Daily GK Update- 13th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Indian Railways Launches ‘SHINE’ App to Empower Women and Report Workplace Harassment: Indian Railways has launched a customised mobile application “SHINE” (Sexual Harassment Incident Notification for Empowerment) to help women employees report sexual harassment complaints at the workplace.The SHINE app was launched on the occasion of International Women’s Day (8 March 2026), aiming to strengthen safety and empowerment for women staff in the railway system.The app allows complaints through the Human Resources Management System (HRMS) and can also be used to report incidents involving visitors, contractual staff, students, and others, ensuring confidential and faster grievance redressal.

 

2. NITI Aayog Releases Second Edition of Fiscal Health Index 2026 to Assess Financial Performance of Indian States: Suman Bery, Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, and Nidhi Chhibber, CEO of NITI Aayog, released the second edition of the “Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2026” in New Delhi.The Fiscal Health Index provides a data-driven assessment of the fiscal performance of Indian states, helping evaluate fiscal soundness, guide reforms, and support evidence-based policymaking.The 2026 edition expanded coverage from 18 major states to include 10 North-Eastern and Himalayan states, which are evaluated separately due to structural differences.The report highlights key priorities such as enhancing revenue mobilisation, improving capital expenditure quality, rationalising committed expenditure, and strengthening fiscal management to ensure long-term macroeconomic stability in India.

 

3. Kirti Vardhan Singh Represents India at Chile Presidential Inauguration as José Antonio Kast Takes Office: Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, arrived in Santiago, Chile to represent India at the Presidential Inauguration Ceremony.During the visit, India aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation with Chile in areas such as trade, critical minerals, energy, and people-to-people ties.José Antonio Kast became the President of Chile, succeeding Gabriel Boric, who served as President from 2022 to 2026.

 

4. Nashik Municipal Corporation Becomes Maharashtra’s First to List Green Municipal Bond on National Stock Exchange: Nashik Municipal Corporation became Maharashtra’s first urban local body to list its Green Municipal Bond public issue on the National Stock Exchange.Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis rang the ceremonial bell at the NSE in Mumbai to mark the occasion, celebrating this historic milestone in urban finance.The Green Municipal Bond initiative will mobilise resources for public welfare projects, strengthen Nashik’s urban infrastructure, and support preparations for the upcoming Nashik Kumbh Mela.

 

5. Shiv Pratap Shukla Sworn in as 5th Governor of Telangana, Replaces Jishnu Dev Varma: Shiv Pratap Shukla took oath as the Governor of Telangana at a ceremony held at Raj Bhavan.The oath of office was administered by Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh, Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court.He replaced Jishnu Dev Varma, who was transferred as Governor of Maharashtra, and became the 5th Governor of Telangana since the state was formed in 2014.

 

6. Rare Blue-and-White Flycatcher Spotted on Gujarat’s Pavagadh Hill : A rare sighting of a male blue-and-white flycatcher has been reported from Pavagadh Hill in Gujarat, drawing attention from bird watchers and forest officials. The small migratory bird, known for its striking royal blue upperparts, black face and breast, and white belly, was photographed by a team of forest officials during a field visit to collect tree seeds in the forest area. The unexpected observation highlights the occasional appearance of rare migratory species outside their usual routes. The bird was spotted on March 8 near the Maachi area of Pavagadh Hill when forest officials, accompanied by a botany expert, were conducting fieldwork. Range Forest Officer Jayesh Dumadiya moved to a quiet spot to observe birds and noticed a blue-and-white bird drinking water nearby. Surprisingly, the bird remained calm despite human presence, allowing him to capture photographs and record videos before it flew into the dense forest.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Piyush Goyal Inaugurates 40th AAHAR International Food and Hospitality Fair in New Delhi: Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, inaugurated the 40th edition of the AAHAR International Food and Hospitality Fair in New Delhi.The event is jointly organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO).Italy is the Country Partner for the 40th AAHAR International Food and Hospitality Fair.

 

2. Donald Trump Announces $300 Billion ‘America First Refining’ Project with Reliance Industries in the US: Donald Trump, President of the United States, announced a $300 billion partnership with Reliance Industries to establish a new oil refinery project called “America First Refining.”The project aims to build the first major new oil refinery in the United States in nearly 50 years, marking a significant development in the country’s energy sector.The refinery will be located at the Port of Brownsville in Texas, United States.With an estimated value of $300 billion, the project is being described as one of the largest investment initiatives in U.S. history.

