Daily GK Update- 23rd March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

Ayush Ministry Signs MoU with CISF to Promote Preventive Healthcare and Wellness: The Ministry of Ayush has signed an MoU with Central Industrial Security Force to promote preventive healthcare and wellness among personnel.The initiative focuses on AYUSH-based practices including yoga, stress management, and holistic well-being for CISF personnel and their families.The Ministry of Ayush will provide technical support and expert guidance, while CISF will ensure implementation across its units and establishments.

 

Cabinet Approves ₹1,718.56 Crore MSP Funding to Strengthen Cotton Procurement and Support Farmers: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Narendra Modi, approved MSP funding of ₹1,718.56 crore to Cotton Corporation of India for the 2023–24 cotton season to support farmers.The funding ensures direct price support as the government procures cotton at MSP when market prices fall, providing a safety net to farmers based on recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices.Cotton Corporation of India acts as the central nodal agency, procuring Fair Average Quality (FAQ) cotton without any quantity limit across major cotton-growing states.To strengthen procurement, CCI has set up over 508 centres in 152 districts and introduced tech initiatives like Bale Identification and Traceability System (BITS) and the “Cott-Ally” mobile app for better transparency and farmer outreach.

 

GSI Declares Kalinjar Fort Hill a National Geo-Heritage Site: The Geological Survey of India has declared the hill region around Kalinjar Fort (Banda district of Uttar Pradesh) as a National Geo-Heritage Site on 16 March 2026, recognising its geological, historical, and cultural importance.The site features the rare Eparchaean Unconformity, where ~2.5 billion-year-old Bundelkhand granite is overlain by ~1.2 billion-year-old Kaimur sandstone, offering key insights into Earth’s geological evolution.Located in the Vindhya Range, the region is expected to boost geo-tourism and be part of a tourism circuit linking Kalinjar, Khajuraho, and Chitrakoot.

 

Punjab Launches ‘Sikhya Kranti 2.0’ with ₹3,500 Crore Investment to Transform School Education: The Punjab Government has launched ‘Punjab Sikhya Kranti 2.0’ in collaboration with the World Bank to strengthen and modernize the state’s school education system.The programme aims to make Punjab’s education system globally competitive by improving quality, infrastructure, and learning outcomes.The initiative involves a total investment of ₹3,500 crore over six years, including ₹2,500 crore from World Bank assistance and ₹1,000 crore from the state government.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India and Bhutan Sign MoU to Boost Postal Cooperation and Technology Collaboration: India and Bhutan signed an MoU on Postal Cooperation to strengthen collaboration between India Post and Bhutan Post. The agreement focuses on postal operations, technology development, logistics, capacity building, philately, and knowledge exchange. Both countries aim to enhance cooperation in the technology domain, sharing best practices and experiences related to modern postal systems.

 

2. Finland Tops World Happiness Report 2026 for 9th Year: Finland remains the world’s happiest country for the 9th consecutive year, continuing the dominance of Nordic nations in global happiness rankings.The World Happiness Report 2026 highlights that excessive social media use is reducing happiness levels among young people, especially in Western and English-speaking countries.India ranks 116th out of 147 countries, showing a slight improvement from its 118th position in 2025. The report is published by the Wellbeing Research Centre in partnership with Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

 

3. 20 March – World Sparrow Day: World Sparrow Day is observed annually on March 20 to raise awareness about the declining population of sparrows.Theme 2026 – Creating Bird-Friendly Cities & CommunitiesThe day highlights the need for conservation of house sparrows and protection of their natural habitats. It was first celebrated in 2010, initiated by the Nature Forever Society of India.

 

4. 21 March – World Forestry Day: World Forestry Day (also known as International Day of Forests) is observed annually on March 21.Theme 2026 – Forests and Economies The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of forests and their role in sustaining biodiversity and climate balance. It was established by the United Nations to promote forest conservation and sustainable management worldwide.

 

5. 21 March – World Poetry Day: World Poetry Day is observed annually on March 21 to celebrate the power of poetry and promote linguistic diversity. Theme 2026 – Poetry as a Bridge for Peace and Inclusion The day encourages reading, writing, publishing, and teaching poetry across cultures worldwide. It was established by UNESCO in 1999 to support poets and revive oral traditions of poetry.

