Daily GK Update- 3rd March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Tamil Nadu Launches First Dark Sky Park in Kolli Hills: Tamil Nadu has inaugurated its first Dark Sky Park at the Ariyur Shola Reserve Forest in Kolli Hills, Namakkal district, marking a significant step towards promoting astro-tourism in the State. The facility was launched by Forest Minister R. S. Rajakannappan from Chennai. The initiative positions the State as an emerging destination for night-sky observation and scientific tourism.Located in an ecologically sensitive forest landscape, the park offers clear views of celestial bodies including stars, planets, the Milky Way galaxy and the moon. The site was selected after detailed ecological and sky visibility assessments.Kolli Hills was identified as an ideal site due to its elevated terrain, dense forest cover and minimal urban light pollution. Nearly a 1.5 km radius around the park remains free from artificial light, ensuring optimal dark-sky conditions. The higher altitude and natural terrain further reduce external light interference.Established at a cost of ₹1 crore, the park is equipped with three advanced telescopes and solar-powered infrastructure to ensure sustainable operations. The centre will function both at night for stargazing and during the day to promote scientific literacy among students, researchers and visitors.

 

2. Saba Shawl Becomes First Woman to Head Central Jail Srinagar : In a landmark development for Jammu and Kashmir’s prison administration, Saba Shawl has been appointed as Superintendent of Central Jail Srinagar, becoming the first Kashmiri woman to head the high-security correctional facility. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for women in uniformed services in the Union Territory. The transfer was formalised under Government Order No. 145-Home of 2026 dated March 2, 2026, with immediate effect. Saba Shawl hails from Peerbagh in Srinagar. She holds a master’s degree in Social Work, reflecting her grounding in community welfare and reform-oriented approaches. Before joining government service, she worked as a senior community development consultant and was associated with the Indo Global Social Service Society, where she focused on grassroots initiatives and capacity-building programmes.Her academic and field experience provided her with a strong foundation in social justice and institutional management.

 

3. Debrigarh to Host Second Indian Bison Fest: The Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary will host the second edition of the two-day ‘Indian Bison Fest’ on March 8 at Zeropoint, highlighting conservation of the Indian bison, locally known as ‘Gayala’. Organised by the Hirakud Wildlife Division, the festival aims to bring together students, researchers, volunteers and nature enthusiasts to celebrate the growing gaur population in the Debrigarh-Hirakud landscape. This year’s edition introduces night camping, transforming the event into a more immersive experience within the sanctuary. The programme will begin with expert talks on gaur behaviour, habitat ecology and conservation strategies, followed by a wildlife film screening and guided gaur safari.Evening activities include a stargazing session, with clear views of constellations such as Saptarishi Mandal and Orion over the sanctuary and the Hirakud wetland. The second day will feature trekking, a cruise ride and a visit to Bat Island, home to more than 1,000 fruit bats or flying foxes, which visitors can observe from a safe distance.

 

4. BEE Marks 25 Years of Energy Efficiency Leadership: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under the Ministry of Power, celebrated its 25th Foundation Day at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, with senior policymakers, State representatives and sectoral stakeholders in attendance. Shri Manohar Lal, Cabinet Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while Shri Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary (Power), delivered the keynote address. Addressing the gathering, the Minister described BEE as a “preventive institution” for the power sector, emphasising that conserving each unit of electricity reduces the need for additional generation capacity and lowers emissions. He noted that India has reduced the emissions intensity of its GDP by 36 per cent from 2005 levels and achieved 52 per cent non-fossil fuel installed capacity ahead of the 2030 target.He highlighted flagship initiatives including the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme, Renewable Consumption Obligation (RCO), Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms, ADEETIE for MSMEs, the Standards & Labelling Programme, and the Energy Conservation and Sustainable Building Code (ECSBC). He underscored energy efficiency as central to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, particularly in emerging sectors such as data centres and Artificial Intelligence.

 

5. Tamil Nadu Leads India in Deceased Organ Donation: Tamil Nadu has reaffirmed its position as India’s leading state in deceased organ donation, recording 57 deceased donors in the first two months of 2026 — nearly one donation a day. The programme is overseen by the Transplant Authority of Tamil Nadu (Transtan), which has built a structured and transparent system over nearly two decades. Officials attribute the sustained rise to coordinated governance, public trust, and technological integration. Tamil Nadu began formalising its deceased organ donation system as early as 2008, at a time when awareness across India remained limited. The model integrates policymakers, healthcare administrators, technocrats, law enforcement agencies, media, and civil society groups. Although the programme slowed during the Covid-19 pandemic, it has since rebounded with renewed vigour.The framework ensures scientific allocation of organs, ethical counselling of families, and real-time coordination between transplant centres. Over the past two years, government hospitals have matched or exceeded private institutions in deceased organ retrieval, reflecting wider institutional participation.

 

6. K P Unnikrishnan, Former Union Minister, Dies at 89: K P Unnikrishnan, former Union Minister and six-time Member of Parliament from Vadakara, died in Kozhikode, Kerala, in the early hours of Tuesday. He was 89. He was undergoing treatment for age-related ailments at a private hospital. Unnikrishnan was widely regarded as a prominent figure in national politics during the 1980s and 1990s, known for his parliamentary experience and administrative responsibilities at the Centre. Unnikrishnan was first elected to the Lok Sabha in 1971 from Vadakara as a Congress candidate. He went on to represent the constituency six consecutive times — in 1971, 1977, 1980, 1984, 1989 and 1991. His repeated electoral success reflected strong grassroots support in northern Kerala. Between 1980 and 1982, he served as a member of the Public Accounts Committee, contributing to parliamentary oversight of government expenditure. From 1981 to 1984, he was the leader of Congress (Secular) in Parliament.