 

3. Pieter Elbers Steps Down as IndiGo CEO; Rahul Bhatia to Oversee Operations Temporarily: Pieter Elbers has stepped down as the CEO of IndiGo with immediate effect, following operational challenges faced by the airline in December 2025.InterGlobe Aviation Ltd, the parent company of IndiGo, announced that Managing Director Rahul Bhatia will temporarily oversee the airline’s management until a new CEO is appointed.Pieter Elbers had taken charge as CEO of IndiGo in September 2022, after a long and distinguished career with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

 

4. Meta Acquires AI Agent Social Network Moltbook : Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has reportedly acquired Moltbook, an experimental social networking platform designed for artificial intelligence agents. The acquisition highlights the intensifying competition among global technology companies to secure advanced AI talent and tools. Moltbook had earlier attracted attention after OpenAI CEO Sam Altman publicly joked about the platform while discussing the future of autonomous AI agents. Moltbook is a Reddit-style social platform where AI-powered bots interact with each other. These agents exchange code snippets, discuss projects, and reference their human creators. The platform emerged as a small experiment in January 2026 but quickly gained attention within the technology community as discussions around autonomous AI agents intensified. The idea behind Moltbook is to create an ecosystem where AI programs can communicate, collaborate, and improve their capabilities.

 

5. Roopkund Lake: The Mystery of India’s Himalayan Skeleton Lake: High in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand lies Roopkund Lake, one of India’s most mysterious and intriguing locations. Situated at an altitude of about 5,020 metres, this small glacial lake is surrounded by towering snow-covered peaks and harsh mountain terrain. Roopkund has gained global attention because hundreds of human skeletons have been discovered around its icy waters. The unusual combination of natural beauty and unexplained remains has fascinated scientists, historians and trekkers for decades. Roopkund Lake lies between the prominent Himalayan peaks of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. The lake itself is relatively small, measuring less than 40 metres in diameter, and remains frozen for most of the year due to the extremely cold climate. During a brief period in summer when the ice melts, human bones and skulls become visible in the clear water and along the lake’s edges. This striking sight is the reason the lake is popularly known as “Skeleton Lake”.

 

6. World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan Expands Through PACS Network: The Government of India is implementing the World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in the Cooperative Sector to strengthen rural storage infrastructure and improve foodgrain management. The initiative focuses on developing modern storage facilities at the level of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and other cooperative institutions. The programme aims to reduce post-harvest losses, enhance farmers’ access to storage and improve the efficiency of the agricultural supply chain. Primary Agricultural Credit Societies are selected for the programme based on specific financial and operational criteria. The societies must be identified and approved by District Cooperative Development Committees (DCDC). Selection is prioritised in locations identified by agencies such as the Food Corporation of India (FCI), National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) and National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF), where there is a significant demand or storage gap. In addition, the PACS must have a positive net worth over the previous two financial years, must not be bank defaulters and should have recorded profits for at least three consecutive years. The proposed godown should preferably have a minimum storage capacity of 500 metric tonnes.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. DRDO and Indian Navy Successfully Conduct In-Flight Trials of Indigenous ADC-150 Air Droppable Container from P-8I Aircraft: DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully conducted four in-flight release trials of the indigenous Air Droppable Container (ADC-150) from the P-8I aircraft off the coast of Goa.The ADC-150 is designed to deliver up to 150 kg payload, enabling quick supply of critical equipment, medical aid, and stores to naval ships deployed in deep sea during emergencies.The system was developed with contributions from Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (Visakhapatnam), Aerial Delivery Research & Development Establishment (Agra) for the parachute system, and Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (Bengaluru) for flight clearance.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Anant Rana Creates History by Completing Ironman New Zealand Triathlon in 11 Hours 50 Minutes: Anant Rana created history by completing the Ironman New Zealand triathlon in 11 hours and 50 minutes in Taupo, becoming one of the notable Indian athletes to finish the challenging endurance event.The triathlon included 3.8 km swimming, 180 km cycling, and a 42 km marathon run, which he successfully completed within the 17-hour time limit.The 33-year-old athlete from Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, associated with the Tata Steel Adventure Foundation, finished swimming in 1h 28m, cycling in 6h 19m, and the marathon in 3h 46m.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. AIIMS New Delhi and ISRO Sign MoU to Collaborate on Space Medicine Research: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) signed an MoU to collaborate on research in space medicine.The collaboration will focus on ground-based and space-based research in areas such as human physiology, cardiovascular regulation, musculoskeletal health in microgravity, microbiome, genomics, and behavioural health to support India’s human spaceflight programme.

 

2. Devon Island: Earth’s Closest Natural Laboratory for Mars Exploration: Scientists searching for ways to sustain human life on Mars are studying one of the most remote places on Earth—Devon Island in Nunavut, Canada. Known as the world’s largest uninhabited island, this Arctic landscape provides conditions strikingly similar to those found on Mars. Its barren terrain, freezing temperatures and extreme isolation make it a valuable testing ground for future space exploration technologies and survival strategies. Devon Island is considered one of the most Mars-like environments on Earth. The island is a polar desert, meaning it experiences extremely low temperatures, minimal precipitation and almost no vegetation. One of its most significant features is the Haughton Impact Crater, a massive 20-kilometre-wide crater formed by a meteorite impact. Its rocky surface and barren surroundings closely resemble Martian landscapes, making it ideal for testing scientific equipment intended for use on the Red Planet.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI and MUFG Bank Sign Strategic Partnership to Strengthen India–Japan Economic Corridor: State Bank of India (SBI) and Japan’s MUFG Bank signed a strategic partnership agreement to enhance bilateral financial collaboration and strengthen the India–Japan economic corridor.The agreement aims to facilitate cross-border capital flows, create synergistic financing opportunities, and support sustainable economic growth across two of Asia’s largest economies.

