been rebuilt by the Border Roads Organisation
(BRO) under Project Swastik. The restoration follows a series of natural disasters,
including cloudbursts in May–June 2025, Cyclone Remal in June 2024 and
the Glacial Lake
Outburst Flood of October 2023, which severely
disrupted connectivity in the region. The
completion of the 28 km Chungthang–Lachen road and the Taram Chu Bridge is
expected to benefit local residents, security forces and regional trade. The
route holds strategic significance due to its proximity to international
borders and its role in facilitating troop and supply movement. Officials stated that improved
connectivity will also boost tourism and economic activities in the remote
Himalayan district.
10.
India Crosses 520 GW Installed Power Capacity: India’s total installed power capacity has
surpassed 520 gigawatts, with more than half generated from non-fossil fuel
sources, Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad
Yesso Naik said while addressing the India Energy Transition Summit 2026 in New
Delhi. The summit was organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce
and Industry (FICCI). The Minister stated that India’s energy transition is
actively underway, supported by policy clarity and sustained investments in
renewable infrastructure. India has set a target of
achieving 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. The country has
also committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2070 as part of its long-term
climate strategy. Officials
emphasised that the shift to clean energy is aligned with global climate
commitments while addressing domestic energy security needs.
INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:
1. UAE
Launches World’s First Sovereign Financial Cloud: In a significant move for
digital finance, the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) has unveiled what it
describes as the world’s first sovereign financial cloud services
infrastructure. Developed in partnership with Core42, a subsidiary of G42, the
platform is designed to provide a secure, AI-powered digital backbone
exclusively for the UAE’s financial sector. The initiative reinforces the
country’s ambition to lead in secure, regulated and innovation-driven finance. The Sovereign Financial
Cloud Services Infrastructure (SFCSI) is a centralised, fully isolated cloud
environment built to ensure that critical financial data remains within the
UAE’s national jurisdiction. Unlike conventional cloud systems operated by
global providers, the SFCSI embeds regulatory controls, cybersecurity protocols
and governance mechanisms directly into its architecture. This
approach prioritises data sovereignty, allowing financial institutions to
operate under domestic legal safeguards while reducing dependence on
foreign-hosted infrastructure.
2. Congo
Lakes Release Ancient Carbon from Peatlands: Two major lakes in the Democratic Republic of
Congo are emitting carbon that has been locked away for thousands of years in
surrounding tropical
peatlands, raising fresh concerns about climate
stability. The findings, published in Nature Geoscience by researchers from ETH
Zurich, challenge long-held assumptions that tropical peatlands securely
store carbon over millennial timescales. Scientists
examined carbon emissions from Lake Mai-Ndombe and Lake Tumba in the Congo Basin,
identifying an unexpected source of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The study found that up to 40% of carbon dioxide released
from the two lakes originates from ancient peat deposits, some more than 3,000
years old. This carbon was previously believed to remain stably trapped in
waterlogged peat soils.
Researchers
described the discovery as surprising, indicating that the carbon reservoir may
be “leaking” into the lakes and subsequently into the atmosphere. The exact
mechanism by which carbon travels from peatlands into the lakes remains
unclear.
3. Indian
Youth Rank 60th in Global Mental Health Study: Young adults in India have ranked 60th among 84
countries in key mental well-being indicators, according to the ‘Global Mind
Health in 2025’ report released by US-based Sapien Labs. The findings point to
a widening generational divide, with older Indians reporting significantly
stronger mental health outcomes than those aged 18–34. The study surveyed over 78,000
internet-enabled individuals in India and assessed mental well-being using the
Mind Health Quotient (MHQ), a composite metric evaluating 47 cognitive,
emotional, social and physical indicators. Young Indian adults recorded an average MHQ score
of 33, placing them 60th globally. In contrast, those aged 55 and above scored
96, a level aligned with normal mental functioning and ranking 49th among 84
nations. Researchers described this as a structural,
multi-year generational shift rather than a temporary post-pandemic effect. The
steep decline among younger cohorts in India was found to be more pronounced
than in many other countries.
4. Denmark
Calls March 24 Election Amid Greenland Row: Denmark will hold a parliamentary election on March 24,
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced, seeking a renewed mandate as
geopolitical tensions over Greenland reshape
the national debate. The snap poll comes amid heightened friction following
renewed United States interest in the Arctic territory. Frederiksen has
positioned herself as a firm defender of Danish sovereignty, rallying European
partners in response to statements by US President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. Recent
opinion surveys suggest her assertive stance has strengthened her leadership
credentials after earlier domestic criticism over living costs and welfare
pressures. Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom
of Denmark, has become central to the campaign narrative.