 

7. Gitchak nakana: New Subterranean Fish Found in Assam: In a major scientific breakthrough, researchers have identified a new genus and species of subterranean fish, “Gitchak nakana”, from a dug-out well in western Assam. The discovery marks the first aquifer-dwelling, or phreatobitic, fish recorded from Northeast India. The findings were published in the journal “Scientific Reports”, a Nature Portfolio publication, underscoring the global importance of the discovery. The research was led by Ralf Britz of the Senckenberg Naturhistorische Sammlungen Dresden, in collaboration with Wimarithy K. Marak of Assam Don Bosco University and other national and international scientists.The fish was collected on three separate occasions from the same well in a village at the foothills of the Shillong Plateau near the Brahmaputra Valley. Its habitat within a groundwater aquifer makes it exceptionally rare, as fewer than 10 per cent of the world’s known subterranean fishes inhabit such environments.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Cassava Brown Streak Disease Threatens Africa’s Staple Crop: A viral disease causing rot in cassava roots is raising alarm across sub-Saharan Africa, threatening a staple crop relied upon by millions for food security and income. Cassava, prized for its tolerance to drought and poor soils, serves as a critical safety net for vulnerable households. However, scientists warn that the spread of Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD) could severely undermine this resilience. CBSD causes necrosis in cassava roots, often leading to total crop loss. The disease can remain hidden until harvest, when farmers discover discoloured, inedible roots. This delayed visibility worsens economic losses and food shortages.Although confined to Africa, CBSD remained largely endemic for over 70 years along coastal regions of Tanzania and Mozambique. It has since spread to Uganda and parts of East and Central Africa. Researchers now caution that West Africa — home to major cassava producers such as Nigeria and Ghana — could face significant risk if preventive measures are not strengthened.

 

2. Amondawa Tribe Lives Without Concept of Time: Deep within Brazil’s Amazon rainforest, the Amondawa tribe lives without a conventional understanding of time as defined by modern civilisation. Researchers have found that the indigenous community has no linguistic or cultural equivalent for words such as “time”, “week”, “month” or “year”. Their daily lives are structured around natural cycles rather than clocks or calendars.A study by scholars from the University of Portsmouth, published in the journal “Language and Cognition”, examined how the tribe conceptualises events and existence.The Amondawa language contains no terms referring to measurable units of time. While members can describe sequences of events, they do not treat time as an abstract, independent dimension.Professor Chris Sinha of the University of Portsmouth clarified that the tribe is not “without time”. Instead, it does not conceptualise time in the linear and quantified manner typical of industrial societies. Sunrise, sunset and seasonal rhythms guide daily routines.

 

3. Yuan Dynasty Porcelain Shipwreck Found off Singapore: A 14th-century shipwreck discovered in the waters off Singapore has revealed a vast cargo of blue-and-white Yuan Dynasty porcelain, offering fresh insights into maritime trade during the Mongol Empire. The vessel, believed to have been sailing from China to Temasek, the historic settlement located on the site of modern-day Singapore, dates back roughly 650 years. The findings were published in the “Journal of International Ceramic Studies” in June 2025. The investigation was led by marine archaeologist Michael Flecker of Heritage SG, a subsidiary of the Singapore National Heritage Board. Over four years, divers recovered around 3.5 metric tonnes of ceramic shards from the shallow but hazardous site. Strong currents and extremely poor visibility limited dives to roughly once every four weeks.About 136 kilograms of the recovered material comprised Yuan Dynasty porcelain, including several intact or nearly intact pieces. The vessel itself had largely disintegrated, though it is believed to have been a Chinese junk, a common sailing ship of the period.

 

4. Varanasi Sets Guinness Record With 2.5 Lakh Saplings: Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has entered the Guinness World Records by planting over 2.5 lakh saplings within a single hour. The large-scale environmental initiative was undertaken by the Varanasi Municipal Corporation on March 1, drawing participation from more than 20,000 residents. The drive marks one of the most extensive coordinated urban afforestation efforts in recent years. The plantation was conducted in the Domari area along the Ganga riverfront, where authorities are developing a major urban forest project named “Namo Van”. A total of approximately 2.51 lakh saplings were planted within 60 minutes using the Miyawaki plantation method. This surpassed China’s previous record of 1.53 lakh saplings planted in an hour.The Guinness World Records officially recognised the achievement, highlighting the scale and speed of the coordinated effort. The project spans nearly 350 bighas of land and aims to significantly expand green cover in the historic city.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. US-Israel Strikes Raise Iran Regime Change Question: The United States and Israel have launched coordinated strikes against Iran, targeting key political and military leadership. Among the reported targets were Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian. The operation has sharply escalated tensions in West Asia and triggered retaliation from Tehran, raising questions over whether regime change is the ultimate objective. US President Donald Trump defended the operation as necessary to eliminate imminent threats and prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He accused Tehran of decades of hostility, support for militant groups and backing attacks against American and Israeli interests.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed similar sentiments, stating that joint action would create conditions for the Iranian people to “take their destiny into their own hands”. Both leaders publicly urged Iranians to challenge their leadership, signalling that the objective may extend beyond military deterrence.