 

6. Litani River Bridge Strike Highlights Strategic Importance: Recent Israeli airstrikes have destroyed the Qasmiyeh Bridge, a crucial crossing over Lebanon’s Litani River along the southern coastal highway. The incident underscores the strategic and economic importance of the river, which plays a vital role in Lebanon’s water resources, agriculture and infrastructure connectivity. The Litani River is the longest river entirely within Lebanon. It originates near Baalbek in a low divide and flows southwest through the fertile Bekaa Valley, situated between the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain ranges. Near Marjayoun, the river takes a sharp westward turn, carving a deep gorge through the Lebanon Mountains before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea south of Sidon.

 

7. US Bill Seeks to Protect OPT Programme for Students: A bipartisan group of United States lawmakers has introduced a new bill to safeguard the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, a key pathway that allows international students to gain work experience after completing their studies. The move comes amid rising uncertainty over post-study employment policies and aims to provide long-term stability to students and employers. The Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme permits international students on F-1 visas to work in the United States for up to 12 months after graduation. Students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields are eligible for an additional two-year extension. The programme is widely regarded as a bridge to long-term work visas such as the H-1B.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. CAPF Umbrella Bill 2026 Aims to Reform Force Administration: The Union Government is set to introduce the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, in the Rajya Sabha. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a unified legal framework governing recruitment, deputation, promotions and service conditions across all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). At present, CAPFs such as the CRPF, BSF, ITBP and SSB are governed by separate Acts, leading to fragmented service regulations. The absence of a unified framework has resulted in administrative challenges and frequent litigation on service-related issues. The proposed bill aims to streamline these provisions and ensure consistency in governance.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India to Host World Indoor Athletics Championships 2028 in Bhubaneswar: India will host the World Indoor Athletics Championships 2028 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, marking a major boost for India’s global sports profile. The hosting rights were granted by the World Athletics Council, reflecting confidence in India’s sporting infrastructure and organizational capacity. The event will take place at the Kalinga Stadium Complex, while the 2025 edition is being held in Toruń, Poland.

 

2. Lionel Messi Becomes Second Footballer to Score 900 Career Goals: Lionel Messi became only the second men’s footballer to score 900 official goals, achieving the milestone for Inter Miami CF against Nashville SC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. He joins Cristiano Ronaldo, who reached the 900-goal mark earlier in 2024 and currently leads with 965 goals, aiming for the historic 1,000-goal milestone. Messi reached 900 goals in 1,142 matches, faster than Ronaldo (1,236 games), while Pelé ranks third on the all-time list with 765 goals.

3. FIFA Fines Israeli FA $190,700 Over Anti-Discrimination Violations: FIFA imposed a fine of $190,700 on the Israeli Football Association for breaching anti-discrimination rules. The action was taken due to failure to address racist behaviour associated with Beitar Jerusalem

 

4. Anahat Singh Triumphs Again at Indian Open Squash: India’s rising squash star Anahat Singh reaffirmed her dominance by successfully defending her title at the JSW Indian Open, a PSA Copper-level tournament held in Mumbai. The 18-year-old showcased remarkable composure and skill to defeat Egypt’s Hana Moataz in the women’s final, underlining her growing stature in international squash. Anahat Singh secured a 3-1 victory in the final with scores of 11-5, 11-6, 9-11, 11-6. She began aggressively, quickly establishing control through precise shot placement and court coverage. Despite a brief setback in the third game, she regained momentum in the fourth to seal the match. Her ability to combine power with tactical awareness stood out throughout the contest.

 

5. Ria Solanki Wins Shot Put Gold at Para Athletics: Ria Solanki, a 19-year-old para-athlete from Meerut, has secured a gold medal in shot put at the national para-athletics championship held in Bhubaneswar. Her achievement stands as a powerful example of determination and resilience, overcoming both physical disability and financial hardship. Born without her left hand below the elbow, Ria Solanki began training in shot put in 2018. Despite limited resources, she remained committed to her sport. Her family faced severe financial challenges, often struggling to provide even basic nutrition required for athletic training. Yet, her perseverance and focus helped her rise steadily in the field of para-athletics.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Elon Musk Unveils Terafab AI Chip Manufacturing Project: Elon Musk has announced an ambitious semiconductor initiative named “Terafab” in Austin, Texas, aimed at scaling up artificial intelligence chip production. The project, involving Tesla, SpaceX and xAI, seeks to address the growing demand for advanced chips required for autonomous driving, robotics and AI systems. Terafab is envisioned as a massive semiconductor fabrication facility, significantly larger than Tesla’s existing gigafactories. It will function as an advanced technology hub capable of designing, manufacturing and testing next-generation chips. The project reflects concerns that current global chip production capacity may not meet the rapidly increasing demand for AI-driven applications.

