Daily GK Update- 10th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Karnataka Launches ₹100 Crore ‘Chief Minister’s Krishi Vistara’ Scheme: The Karnataka government has launched the ‘Chief Minister’s Krishi Vistara’ Scheme in the Karnataka Budget 2026–27 to help increase farmers’ income.The scheme has an outlay of ₹100 crore for three years and aims to strengthen post-harvest activities and market linkages for farmers.

 

2. Sarbananda Sonowal Lays Foundation for India’s First Riverine Lighthouses on the Brahmaputra River: Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation stones for India’s first riverine lighthouses from Lachit Ghat along the Brahmaputra River (National Waterway 2).Four lighthouses will be built at Pandu, Silghat, Biswanath Ghat, and Bogibeel, enabling 24-hour navigation on inland waterways and improving river transport safety.The ₹84 crore project is a joint initiative of the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships and the Inland Waterways Authority of India, with 20-metre tall solar-powered lighthouses also planned as tourism landmarks.

 

3. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Launches Phase-2 of ‘Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme’ in Delhi: The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports launched the second phase of the ‘Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme’ in Delhi to strengthen youth engagement with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.The programme is organised through Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) and will see participation from over 10,000 students from more than 35 colleges across the national capital through dialogues, interactive sessions, and engagement activities.The initiative has already reached 274 universities and colleges across 22 States and Union Territories, mobilising nearly 20,000 youth, with participation facilitated through the MY Bharat digital platform.

 

4. Ministry of Panchayati Raj Launches ‘Say No To Proxy Sarpanch’ Campaign to Empower Women Leaders in Panchayats: Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched a nationwide social media campaign “Say No To Proxy Sarpanch” to stop the practice of male relatives exercising power on behalf of elected women sarpanches.The campaign targets the issue of “Sarpanch Pati”, where husbands or male relatives take decisions instead of elected women representatives in village governance.

The initiative was launched around International Women’s Day and aims to empower women leaders and strengthen democratic participation in Panchayati Raj institutions.

 

5. Dr Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi Reappointed as Drugs Controller General of India: Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi has been reappointed as the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) with approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.He will continue to serve at the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), the national regulatory body for pharmaceuticals and medical devices in India.The DCGI heads CDSCO and is responsible for ensuring drug quality, approving new drugs, and regulating clinical trials across India.

 

6. Amit Shah Addresses 57th Raising Day of Central Industrial Security Force at Mundali: Amit Shah addressed the 57th Raising Day ceremony of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at Mundali.CISF Raising Day is celebrated on March 10 every year to mark the establishment of the force in 1969, under the Ministry of Home Affairs.CISF provides security to airports and key installations across India, and has also been designated as the nodal agency for drone security and port security in the country.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Bhavitha Mandava Becomes First Indian House Ambassador for Chanel: Bhavitha Mandava became the first Indian House Ambassador for Chanel, marking a major milestone for Indian representation in global luxury fashion.She also made history as the first Indian model to open a Chanel fashion show in New York City.Bhavitha Mandava studied architecture at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University before beginning her successful career in international modelling.

 

2. International Malaria Conference 2026 Concludes in New Delhi: The International Malaria Conference (IMC) 2026 concluded in New Delhi after three days of scientific discussions and global engagement aimed at accelerating malaria elimination efforts. Organised by the ICMR–National Institute of Malaria Research under the Indian Council of Medical Research, the conference was held from March 7 to March 9, 2026. It brought together scientists, policymakers, public health experts and researchers from India and several other countries to discuss innovative strategies for malaria control and elimination. The conference was organised under the theme “Discovery, Development and Delivery: Driving Malaria Elimination and Beyond.” The event served as a platform for sharing scientific knowledge, strengthening partnerships and addressing emerging challenges in malaria research and public health. Experts highlighted the importance of sustained research, improved health systems and international collaboration in achieving global malaria elimination goals.

 

3. HRW Accuses Israel of Using White Phosphorus in Lebanon: Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of unlawfully using white phosphorus munitions over residential areas in southern Lebanon during recent military operations. The allegation comes amid escalating tensions along the Israel–Lebanon border following renewed clashes involving Hezbollah. According to the rights group, the use of such munitions in populated areas poses serious risks to civilians and may violate international humanitarian law. The New York-based organisation stated that Israeli forces fired artillery shells containing white phosphorus over the southern Lebanese town of Yohmor on March 3, 2026. HRW reported that it verified and geolocated several images showing airburst white phosphorus munitions exploding above residential areas. The images also reportedly showed civil defence workers responding to fires in homes and vehicles within the town, indicating damage to civilian property.

 

4. US Considers Seizing Iran’s Kharg Island to Disrupt Oil Exports: The United States is reportedly considering the possibility of capturing Iran’s Kharg Island, a move aimed at restricting Tehran’s oil revenues amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The island is Iran’s primary oil export hub and a vital component of its energy infrastructure. Discussions within the US administration indicate that targeting this strategic location could weaken Iran’s financial capacity and reduce its ability to sustain military activities during the ongoing conflict. Kharg Island, located in the Persian Gulf, serves as Iran’s main oil export terminal. A significant portion of the country’s crude oil shipments passes through facilities on the island, making it one of the most critical nodes in Iran’s energy supply chain. Because of this central role, control or disruption of the island’s operations could severely limit Iran’s ability to export oil and generate revenue from global energy markets.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. RM Nachammai Becomes First Woman At Helm Of Functional Nuclear Power Plant: RM Nachammai became the first woman Chief Superintendent of a functional nuclear power plant under Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited.She has taken charge of Units 3 and 4 at Kaiga Generating Station, overseeing operations, maintenance, and engineering support of the reactors.Her appointment marks a major milestone for women’s leadership in India’s nuclear energy sector as the country aims to reach 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047.