 

2. INS Anjadip Commissioned into Indian Navy Fleet: INS Anjadip, the fourth vessel under the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) project, was commissioned into the Indian Navy at Chennai Port on 27 February 2026. The ceremony was presided over by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi and hosted by Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command. Senior naval officers, shipbuilders and civilian dignitaries attended the event.Named after the historic Anjadip Island off Karwar, the vessel strengthens India’s coastal defence and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.INS Anjadip reflects India’s push towards self-reliance in defence production, with over 80 per cent indigenous content. The ship has been built under the ASW-SWC programme involving Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and Larsen & Toubro Shipbuilding, Kattupalli.The induction marks a significant milestone in the Navy’s capability expansion and aligns with the broader objective of strengthening maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

 

3. 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.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Jammu & Kashmir Clinch Maiden Ranji Trophy Title: Jammu & Kashmir scripted history by winning their maiden Ranji Trophy title, defeating eight-time champion Karnataka at the KSCA Rajnagar Stadium. On the fifth day, the visitors asserted complete dominance, sealing the championship in emphatic fashion and marking a transformative moment in Indian domestic cricket.Entering the final day with a massive 477-run lead and six wickets in hand, Jammu & Kashmir left no room for doubt. Their disciplined approach reflected authority built from the very first session of the match.Resuming with a commanding advantage, Jammu & Kashmir batted 56 overs on the final day, adding 156 runs without losing a wicket before the match was drawn and the title confirmed.Karnataka’s resistance faded gradually despite their reputation as a powerhouse of Indian cricket. The home side, chasing shadows throughout the contest, endured a comprehensive defeat in their own backyard.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Scientists Trace Earth’s First Animals to 541 Million Years: Scientists have identified evidence of Earth’s earliest animals in rocks more than 541 million years old, pushing back the timeline of complex life. The discovery suggests that soft-bodied sea sponges were among the first animals to inhabit the planet’s oceans, long before the Cambrian explosion. The findings indicate that some biological traits seen in modern sponges were already present in these ancient organisms. Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology analysed Precambrian rock samples and detected unique “chemical fossils” known as steranes. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, focused on molecular traces derived from sterols — essential components of eukaryotic cell membranes. These compounds provide strong evidence of early complex, nucleus-bearing life forms existing well before the widely recognised burst of animal diversity during the Cambrian period.The rocks examined date to just before the Cambrian boundary, around 541 million years ago. The presence of these biomarkers suggests that early animals lived in ancient oceans under low-oxygen conditions.

 

2. Tripura Launches First State Innovation Mission Under AIM 2.0: The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog has launched the first State Innovation Mission (SIM) in Tripura, marking a major step towards embedding innovation and entrepreneurship into the State’s long-term development strategy. The initiative falls under AIM 2.0 and operates within NITI Aayog’s State Support Mission (SSM), aiming to build robust and context-specific innovation ecosystems aligned with national priorities.
The launch event was held at the Hapania International Exhibition Centre in Agartala in the presence of Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh, and NITI Aayog Member Dr V.K. Saraswat. Under the SIM framework, the mission will be institutionalised through the Tripura Institution for Transformation (TIFT). A dedicated incubation facility named T-NEST (Tripura – Nurturing Entrepreneurship and Startups) has been inaugurated to promote startups and encourage “Make from Tripura” solutions.Innovation Centres will be established across all eight districts, linked to T-NEST, to promote entrepreneurship among women and tribal communities, ensuring inclusive regional participation.

 

3. RailTech Policy and e-RCT Digitisation Announced: In a major step towards technology-driven governance, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced the RailTech Policy and the complete digitisation of the Railway Claims Tribunal (RCT). These form Reform Number Three and Reform Number Four under Indian Railways’ “52 Reforms in 52 Weeks” initiative, aimed at modernising operations and enhancing citizen services. The RailTech Policy seeks to systematically induct advanced technologies into Indian Railways by engaging startups, innovators, industry and research institutions. A dedicated RailTech Portal will enable a simplified, single-stage submission process for innovation challenges.The policy significantly enhances financial support, increasing scale-up grants more than threefold and doubling the maximum grant for prototype development and trials. Successful innovations will receive long-term orders to facilitate large-scale implementation.Key focus areas include AI-based Elephant Intrusion Detection Systems, AI-enabled fire detection in coaches, drone-based broken rail detection, rail stress monitoring, sensor-based load calculation devices, solar panels on coaches, AI-driven coach cleaning monitoring, fog obstruction detection, and digital pension and dispute resolution systems.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. CBIC Launches EMI Scheme for Deferred Customs Duty: In line with the Union Budget 2026–27 announcement by the Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has introduced a new facilitation measure for trusted manufacturers. The initiative enables deferred payment of Customs duty for a newly defined category of importers termed Eligible Manufacturer Importers (EMIs). Detailed guidelines have been issued through Circular No. 08/2026-Customs dated 28 February 2026. Under the scheme, EMIs can clear imported goods without paying Customs duty at the time of clearance. Instead, the applicable duty may be paid on a monthly basis in accordance with the Deferred Payment of Import Duty Rules, 2016. This move is expected to ease cash flow pressures and improve working capital management for manufacturers dependent on imported inputs.The facility will be operational from 1 April 2026 and remain valid until 31 March 2028. It is positioned as a time-bound reform aimed at boosting manufacturing competitiveness.

 

2. 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.A total of 1,06,905 beneficiaries across Assam received land pattas, including 44,700 from Dhemaji alone. The district was chosen due to the high number of pending land settlements.Land settlement was also initiated in previously unsurveyed villages where surveys were completed under the SVAMITVA scheme. Additionally, forest land rights were granted to 538 residents of Subansiri and Jiadhal Reserved Forests under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Mangaluru Airport Wins ACI ASQ Arrivals Award 2025: Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) has been selected among six airports globally for the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award 2025 in the ‘Best Airport at Arrivals’ category by the Airports Council International (ACI) World. This marks the second consecutive year that the airport has secured the global distinction, having also won the arrivals award in 2024.The airport is managed by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), which highlighted the recognition as a reflection of sustained service and infrastructure improvements.The ASQ Awards are regarded as one of the aviation industry’s most credible benchmarks of customer satisfaction. The rankings are based on real-time passenger feedback collected through ACI World’s independently administered survey programme.The ‘Best Airport at Arrivals’ category evaluates the complete inbound passenger journey. Key parameters include immigration efficiency, baggage delivery timelines, terminal ambience, cleanliness, signage and wayfinding, and overall comfort.