 

2. India Discovers New Cockroach Species Using DNA Taxonomy: India has recorded a major scientific breakthrough with the discovery of a new cockroach species, Neoloboptera peninsularis, using advanced DNA-led taxonomy. The finding by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) marks a significant shift from traditional classification methods to modern, integrative approaches in biodiversity research. The new species was identified using an integrative taxonomy approach that combines morphological analysis, genitalic study, DNA barcoding and phylogenetic assessment. This marks the first time in over 267 years of cockroach research in India that such a comprehensive scientific framework has been applied to establish a new species with high precision.

 

3. Japan Discovers Massive Deep-Sea Rare Earth Deposit: Japan has identified a vast deposit of rare earth elements nearly 6,000 metres beneath the Pacific Ocean near Minamitorishima island. The discovery, described as a “rare earth giant,” could significantly reshape global resource security by providing a long-term supply of critical minerals essential for modern technologies. The deposit contains over 16 million tonnes of rare earth-rich mud, including key elements such as yttrium and dysprosium. These materials are crucial for manufacturing high-performance magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines and advanced electronics. Estimates suggest that the deposit could meet global demand for some of these elements for up to 700 years.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Core Industries Growth Rises to 2.3% in February 2026: The Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) grew by 3% (provisional) in February 2026 compared to February 2025.Cement, Steel, Fertilisers, Coal, and Electricity sectors recorded positive growth during February 2026.The ICI tracks performance of eight core industries (including coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, etc.) and has a 40.27% weight in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). The final growth rate for January 2026 stood at 4.7%, while the cumulative growth (April–February 2025-26) was 2.9% (provisional).

 

2. RBI Imposes ₹31.80 Lakh Penalty on HSBC for Non-Compliance: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a ₹31.80 lakh penalty on HSBC for regulatory non-compliance. The penalty was due to violation of RBI guidelines related to “Inoperative Accounts / Unclaimed Deposits in Banks – Revised Instructions.”

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Sahibzada Farhan Wins ICC Award After Record-Breaking Feat: Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for February 2026 following a remarkable performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. His outstanding batting display saw him surpass a long-standing record held by Virat Kohli, marking a significant milestone in international cricket. Sahibzada Farhan emerged as the highest run-scorer of the tournament, amassing 383 runs in seven matches at an impressive average of 76.60. His tally included two centuries and two half-centuries, achieved at a striking rate exceeding 160. This performance broke Virat Kohli’s previous record of 319 runs in a single T20 World Cup edition set in 2014.

 

Daily GK Update- 22nd March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Pushkar S Dhami Celebrates Phool Dei Festival Marking Arrival of Spring in Uttarakhand: Pushkar Singh Dhami celebrated the traditional folk festival Phool Dei in Uttarakhand.The festival marks the arrival of the spring season and is considered a Spring/Harvest Festival. It is mainly celebrated in the Garhwal and Kumaon regions, reflecting the rich cultural traditions of the state.

 

2. Ministry of Ayush Launches “Yoga 365” Campaign to Promote Daily Yoga Practice: Ministry of Ayush launched the “Yoga 365” campaign to promote yoga as a daily practice instead of a once-a-year activity, unveiled during Yoga Mahotsav–2026 at Vigyan Bhawan.The initiative aims to bridge the gap between high awareness (95% in rural and 96% in urban areas) and actual practice, promoting yoga for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.The campaign builds on initiatives like Y-Break and Common Yoga Protocol, supporting the growing global movement of yoga with over 26 crore participants in International Day of Yoga 2025.

 

3. Chapchar Kut Showcases Mizoram’s Rich Cultural Heritage: Chapchar Kut, Mizoram’s major spring festival, once again brought vibrant cultural expressions to the forefront, celebrating the deep-rooted traditions of the Mizo community. Held annually in March after the completion of jhum cultivation clearing, the festival marks the arrival of spring and reflects the community’s close relationship with nature. The week-long festivities in Aizawl witnessed participation from locals, tourists and ethnic Mizos from neighbouring regions. Chapchar Kut is intrinsically linked to the traditional practice of jhum or shifting cultivation. It is celebrated after forests are cleared and burnt, a phase that precedes sowing. This period offers a brief respite to farmers, making it an ideal time for communal celebrations. The festival symbolises gratitude, renewal and harmony with nature, which are central to Mizo life.