 

2. G. George, Hero of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, Dies at 95: G. George, a hero of the Indo‑Pakistani War of 1965 and recipient of the Vir Chakra, passed away at the age of 95 in Kottayam, Kerala.He served in the Indian Army Corps of Signals, which is responsible for maintaining secure and reliable battlefield communication during military operations.During the 1965 war, George was honoured for his bravery and dedication in maintaining crucial communication lines despite heavy enemy attacks.

 

3. India Remains World’s Second-Largest Arms Importer: SIPRI Report: India continues to be the world’s second-largest arms importer despite a marginal decline in defence imports in recent years, according to a new report released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The report highlights shifting patterns in India’s defence procurement as the country gradually diversifies suppliers and pushes for greater self-reliance in military production. While imports declined by around 4 per cent between 2016–20 and 2021–25, India still remains heavily dependent on foreign suppliers for key defence platforms and technologies. The SIPRI report notes that India’s arms imports saw a modest decline between the two reporting periods. This reduction is largely attributed to the government’s efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing through initiatives such as “Atmanirbhar Bharat” in the defence sector. Increased indigenous production of equipment, including missiles, artillery systems, and naval platforms, has slightly reduced dependence on foreign procurement. However, India continues to import advanced systems such as fighter aircraft, air defence systems, and specialised military technology.

 

SPORTS

 

1. LeBron James Breaks National Basketball Association All-Time Field Goal Record: LeBron James broke the all-time field goal record in the National Basketball Association, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.James achieved 15,838 career field goals in his 23rd NBA season, overtaking Abdul-Jabbar’s previous record of 15,837 field goals set during his 20-year NBA career.

 

2. Smriti Mandhana Becomes First Cricketer to Get Her Own Barbie Doll by Mattel Ahead of International Women’s Day: Smriti Mandhana became the first cricketer to receive her own Barbie doll, recognising her achievements and influence in women’s cricket.The doll was created by Mattel as part of its initiative to celebrate inspiring and trailblazing women across different fields.The announcement was made ahead of International Women’s Day, highlighting Mandhana’s role as a global role model encouraging young girls to pursue sports.

 

3. India and New Zealand Plan Expanded Sports Cooperation in Centenary Year: India and New Zealand have initiated discussions to expand bilateral sports cooperation as 2026 marks 100 years of sporting relations between the two countries. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya chaired a high-level ministerial meeting in New Delhi with a New Zealand sports delegation to explore new avenues of collaboration in sports development, training and innovation. The dialogue highlighted sports diplomacy as an important component of the broader India–New Zealand partnership. The year 2026 commemorates the centenary of sporting ties between the two nations, tracing back to the Indian Army hockey tour to New Zealand in 1926. That historic visit marked one of the earliest sporting engagements between India and New Zealand and laid the foundation for long-standing sporting exchanges. Building on this legacy, both sides are exploring initiatives to deepen engagement between their sporting institutions and athletes.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Rare Marine Amphipod Stenothoe lowryi Discovered in Indian Waters: Marine science researchers from Berhampur University have recorded the presence of a rare shrimp-like marine amphipod species in Indian waters for the first time. The discovery was made at Arjyapalli in Odisha’s Ganjam district during a field survey of rocky coastal habitats. The species, identified as “Stenothoe lowryi”, was previously reported only from Malaysia, and its distribution in other regions had remained largely unknown until now. The discovery was led by Shesdev Patro, Assistant Professor in the Department of Marine Science at Berhampur University. The research was carried out under the Mukhyamantri Research Innovation Extramural Programme (MRIEP) funded by the Odisha State Higher Education Council for the 2024–25 academic year. During fieldwork conducted in January last year, researchers collected eight specimens from rocky coastal habitats at Arjyapalli. Detailed analysis later confirmed the specimens as “Stenothoe lowryi”, marking the first recorded occurrence of this species in Indian waters.

 

2. Scientists Discover New Ancient Reptile Species Sonselasuchus Cedrus: Scientists have identified a new ancient reptile species that lived in what is now the United States around 225–201 million years ago during the Late Triassic period. The discovery was made by palaeontologists from the University of Washington and the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture in Seattle. Fossils of the species were found in Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park, a region known for rich deposits of fossilised wood and prehistoric remains. The research provides new insights into the evolution of early archosaurs and the diversity of reptile species that existed alongside early dinosaurs. The newly identified reptile species has been named “Sonselasuchus cedrus”. Fossil remains were recovered from Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, an area famous for its well-preserved Triassic fossils. Since 2014, researchers have collected nearly 950 fossil specimens linked to this species. The large number of fossils enabled scientists to study its anatomy in detail and reconstruct aspects of its life history and evolutionary traits.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bank of Baroda Raises ₹10,000 Crore Through India’s First Domestic Green Infrastructure Bond Issue: Bank of Baroda raised ₹10,000 crore by issuing Series I Long-Term Green Infrastructure Bonds, becoming the first bank in India to issue a domestic Green Infrastructure Bond.The bond issue received strong investor demand with bids worth ₹16,415 crore, over three times the base issue size of ₹5,000 crore, and was priced at a 7.10% coupon rate.According to Debadatta Chand, the funds will support green and sustainable infrastructure projects, strengthening India’s ESG-focused financing and clean growth transition.