The partnership will support Japanese corporates expanding in India and Indian enterprises pursuing international growth, including entry into Japan and other global markets.

 

2. PhonePe Limited Launches RuPay ‘On-The-Go’ Card to Promote Contactless Public Transport Payments: PhonePe Limited launched the RuPay ‘On-The-Go’ Card, a National Common Mobility Card for contactless payments in public transport.The card supports the Government of India’s “One Nation One Card” initiative, aiming to create a single interoperable transit payment system.

 

Daily GK Update- 12th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Madurai Airport Declared as an International Airport by the Union Cabinet: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, approved the declaration of Madurai Airport in Madurai, Tamil Nadu as an International Airport.Madurai Airport, situated in the famous temple city of Madurai, is among the oldest airports in Tamil Nadu, enhancing its role in domestic and international connectivity.

 

2. Uttar Pradesh Signs MoU with OneOTT Intertainment Ltd to Expand High-Speed Broadband under ‘Project Ganga’: The Uttar Pradesh government signed an initial pact with OneOTT Intertainment Ltd, a subsidiary of the Hinduja Group, to expand high-speed broadband connectivity across the state under ‘Project Ganga’.The MoU, signed between the State Transformation Commission and OneOTT Intertainment Ltd, aims to provide high-speed internet to over 20 lakh households in the next two to three years.Under Project Ganga (Government Assisted Network for Growth and Advancement), the initiative is expected to benefit nearly one crore people and promote technology-driven employment opportunities for youth in the state.

 

3. NITI Aayog Partners with Tata Electronics Private Limited to Boost Electronics and Semiconductor Manufacturing in India: NITI Aayog partnered with Tata Electronics Private Limited to promote the growth of electronics manufacturing in India, supporting the country’s industrial development goals.The partnership aligns with government initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to strengthen domestic capabilities in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.

 

4. NHAI Signs MoU with Commercial Vehicle Aggregator Platforms to Enhance Safety and Efficiency on National Highways: The National Highways Authority of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with commercial vehicle aggregator platforms to enhance commuting ease, safety, and efficiency for commercial vehicle drivers and fleet operators on National Highways in New Delhi.Under the agreement, aggregator platforms will integrate the Rajmargyatra App and a dedicated Call 1033 feature, enabling timely safety communication and one-click access to the National Highway Helpline.The initiative will also include Vishisht Saarthi commercial driver recognition to encourage safe driving, along with Jan Bhagidari – Driver-Led Reporting, allowing geo-tagged reporting of National Highway issues to be integrated with the Rajmargyatra ecosystem for centralized resolution.

 

5. Kavinder Gupta Sworn in as the 30th Governor of Himachal Pradesh: Kavinder Gupta took oath as the 30th Governor of Himachal Pradesh at a ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Shimla.The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia, the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court.

 

6. Jishnu Dev Varma Sworn in as the New Governor of Maharashtra: Jishnu Dev Varma was sworn in as the Governor of Maharashtra at Darbar Hall, Lok Bhavan, Mumbai. The oath was administered by Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay, Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court.

Varma succeeded Acharya Devvrat, who was holding additional charge as Maharashtra Governor

 

7. Gujarat Launches ‘Lake and Air Watch’ for Urban Environmental Monitoring: Gujarat is strengthening its efforts toward sustainable urban development with the launch of the ‘Lake and Air Watch’ initiative under the Gujarat Urban Development Mission (GUDM). The programme aims to monitor lake health and air quality in real time across cities. Introduced under the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department of the state government, the initiative supports the broader vision of building environmentally resilient and future-ready cities as part of India’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ mission. Rapid urbanisation has created multiple environmental challenges in cities, including polluted lakes, declining groundwater recharge and deteriorating air quality. Urban lakes are increasingly affected by pollution, siltation and reduced water quality, while densely populated areas face rising levels of air pollution. The ‘Lake and Air Watch’ initiative seeks to tackle these issues by integrating monitoring systems across departments, enabling faster and coordinated responses.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. International Malaria Conference 2026 Held in New Delhi: The International Malaria Conference 2026 was held in New Delhi and organised by the ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research under the Indian Council of Medical Research.The conference focused on accelerating global efforts for malaria control and elimination, with the theme: “Discovery, Development and Delivery: Driving Malaria Elimination and Beyond.”India aims to eliminate malaria by 2030 under the National Framework for Malaria Elimination, highlighting the country’s commitment to public health goals.

