Daily GK Update- 17th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Rashtrapati Bhavan Hosts Purple Fest to Celebrate Talent and Aspirations of Divyangjan: Rashtrapati Bhavan hosted the Purple Fest to celebrate the talent, achievements, and aspirations of Divyangjan (persons with disabilities).The event was organised by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to promote inclusion, awareness, and respect for persons with disabilities.More than 8,000 Divyangjan visited the Amrit Udyan, which was opened exclusively for them during the event.

 

2. NHAI Revises FASTag Annual Pass Fee to ₹3,075 for FY 2026–27: National Highways Authority of India has revised the FASTag Annual Pass fee from ₹3,000 to ₹3,075 for the financial year 2026–27, effective from 1 April 2026.The revision has been made under the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008, which governs toll fee determination and collection on national highways.The FASTag Annual Pass is available for eligible non-commercial vehicles such as cars, jeeps, and vans with a valid FASTag, and it can be used on National Highways and National Expressways.The pass, launched on 15 August 2025, remains valid for one year or up to 200 toll plaza crossings (whichever is earlier) and can be purchased via the Rajmarg Yatra App or the National Highways Authority of India.

 

3. Centre Renames Tuticorin Airport as Thoothukudi Airport in Tamil Nadu: The Central Government has approved the renaming of Tuticorin Airport as Thoothukudi Airport in Tamil Nadu.The renaming ceremony was formally inaugurated by Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu at the airport.The airport is operated by the Airports Authority of India under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.Chapchar Kut Celebrated with Traditional Fervour in Aizawl: The spring festival Chapchar Kut was celebrated with traditional fervour in Aizawl. It is the largest traditional spring festival of the Mizo people, celebrated after clearing forests for jhum (shifting) cultivation, marking the arrival of spring.

 

4. The week-long festival concluded with the theme “Zo Nun Ze Mawi: Inremna” (Mizo Ethics: Reconciliation) and witnessed a large gathering, including V. K. Singh and C. Lalsawivunga.Syed Ata Hasnain Takes Oath as 43rd Governor of Bihar: Syed Ata Hasnain, a retired Lieutenant General of the Indian Army, took oath as the Governor of Bihar.The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Sangam Kumar Sahoo at the Patna High Court.He became the 43rd Governor of Bihar since India’s Independence, succeeding Arif Mohammad Khan.

 

5. Kusunpur Set to Become Odisha’s First Smart Village: Kusunpur village in Odisha’s Kendrapada district is set to become the state’s first “smart village” under a technology-driven rural development initiative led by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The project aims to integrate modern technologies into everyday life and agriculture, creating a sustainable and self-reliant rural ecosystem. The village, located in Rajnagar block, has around 130 families and a population of nearly 700 people. The smart village initiative has been launched as a mission-mode project by the Ministry of Science and Technology through CSIR. The programme aligns with the national vision of “Viksit Bharat@2047,” which aims to transform India into a developed nation by the centenary of independence. The project seeks to demonstrate how scientific innovations can improve rural infrastructure, livelihoods, and resilience through coordinated efforts between research institutions and local authorities.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Arpita Patra Becomes Second Indian Woman to Scale Nevado Ojos del Salado: Arpita Patra, a professor at the Indian Institute of Science, successfully climbed Nevado Ojos del Salado.She reached the 6,893-metre summit, becoming the second Indian woman to scale the peak.Nevado Ojos del Salado is located in the Atacama Desert in the Andes Mountains on the Chile–Argentina border and is the highest mountain in Chile.Earlier, she had climbed Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa), Mount Elbrus (Europe), Mount Giluwe (Oceania), and Pico de Orizaba (North America).

 

2. 15 March – International Day to Combat Islamophobia: The International Day to Combat Islamophobia is observed every year on 15 March to raise awareness about discrimination, intolerance, and violence against Muslims around the world.The day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2022 to promote religious tolerance, dialogue, and respect for cultural diversity.The observance encourages governments, organisations, and communities to combat Islamophobia and promote peace, inclusiveness, and mutual understanding.

 

3. 13 March – World Sleep Day: World Sleep Day is observed every year on 13 March to raise awareness about the importance of healthy sleep and sleep-related issues.Theme 2026 – Sleep Well, Live BetterThe day aims to highlight the impact of sleep on physical, mental, and emotional well-being, encouraging people to adopt better sleep habits.Observance of World Sleep Day promotes research, education, and public campaigns to address sleep disorders and improve overall quality of life.