 

Daily GK Update- 2nd March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. President Murmu Launches Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium: President Droupadi Murmu will launch the Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, replacing and expanding the earlier Ladli Scheme.Under the previous Ladli Scheme, ₹11,000 (institutional birth) and ₹10,000 (home birth) were deposited, along with ₹5,000 at key stages such as admission to Classes 1, 6, 9, passing Class 10, and admission to Class 12.The revamped scheme significantly enhances financial assistance and broadens its vision to ensure greater support for girl children.The scheme is applicable to Delhi-resident families (minimum 3 years) with annual income up to ₹1.20 lakh, and is inspired by the vision of Narendra Modi to promote daughters’ education, dignity, and self-reliance.

 

2. India and Israel Partner to Boost Blue Economy with Technology-Driven Fisheries and Aquaculture Initiatives: India and Israel signed an MoU to boost India’s blue economy and coastal livelihoods through technology-driven, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices.The agreement promotes professional collaboration via Indo–Israel Centres of Excellence (CoEs) and technical cooperation, including setting up an oceanarium in India.Key focus areas include advanced Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), water reuse, automation, climate-resilient farming, and strengthening aquatic disease management.Over Rs. 275 Crore Released to Jharkhand under XV Finance Commission to Strengthen Rural Governance: The Union Government released over 275 crore under the XV Finance Commission to strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Local Bodies in Jharkhand.The 2nd installment of Untied Grants for FY 2024–25 will benefit 24 District Panchayats, 253 Block Panchayats, and 4,342 Gram Panchayats across the state.

 

3. CGA Launches Government Bank Manual and Dashboard to Strengthen Governance and Efficiency: CGA T.C.A. Kalyani launched the Government Bank Manual and Government Bank Dashboard to enhance governance and efficiency in banks handling government transactions.The Government Bank Manual provides standardised procedures, reporting obligations, reconciliation timelines, and compliance requirements to reduce ambiguity and operational risk.

The Government Bank Dashboard enables real-time, data-driven monitoring of government banking functions, tracking KPIs like remittance timelines, reconciliation status, and transaction success rates.These initiatives institutionalize uniform procedures, reinforce accountability, and pave the way for digital integration, cybersecurity, advanced analytics, and capacity building in government banking operations.

 

4. PM Narendra Modi Inaugurates Micron’s ATMP Facility in Sanand: PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Semiconductor Assembly, Test and Packaging (ATMP) facility of Micron Technology in Sanand, marking the start of commercial production and shipment of India-made semiconductor memory modules.The facility strengthens India’s role in the global semiconductor value chain and symbolises a crucial technology partnership between India and the United States, especially in chips and AI sectors.Under Semiconductor Mission 2.0, a pan-India semiconductor ecosystem is emerging—from Sanand to Noida and Assam—signaling India’s shift from software strength to hardware manufacturing leadership.

 

5. Larsen & Toubro Secures ₹1,000–2,500 Crore Contract to Build LIGO Observatory in Maharashtra: Larsen & Toubro secured a contract from India’s Department of Atomic Energy to construct the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory (LIGO) in Aundha, Hingoli district, Maharashtra.The ₹1,000–2,500 crore project includes high-precision civil infrastructure, an 8 km ultra-high vacuum beam tube, and advanced vacuum equipment.Scheduled for completion in 48 months, the interferometer-based observatory will detect gravitational waves and is set to become one of India’s flagship mega science projects.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Welcomes Nine Cheetahs from Botswana to Kuno National Park: Bhupender Yadav announced the arrival of nine cheetahs (six females and three males) from Botswana to Kuno National Park.The new arrivals have strengthened the population under Project Cheetah, boosting India’s wildlife conservation efforts.With this addition, India now has a total of 48 cheetahs, including 28 India-born cubs, indicating a growing and thriving population.

 

2. Denmark Becomes First EU Country to Eliminate Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and Syphilis: Denmark became the first European Union country to eliminate mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV and syphilis, as certified by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The validation by WHO’s Regional and Global committees confirmed Denmark met all targets from 2021–2024, including low transmission rates and high prenatal testing and treatment coverage.Denmark’s success is attributed to low HIV and syphilis rates among pregnant women, routine testing, and effective treatment, reducing mother-to-child transmission to zero.

 

3. UAE Launches World’s First Sovereign Financial Cloud to Strengthen Secure Digital Finance: The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) launched the world’s first Sovereign Financial Cloud Services Infrastructure (SFCSI) to strengthen secure and regulated digital finance in the UAE.Developed in partnership with Core42 (a subsidiary of G42), the platform provides a secure, AI-powered cloud environment exclusively for the UAE’s financial sector.The sovereign cloud ensures data sovereignty by keeping critical financial data within national jurisdiction, embedding regulatory controls and cybersecurity safeguards directly into its architecture.

 

4. 1 March – World Civil Defence Day: World Civil Defence Day is observed every year on 1 March to recognise and honour civil defence organisations and volunteers who help protect people from disasters, emergencies, and risks through preparedness and response efforts.Theme 2026 – Managing Environmental Risk for a Resilient Future: A Civil Defense PerspectiveThe day highlights the importance of disaster prevention, risk reduction, public safety education, and emergency response training, encouraging communities to be more resilient and prepared.