Frederiksen described the forthcoming vote as decisive, arguing that Denmark
and Europe must “stand on their own feet” in the coming years. She has also called
for redefining relations with the United States and
accelerating defence investments to ensure security on the continent. The
Greenland dispute has elevated her international profile, complementing her
earlier leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and support for Ukraine.
5. Park
Chan-wook Named Cannes Jury President: South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook has been
appointed jury president for the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival,
becoming the first Korean director to hold the prestigious role. The festival
will run from May 12 to 23, with Park presiding over the jury that selects the
Palme d’Or winner. The announcement marks a historic milestone for Korean
cinema, reflecting its growing global influence and sustained presence at major
international festivals. Park’s
appointment underscores the rising stature of South Korean filmmakers on the
world stage. Over the past two decades, Korean cinema has gained international
acclaim for its bold storytelling and genre innovation. As jury president, Park will lead deliberations and
help determine the recipient of the Palme d’Or, the festival’s highest honour.
His selection signals Cannes’ continued engagement with Asian cinema and its
evolving global narrative.
6. UAE
Enters Top Three in Global Residence Index 2026: The United Arab Emirates has, for the first time, secured a
position among the world’s top three best countries to live in, according to
the Global Residence Programme Index 2026 published by Henley & Partners.
The UAE climbed from fifth place to joint second, marking a significant
milestone in its evolution as a preferred destination for globally mobile
investors and professionals. In the 2026
edition, Greece retained the top position. The UAE shared second
place with Italy and Switzerland. The
index evaluates 40 leading residence programmes worldwide across parameters
such as reputation, quality of life, taxation, visa-free or visa-on-arrival access,
compliance standards, and processing efficiency. The report signals a shifting global
landscape. While Europe continues to dominate, emerging hubs such as the UAE
and Singapore are gaining ground by offering policy stability and
investor-friendly frameworks. The UAE’s rapid ascent reflects its transformation into a
global wealth hub. Zero personal income tax, strong regulatory systems, and
proactive investor engagement have strengthened its appeal. The country scored
highly on quality of life, alongside Australia, Canada, New Zealand,
and Switzerland. It also ranked among the leaders in tax efficiency,
sharing the top band with Monaco and Saudi Arabia. Clear
long-term residence pathways, including Golden Visa schemes, and consistent
policy signals have enhanced investor confidence. Safety, infrastructure, and
ease of doing business further reinforced its standing.
OTHER UPDATES:
DEFENCE
1. Israel’s
Multi-Layered Air Defence Against Ballistic Threats: Israel maintains one of
the world’s most sophisticated multi-layered air defence networks, designed
primarily to counter ballistic missile and aerial threats, including those
posed by Iran and its regional proxies. The system integrates long-range,
mid-range and short-range interceptors, alongside emerging laser-based
technology and U.S.-backed assets, creating a comprehensive defensive umbrella.
The Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 systems form the upper tier
of Israel’s missile defence architecture. Developed by Israel Aerospace
Industries in cooperation with Boeing, these interceptors are specifically
designed to counter long-range ballistic missiles. Arrow-2 engages threats within
the atmosphere, while Arrow-3 is capable of exo-atmospheric interception. This
high-altitude engagement allows for safer dispersal of potential
non-conventional warheads. The system is tailored to neutralise advanced
ballistic missile threats before they reach Israeli airspace.
2. India
Eyes Israeli Sky Sting Missile for IAF: As Prime Minister Narendra
Modi undertakes his second state visit to Israel, India is advancing discussions to
procure the Israeli-origin ‘Sky Sting’ beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile
(BVRAAM) for the Indian
Air Force (IAF). The missile,
currently under development, is viewed as a potential force multiplier for
India’s fighter fleet amid evolving aerial threats from China and Pakistan. Weighing between 180 and 200 kg, the Sky Sting is
light enough for platforms such as the Tejas Mk1A while remaining compatible
with the Su-30MKI. The missile reportedly offers a strike range of up to 250
km. It is
powered by a three-pulse solid-fuel rocket motor, enabling terminal speeds
exceeding Mach 5. A radio-frequency seeker, enhanced by AI-driven target
discrimination and jam-resistant technology, allows early lock-on and strong
resistance to electronic countermeasures. The system also incorporates a
two-way data link for mid-course guidance and real-time pilot control.
3. Droupadi
Murmu Flies LCH Prachand Helicopter: President Droupadi Murmu on
Friday became the first Indian President to undertake a sortie in an attack
helicopter, flying in the indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH)
Prachand near the India–Pakistan border in Rajasthan. The 25-minute flight took place from
the Jaisalmer Air Force Station, marking another milestone in her engagement
with frontline military platforms as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
Clad in an olive-green flying suit and helmet, President Murmu flew as co-pilot
in the LCH Prachand after being briefed by Indian Air Force officials. The helicopter took off
from Jaisalmer and flew over the strategically significant Pokhran firing
range, where the IAF’s firepower demonstration ‘Vayu Shakti’ is scheduled.