 

4. India Eases FDI Norms for Firms with 10% Chinese Stake: The Government of India has relaxed foreign direct investment (FDI) rules to allow overseas companies with up to 10 per cent Chinese shareholding to invest in India through the automatic route. The change was notified by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and aims to ease investment flows while retaining safeguards against strategic risks. The relaxation follows approval from the Union Cabinet and modifies restrictions introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic. Under the revised policy, foreign companies with Chinese shareholding of up to 10 per cent will be permitted to invest in India without seeking prior government approval. These investments will continue to be subject to sectoral caps and existing regulatory conditions. However, the relaxation does not apply to entities incorporated in China, Hong Kong, or any country that shares a land border with India.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy Joins Sea Dragon 2026 ASW Exercise: The Indian Navy is participating in Exercise Sea Dragon 2026, a United States-led multinational anti-submarine warfare (ASW) drill being conducted at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. The exercise, held annually in the Indo-Pacific, gains added significance amid evolving geopolitical tensions, particularly due to the ongoing instability in West Asia. India’s participation reflects its growing role in regional maritime security and cooperation. Exercise Sea Dragon 2026 is a two-week high-intensity drill focusing on anti-submarine warfare operations. It involves advanced maritime patrol aircraft, including the P-8A Poseidon and India’s P-8I aircraft. These platforms are deployed to conduct coordinated missions aimed at detecting, tracking, and neutralising submarine threats. The exercise progresses from simulated scenarios to real-time tracking of live submarines, enhancing operational realism.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Mayank Chakraborty Becomes India’s 94th Chess Grandmaster, First from Assam: Mayank Chakraborty became India’s 94th Grandmaster (GM) in chess. He is the first chess Grandmaster from Assam, marking a historic milestone for the state.The Grandmaster (GM) title is awarded by the world chess governing body FIDE.

 

2. Armand Duplantis Sets New Pole Vault World Record of 6.31m at Mondo Classic: Armand Duplantis set a new pole vault world record of 6.31 metres at the Mondo Classic held in Uppsala.

This achievement marks the 15th time Duplantis has broken the pole vault world record, further strengthening his dominance in the sport.He had earlier set the record at 6.28 metres in Stockholm in 2025, and the 6.31m jump is his fourth world record of the year.

 

3. Kimi Antonelli Wins Chinese Grand Prix, Becomes Second-Youngest F1 Race Winner: Kimi Antonelli, aged 19, won his first Formula One race at the Chinese Grand Prix, becoming the second-youngest race winner in F1 history.The youngest F1 race winner remains Max Verstappen, who won a Grand Prix at the age of 18 in 2016.Kimi Antonelli currently drives for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team.

 

4. Sarfaraz Ahmed Announces Retirement from International Cricket: Sarfaraz Ahmed, the former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter and captain, announced his retirement from international cricket after a notable career.He led Pakistan to victory in the 2006 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, becoming one of the few players to win an ICC title at the junior level as captain.Under his captaincy, Pakistan also won the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, making him the only captain to win ICC trophies at both junior and senior levels organised by the International Cricket Council.

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. CSIR-NCL Scales Up Dimethyl Ether Fuel Technology: The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) has announced plans to scale up Dimethyl Ether (DME) technology to an industrial-scale demonstration in collaboration with a processing engineering partner. The initiative aims to promote cleaner alternative fuels in India and reduce dependence on conventional diesel. The development is considered significant for sectors such as agriculture and transportation, which rely heavily on diesel-powered engines. Dimethyl Ether (DME) is a synthetically produced fuel that can serve as an alternative to diesel in specially designed compression ignition engines. It is considered a promising clean fuel because it can be produced from various feedstocks such as natural gas, coal, biomass and waste materials. Due to its favourable combustion characteristics, DME is being explored globally as a sustainable fuel option for heavy-duty vehicles and industrial applications.

 

2. Scientists Discover New Molten Liquid Planet Class: Scientists have identified a new category of exoplanets that exist in a permanent molten, liquid-like state. The discovery, based on observations from the James Webb Space Telescope, challenges traditional classifications of small planets. These worlds are neither rocky nor water-rich but instead consist of vast, global oceans of magma, offering fresh insights into planetary diversity beyond the solar system. The newly identified class represents “liquid planets” that remain in a molten, mushy condition. Traditionally, small exoplanets were classified as rocky planets with thin atmospheres or water worlds with deep oceans. However, this finding introduces a third category—planets dominated by molten silicate material. The discovery was detailed in a recent study published in “Nature Astronomy”, highlighting the complexity of planetary evolution.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority to Organise ‘Niveshak Shivir’ in Bhubaneswar: Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, in collaboration with Securities and Exchange Board of India, will organise a ‘Niveshak Shivir’ in Bhubaneswar on 27 March 2026.The initiative aims to provide a one-stop facilitation platform to help investors resolve issues related to unclaimed dividends and shares, along with on-ground grievance redressal and investor services.The camp will offer recovery assistance for unclaimed dividends and shares, on-the-spot KYC updation, nomination services, and resolution of pending IEPFA claims, promoting direct interaction between investors, companies, and RTAs.