 

4. NPC Appointed Environment Audit Agency by MoEFCC: The National Productivity Council (NPC) has recently signed an agreement with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to serve as the Environment Audit Designated Agency (EADA). This move is aimed at strengthening environmental compliance, monitoring, and sustainable industrial practices across India. It reflects the government’s focus on integrating productivity with environmental responsibility. The National Productivity Council was established in 1958 as an autonomous and non-profit organisation. It operates under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade within the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The organisation has a multipartite structure with representation from employers, workers, government bodies, and professional institutions. Its headquarters is located in New Delhi, and it is a constituent of the Tokyo-based Asian Productivity Organisation, of which India is a founding member.

 

5. Navroz Celebrations Mark Parsi New Year in India: The Prime Minister of India extended greetings to citizens on the occasion of Navroz, the Parsi New Year, highlighting its cultural and historical significance. The festival symbolises renewal, prosperity, and harmony, and is celebrated with enthusiasm by the Parsi community in India and across the world. Navroz, also known as Nowruz, is the traditional New Year of Iranian and Persian origin. The term is derived from Persian words ‘nov’ meaning ‘new’ and ‘roz’ meaning ‘day’, translating to ‘new day’. It marks the arrival of spring and signifies rebirth, rejuvenation, and the triumph of light over darkness. The festival is observed with rituals, prayers, and community feasts.

 

6. Prosopis Juliflora Eradication Ordered by Madras High Court: The Madras High Court has issued 34 directives for the eradication of Prosopis juliflora, an invasive alien species, from Tamil Nadu. The move aims to restore native ecosystems, protect groundwater resources, and safeguard biodiversity affected by the aggressive spread of this plant across arid and semi-arid regions. Prosopis juliflora is a shrub or small tree belonging to the Fabaceae family, commonly known as mesquite. It is native to Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean. Introduced in India during the colonial period, particularly in the 1920s in Delhi, it has since spread extensively. It is known by various local names such as seemai karuvelam, vilayati kikar, and gando baval across different regions.

 

7. Bihar Diwas 2026 Celebrations Begin at Gandhi Maidan: Bihar marked its 114th foundation day with a grand three-day celebration from March 22 to 24, commemorating its separation from the Bengal Presidency in 1912. The state-level festivities are centred at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, with parallel events at S K Memorial Hall and Rabindra Bhawan. This year’s theme, “Unnat Bihar, Ujjwal Bihar”, reflects the government’s focus on progress and inclusive development. The celebrations feature a vibrant mix of cultural programmes. Renowned singers such as Sona Mohapatra, Shaan and Papon are scheduled to perform, alongside classical Dhrupad and Gharana recitals. Traditional art forms also take centre stage, including Bhikhari Thakur’s folk theatre, classical dance performances, and a Hasya Kavi Sammelan. A laser light show has been added to enhance the festive atmosphere and attract wider public participation.

 

8. PM Modi Becomes India’s Longest-Serving Head of Government: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set a historic record by becoming India’s longest-serving head of government, surpassing former Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling. The milestone was achieved after completing 8,931 days in office, combining his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister and Prime Minister. This marks a significant moment in India’s political landscape, reflecting sustained leadership across both state and national levels. Pawan Kumar Chamling previously held the record with 8,930 days as Sikkim’s Chief Minister. PM Modi has now exceeded this figure by one day, establishing the longest continuous tenure as an elected head of government in India. The achievement highlights his enduring political presence and administrative continuity over more than two decades.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Argentina Withdraws from World Health Organisation: Argentina has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organisation, following a similar move by the United States.The withdrawal was initially announced in February last year and later formalised, with the US completing its exit in January.The decision was taken under the government of Javier Milei, marking a significant shift in global health cooperation.

 

2. Anutin Charnvirakul Re-elected as 32nd Prime Minister of Thailand: Anutin Charnvirakul has been re-elected as the Prime Minister of Thailand after a parliamentary vote, becoming the country’s 32nd Prime Minister.He is the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and continues to play a key role in Thailand’s political landscape.