 

5. 1 March – Zero Discrimination Day: Zero Discrimination Day is observed every year on 1 March to promote equality and stand against all forms of discrimination worldwide.The day was launched by UNAIDS to highlight the importance of inclusion, compassion, peace, and the right of every individual to live with dignity.

 

6. 3 March – World Wildlife Day: World Wildlife Day is observed every year on 3 March to raise awareness about the conservation of wild animals and plants.Theme 2026 –  Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and LivelihoodsThe day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013, marking the adoption of CITES in 1973.It highlights the importance of biodiversity conservation and supports global efforts under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

 

7. 3 March – World Hearing Day: World Hearing Day is observed every year on 3 March to raise awareness about hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care globally.Theme 2026 – From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all childrenThe day is organised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to encourage early detection and prevention of hearing impairment.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. US-Israel Strikes Raise Iran Regime Change Question: The United States and Israel have launched coordinated strikes against Iran, targeting key political and military leadership. Among the reported targets were Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian. The operation has sharply escalated tensions in West Asia and triggered retaliation from Tehran, raising questions over whether regime change is the ultimate objective. US President Donald Trump defended the operation as necessary to eliminate imminent threats and prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He accused Tehran of decades of hostility, support for militant groups and backing attacks against American and Israeli interests.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed similar sentiments, stating that joint action would create conditions for the Iranian people to “take their destiny into their own hands”. Both leaders publicly urged Iranians to challenge their leadership, signalling that the objective may extend beyond military deterrence.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Jammu & Kashmir Clinch First-Ever Ranji Trophy Title: Jammu and Kashmir’s Ranji cricket team won their first-ever Ranji Trophy title, defeating eight-time champions Karnataka at Hubballi.The team ended a 67-year wait for the prestigious domestic First-Class cricket title with a dominant performance.Jammu and Kashmir secured the crown with a massive 291-run first-innings lead, extending their overall advantage to 633 runs to seal the historic victory.

 

2. Football for Schools Initiative Expands Across India: Union Minister of State for Education and Development of North Eastern Region, Dr Sukanta Majumdar, presided over a football distribution programme at PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya in Dakshin Dinajpur, West Bengal, under the Football for Schools (F4S) initiative. The programme is being implemented by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).The event marked a significant step in promoting grassroots sports participation among school students.The Football for Schools Programme has now been implemented across 33 States and Union Territories, achieving nationwide coverage. Approximately 9.80 lakh FIFA footballs are being distributed across the country, reaching over 1.5 lakh schools.These include PM SHRI Schools, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas and Eklavya Model Residential Schools. More than 7 lakh footballs are being supplied across nearly 625 districts through nodal institutions such as Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Gitchak nakana: New Subterranean Fish Found in Assam: In a major scientific breakthrough, researchers have identified a new genus and species of subterranean fish, “Gitchak nakana”, from a dug-out well in western Assam. The discovery marks the first aquifer-dwelling, or phreatobitic, fish recorded from Northeast India. The findings were published in the journal “Scientific Reports”, a Nature Portfolio publication, underscoring the global importance of the discovery. The research was led by Ralf Britz of the Senckenberg Naturhistorische Sammlungen Dresden, in collaboration with Wimarithy K. Marak of Assam Don Bosco University and other national and international scientists.The fish was collected on three separate occasions from the same well in a village at the foothills of the Shillong Plateau near the Brahmaputra Valley. Its habitat within a groundwater aquifer makes it exceptionally rare, as fewer than 10 per cent of the world’s known subterranean fishes inhabit such environments.

 

2. 12th-Century Yadava Pillar Found in Wardha: The stone fragments are carved from locally available black basalt. A finely sculpted lotus motif stands out, reflecting advanced craftsmanship despite the hardness of the material. The carvings are characteristic of the Hemadpanti architectural style associated with Yadava rule during the 12th and 13th centuries.Hemadpanti architecture is known for its use of large stone blocks fitted together without lime mortar, relying on precision interlocking techniques. The style is widely seen in medieval temples across Maharashtra and parts of Vidarbha, reflecting a distinctive regional school of temple construction.Panchsheel Thul during a study of ancient Mandir sites along the riverbank. What initially appeared to be ordinary stones drew attention due to intricate carvings. A subsequent joint inspection with researcher Pravin Kadu confirmed architectural features consistent with the Seuna (Yadava) dynasty of the 12th century.The researchers believe the pillar may have been part of a sabhamandap (assembly hall) or positioned in front of the garbhagriha (sanctum). Another fragment appears to represent the pedestal or base of a main structural pillar, suggesting the presence of a substantial temple complex in the area.