 

2. L&T Finance Ltd. Launches ‘Spoorthi’ Programme to Empower Women Entrepreneurs: L&T Finance Ltd. launched the ‘Spoorthi’ programme on the occasion of International Women’s Day to empower women entrepreneurs by providing financial support.The initiative offers Home Loans and Loan Against Property (LAP) to women who are individually or jointly running businesses, helping them purchase property or expand their businesses.Under the Spoorthi programme, benefits include home loan and LAP tenors up to 25 years, industrial LAP up to 12 years, and relaxed eligibility norms with higher debt-to-income ratios to improve financial access.

 

3. DEG and Citigroup Provide $76 Million Co-Financing to Shriram Finance Ltd to Boost Inclusive and Green Financing in India: DEG and Citigroup have announced a $76-million co-financing package for Shriram Finance Ltd to promote economic inclusion, rural development, and climate-aligned mobility across India.Under the financing arrangement, DEG will provide a €40 million loan (about $46 million) while Citi will extend a ₹260 crore loan, with Citi acting as the lead arranger and coordinator of the deal.The funds will support MSMEs, electric vehicle (EV) financing, women borrowers, and underserved customers, helping expand access to formal credit in India.

 

Daily GK Update- 9th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 138-Year-Old ‘Hatti Risala’ Festival Celebrated with Grandeur in Jalna During Dhulivandan: The ‘Hatti Risala’ procession, a historic cultural tradition of Jalna, celebrated 138 years of heritage during the festival of Dhulivandan.During the procession, a decorated elephant carries a symbolic king and prime minister, who distribute sweets (revdis) to the crowd while people dressed in traditional attire celebrate with drum beats and colors.The festival is considered a symbol of cultural heritage and communal harmony, with people from different religions participating together in the celebrations across Maharashtra.

 

2. Tamil Nadu Students Launch Mini Satellite to 22 km Height: 13 students of the Class XI batch of Ariyakudi Government Higher Secondary School in Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu have successfully launched a 600-gram mini satellite named “Vikko Sat-1” using a helium balloon to collect real-time atmospheric data.The student-built device reached a height of about 22 km in the stratosphere before being safely recovered, demonstrating significant scientific and technical skills.The mission aimed to detect fungal spores in the upper atmosphere using five sensors, helping researchers understand their impact on crop health and environmental cycles.

 

3. Centre Sets 30.3 Million Tonnes Wheat Procurement Target for FY27 Rabi Marketing Season: The Government has set a wheat procurement target of 30.3 million tonnes for FY27 under the Central Pool for the 2026–27 rabi marketing season starting April 1, almost the same as the previous year.In the 2025–26 season, the Centre procured 30.03 million tonnes of wheat from about 2.6 million farmers, according to official data.The government also fixed targets of 7.6 million tonnes of rice procurement and 0.77 million tonnes of millets, while reviewing technology-driven initiatives to strengthen the Public Distribution System (PDS) supply chain.

 

4. Union Agriculture Minister to Inaugurate National Stakeholders’ Meet on Coconut Promotion Scheme at IIT Madras: Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shri Sivaraj Singh Chouhan to inaugurate the National Stakeholders’ Meet on the Coconut Promotion Scheme at IIT Madras, Chennai.The Minister will provide policy guidance for effective implementation, interact with coconut farmer leaders, and deliberate with senior policymakers from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Southern States.The Meet will see participation of over 1,000 stakeholders, including coconut farmers, FPOs, researchers, entrepreneurs, and officials of the Coconut Development Board, aimed at revitalising India’s coconut sector supporting nearly 30 million people.

 

5. Karnataka Proposes Social Media Ban for Children Under 16: The Karnataka government proposed banning social media use for children below 16 years, becoming the first Indian state to take concrete steps toward implementation.Andhra Pradesh announced plans to restrict social media for children under 13, while Karnataka is also considering regulations for the 13–16 age group based on wider consensus.The move follows global trends, including Australia’s ban for under-16s and discussions in several European countries, citing health and safety concerns.

 

6. Maharashtra Signs MoU with Finnish Firms to Modernise Mumbai’s Sassoon Dock: The Maharashtra government signed an MoU with three Finnish companies—Helvar, Mirasis, and River Recycle—to modernise Sassoon Dock in Mumbai and develop it into a technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable fishing harbour.The agreement, signed through the Maharashtra Fisheries Development Corporation, aims to upgrade dock infrastructure, improve waste management, and introduce modern operational systems at one of India’s oldest fishing docks.The collaboration will promote plastic waste recycling, management of discarded fishing nets, modern net-repair systems, and provide training and capacity building for fishermen and dock workers.