 

3. Lipulekh Pass Trade to Resume Between India and China: Cross-border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh district is set to resume in June, marking a revival of historic economic and cultural exchanges. The reopening is expected to benefit local communities and strengthen traditional trade networks in the Himalayan region. Lipulekh Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass situated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, near the trijunction of India, Nepal, and China. It connects India with the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Located at an elevation of approximately 5,334 metres, the pass serves as a critical gateway to the higher Himalayas and remains strategically significant due to its location.

 

4. Shaheen Falcon Nesting Spotted in Kochi Residential Site: A pair of Shaheen falcons has recently been found nesting in an under-construction multi-storey residential complex in Kochi. The sighting has drawn attention to the adaptability of this raptor species, which is traditionally associated with rocky cliffs but is increasingly observed in urban environments. The Shaheen falcon (“Falco peregrinus peregrinator”) is a non-migratory subspecies of the Peregrine falcon. It is known for its speed, agility, and hunting precision. The species is native to the Indian subcontinent and is well adapted to diverse terrains, including natural and man-made structures.

 

5. World Water Day 2026 Highlights Water and Gender Theme: The Prime Minister of India extended greetings on the occasion of World Water Day, observed annually on March 22. The day serves as a global platform to emphasise the importance of freshwater and the need for sustainable water management. It draws attention to pressing water-related challenges and encourages collective action. World Water Day has been observed since 1993 under the aegis of the United Nations. The idea was first proposed during the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. Following this, March 22 was officially designated to promote awareness about water conservation and management worldwide.

 

6. Mulgao Kelbai Peth Festival Celebrated in Bicholim: The traditional “Peth” festival of goddess Kelbai is being observed at Mulgao in Bicholim, Goa, with rituals commencing at midnight on March 23. The festival reflects deep-rooted cultural and religious beliefs of the region, drawing devotees who participate in a unique ceremonial journey symbolising the annual reunion of the goddess with her sister. According to tradition, goddess Kelbai is placed in a decorated wooden structure known as a “peth” and carried from Mulgao to Mayem village. The journey signifies her visit to meet her sister deity associated with the Maya Kelbai Panchayatan Devasthan. This annual meeting takes place on the auspicious occasion of Chaitra Shuddha Panchami and is considered highly sacred by local communities.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. South Sudan Conflict Escalates Amid Renewed Fighting: South Sudan has once again moved towards instability as fresh clashes between government forces and opposition groups intensify in Akobo. The violence has raised concerns of a relapse into full-scale civil war, threatening fragile peace efforts in the world’s youngest nation. The situation reflects persistent ethnic tensions, political rivalries, and competition over resources that have plagued the country since its independence. South Sudan is a landlocked country situated in East-Central Africa. It shares borders with six countries: Sudan to the north, Ethiopia to the east, Kenya to the southeast, Uganda to the south, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the southwest, and the Central African Republic to the west. Its strategic location places it at the crossroads of several conflict-prone regions in Africa.

 

2. INS Taragiri Set for Commissioning in Indian Navy: The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Taragiri (F41), a stealth frigate under Project 17A, on April 3, 2026. The induction of this advanced warship marks a significant step in strengthening India’s maritime capabilities and enhancing naval preparedness in the Indian Ocean region. INS Taragiri is the fourth ship of the Nilgiri-class stealth frigates being constructed under Project 17A by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilding Ltd (MDL). It is a modern reincarnation of the earlier INS Taragiri, a Leander-class frigate that served in the Indian Navy. The ship has been designed by the Warship Design Bureau (WDB), reflecting India’s growing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Sikkim to Host Junior National Badminton Championship 2026: Sikkim has been selected as the host for the 49th Yonex Sunrise Junior National Badminton Championship (U-19) 2026, marking a significant milestone in the State’s sporting journey. Scheduled from November 14 to 21, the tournament will feature both individual and team events, bringing together top junior badminton players from across India. This will be the first time Sikkim hosts a national-level badminton championship of such scale. The announcement has been welcomed by the Badminton Association of Sikkim, with its President Jacob Khaling expressing pride in the State being chosen for the prestigious event. The development highlights the growing recognition of Sikkim as an emerging sports destination.