 

2. Mojtaba Khamenei Appointed as the Third Supreme Leader of Iran: Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran by Iran’s Assembly of Experts, succeeding his father, Ali Khamenei.His appointment followed the death of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed in airstrikes earlier in the conflict, creating the vacancy for the country’s highest authority.The leadership transition marks only the third time in the Islamic Republic’s history that a new Supreme Leader has been named since its establishment in 1979, highlighting continuity amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

 

3. Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems Begins in New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems 2026 in New Delhi. The three-day international conference will be held at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Convention Centre with the theme “Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights.” The event aims to highlight the critical role of women in agriculture and promote inclusive growth within the global agri-food sector. The conference is being organised to recognise and strengthen the contribution of women in agriculture and food systems. It seeks to provide a global platform for discussions on empowering women farmers and addressing gender gaps in agricultural production, technology access, and decision-making.Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will also attend the inaugural session, reflecting the government’s focus on promoting inclusive agricultural development. According to ICAR Director General Dr M. L. Jat, the event is being organised during the United Nations-declared International Year for Women Farmers in 2026. The theme “Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights” aligns with the global effort to recognise the role of women farmers in ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture. The conference aims to highlight the challenges faced by women in the agricultural sector and explore ways to strengthen their participation in farming, agribusiness, and rural entrepreneurship.

 

4. Rare Oarfish Sighting Reported Near Cabo San Lucas Coast: Two giant oarfish were recently spotted near the shoreline of Cabo San Lucas, a coastal city in Mexico, in a rare marine encounter that has attracted widespread attention. Beachgoers first noticed one oarfish struggling close to the shore and attempted to guide it back into deeper waters. While assisting the first fish, another oarfish was spotted nearby, making the incident even more unusual. Oarfish are deep-sea creatures that are rarely seen near the ocean surface, making such sightings noteworthy for both scientists and the public. Oarfish are among the most mysterious fish species in the ocean. They usually inhabit deep ocean layers at depths of around 3,000 feet (approximately 900 metres), where sunlight barely penetrates. These fish have extremely long, ribbon-like bodies with a silvery appearance and a striking red dorsal crest extending from the head along the back. Oarfish can grow up to about 30 feet (9 metres) in length, making them the longest bony fish known in the world’s oceans.

 

5. Gurudongmar Lake Tourism Revives After 2023 South Lhonak GLOF: Tourism to Gurudongmar Lake in North Sikkim has begun to recover after more than two years of disruption caused by the South Lhonak Lake glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in October 2023. The disaster had severely damaged road infrastructure and washed away several bridges, cutting off access to the region. With the reopening of the Chungthang–Lachen road and the inauguration of the newly constructed 400-foot Taram Chu bridge, authorities have resumed issuing tourist permits for travel towards Lachen, the key base for visitors heading to the high-altitude lake. The South Lhonak Lake GLOF in October 2023 caused widespread destruction across North Sikkim. Several bridges collapsed and large stretches of road were damaged, disrupting transportation and isolating communities in the Lachen belt. Tourism activity came to a near halt as access to Gurudongmar Lake became impossible. The disaster highlighted the vulnerability of Himalayan infrastructure to climate-induced hazards such as glacial lake outburst floods.

 

6. 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. White phosphorus is a chemical substance that ignites immediately when exposed to oxygen. Militaries often use it to produce smoke screens, illuminate battlefields, or mark targets during operations. However, when used as an incendiary weapon, it can cause severe burns, respiratory damage, organ failure, and potentially death. Because the substance burns intensely and spreads quickly, its use in populated areas is highly controversial and subject to restrictions under international humanitarian law.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Centre Approves ₹117.54 Crore Renovation of Kolkata Bascule Bridge: The Union Government has approved the renovation of the historic Bascule Bridge at the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal cleared the project with an estimated cost of ₹117.54 crore. The renovation aims to modernise the decades-old bridge and improve cargo and vehicular movement within the Kolkata Dock System, a key maritime hub in eastern India. The proposal for the bridge’s renovation was submitted by the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, and examined by the Delegated Investment Board (DIB). The board, chaired by the Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, reviewed the proposal during a meeting held on February 16, 2026. After appraisal, the project received approval to proceed with the planned modernisation works.

 

2. DRDO and Navy Test Indigenous ADC-150 Air Droppable Container: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have successfully conducted four in-flight release trials of the indigenous Air Droppable Container (ADC-150). The trials were carried out from the P-8I maritime patrol aircraft off the coast of Goa between February 21 and March 1, 2026. Conducted under various extreme release conditions, the successful tests mark a significant step toward strengthening India’s naval logistics capabilities during operations at sea. The ADC-150 is an indigenously designed container developed to deliver payloads of up to 150 kilograms from aircraft to naval vessels deployed far from the coastline. The system allows rapid delivery of essential supplies such as critical equipment, spare parts, medicines and emergency stores. This capability is particularly useful for ships operating in deep seas that require urgent logistical support during missions or distress situations.