 

7. Assam Woman Becomes First to Receive Indian Citizenship Under CAA: A 60-year-old woman, Dipali Das from Cachar district, Assam, became the first person in the state to receive Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), receiving her certificate on March 6.She migrated from Bangladesh to India in 1988 and settled in Assam, but due to lack of proper documents, the authorities in 2013 investigated her nationality and later declared her a foreigner.Dipali Das was detained in Silchar detention camp in 2019, but was released in April 2020 following a Supreme Court order during the COVID-19 pandemic; her citizenship was finally granted under the CAA, ending years of legal uncertainty.

 

8. Pondicherry University Signs MoU with CCPD to Promote Disability Inclusion and Accessibility: Pondicherry University signed an MoU with the Office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.The partnership aims to promote accessibility, inclusion, and rights of persons with disabilities through academic–policy collaboration, research, practical exposure, and capacity-building initiatives.The MoU will support joint research, conferences, seminars, workshops, and awareness programs on disability rights, inclusive education, employment opportunities, and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Ministry Launches ASMITA: Nationwide Athletics League to Empower Women Athletes: The Union Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry is organising ASMITA, a nationwide athletics league in New Delhi on International Women’s Day to empower female athletes.Competitions will be held in 100m, 200m, and 400m races for girls under 13, 13–18 years, and 18+ age categories, with events in states like Punjab and the Union Territory of Chandigarh.ASMITA (“Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women Through Action”) is part of Khelo India’s gender-neutral mission to promote sports among women at the grassroots level.Since 2021, over 2600 leagues have been conducted across 34 sports disciplines in more than 550 districts and 700 cities, aligning with PM Narendra Modi’s vision to strengthen India’s sports culture.

 

2. Indonesia to Ban Social Media for Children Under 16 from March 2026: Indonesia has announced that children below 16 will not be allowed to create accounts on major social media platforms to protect them from harmful online content.The ban will be implemented from March 28, 2026, with platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox, and Bigo Live required to introduce stricter verification measures.Authorities cited risks such as cyberbullying, pornography exposure, online fraud, and social media addiction, highlighting the need to safeguard minors online.

 

3. Sabrina Wittmann Becomes Germany’s First Female Men’s Team Coach: Sabrina Wittmann has made history in German football as the first woman to manage a professional men’s football team in the country. The 34-year-old coach recently extended her contract with FC Ingolstadt 04, reinforcing the club’s trust in her leadership. Her appointment, first made in 2024, marked a landmark moment for gender representation in professional football and has since attracted global attention. Wittmann’s rise to the role of head coach at FC Ingolstadt placed her at the forefront of change within German football. Initially appointed as an interim coach in 2024, she soon secured the position permanently after demonstrating strong leadership and tactical understanding. Her continued tenure at the club reflects confidence in her ability to guide the team in Germany’s competitive professional football structure. Despite the historic nature of her appointment, Wittmann has repeatedly emphasised that she prefers to be recognised primarily for her coaching ability rather than her gender. Her focus remains on improving team performance and helping the club rebuild after challenging seasons.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh Appointed Next GOC-in-C of Western Command: Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh will take over as the next GOC-in-C of Western Command in Chandimandir at the end of the month, following the retirement of Lt Gen M K Katiyar.Hailing from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Lt Gen Singh is currently the Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) and an alumnus of La Martiniere College.He has extensive military experience, including commanding Special Forces, Infantry Brigade, Mountain Division, and participating in operations like Pawan, Meghdoot, Rakshak, and Orchid, along with key staff roles at Army Headquarters.

 

2. RM Nachammai Becomes First Woman Chief Of Operational Nuclear Plant: RM Nachammai has created history by becoming the first woman to head the operations of a functional nuclear power plant in India under the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). She has been appointed Chief Superintendent of Kaiga Generating Station Units 3 and 4 in Karnataka, with the role taking effect from 15 March 2026. Her appointment is being viewed as a significant milestone for gender representation in India’s highly specialised nuclear energy sector. As Chief Superintendent, Nachammai will oversee operations, maintenance and engineering support divisions of the nuclear reactor complex at Kaiga. The position involves continuous monitoring of reactor operations, safety systems and plant performance. It is regarded as one of the most technically demanding leadership roles within the nuclear power ecosystem.The appointment is particularly significant as India seeks to strengthen its nuclear energy capacity as part of its clean energy transition. The country aims to expand nuclear power generation to around 100 gigawatts by 2047, making experienced leadership in plant operations crucial for achieving this goal.

 

3. 1965 War Hero and Vir Chakra Awardee KG George Dies at 95: Lance Havildar K. G. George (retd), a decorated hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan War and recipient of the Vir Chakra, passed away at the age of 95 in Kerala. He died at his residence in Kottayam due to age-related health issues. George was widely respected for his courage and dedication during wartime service in the Indian Army, particularly for his role in maintaining vital communication lines during intense enemy attacks. K. G. George was born in February 1931 in Kerala. He later joined the Indian Army and served in the Corps of Signals, a specialised branch responsible for managing battlefield communications. Established in 1911, the Corps of Signals plays a crucial role in ensuring secure and uninterrupted communication between different military units during operations. George’s service in this unit placed him at the centre of critical communication tasks during wartime.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India Wins Third ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Title: India national cricket team defeated New Zealand national cricket team by 96 runs to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final held at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.With this victory, India successfully defended the T20 World Cup title after previously winning the tournament in 2024.India became the first team to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup three times and also the first host nation to win the tournament at home.The 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the 10th edition of the tournament, was co-hosted by Board of Control for Cricket in India and Sri Lanka Cricket.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Scientists Convert Plastic Waste Into Vinegar Using Sunlight: Researchers at the University of Waterloo in Canada have developed an innovative method to convert plastic waste into acetic acid, the main component of vinegar, using only sunlight. The breakthrough offers a promising solution to tackle plastic pollution while producing a valuable industrial chemical. The technique relies on a light-driven chemical reaction that breaks down plastic materials into useful compounds without requiring extreme heat or toxic chemicals. The research team, led by Professor Yimin Wu, designed a system that uses photocatalysis to break plastic waste into smaller molecular components. In this process, sunlight acts as the primary energy source to trigger chemical reactions that transform plastic polymers into acetic acid.The reaction takes place at room temperature, making it more energy-efficient than traditional chemical recycling methods. This sunlight-driven approach also avoids the release of additional carbon dioxide, offering a cleaner alternative for managing plastic waste.