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NdFeB Magnet Pilot Plant Boosts India Capability: India has taken a significant step towards strengthening its rare earth manufacturing ecosystem with the establishment of a pilot plant for Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) magnets at the International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI), Hyderabad. This development aligns with the country’s efforts to reduce dependence on imports and build domestic capacity in critical technologies used in electronics, renewable energy, and defence sectors. Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) magnets are the strongest type of permanent magnets available globally. They are composed primarily of neodymium, iron, and boron, forming a tetragonal crystal structure. Additional elements such as cobalt, dysprosium, and praseodymium are often included to enhance magnetic strength and thermal stability. Due to their superior magnetic properties, NdFeB magnets are critical in high-performance applications.

 

2. Blue Voice App Boosts Coastal Safety for Fishers: Pondicherry University has launched a mobile application named ‘Blue Voice’ to improve safety and disaster preparedness among coastal fishing communities. The initiative aims to bridge critical information gaps by delivering real-time, location-specific weather updates in a simplified and accessible format. It is designed to support fishers who often face risks due to unpredictable weather conditions and limited access to timely alerts. Traditional weather platforms often pose difficulties for fishing communities due to complex interfaces and language barriers. ‘Blue Voice’ tackles these issues by presenting information in a user-friendly manner, ensuring that even those with limited digital literacy can understand and act upon weather warnings. This improves the ability of fishers to make informed decisions before venturing into the sea.

 

3. Desert Moss Discovery Boosts Green Mars Prospects: Scientists have identified a resilient desert moss, Syntrichia caninervis, that could play a key role in future Mars colonisation. The study, published in The Innovation, highlights the plant’s extraordinary ability to survive extreme dehydration, freezing temperatures and intense radiation. These traits make it a strong candidate for initiating biological activity on the Red Planet, where conditions remain hostile to most life forms. The moss can lose over 98 per cent of its cellular water and enter a dormant state for extended periods. Once exposed to moisture, it rapidly resumes photosynthesis within seconds. This near-instant recovery allows it to withstand prolonged dry spells, a critical advantage in Mars-like environments where water availability is unpredictable.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Cabinet Approves ₹33,660 Crore BHAVYA Scheme to Develop 100 Industrial Parks Across India: The Union Cabinet has approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojna (BHAVYA) with an outlay of ₹33,660 crore to boost industrial development in India.Under the scheme, 100 industrial parks will be developed across the country, each spanning 100 to 1,000 acres.The scheme will be implemented by the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) in collaboration with state governments and private sector players.BHAVYA follows the industrial corridor model (building on NICDP) and provides up to 25% support for external infrastructure, ensuring strong connectivity with transport networks.

 

2. Prakriti 2026 Advances India’s Carbon Market Vision: The International Conference on Carbon Markets—Prakriti 2026 commenced in New Delhi as a flagship initiative of the Government of India. Organised by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the event is part of the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026. It brings together global experts, policymakers and industry leaders to discuss the evolving role of carbon markets in climate action and sustainable growth. The conference theme, “Unlocking Carbon Finance for NDC Implementation through Global Partnerships and Digital Pathways,” reflects India’s emphasis on mobilising climate finance and leveraging technology. The discussions focus on strengthening international cooperation and enhancing digital systems to support emission reduction targets under Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

 

Daily GK Update- 21st March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Bharat Tribes Fest 2026 Begins in New Delhi, Showcasing Tribal Culture and Entrepreneurship: Bharat Tribes Fest 2026 commenced in New Delhi, showcasing tribal artisans, entrepreneurs, and cultural performers from across India.The festival is organised by Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram inaugurated the festival in the presence of Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey.A key highlight is the Bharat Tribes Business Conclave, scheduled from March 19 to 27, focusing on promoting tribal trade and entrepreneurship.

 

2. Cabinet Approves ₹33,660 Crore BHAVYA Scheme to Develop 100 Industrial Parks Across India: The Union Cabinet has approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojna (BHAVYA) with an outlay of ₹33,660 crore to boost industrial development in India.Under the scheme, 100 industrial parks will be developed across the country, each spanning 100 to 1,000 acres.The scheme will be implemented by the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) in collaboration with state governments and private sector players.BHAVYA follows the industrial corridor model (building on NICDP) and provides up to 25% support for external infrastructure, ensuring strong connectivity with transport networks.

 

3. Pushkar S Dhami Celebrates Phool Dei Festival Marking Arrival of Spring in Uttarakhand: Pushkar Singh Dhami celebrated the traditional folk festival Phool Dei in Uttarakhand.The festival marks the arrival of the spring season and is considered a Spring/Harvest Festival. It is mainly celebrated in the Garhwal and Kumaon regions, reflecting the rich cultural traditions of the state.