 

3. Sheshnaag-150 Swarm Drone Boosts India’s Unmanned Warfare Capability: India is advancing its unmanned warfare capabilities with the development of the Sheshnaag-150, a long-range swarming attack drone currently undergoing testing. Developed by Bengaluru-based defence startup Newspace Research Technologies, the drone represents India’s effort to build cost-effective and flexible unmanned systems similar to those increasingly used in modern conflicts. The system completed its maiden flight about a year ago and is being evaluated as part of India’s evolving strategy in drone warfare. Modern conflicts have highlighted the strategic impact of relatively inexpensive drones. Platforms such as Iran’s Shahed-136 and the United States’ LUCAS unmanned aerial vehicle have demonstrated that low-cost drones can deliver significant battlefield effects by striking infrastructure, military vehicles and logistics networks. These systems allow armed forces to conduct precision strikes without deploying expensive fighter aircraft or missiles. India’s Sheshnaag-150 aims to replicate this cost-effective capability through indigenous technology and swarm-based operations.

 

SPORTS

 

1. BCCI Announces Record ₹131 Crore Cash Reward for Suryakumar Yadav and India’s T20 World Cup-Winning Team: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a record ₹131 crore cash reward for Suryakumar Yadav and the T20 World Cup-winning Indian team following their historic triumph in Ahmedabad. This reward is the highest ever in Indian cricket, surpassing the ₹125 crore awarded to Rohit Sharma and his team after winning the T20 World Cup in Barbados two years ago. For context, India’s Champions Trophy-winning team received ₹58 crore, and last year’s Women’s World Cup-winning team was awarded ₹51 crore, highlighting the scale of the new reward.

 

2. 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. FSI Halts AI-Based Anavaran Deforestation Alert System: The Forest Survey of India (FSI), the central agency responsible for monitoring the country’s forest resources, has stopped issuing fortnightly deforestation alerts through its AI-based Anavaran portal. The system, which provided near-real-time alerts on forest cover loss using satellite data and machine learning, has not been updated since November 2025. Active monitoring through the portal reportedly ceased in January 2026, halting the regular alerts that were previously sent to states every 15 days for targeted field inspections. The Anavaran-Deforestation Alert System was operational from January 2024 and used satellite imagery and advanced algorithms to detect changes in forest cover. The portal analysed before-and-after images to identify new patches of deforestation and sent precise location alerts to state forest departments. The system relied on Google Earth Engine for data processing and was designed to strengthen real-time monitoring of deforestation across India. Despite its operational use for nearly two years, officials say the portal functioned only as a pilot project and its effectiveness is currently under review.

 

2. ESA’s Proba-3 Mission Faces Setback After Losing Contact with Coronagraph: The European Space Agency’s ambitious Proba-3 mission to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere has encountered a major technical setback after losing contact with one of its two spacecraft. The mission aims to capture detailed images of the Sun’s corona by creating artificial solar eclipses in space. Scientists are now investigating an anomaly that caused the Proba-3 Coronagraph spacecraft to lose attitude control, interrupting communication with mission control. The problem began in mid-February 2026 when an onboard anomaly triggered a progressive loss of attitude control in the Coronagraph spacecraft. Attitude control refers to a satellite’s ability to maintain its orientation in space. Due to this failure, the spacecraft’s solar panels stopped facing the Sun, preventing it from generating sufficient power. As a result, the onboard battery rapidly discharged, forcing the satellite to enter survival mode where only essential systems remain active and communication with Earth is halted.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI Named Strongest Indian Bank with AAA+ Brand Rating: State Bank of India (SBI) has been named the strongest Indian bank and the 16th strongest globally, earning the AAA+ brand strength rating, highlighting its reputation, customer trust, and brand resilience in the global banking sector.HDFC Bank remains India’s most valuable banking brand, valued at $12.4 billion, despite a 7% YoY decline, and improved its global brand strength ranking, reflecting strong customer confidence and influence.ICICI Bank showed a 19% YoY increase in brand value to $5.5 billion and improved its global rank to 76th, indicating a strong growth trajectory among Indian private sector banks.

 

2. NABARD Launches National Climate Stack Innovation Challenge: 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 framework for rural regions. The initiative aims to build foundational technological layers of a National Climate Stack that will integrate diverse climate datasets and enable more effective climate intelligence for agriculture, rural finance, and public planning.