 

2. Two New Fruit Fly Species Discovered in Himalayan Foothills : Entomologists have discovered two previously unknown species of fruit flies and documented an insect group never before recorded in India during a research expedition in the Himalayan foothills. The study was conducted in the Solan region of Himachal Pradesh by Maneesh Pal Singh from the College of Horticulture and Forestry and British researcher David Lawrence Hancock. Their findings expand scientific knowledge of the fruit fly subfamily Trypetinae and highlight the rich but underexplored biodiversity of the Himalayan ecosystem. The discoveries were made during field surveys in the Solan region of northern India. Researchers used traditional sweep nets along with a specialised female attractant known as Solan Bait. This patented lure enabled scientists to attract and study fruit flies that are normally difficult to observe in natural habitats. Detailed laboratory examination followed the fieldwork, where microscopes were used to analyse wing patterns and microscopic reproductive structures, helping confirm that the collected insects represented species never formally recorded in India.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI to Conduct ₹1 Lakh Crore OMO Auctions to Manage Liquidity Ahead of Year-End: The Reserve Bank of India will conduct government securities (G-Secs) purchase auctions in two tranches of ₹50,000 crore each on March 9 and March 13 to manage liquidity pressures from GST and advance tax outflows.The auctions will aggregate ₹1 lakh crore and aim to prevent G-Sec yields from rising due to a potential liquidity crunch ahead of the financial year-end. The banking system currently has a surplus of ₹3,02,440 crore (as on March 5), which could turn into a deficit because of upcoming tax-related outflows.

 

2. NABARD Launches National Climate Stack Innovation Challenge to Boost Rural Climate Resilience: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), in collaboration with the Gates Foundation and Dalberg Advisors, has launched the National Climate Stack Innovation Challenge to strengthen India’s climate resilience for rural areas.The initiative aims to address intensifying climate hazards such as heatwaves, floods, droughts, and cyclones, which increasingly affect agriculture and rural livelihoods.Despite improved climate data availability, forecasting remains fragmented across siloed datasets, highlighting the need for forward-looking, interoperable, and decision-ready climate solutions.

 

3. RBI Exempts AU Small Finance Bank Promoters from NOFHC Requirement for Universal Bank Transition: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has exempted the promoters/promoter group of AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) from the requirement to hold their stake in the transitioned Universal Bank through a Non-Operative Financial Holding Company (NOFHC).Earlier, when RBI granted in-principle approval on August 7, 2025 for AU SFB’s transition from a Small Finance Bank to a Universal Bank, it had mandated that promoter shareholding be held through an NOFHC.

As per the revised condition, the NOFHC requirement will apply only if the bank or its promoter group establishes any new group entity in the future, such as in mutual funds or insurance.AU SFB, the first small finance bank to receive RBI’s in-principle approval to become a universal bank, will submit its application for the final universal banking licence, with the approval valid for 18 months.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Rashmika Mandanna Wins Best Actress For ‘The Girlfriend’ : Actor Rashmika Mandanna has received the Best Actress award for her performance in the romantic drama “The Girlfriend” at the Gaddar Telangana Film Awards 2025. The recognition highlights her growing prominence in Indian cinema and celebrates her impactful portrayal in the film. The award ceremony honoured several artists from the film industry for their achievements during the year. The Government of Telangana announced the winners of the Gaddar Awards for 2025, with Rashmika Mandanna being named Best Actress for “The Girlfriend”. The film received positive responses from audiences and performed well commercially. Rashmika’s performance was widely appreciated for its emotional depth and screen presence, strengthening her reputation as one of the leading actresses in contemporary Indian cinema.

 

Daily GK Update- 8th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Tripura Launches State Innovation Mission Under Atal Innovation Mission 2.0 to Boost Startups and Innovation : Tripura launched the State Innovation Mission under Atal Innovation Mission 2.0 of NITI Aayog to promote innovation, startups, and entrepreneurship as part of the state’s long-term development strategy.The mission was launched at the Hapania International Exhibition Centre in Agartala in the presence of Manik Saha, Suman Bery, Jitendra Singh, and V. K. Saraswat.The initiative will be delivered through the Tripura Institution for Transformation (TIFT) and will include the launch of T-NEST, an incubation centre to support startups and promote the “Make from Tripura” concept.