 

4. Ministry of Ayush Launches “Yoga 365” Campaign to Promote Daily Yoga Practice: Ministry of Ayush launched the “Yoga 365” campaign to promote yoga as a daily practice instead of a once-a-year activity, unveiled during Yoga Mahotsav–2026 at Vigyan Bhawan.The initiative aims to bridge the gap between high awareness (95% in rural and 96% in urban areas) and actual practice, promoting yoga for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.The campaign builds on initiatives like Y-Break and Common Yoga Protocol, supporting the growing global movement of yoga with over 26 crore participants in International Day of Yoga 2025.

 

5. Narcotics Control Bureau Marks 41st Raising Day (17th March) with Nationwide Campaign for Drug-Free India: Narcotics Control Bureau marked its 41st Raising Day, celebrating over four decades of efforts against drug trafficking and substance abuse in India.Nationwide youth mobilisation programmes for a Drug-Free India were held at around 40 locations, including Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, and Chennai.

 

6. Meghalaya Extends GHADC Term Amid Election Row: The Meghalaya government has extended the tenure of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) by six months following unrest in the Garo Hills region. The decision was taken during a State Cabinet meeting held in Shillong, amid protests over the participation of non-tribals in the council’s electoral process. The extension comes in response to growing tensions and public protests demanding restrictions on non-tribal participation in GHADC elections. The issue has triggered significant political debate in the region, with local groups asserting that the council should remain exclusively representative of tribal communities.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India–Indonesia Launch Joint Restoration of Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta: India and Indonesia have launched a joint initiative to restore the Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta, strengthening cultural cooperation.Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia, located in Sleman near Yogyakarta, and is also known as Roro Jonggrang (“Temple of the Slender Virgin”).Built in the 9th century by the Sanjaya Dynasty, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu Trimurti—Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.The complex comprises around 240 temples with advanced architecture and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

 

2. Asia Africa Agri Alliance Formed to Boost Agricultural Trade, Investment and Cooperation: Asia Africa Agri Alliance has been formed as a new institutional platform to enhance agricultural trade, cooperation, investment, and technology exchange between the two regions.It is established as a Section 8 not-for-profit institution, aiming to build structured frameworks for trade partnerships, policy alignment, and agri-food value chain development.Asia and Africa together contribute over 40% of global agricultural production, with bilateral agri-trade exceeding $90 billion annually, highlighting the alliance’s strategic importance.

 

3. Argentina Withdraws from World Health Organisation: Argentina has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organisation, following a similar move by the United States.The withdrawal was initially announced in February last year and later formalised, with the US completing its exit in January.The decision was taken under the government of Javier Milei, marking a significant shift in global health cooperation.

 

4. Vikram K. Doraiswami Appointed as India’s Next Ambassador to China: Vikram K. Doraiswami has been appointed as India’s next Ambassador to China, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs.He is currently serving as India’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and is expected to take up the new assignment soon.Pradeep Kumar Rawat is the current Ambassador to China, while Doraiswami has earlier served as Ambassador to Bangladesh, South Korea, and Uzbekistan.

 

5. Anutin Charnvirakul Re-elected as 32nd Prime Minister of Thailand: Anutin Charnvirakul has been re-elected as the Prime Minister of Thailand after a parliamentary vote, becoming the country’s 32nd Prime Minister.He is the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and continues to play a key role in Thailand’s political landscape.

6. Kaveh Madani Wins 2026 Stockholm Water Prize: Kaveh Madani, director of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH), has been awarded the 2026 Stockholm Water Prize, one of the most prestigious global honours in water research. The announcement was made on 18 March 2026 at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, ahead of World Water Day, with the award to be presented in August during World Water Week in Stockholm. At 44, Madani is the youngest recipient in the prize’s 35-year history. He is also the first United Nations official and the first former politician to receive the award. The prize committee recognised his work for combining scientific research with policy engagement, diplomacy, and public outreach, often carried out under challenging political circumstances.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India Eyes European Sixth-Gen Fighter Jet Collaboration: India is considering joining one of Europe’s major sixth-generation fighter aircraft programmes—Future Combat Air System (FCAS) or Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)—as part of its strategy to enhance future air combat capabilities. A Parliamentary panel has recommended evaluating such partnerships to accelerate access to advanced aerospace technologies while complementing domestic defence initiatives. FCAS is a collaborative project led by France, Germany and Spain, aimed at developing a networked combat ecosystem that integrates a next-generation fighter with drones and digital warfare systems. GCAP, led by the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan, focuses on building a stealth sixth-generation fighter expected to enter service by the mid-2030s. Both programmes represent cutting-edge advancements in air combat design and integration.