India is increasingly facing climate-related risks such as heatwaves, floods, droughts, and cyclones, which pose serious threats to agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. Although climate data availability has improved over the years, forecasting and risk management systems remain fragmented across different platforms. The new initiative aims to bridge these gaps by creating interoperable and accessible climate data systems. The National Climate Stack seeks to integrate multiple climate datasets and models into a unified technological framework. According to NABARD Chairman Shaji K V, the challenge lies in the fact that climate data currently exists across isolated platforms and websites, limiting its effective use. The proposed stack aims to bring together these data streams into a seamless system that can support predictive analysis and real-time decision-making. The initiative aligns with India’s broader vision of using digital technology to build resilient rural ecosystems.

 

Daily GK Update- 11th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NITI Aayog Signs Statement of Intent with UNICEF India to Strengthen Health and Nutrition in Aspirational Districts: NITI Aayog signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) with UNICEF India to strengthen health and nutrition interventions in Aspirational Districts and Blocks across India.The partnership aims to improve maternal and child nutrition outcomes in underserved regions by combining the expertise and institutional capacities of both organisations.The agreement was signed by Rohit Kumar and Arjan de Wagt, focusing on data-driven strategies to enhance healthcare delivery and nutrition services at the grassroots level.Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Signs MoU with Bajaj Auto Limited to Boost Automotive Skills Training: The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, through the Directorate General of Training, signed a Flexible Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bajaj Auto Limited.The partnership aims to provide industry-integrated training to youth in advanced automotive manufacturing systems at facilities in Maharashtra and Uttarakhand.

 

2. Punjab Launches Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhian Satikar Yojna to Provide Monthly Financial Aid to Women: The Punjab Government launched the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhian Satikar Yojna in the 2026–27 Budget on International Women’s Day to provide financial assistance to women across the state.Under the scheme, eligible women will receive ₹1,000 per month, while women from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community will get ₹1,500 per month, directly transferred to their bank accounts.The scheme, a pre-poll promise of the Aam Aadmi Party, aims to help women manage household expenses and children’s education, with the state allocating ₹9,300 crore for FY 2026–27.

 

3. Cabinet approves extension of Jal Jeevan Mission up to December 2028: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, approved the extension of the Jal Jeevan Mission till December 2028, with the scheme being restructured to shift focus from infrastructure creation to improved water service delivery.The Cabinet enhanced the total outlay of the Jal Jeevan Mission to ₹8.69 lakh crore, including ₹3.59 lakh crore central assistance, and approved a national digital framework “Sujalam Bharat” to digitally map drinking water supply systems in villages.The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs cleared several infrastructure projects, including a 31.42 km connectivity corridor to Noida International Airport (Jewar Airport) and major railway line expansion projects, aimed at improving transport connectivity and logistics efficiency across the region.

 

4. 11 March 2026 – No Smoking Day: No Smoking Day is observed every year on the second Wednesday of March. This year, it falls on 11 March in 2026.The day encourages smokers to quit smoking and promotes healthier lifestyles through awareness campaigns and public initiatives.It was first observed in 1984 in the United Kingdom and is now supported by health organisations worldwide to reduce tobacco consumption.

 

5. 7 March – Jan Aushadhi Diwas: Jan Aushadhi Diwas is observed every year on 7 March to raise awareness of affordable generic medicines and promote the benefits of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).Week-long celebrations are organised across India from 1 March to 7 March, and in 2026, the programme was flagged off on 1 March in the National Capital Region (NCR) to increase awareness about the scheme.The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, launched in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, provides quality medicines at affordable prices through Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs).

 

6. AAHAR 2026 Food and Hospitality Fair Inaugurated in New Delhi: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the 40th edition of the AAHAR International Food and Hospitality Fair in New Delhi. The event is being organised jointly by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) from 10 to 14 March 2026. The exhibition serves as a major platform for the food processing, hospitality and agriculture sectors to showcase products, technologies and trade opportunities. AAHAR is one of Asia’s prominent exhibitions dedicated to food processing, hospitality and allied industries. The fair brings together domestic and international exhibitors, buyers, entrepreneurs and policymakers to promote trade and business collaborations. In addition to business-to-business engagements, the exhibition will also open to the general public from the evening of 13 March until the following day.

 

7. Supreme Court Allows Passive Euthanasia in Harish Rana Case: The Supreme Court of India has permitted passive euthanasia in the Harish Rana case, reigniting debate on end-of-life medical decisions. The ruling highlights the legal and ethical distinction between passive euthanasia—allowing a patient to die by withdrawing life-sustaining treatment—and active euthanasia, which involves deliberate intervention to end life. While India’s legal system recognises passive euthanasia under strict safeguards, active euthanasia continues to remain illegal. Passive euthanasia refers to withholding or withdrawing medical treatments that keep a patient alive when recovery is considered impossible. It is usually applied in cases involving terminal illness or irreversible medical conditions. Examples include switching off life-support machines, removing feeding tubes, not administering life-prolonging medication, or avoiding surgeries intended only to extend life temporarily. In such cases, death occurs due to the underlying illness rather than a direct medical act by doctors.Courts in India allow passive euthanasia only under strict guidelines. These include medical board approval, consent from family members, and judicial oversight to ensure that the decision reflects the patient’s best interests and dignity.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Balendra “Balen” Shah Set to Become Nepal’s Next Prime Minister: Balendra “Balen” Shah, leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), is set to become Nepal’s next Prime Minister after strong results in the parliamentary elections.The 35-year-old rapper-turned-politician earlier served as the Mayor of Kathmandu and rose to national prominence through anti-establishment politics. The election followed the 2025 Gen Z Protests in Nepal, which led to the fall of the government led by KP Sharma Oli; the RSP, founded on 1 July 2022, has since emerged as a major political force in Nepal.