 

2. Government Launches Campaign Against ‘Sarpanch Pati’ Practice : The Union government has launched a nationwide social media campaign to address the practice of “Sarpanch Pati”, where male relatives exercise authority in place of elected women leaders in village governance. Announced by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR), the campaign titled “Say No To Proxy Sarpanch” aims to empower women sarpanches and strengthen democratic participation in grassroots governance. The initiative coincides with International Women’s Day and will run until March 18. The campaign seeks to highlight and discourage the widespread practice where husbands or male relatives of elected women representatives take decisions and perform official duties on their behalf. Such individuals are commonly referred to as “Sarpanch Pati”, “Mukhiya Pati”, or “Pradhan Pati”. The ministry emphasised that this practice undermines the democratic mandate given to women elected through reservation in local self-government institutions.

 

3. Sambar Deer Recorded at High Altitudes in Himachal Pradesh: The Wildlife Wing of the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department has documented the presence of sambar deer in high-altitude protected areas of Chamba district for the first time. The discovery was made through camera trap monitoring and represents an important ecological observation, as the species is generally associated with lower Shivalik hills and moist deciduous forests. The findings have been published in the February quarterly issue of the Records of the Zoological Survey of India, highlighting the significance of the observation for wildlife research. Forest officials recorded the presence of sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) in the Kalatop-Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary and Gamgul Wildlife Sanctuary. Camera trap images captured adult and sub-adult males visiting a waterhole, with most activity recorded during evening and night hours. The observation indicates that the species may be expanding its range into the higher Himalayan regions.

 

4. PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Ring Metro In Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two new corridors of the Delhi Metro, including India’s first fully operational ‘Ring Metro’, marking a major milestone in the capital’s urban transport network. The launch includes the Majlis Park–Maujpur-Babarpur corridor of the Pink Line and the Deepali Chowk–Majlis Park extension of the Magenta Line. The expansion is expected to significantly improve connectivity across north and northeast Delhi while strengthening the city’s metro infrastructure. The newly inaugurated Majlis Park–Maujpur-Babarpur corridor spans about 12.3 kilometres and includes several elevated stations. With the addition of this stretch, the Pink Line now extends to approximately 71.56 kilometres. The line forms a loop across multiple parts of the city, making it India’s first operational Ring Metro system.The corridor includes stations such as Majlis Park, Burari, Jharoda Majra, Jagatpur-Wazirabad, Soorghat, Nanaksar-Sonia Vihar, Khajuri Khas, Bhajanpura, Yamuna Vihar and Maujpur-Babarpur. A key engineering feature of this section is a bridge over the Yamuna river and a double-decker viaduct carrying both a metro track and a road flyover.

 

5. Assam Woman Receives First Citizenship Certificate Under CAA : A 60-year-old woman from Assam’s Cachar district has become the first person in the state to receive Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Dipali Das, a resident of Hawaithang in the Dholai block, received her citizenship certificate on March 6, ending years of uncertainty over her legal status in India. Her case highlights the practical implementation of the CAA in Assam and the resolution of long-standing citizenship disputes. Dipali Das reportedly entered India along with her husband on February 7, 1988, after leaving Bangladesh due to alleged persecution. The couple settled in Cachar district and began building their lives in the region. However, the absence of valid documents proving Indian citizenship later brought her under scrutiny.In 2013, authorities initiated an investigation into her nationality. A police chargesheet stated that she had entered India illegally after March 1971 and was therefore considered a suspected foreign national. This development led to prolonged legal and administrative proceedings regarding her citizenship.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 8 March – International Women’s Day : International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on 8 March to recognise the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide.Theme 2026 – Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and GirlsThe day also highlights the importance of gender equality and women’s rights, encouraging action to remove discrimination and empower women globally.United Nations officially began celebrating International Women’s Day in 1975, which was also declared as the International Women’s Year.

 

2. Koala Population Rebound Boosts Genetic Diversity in Australia: A rapid recovery of koala populations in southeastern Australia has led to a surprising increase in their genetic variation, offering new hope for species recovering from near extinction. A recent study published in “Science” highlights how the rebound of koalas in the Australian state of Victoria has reshuffled genetic combinations, potentially improving their ability to adapt and survive in the long term. The findings suggest that even species that pass through severe population declines can gradually regain genetic resilience if their numbers recover quickly. By the early 20th century, koala populations in Victoria had nearly vanished due to extensive hunting for the fur trade. Their numbers dropped to as few as 500 individuals. To protect the remaining population, conservationists relocated small groups of koalas to nearby islands where they could breed safely. Over the decades, these island populations grew significantly, and many individuals were later reintroduced to mainland habitats to rebuild the population.

 

3. Mumps Cases Rise in the US Despite Vaccine Protection: Health officials in the United States have reported a recent rise in mumps/">mumps cases, drawing attention to another vaccine-preventable disease after measles. In Maryland, authorities confirmed 26 cases of mumps so far in 2026, including 19 confirmed and seven probable infections. Nationally, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded 34 cases across 11 jurisdictions by late February. Although vaccination has dramatically reduced mumps over the past decades, occasional outbreaks continue to occur. Mumps is a contagious viral disease caused by the mumps virus, which belongs to the paramyxovirus family. It mainly affects the salivary glands, especially the parotid glands located near the ears. The infection spreads through respiratory droplets and saliva when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks or shares utensils and drinks. One of the major challenges in controlling mumps is that infected individuals can spread the virus several days before symptoms appear and remain contagious for about five days after gland swelling begins.