During the sortie, she delivered a message to the nation from the cockpit,
praising the armed forces and highlighting the importance of indigenous defence
capabilities.
4. Pakistan
Declares Open War After Kabul Airstrikes: Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated sharply after
Islamabad declared “open war” on the Afghan Taliban government following
renewed cross-border clashes. The escalation came after Pakistani airstrikes
targeted Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia, hours after
Afghan forces launched attacks on Pakistani border positions. Both sides have
reported heavy casualties, though figures differ widely, raising concerns over
regional stability and civilian safety along the volatile frontier. Explosions
were reported in Kabul, with Afghan authorities confirming strikes in the
capital as well as in Kandahar and Paktia provinces. Pakistan stated that the air raids targeted
Afghan military facilities, including brigade and corps headquarters and
logistics bases. Islamabad described the strikes as part of “Operation Ghazab
lil-Haq”, launched in response to what it termed unprovoked firing from across
the border. Afghan officials, however, condemned the attacks as violations of
sovereignty and international law.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. Moist
Heatwaves During Monsoon Now Predictable Weeks Ahead: Many parts of India
experience moist heatwaves during the southwest monsoon (SWM), yet the
phenomenon has remained poorly understood. A new study published in the journal
“Climate Dynamics” finds that the timing and location of these events are
closely linked to the active and break phases of the monsoon. Crucially,
researchers suggest that moist heatwaves can now be predicted two to four weeks
in advance, enabling better public health preparedness. Unlike dry
summer heatwaves driven mainly by high temperatures, moist heatwaves result
from a combination of elevated temperatures and high atmospheric humidity.
During such events, the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating is
severely impaired. High humidity limits evaporation from the
skin, increasing physiological stress. This can lead to hyperthermia, heat
exhaustion and, in extreme cases, fatal heatstroke. The risks are particularly
acute during outdoor gatherings and prolonged exposure.
2. New
Advances in Epstein-Barr Vaccine Research: Researchers report significant progress
towards a potential vaccine against the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common
pathogen linked to infectious mononucleosis, multiple sclerosis and
certain cancers. Nearly 95% of the global population carries EBV, though risks
of severe complications rise when the virus reactivates, particularly in
immunocompromised individuals. The latest findings,
published in Cell Reports Medicine, describe laboratory success using
engineered monoclonal antibodies in mice models.
Scientists developed 10 monoclonal
antibodies using mice carrying human antibody genes. These antibodies targeted
two viral surface proteins: gp350, which enables EBV to bind to host cell
receptors, and gp42, which facilitates viral entry into cells. One antibody
directed against gp42 fully prevented infection in mice with humanised immune
systems exposed to EBV. Another antibody targeting gp350 provided partial
protection. The findings suggest that blocking viral entry mechanisms may offer
a viable preventive strategy.
3. CBIC
to Launch SWIFT 2.0 on International Customs Day: The Central Board of
Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) will
launch the upgraded single-window platform SWIFT 2.0, release a Digital
Travellers Guide, and unveil a revamped Atithi app during International Customs
Day 2026 celebrations in New Delhi. The event will be presided over by Union
Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary, along with senior officials
from the Department of Revenue. The celebrations will be held under the theme “Customs
protecting society through vigilance and commitment”.
SWIFT, or Single Window
Interface for Facilitating Trade, is a digital platform designed to streamline
customs clearance for exports and imports. The upgraded SWIFT 2.0 aims to
enhance transparency, reduce processing time and simplify compliance through
end-to-end digital integration. The platform forms part of broader customs
reforms focused on trust-based processes and digital governance. Officials
stated that SWIFT 2.0 will strengthen coordination among regulatory agencies
and improve trade facilitation.
BANKING AND FINANCE
1. World Bank Flags Global Gaps in Women’s Economic Rights: Laws intended to guarantee equal economic opportunities for women are only half-enforced globally, according to the latest Women, Business and the Law report released by the World Bank Group. The study highlights significant “opportunity gaps” that are limiting economic growth and job creation worldwide. While the average country scores 67 out of 100 for laws promoting gender equality on paper, enforcement lags sharply. The average enforcement score falls to 53, and the adequacy of systems required to implement these rights drops further to 47. Only 4 per cent of women globally live in economies offering near-full legal equality. For the first time, the report assesses not just the presence of laws but also their enforcement. Legal experts surveyed estimated that laws supporting women’s economic participation are enforced only halfway. Economies, on average, have implemented fewer than half the policies and services needed to make these laws effective. The findings suggest that even if current laws were fully enforced, women would still enjoy only about two-thirds of the legal rights granted to men.