 

2. 10 March – International Day of Women Judges: International Day of Women Judges is observed every year on 10 March to highlight the importance of gender equality and women’s participation in judicial systems worldwide.The day aims to promote the full and equal participation of women in the judiciary, encouraging more women to pursue careers as judges and legal professionals.

 

3. Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems Begins in New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems 2026 in New Delhi. The three-day international conference will be held at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Convention Centre with the theme “Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights.” The event aims to highlight the critical role of women in agriculture and promote inclusive growth within the global agri-food sector.The conference is being organised to recognise and strengthen the contribution of women in agriculture and food systems. It seeks to provide a global platform for discussions on empowering women farmers and addressing gender gaps in agricultural production, technology access, and decision-making.Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will also attend the inaugural session, reflecting the government’s focus on promoting inclusive agricultural development. According to ICAR Director General Dr M. L. Jat, the event is being organized during the United Nations-declared International Year for Women Farmers in 2026. The theme “Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights” aligns with the global effort to recognise the role of women farmers in ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture.The conference aims to highlight the challenges faced by women in the agricultural sector and explore ways to strengthen their participation in farming, agribusiness, and rural entrepreneurship.

 

4. Iran Heritage Sites Damaged Amid US–Israel Bombing Strikes: Several historic monuments and UNESCO-listed heritage sites in Iran have reportedly suffered damage following recent US and Israeli military strikes. Although the missiles did not directly hit the cultural landmarks, shockwaves from nearby explosions and falling debris caused structural damage to delicate architectural features such as glass panels, tiles, and stonework. UNESCO confirmed that at least four culturally significant locations were affected by the military operations. Among them is the Qajar-era Golestan Palace in Tehran, a renowned architectural complex known for its ornate mirror halls, decorative tiles, and historic gardens.The blast impact reportedly shattered windows, damaged archways, and broke portions of the palace’s iconic mirrored ceilings. Other affected monuments include the 17th-century Chehel Sotoun Palace in Isfahan and the Masjed-e Jame, one of Iran’s oldest Friday mosques and an important example of Persian Islamic architecture.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Lt Gen Dheeraj Seth to Become Next Vice Chief of Army Staff from April 1: Lt Gen Dheeraj Seth will take charge as the Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) from 1 April 2026 in New Delhi, while the current VCOAS Lt Gen PP Singh will become the Western Army Commander on the same day.Lt Gen VMB Krishnan will assume charge as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of Eastern Army Command, and Lt Gen Sandeep Jain will take over as the Southern Army Commander from 1 April 2026.

 

2. Exercise Lamitiye 2026 Between India and Seychelles Begins to Strengthen Defence Cooperation: The 11th edition of Exercise Lamitiye 2026 between India and Seychelles is being conducted from 9–20 March 2026 at the Seychelles Defence Academy to strengthen military cooperation.The Indian contingent includes personnel from the Assam Regiment, along with participation from the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force, including INS Trikand and a Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft.The biennial exercise LAMITIYE (meaning “Friendship” in Creole) aims to enhance joint operational capabilities, peacekeeping cooperation, and interoperability between the armed forces of both countries.

 

3. Sheshnaag-150 Swarm Drone Boosts India’s Unmanned Warfare Capability: India is advancing its unmanned warfare capabilities with the development of the Sheshnaag-150, a long-range swarming attack drone currently undergoing testing. Developed by Bengaluru-based defence startup Newspace Research Technologies, the drone represents India’s effort to build cost-effective and flexible unmanned systems similar to those increasingly used in modern conflicts. The system completed its maiden flight about a year ago and is being evaluated as part of India’s evolving strategy in drone warfare. Modern conflicts have highlighted the strategic impact of relatively inexpensive drones. Platforms such as Iran’s Shahed-136 and the United States’ LUCAS unmanned aerial vehicle have demonstrated that low-cost drones can deliver significant battlefield effects by striking infrastructure, military vehicles and logistics networks. These systems allow armed forces to conduct precision strikes without deploying expensive fighter aircraft or missiles. India’s Sheshnaag-150 aims to replicate this cost-effective capability through indigenous technology and swarm-based operations.