 

4. Corey Parker Dies at 60 After Stage-4 Cancer Battle: American actor Corey Parker, known for his memorable appearances on television and film, has passed away at the age of 60 after battling stage-4 metastatic cancer. His death was confirmed by family members, who revealed that he died on 5 March 2026 in Memphis, Tennessee. Parker remained widely respected in the entertainment industry not only for his performances but also for his dedication to mentoring aspiring actors. His passing marks the end of a career that spanned decades across television, cinema, and acting education. Corey Parker was born on 8 July 1965 in New York City into a family connected to the performing arts. His mother, Rocky Parker, and sister, Noelle Parker, were both actresses, which exposed him to the world of entertainment early in life. He trained at the High School of Performing Arts in New York, where he developed strong foundations in acting. Parker began his career appearing in commercials before gradually securing roles in films and television productions.

 

5. Balen Shah’s Rise Signals Political Shift in Nepal: Nepal’s political landscape appears poised for a major transformation as Balendra Shah, widely known as Balen Shah, has emerged as a strong contender for the country’s prime ministership following the latest general election trends. The 35-year-old Kathmandu mayor and former rapper represents a new generation of leadership challenging the dominance of traditional political elites. His rise has energised young voters and highlighted growing demand for political reform and transparent governance in the Himalayan nation. Preliminary trends from Nepal’s recent general elections indicate strong performance by the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which is reportedly leading in more than 100 of the 275 seats in the House of Representatives. Shah himself is maintaining a significant lead in the Jhapa-5 constituency against veteran leader and former prime minister KP Sharma Oli of the Communist Party of Nepal (UML).If the trend continues, Shah could become one of the youngest prime ministers in Nepal’s history, marking a dramatic shift from a political establishment largely dominated by leaders in their 60s and 70s.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. 1965 War Hero and Vir Chakra Awardee KG George Dies at 95: Lance Havildar K. G. George (retd), a decorated hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan War and recipient of the Vir Chakra, passed away at the age of 95 in Kerala. He died at his residence in Kottayam due to age-related health issues. George was widely respected for his courage and dedication during wartime service in the Indian Army, particularly for his role in maintaining vital communication lines during intense enemy attacks. K. G. George was born in February 1931 in Kerala. He later joined the Indian Army and served in the Corps of Signals, a specialised branch responsible for managing battlefield communications. Established in 1911, the Corps of Signals plays a crucial role in ensuring secure and uninterrupted communication between different military units during operations. George’s service in this unit placed him at the centre of critical communication tasks during wartime.

 

2. RM Nachammai Becomes First Woman Chief Of Operational Nuclear Plant: RM Nachammai has created history by becoming the first woman to head the operations of a functional nuclear power plant in India under the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). She has been appointed Chief Superintendent of Kaiga Generating Station Units 3 and 4 in Karnataka, with the role taking effect from 15 March 2026. Her appointment is being viewed as a significant milestone for gender representation in India’s highly specialised nuclear energy sector. As Chief Superintendent, Nachammai will oversee operations, maintenance and engineering support divisions of the nuclear reactor complex at Kaiga. The position involves continuous monitoring of reactor operations, safety systems and plant performance. It is regarded as one of the most technically demanding leadership roles within the nuclear power ecosystem.The appointment is particularly significant as India seeks to strengthen its nuclear energy capacity as part of its clean energy transition. The country aims to expand nuclear power generation to around 100 gigawatts by 2047, making experienced leadership in plant operations crucial for achieving this goal.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India Wins Third ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Title: India secured a historic triumph in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after defeating New Zealand by a massive 96-run margin at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The victory marked India’s third T20 World Cup title and made it the first team to successfully defend the championship. The dominant performance throughout the tournament highlighted India’s depth, discipline and match-winning consistency in the shortest format of international cricket. India delivered an emphatic performance in the final, overpowering New Zealand with both bat and ball. Playing in front of a packed home crowd at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the Indian side posted a strong total and then dismantled the New Zealand batting line-up. The 96-run victory became one of the most decisive wins in a T20 World Cup final, underlining India’s superiority during the tournament.

 

2. Sabrina Wittmann Becomes Germany’s First Female Men’s Team Coach: Sabrina Wittmann has made history in German football as the first woman to manage a professional men’s football team in the country. The 34-year-old coach recently extended her contract with FC Ingolstadt 04, reinforcing the club’s trust in her leadership. Her appointment, first made in 2024, marked a landmark moment for gender representation in professional football and has since attracted global attention. Wittmann’s rise to the role of head coach at FC Ingolstadt placed her at the forefront of change within German football. Initially appointed as an interim coach in 2024, she soon secured the position permanently after demonstrating strong leadership and tactical understanding. Her continued tenure at the club reflects confidence in her ability to guide the team in Germany’s competitive professional football structure.Despite the historic nature of her appointment, Wittmann has repeatedly emphasised that she prefers to be recognised primarily for her coaching ability rather than her gender. Her focus remains on improving team performance and helping the club rebuild after challenging seasons.