 

2. Fitch Ratings Raises India’s GDP Growth Forecast to 7.5% for FY26: Fitch Ratings has raised India’s GDP growth forecast to 7.5% for FY2025–26 and 6.7% for FY2026–27.The revised projections were released in the Global Economic Outlook – March 2026.

 

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Vairamuthu Selected for the 60th Jnanpith Award for 2025: Vairamuthu has been selected for the prestigious Jnanpith Award. cHe will receive the 60th Jnanpith Award for the year 2025, one of India’s highest literary honours.With this recognition, Vairamuthu becomes the third Tamil writer to receive the award after Akilan (1975) and Jayakanthan (2002).59th Jnanpith Award (for 2024) – Hindi author and poet Vinod Kumar Shukla  58th Jnanpith Award (for 2023) – Urdu poet and lyricist Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya.

 

Daily GK Update- 16th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project Inaugurated in Assam: The Prime Minister recently virtually inaugurated the 120 MW Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project in Assam. The project is an important step towards strengthening clean energy infrastructure in Northeast India and enhancing regional power generation capacity. It also supports India’s broader goals of expanding renewable energy and improving electricity availability in remote and hilly regions. The Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project is a 120 megawatt run-of-river hydropower project developed in the Kopili River basin in Assam. Run-of-river projects generate electricity without creating large reservoirs, using the natural flow of river water. The project is located across the West Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao (North Cachar Hills) Autonomous District Council areas in central Assam.

 

2. New Earthworm Species Drawida vazhania Discovered in Kerala : Researchers have recently discovered a new species of earthworm named Drawida vazhania in Kerala’s Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. The species was identified near the Vazhani Dam area in Thrissur district. The discovery highlights the rich but still underexplored biodiversity of the Western Ghats, a globally recognised biodiversity hotspot. The identification of this species contributes to the scientific understanding of soil biodiversity and ecological diversity in India. The new earthworm species was discovered in the Vazhani Dam region located within the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary in Thrissur district of Kerala. This sanctuary forms part of the Western Ghats mountain range, which is known for its high levels of endemism and species diversity. The discovery emphasises the ecological importance of protected forest ecosystems in preserving lesser-known soil organisms.

 

3. Medieval Gajapathi Inscription Found in Guntur Temple: A medieval Telugu inscription linked to the Gajapathi rulers of Odisha has been discovered on a stone pillar at the historic Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Ramachandrapura Agraharam of Guntur city. The inscription offers valuable insights into the political and cultural connections between the Odisha region and coastal Andhra during the late medieval period. Scholars believe such records highlight the administrative presence and religious patronage of the Gajapathi dynasty in parts of present-day Andhra Pradesh. According to epigraphist Bishnu Mohan Adhikari, the inscription is engraved on both sides of a stone pillar located in the temple mandapa. The text refers to Kumaraguru Mahapatra, a steward officer serving under the Gajapathi ruler Purushottama Deva, who ruled in the fifteenth century CE. The record provides evidence of the administrative network of the Gajapathi kingdom extending into the Andhra region during that period.

 

4. Historic Landmarks Linked to Musi River Rejuvenation Plan: Several historic monuments and civic landmarks in Hyderabad have been identified as part of the proposed Musi River rejuvenation project. Authorities are exploring ways to integrate these heritage sites into a cultural tourism corridor along the river. The plan aims to combine river restoration with heritage conservation, highlighting the historic role of the Musi River in shaping Hyderabad’s urban and cultural landscape. The heritage concept map prepared under the Musi Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (MRDCL) identifies several prominent structures located near the river or historically connected to it. These include Golconda Fort, Qutb Shahi Tombs, Taramati Baradari, Shri Veerabhadra Swami Devalayam, Purana Pul, Government City College, Mecca Masjid, Charminar, the Telangana High Court building, Osmania General Hospital and the historic British Residency at Koti. These monuments represent different periods of Hyderabad’s history and reflect the city’s architectural and cultural diversity.

 

5. PM Modi Launches ₹23,550 Crore Projects in Assam’s Silchar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched infrastructure projects worth ₹23,550 crore in Silchar, Assam, aimed at transforming the Barak Valley into a major trade and logistics gateway in Northeast India. Addressing a public gathering in Ramnagar near Silchar, the Prime Minister emphasised that improved connectivity would strengthen the region’s integration with national and international markets, particularly in Bangladesh, Myanmar and other South Asian countries. The largest project announced was the ₹22,864-crore Shillong–Silchar High-Speed Corridor. The 166.8-kilometre greenfield, four-lane access-controlled expressway will be developed as part of National Highway-06 by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).