 

4. NATO Launches Cold Response Arctic Military Exercise: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has launched its biennial Arctic military exercise named “Cold Response,” beginning on 9 March and continuing until 19 March 2026. The drills are being conducted amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Arctic region, particularly following recent discussions surrounding Greenland’s strategic importance. The exercise places renewed emphasis on the role of civilian support in military operations, highlighting the growing integration of civilian infrastructure and services into modern defence strategies. Cold Response is designed to test NATO’s ability to conduct military operations in harsh Arctic environments. The drills simulate collective defence scenarios, allowing allied forces to practice coordination, mobility and logistics under extreme weather conditions. A key objective of the exercise is to ensure that NATO forces can respond effectively to potential security threats in the polar region, which has gained strategic importance due to its natural resources and emerging shipping routes.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Chhattisgarh to Host First Khelo India Tribal Games 2026: The first Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 will be held from 25 March to 6 April 2026 in Chhattisgarh. The Games will be organised across three cities — Raipur, Jagdalpur and Surguja.The event will feature seven medal sports — athletics, football, hockey, weightlifting, archery, swimming and wrestling, while Mallakhamb and Kabaddi will be included as demonstration sports.The Games will be organised jointly by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sports Authority of India, Indian Olympic Association, National Sports Federations and the Chhattisgarh state organising committee.

 

2. Vijay Dahiya Appointed Gujarat Titans Assistant Coach for IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans have appointed former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya as assistant coach ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The move strengthens the franchise’s coaching staff as preparations intensify for the new edition of the tournament. Dahiya brings extensive experience from both international cricket and domestic coaching circuits, adding depth to the Titans’ support structure. Vijay Dahiya represented India as a wicketkeeper-batter in the early 2000s. He played 19 One Day Internationals and two Test matches for the national side. Known for his dependable wicketkeeping and calm batting in the lower order, Dahiya also enjoyed a strong domestic career with Delhi. His performances in domestic cricket earned him recognition as a technically sound and disciplined cricketer.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Gurudongmar Lake Tourism Revives After 2023 South Lhonak GLOF: Tourism to Gurudongmar Lake in North Sikkim has begun to recover after more than two years of disruption caused by the South Lhonak Lake glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in October 2023. The disaster had severely damaged road infrastructure and washed away several bridges, cutting off access to the region. With the reopening of the Chungthang–Lachen road and the inauguration of the newly constructed 400-foot Taram Chu bridge, authorities have resumed issuing tourist permits for travel towards Lachen, the key base for visitors heading to the high-altitude lake. Gurudongmar Lake is located at an altitude of nearly 17,000 feet in North Sikkim, close to the India–China border. It is among the highest lakes in India and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The lake is considered both a natural and spiritual landmark, drawing tourists as well as pilgrims. Travellers usually reach the lake through Lachen, a mountain village that serves as the main transit point for tourism in the region.

 

2. Rare Oarfish Sighting Reported Near Cabo San Lucas Coast: Two giant oarfish were recently spotted near the shoreline of Cabo San Lucas, a coastal city in Mexico, in a rare marine encounter that has attracted widespread attention. Beachgoers first noticed one oarfish struggling close to the shore and attempted to guide it back into deeper waters. While assisting the first fish, another oarfish was spotted nearby, making the incident even more unusual. Oarfish are deep-sea creatures that are rarely seen near the ocean surface, making such sightings noteworthy for both scientists and the public. Oarfish are among the most mysterious fish species in the ocean. They usually inhabit deep ocean layers at depths of around 3,000 feet (approximately 900 metres), where sunlight barely penetrates. These fish have extremely long, ribbon-like bodies with a silvery appearance and a striking red dorsal crest extending from the head along the back. Oarfish can grow up to about 30 feet (9 metres) in length, making them the longest bony fish known in the world’s oceans.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India Approves Registration for Allianz Jio Reinsurance and Kiwi General Insurance: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) approved the certificate of registration for Allianz Jio Reinsurance and Kiwi General Insurance during its 134th meeting.Allianz Jio Reinsurance is an equal joint venture between Jio Financial Services and Allianz Group, incorporated in September 2025, to operate in the reinsurance business.The regulator also discussed the new regulatory framework after the enactment of the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Act, 2025, which amended the Insurance Act, 1938 and IRDA Act, 1999, and approved drafting of new regulations for stakeholder consultation.

 

2. State Bank of India Launches $500 Million Social Loan Facility to Promote Women’s Empowerment: State Bank of India (SBI) launched a $500 million syndicated social term loan facility with a greenshoe option, aimed at promoting women’s empowerment, on the eve of International Women’s Day.The initiative supports the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) financing framework and aims to reduce the gender gap while enhancing social impact.According to C. S. Setty, Chairman of State Bank of India, the loan aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal – SDG 5: Gender Equality, focusing on empowering women and promoting inclusive growth.