 

3. Lakshya Sen Reaches Second All England Badminton Final : India’s Lakshya Sen delivered a determined performance to enter the final of the All England Open Badminton Championships, marking his second appearance in the prestigious tournament’s title clash. The 24-year-old shuttler defeated Canada’s Victor Lai in a tough semifinal encounter, reinforcing his status among the world’s leading badminton players. Sen had earlier reached the final in 2022 and now becomes only the second Indian to achieve this feat twice. The semifinal match proved to be an intense battle lasting one hour and 37 minutes. Lakshya Sen secured the victory with a scoreline of 21-16, 18-21, 21-15. Both players produced long and exhausting rallies, several extending beyond 50 shots, reflecting the high level of stamina and skill on display.The opening game remained closely contested until the score reached 17-16 in Sen’s favour. The Indian then accelerated his pace, winning four consecutive points to take the game. Despite the early advantage, the contest remained unpredictable.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. IIT Guwahati Partners with Coventry University for AI Healthcare Research: The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-G) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Coventry University Group (CUG), United Kingdom, to strengthen global research collaboration in artificial intelligence and healthcare. The agreement aims to promote academic mobility, joint research initiatives and collaborative degree programmes. The partnership marks an important step in expanding Indo-UK cooperation in emerging technology sectors, particularly the application of AI in modern healthcare systems. The MoU establishes a long-term strategic partnership between the two institutions. It focuses on expanding collaborative research and innovation while fostering stronger academic engagement between India and the United Kingdom. Officials from Coventry University Group, led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research Prof. Richard Dashwood, recently visited IIT Guwahati to formalise the agreement and explore areas of joint academic development.

 

2. Scientists Convert Plastic Waste Into Vinegar Using Sunlight: Researchers at the University of Waterloo in Canada have developed an innovative method to convert plastic waste into acetic acid, the main component of vinegar, using only sunlight. The breakthrough offers a promising solution to tackle plastic pollution while producing a valuable industrial chemical. The technique relies on a light-driven chemical reaction that breaks down plastic materials into useful compounds without requiring extreme heat or toxic chemicals. The research team, led by Professor Yimin Wu, designed a system that uses photocatalysis to break plastic waste into smaller molecular components. In this process, sunlight acts as the primary energy source to trigger chemical reactions that transform plastic polymers into acetic acid.The reaction takes place at room temperature, making it more energy-efficient than traditional chemical recycling methods. This sunlight-driven approach also avoids the release of additional carbon dioxide, offering a cleaner alternative for managing plastic waste.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Motilal Oswal Home Finance Limited Secures $100 Million Funding from ADB to Boost Affordable Housing : Motilal Oswal Home Finance Limited secured $100 million in debt financing from the Asian Development Bank to expand lending in the affordable housing segment.The funds, raised through rupee-equivalent Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs), will mainly be used to provide affordable home loans to women borrowers, promoting financial inclusion.Around 10% of the funding will support green-certified residential projects, encouraging environmentally sustainable housing construction in India.

 

2. Yes Bank Launches ‘YES Essence’ Women’s Salary Account Ahead of International Women’s Day: Yes Bank launched the “YES Essence Women’s Salary Account” ahead of International Women’s Day to support the financial and lifestyle needs of working women.The account offers a bundle of benefits on a single platform, including financial protection, preventive healthcare, lifestyle privileges, and wealth-creation services.Key features include a free locker facility for the first year, ₹5 lakh complimentary top-up health insurance for one year, and an annual preventive health check-up.Account holders will also receive a complimentary Elegance Debit Card with 5% cashback (up to ₹6,000 per year) on selected spending categories.

 

3. Axis Bank Partners with Tesla to Offer Tailored EV Financing Solutions in India : Axis Bank has partnered with Tesla to become its preferred financing partner, offering customised loan solutions and a better financing experience for Tesla electric vehicle buyers in India.Under the partnership, customers purchasing Tesla EVs can access vehicle loans with a tenure of up to 10 years, helping reduce monthly EMI and providing flexible schemes suited to different financial profiles.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Rashmika Mandanna Wins Best Actress For ‘The Girlfriend’: Actor Rashmika Mandanna has received the Best Actress award for her performance in the romantic drama “The Girlfriend” at the Gaddar Telangana Film Awards 2025. The recognition highlights her growing prominence in Indian cinema and celebrates her impactful portrayal in the film. The award ceremony honoured several artists from the film industry for their achievements during the year. The Government of Telangana announced the winners of the Gaddar Awards for 2025, with Rashmika Mandanna being named Best Actress for “The Girlfriend”. The film received positive responses from audiences and performed well commercially. Rashmika’s performance was widely appreciated for its emotional depth and screen presence, strengthening her reputation as one of the leading actresses in contemporary Indian cinema.

 

2. Chiranjeevi Receives Prestigious NTR National Film Award : Veteran Telugu actor Chiranjeevi has been honoured with the prestigious NTR National Film Award at the Gaddar Telangana Film Awards 2025. The award recognises his remarkable contribution to Indian cinema over several decades. Expressing gratitude for the honour, the megastar described receiving an award associated with legendary actor and leader N. T. Rama Rao as a deeply emotional and meaningful moment in his career. The Gaddar Telangana Film Awards celebrate excellence in cinema and recognise notable contributions by artists and technicians in the film industry. During the 2025 edition of the awards, Chiranjeevi was presented with the NTR National Film Award in recognition of his long-standing impact on Telugu cinema. The award ceremony also honoured several other prominent actors and filmmakers for their achievements in the industry.