 

2. Indian Navy Launches IOS SAGAR Initiative 2026: The Indian Navy has commenced the second edition of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative from 16 March 2026, reinforcing India’s commitment to maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. The initiative follows India’s recent assumption of chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) and involves participation from 16 member nations, highlighting growing regional engagement. The IOS SAGAR initiative is aligned with India’s broader vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). It also supports the expanded MAHASAGAR framework, which focuses on mutual and holistic advancement in maritime security. The programme is designed as an operational engagement platform to strengthen naval cooperation and regional stability.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Successfully Tests Indigenous Floating LiDAR Buoy System for Advanced Ocean and Wind Monitoring: India successfully tested an indigenously developed Floating LiDAR Buoy System, marking a major milestone in ocean observation and atmospheric data collection, conducted off the coast of Muttom.The system, developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), uses LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology to measure wind speed, direction, and variations over offshore environments.It works by emitting laser pulses from a floating buoy and can measure wind profiles up to 300 metres above sea level, offering highly accurate real-time atmospheric data.

 

2. Ladakh Magmatic Arc Reveals Tectonic Evolution: Scientists have decoded the evolution of the Ladakh Magmatic Arc (LMA) in the north-western Himalaya, uncovering a geological record spanning nearly 130 million years. This arc provides crucial evidence of the long-term interaction between the Indian and Eurasian plates, including subduction, magmatic development and eventual continental collision. The findings shed light on processes that predate the rise of the Himalaya, when the present-day Ladakh region lay above the ancient Neo-Tethys Ocean. Before the Himalayan uplift, Ladakh existed above the Neo-Tethys Ocean, where oceanic crust was being forced beneath the Eurasian margin in a process called subduction. This led to the formation of the Ladakh Magmatic Arc, a belt of igneous rocks developed between the Jurassic and Eocene periods, roughly 201 to 34 million years ago. The arc represents a classic subduction-related volcanic system that recorded continuous tectonic activity beneath the ocean.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Axis Bank to Infuse ₹1,500 Crore into Axis Finance to Boost Growth: Axis Bank has approved an investment of ₹1,500 crore in its wholly owned subsidiary Axis Finance (AFL) through a rights issue, to be completed by March 31, 2027, after approval from the Reserve Bank of India.The bank will retain 100% shareholding in AFL both before and after the capital infusion, aimed at strengthening the NBFC’s growth.

 

2. India Initiates Probe into Ethyl Chloroformate Imports: India has launched an anti-dumping investigation into imports of ethyl chloroformate from China following allegations by domestic manufacturer Paushak Ltd that the chemical is being sold at unfairly low prices. The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has initiated the probe to assess whether such imports have caused material injury to the domestic industry. Paushak Ltd, identified as India’s sole producer of ethyl chloroformate, has filed the complaint claiming that increasing imports from China have led to price suppression in the domestic market. The company has stated that it accounts for the entire domestic production of the chemical and has suffered financial losses due to underpriced imports. The DGTR has accepted the firm’s standing as the domestic industry for the purpose of the investigation.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Sahitya Akademi Announces Sahitya Akademi Awards 2025 Honouring Excellence in 24 Languages: Sahitya Akademi, under the Ministry of Culture, announced the Sahitya Akademi Awards 2025 to honour excellence in Indian literature.The awards recognise outstanding literary works in 24 Indian languages, promoting linguistic and cultural diversity.

8 books of poetry, 4 novels, 6 books of short stories, 2 essays, 1 literary criticism, 1 autobiography and 2 memoirs have won the Sahitya Akademi Awards 2025.The award includes an engraved copper plaque designed by Satyajit Ray, a ceremonial shawl, and a cash prize of ₹1,00,000.

 

2. Chandrasekaran Conferred Honorary Knighthood by United Kingdom: Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Group, has been awarded an honorary knighthood by the United Kingdom for strengthening India–UK business ties.He was conferred the title of Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE), recognising his outstanding contribution to global business relations.