 

3. Micron Opens World’s Largest Semiconductor Clean Room in Gujarat: India took a major step in its semiconductor ambitions as Micron Technology commenced operations at its advanced memory ATMP facility in Sanand, Gujarat. The plant shipped its first finished DRAM module to Dell Technologies, marking the country’s entry into high-end semiconductor assembly and testing.Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the facility, which represents India’s first advanced memory Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) site.The facility assembles and tests DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and NAND flash memory. DRAM serves as working memory for computers, smartphones and data centres, while NAND supports non-volatile storage in SSDs and other devices.Operations follow a wafer-in to finished-product-out model. Wafers sourced from Micron’s global fabrication plants are thinned, diced into chips, assembled, tested and mounted onto modules before final quality checks and shipment.The total planned investment across two phases stands at $2.7 billion. Production is expected to reach tens of millions of integrated circuits this year, scaling close to one billion units annually by 2027. While exports will form a large share, domestic demand will also be served.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Imposes Rs 11.50 Lakh Penalty on Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services: Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited was imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 11.50 lakh by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) due to violations found during the annual inspection for FY ending March 31, 2025.The company disclosed the penalty to the stock exchange under SEBI’s Regulation 30 for material events, as per listing obligations.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Catherine O’Hara Wins SAG Award Posthumously for The Studio: O’Hara won the award amid strong competition. Fellow nominees included Kathryn Hahn for “The Studio”, Jenna Ortega for “Wednesday”, Jean Smart for “Hacks”, and Kristen Wiig for “Palm Royale”. The category reflected the strength of contemporary television comedy, making her win particularly significant.The recognition added to O’Hara’s distinguished career in television and film. She had earlier received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for “The Studio”, reaffirming her continued relevance decades into her career.O’Hara was no stranger to major honours. In 2021, she won SAG Awards for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series and for Comedy Ensemble for “Schitt’s Creek”. Her portrayal in that series remains one of the most celebrated performances in modern television comedy.

 

Daily GK Update- 1st March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Petroleum Ministry Mandates Nationwide Sale of E20 Petrol with Minimum RON 95 from April 2026: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has mandated the nationwide sale of E20 petrol (up to 20% ethanol blending) with a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95 across all States and Union Territories from 1 April 2026 to enhance cleaner fuel usage.The Ethanol Blended Programme, launched in January 2003 with an initial 5% blending target, has gradually expanded to higher levels of blending to boost India’s energy security and support farmers and the agricultural economy.

 

2. ESIC Launches 75th Foundation Year Celebrations, Unveils Commemorative Coin and Swasthya Rath Initiative: The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation commenced its 75th Foundation Year celebrations at Bharat Mandapam, marking over seven decades of dedicated social security and healthcare service to workers and their families across India.Established in 1952 with about 1.2 lakh beneficiaries and a single dispensary, ESIC has expanded significantly and now serves over 15 crore beneficiaries through a network of 166 hospitals, 17 medical colleges, and nearly 1,600 dispensaries nationwide.To commemorate the Platinum Jubilee (ESIC@75), a special commemorative coin was released along with the launch of the ESIC@75 Coffee Table Book, highlighting the Corporation’s milestones, legacy, and transformative initiatives.

 

3. Ashwini Vaishnaw Launches Rail Tech Policy and e-RCT Digitisation Under Indian Railways’ 52 Reforms Initiative: Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the Rail Tech Policy and announced the complete digitisation of the Railway Claims Tribunal (RCT) under Indian Railways’ “52 Reforms in 52 Weeks” initiative, promoting technology-driven governance and administrative reforms.The Rail Tech Policy aims to engage startups, innovators, industries, and institutions through a simplified selection process and a dedicated Rail Tech Portal, enabling single-stage proposal submissions to accelerate innovation in railways.Key focus areas include AI-based Elephant Intrusion Detection Systems (EIDS), fire detection in coaches, drone-based broken rail detection, solar-powered coaches, and AI-driven dispute resolution systems, with Indian Railways offering up to 50% development funding support and long-term scaling opportunities for successful solutions.

 

4. PM Narendra Modi Launches Nationwide Free HPV Vaccination Drive for 14-Year-Old Girls from Ajmer: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign from Ajmer to protect 14-year-old girls from cervical cancer.The campaign will use Gardasil, a quadrivalent vaccine that protects against HPV types 16 & 18 (which cause cervical cancer) and types 6 & 11. The vaccination will be voluntary and free of cost at government health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and district hospitals.Cervical cancer is the second-most common cancer among women in India, with around 80,000 new cases and over 42,000 deaths annually, making this campaign a major public health initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

 

5. President Droupadi Murmu Becomes First Indian President to Fly in Attack Helicopter Prachand: President Droupadi Murmu became the first Indian President to fly in an attack helicopter, undertaking a 25-minute sortie in the indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand near the India–Pakistan border from Jaisalmer Air Force Station.During the historic flight, she acted as co-pilot, flew over the Pokhran firing range, and delivered a message praising the armed forces while emphasizing the significance of indigenous defence capabilities.

 

6. Sikkim’s Pakyong Airport to Be Renamed After Freedom Fighter Trilochan Pokhrel: Sikkim’s Pakyong Airport will be renamed after freedom fighter Trilochan Pokhrel, the state’s first independence activist, as announced by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.Trilochan Pokhrel, also known as “Gandhi Pokhrel”, actively participated in the Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience, and Quit India movements led by Mahatma Gandhi.

 

7. Meghalaya Issues Advisory After Suspected Meningococcal Deaths: The Meghalaya government has issued a public health advisory following the deaths of two Agniveer trainees from suspected meningococcal bacterial infection at the Assam Regimental Centre (ARC) in Shillong. Over 30 trainees are currently under medical observation, with close contacts quarantined as a precautionary measure. Authorities have stated that no new suspected cases have been detected and the situation remains under control. The advisory, issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department, confirmed that the East Khasi Hills District Surveillance Unit has initiated an epidemiological investigation. Measures include case investigation, contact tracing, laboratory review and strengthened surveillance.The Army has enforced isolation of close contacts at the Military Hospital Shillong. Masking and restricted movement protocols continue at the training centre. Civil and military health authorities are coordinating to prevent wider transmission.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NSE IX Soft Launches Global Access Platform to Enable Indian Investors to Trade in US and Global Markets: The NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) has soft-launched a Global Access platform, enabling Indian investors to directly trade in international equities, debt instruments, and ETFs, thereby connecting domestic investors with global capital markets.The platform will initially provide access to the US markets, with plans to expand to nearly 30 international markets—including G-7 nations—over the next three to six months, offering broader global diversification opportunities.The initiative operates under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) of the Reserve Bank of India, allowing resident individuals to remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year for overseas investments.

2. Sri Lanka’s First Blue Bond Listed on NSE IX at GIFT City : Sri Lanka’s first-ever Blue Bond, a LKR 3 billion issuance by DFCC Bank, has been dually listed on the NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) at GIFT City, marking the first blue bond admitted for trading within India’s IFSC jurisdiction.The dual listing was enabled through an MoU between NSE IX and the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), strengthening cross-border capital market collaboration and promoting innovative financial products across jurisdictions.The Blue Bond aims to finance sustainable marine resource use, clean drinking water supply, aquatic pollution control, and ocean-based economic activities, reflecting growing global focus on environmentally responsible and impact-driven investments.

 

3. Amondawa Tribe Lives Without Concept of Time : Deep within Brazil’s Amazon rainforest, the Amondawa tribe lives without a conventional understanding of time as defined by modern civilisation. Researchers have found that the indigenous community has no linguistic or cultural equivalent for words such as “time”, “week”, “month” or “year”. Their daily lives are structured around natural cycles rather than clocks or calendars.A study by scholars from the University of Portsmouth, published in the journal “Language and Cognition”, examined how the tribe conceptualises events and existence.The Amondawa language contains no terms referring to measurable units of time. While members can describe sequences of events, they do not treat time as an abstract, independent dimension.Professor Chris Sinha of the University of Portsmouth clarified that the tribe is not “without time”. Instead, it does not conceptualise time in the linear and quantified manner typical of industrial societies. Sunrise, sunset and seasonal rhythms guide daily routines.

 

4. Yuan Dynasty Porcelain Shipwreck Found off Singapore: A 14th-century shipwreck discovered in the waters off Singapore has revealed a vast cargo of blue-and-white Yuan Dynasty porcelain, offering fresh insights into maritime trade during the Mongol Empire. The vessel, believed to have been sailing from China to Temasek, the historic settlement located on the site of modern-day Singapore, dates back roughly 650 years. The findings were published in the “Journal of International Ceramic Studies” in June 2025. The investigation was led by marine archaeologist Michael Flecker of Heritage SG, a subsidiary of the Singapore National Heritage Board. Over four years, divers recovered around 3.5 metric tonnes of ceramic shards from the shallow but hazardous site. Strong currents and extremely poor visibility limited dives to roughly once every four weeks.About 136 kilograms of the recovered material comprised Yuan Dynasty porcelain, including several intact or nearly intact pieces. The vessel itself had largely disintegrated, though it is believed to have been a Chinese junk, a common sailing ship of the period.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Air Force Showcases Full-Spectrum Combat Power in Exercise ‘Vayushakti-26’ at Pokhran Range: The Indian Air Force conducted Exercise ‘Vayushakti-26’ at the Pokhran Field Firing Range, showcasing full-spectrum air combat capabilities, operational synergy, and advanced technological prowess in a simulated live combat theatre.For the first time, the exercise followed a defined operational storyline integrating offensive air strikes, air defence operations, special forces missions, and humanitarian assistance—highlighting the IAF’s role as a multi-domain, integrated force and the nation’s first responder.

 

2. INS Anjadip, Built with Indigenous SAIL Steel, Set to Join Indian Navy Fleet : Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) supplied the entire quantity of approximately 3,500 tonnes of special-grade indigenous steel for INS Anjadip, built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE), strengthening India’s defence manufacturing capabilities.INS Anjadip is the third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) corvette to join the Indian Navy, following INS Arnala and INS Androth in 2025, and is part of the indigenous programme to replace the ageing Abhay-class vessels.The steel was sourced from SAIL’s integrated plants at Bokaro, Bhilai, and Rourkela, highlighting India’s robust domestic supply chain and reinforcing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat through reduced import dependence in defence projects.

 

3. US-Israel Strikes Raise Iran Regime Change Question: The United States and Israel have launched coordinated strikes against Iran, targeting key political and military leadership. Among the reported targets were Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian. The operation has sharply escalated tensions in West Asia and triggered retaliation from Tehran, raising questions over whether regime change is the ultimate objective. Israel termed its campaign “Operation Lion’s Roar”, while Washington called its involvement “Operation Epic Fury”. Strikes reportedly hit areas around the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as well as military facilities in Kermanshah, Qum, Isfahan, Tabriz, Karaj and the naval base at Kenarak.Iranian media reported explosions across multiple cities. While the whereabouts of Khamenei remain unclear, sources indicated that he had been moved to a secure location. Several senior commanders of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards were reportedly killed. In response, Iran launched missile barrages targeting Israel and US installations in the region.

 

4. INS Anjadip Commissioned into Indian Navy Fleet: INS Anjadip, the fourth vessel under the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) project, was commissioned into the Indian Navy at Chennai Port on 27 February 2026. The ceremony was presided over by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi and hosted by Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command. Senior naval officers, shipbuilders and civilian dignitaries attended the event.Named after the historic Anjadip Island off Karwar, the vessel strengthens India’s coastal defence and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.INS Anjadip reflects India’s push towards self-reliance in defence production, with over 80 per cent indigenous content. The ship has been built under the ASW-SWC programme involving Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and Larsen & Toubro Shipbuilding, Kattupalli.The induction marks a significant milestone in the Navy’s capability expansion and aligns with the broader objective of strengthening maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

SPORTS

 

1. Jammu & Kashmir Clinch Maiden Ranji Trophy Title: Jammu & Kashmir scripted history by winning their maiden Ranji Trophy title, defeating eight-time champion Karnataka at the KSCA Rajnagar Stadium. On the fifth day, the visitors asserted complete dominance, sealing the championship in emphatic fashion and marking a transformative moment in Indian domestic cricket.Entering the final day with a massive 477-run lead and six wickets in hand, Jammu & Kashmir left no room for doubt. Their disciplined approach reflected authority built from the very first session of the match.Resuming with a commanding advantage, Jammu & Kashmir batted 56 overs on the final day, adding 156 runs without losing a wicket before the match was drawn and the title confirmed.Karnataka’s resistance faded gradually despite their reputation as a powerhouse of Indian cricket. The home side, chasing shadows throughout the contest, endured a comprehensive defeat in their own backyard.

 

2. Football for Schools Initiative Expands Across India : Union Minister of State for Education and Development of North Eastern Region, Dr Sukanta Majumdar, presided over a football distribution programme at PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya in Dakshin Dinajpur, West Bengal, under the Football for Schools (F4S) initiative. The programme is being implemented by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).The event marked a significant step in promoting grassroots sports participation among school students.Nearly 1,700 FIFA footballs have been distributed across Dakshin Dinajpur district, covering around 250 schools. Across West Bengal, more than 87,000 footballs are being supplied, benefiting lakhs of students.The distribution drive aims to strengthen sports infrastructure in schools and ensure wider access to quality sporting equipment, particularly in government-run institutions.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Casebook on AI and Gender Empowerment Launched at India AI Impact Summit 2026: The Casebook on AI and Gender Empowerment was launched at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, underscoring India’s commitment to inclusive, ethical, and gender-responsive artificial intelligence development.The casebook was developed by the Government of India under the IndiaAI Mission of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in partnership with UN Women and supported by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD), featuring 23 impactful AI solutions promoting gender equality from over 50 countries.

 

2. UIDAI Partners with Google to Display Authorised Aadhaar Centres on Google Maps Nationwide : The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has partnered with Google to display authorised Aadhaar Centres on Google Maps, improving accessibility, transparency, and convenience for residents across India.Users will be able to identify centres based on specific services such as adult enrolment, child enrolment, address/mobile updates, along with details on accessibility features (divyang-friendly infrastructure), parking availability, and operating hours.

The collaboration will cover over 60,000 verified Aadhaar Centres, including Aadhaar Seva Kendras (ASKs), and in the next phase, UIDAI will utilise Google Business Profile to manage centre information and respond directly to public feedback for a more responsive service ecosystem.

 

3. Micron Opens World’s Largest Semiconductor Clean Room in Gujarat: India took a major step in its semiconductor ambitions as Micron Technology commenced operations at its advanced memory ATMP facility in Sanand, Gujarat. The plant shipped its first finished DRAM module to Dell Technologies, marking the country’s entry into high-end semiconductor assembly and testing.Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the facility, which represents India’s first advanced memory Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) site.The Sanand unit houses a 500,000 square foot raised-floor clean room — the largest single semiconductor assembly clean room of its kind worldwide. Engineered specifically for Gujarat’s soil and climate conditions, the structure mitigates moisture-related risks.The clean room is rated Class 1000, allowing no more than 1,000 particles per cubic metre. Air is circulated 120 times per hour, significantly higher than pharmaceutical standards. This ensures protection of delicate integrated circuits and gold bonding wires that are thinner than fractions of a human hair.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IRFC Raises USD 400 Million Equivalent ECB from SMBC and MUFG via GIFT City Branches: Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) has raised an External Commercial Borrowing (ECB) of JPY equivalent to USD 400 million by signing a loan agreement with a consortium of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and MUFG Bank through their GIFT City branches.This marks IRFC’s second ECB transaction in FY 2025–26, following its earlier USD 300 million equivalent borrowing in December 2025, strengthening its diversified global funding strategy.The five-year unsecured loan is benchmarked to the Tokyo Overnight Average Rate (TONAR), and the proceeds will be utilised to finance railway sector projects, including those with forward and backward linkages, in accordance with ECB guidelines.

 

2. IIFL Home Finance Secures $300 Million ADB Loan to Boost Affordable and Green Housing for Women: IIFL Home Finance has secured a $300 million loan from the Asian Development Bank to expand access to affordable housing finance in India.The loan proceeds will be on-lent as mortgages primarily to women in low-income communities across peri-urban, urban, and lagging states, promoting financial inclusion and women’s empowerment.Over 25% of the loan amount is earmarked for financing green-certified affordable homes, supporting sustainable and climate-resilient housing development.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Catherine O’Hara Wins SAG Award Posthumously for The Studio: Late Hollywood actor Catherine O’Hara was honoured with a standing ovation at the SAG-AFTRA Screen Actors Guild Awards after winning Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series for her role in “The Studio”. The award was presented posthumously following her passing in January at the age of 71. The emotional moment marked one of the most poignant highlights of the ceremony, as peers celebrated her lasting impact on television comedy. O’Hara’s co-star Seth Rogen accepted the award on her behalf. As he took the stage, the audience rose in tribute to the veteran performer. Rogen reflected on her generosity, discipline and creative brilliance. He noted that she deeply respected fellow actors and valued recognition from her peers. He described her commitment to excellence, revealing that she would frequently send revised versions of scenes before shooting days. According to him, her suggestions consistently elevated not only her character but the entire show. Her dedication, he said, demonstrated that artistic genius and kindness can coexist.