The corridor will pass through Ri-Bhoi, East Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills districts in Meghalaya before entering Assam’s Cachar district. The project will involve extensive tunnelling through hilly terrain and is targeted for completion by 2030. Once operational, the expressway is expected to reduce travel time between Guwahati and Silchar from around nine hours to nearly five hours.

 

6. PM Modi Inaugurates Fully Automated Haldia Bulk Terminal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Haldia Bulk Terminal, a fully automated dry bulk handling facility developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) at the Haldia Dock Complex of Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata. The project marks a major addition to India’s eastern maritime infrastructure and is expected to improve cargo handling efficiency along the Hooghly river. The terminal has an annual handling capacity of 4 million metric tonnes (MMTPA). It is recognised as India’s first fully automated dry bulk cargo facility on the Hooghly river. The terminal is designed to handle coal and other bulk commodities that support key industries such as power generation, steel and aluminium production.Situated on the western bank of the Hooghly river within the Haldia Dock Complex, the facility is expected to strengthen cargo movement across the eastern maritime corridor and support industrial supply chains in eastern India.

 

7. Balirajgarh Fort: About: It is a centrally protected national monument dating to around 200 BCE, offering insights into the Mithila region's early civilisation and its legendary links to King Bali (benevolent asura ruler from Hindu mythology).  Part of the ASI's Patna Circle, it is one of Bihar's 71 protected sites of national importance. Cultural Sequence: The fortification dates primarily to circa 200 BCE during the Shunga period, with evidence suggesting earlier Iron Age origins.Excavations have revealed a 5-fold cultural sequence spanning the Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW) phase (circa 700–200 BCE), followed by the Shunga, Kushan, Gupta, and Pala periods (up to the 12th century CE), indicating continuous habitation from early historic to early medieval times. Archaeological Findings: Previous excavations revealed structural remains, NBPW pottery, and artefacts, confirming the site as a major urban centre with massive boundary walls, elevated mounds, and defensive features. 

 

8. National Chambal Sanctuary: The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance to protect the fragile lotic ecosystem of the National Chambal Sanctuary from rampant and well-organized illegal sand mining by the "sand mafia." About: The National Chambal Sanctuary, also known as the National Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of India's most ecologically significant riverine protected areas. It is the first and only tri-state protected area (Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh) in the country, spanning approximately 5,400 sq km along a 600 km stretch of the Chambal River (960-km). Biodiversity: It harbors nearly 90% of the world's remaining wild Gharial population and a significant number of endangered Ganges River Dolphins. Other key species are Marsh crocodile (mugger), Red-crowned roof turtle, Smooth-coated otter, striped hyena, and over 330 bird species e.g., Indian skimmer. It forms part of India's Project Crocodile initiative launched in 1975 to address the severe decline of crocodilian populations. Conservation Status: It is recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA). It is a proposed Ramsar Site, a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and classified as an IUCN Category IV protected area (habitat/species management area).  Ecological Uniqueness: The Chambal River remains one of India's cleanest and most unpolluted rivers, creating a unique lotic ecosystem of deep channels, sandbanks, and ravines (beehad). 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Illegal Earth Cutting Threatens Wetland Linked to Deepor Beel: Illegal earth cutting from a wetland connected to Deepor Beel is continuing in the Satmile area of Guwahati despite prohibitory orders issued by the district administration, restrictions from the Gauhati High Court and regulations enforced by the Assam Forest Department. Local residents have raised concerns over large-scale soil excavation at the Kalshila wetland, warning that the activity could damage the fragile ecosystem connected to the internationally recognised Deepor Beel wetland. Residents of Satmile have alleged that illegal excavation has been taking place at the Kalshila wetland, located near the training school of the Assam Police Radio Organisation and Assam Engineering College. The area falls under the jurisdiction of the Jalukbari police outpost. Locals claim that soil has been removed from the wetland for more than a month despite legal restrictions aimed at protecting the sensitive ecosystem.

 

2. Motörhead Guitarist Phil Campbell Dies at 64: Legendary Welsh guitarist Phil Campbell, best known for his long tenure with the iconic rock band Motörhead, has passed away at the age of 64. The veteran musician died following complications after a complex major operation. The news was confirmed on 14 March 2026 through a statement shared on the official social media page of his band, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons. Tributes from fans, fellow musicians and the global rock community have poured in, honouring his decades-long contribution to heavy metal music. Phil Campbell’s family announced his passing through an emotional message. The statement described him as a devoted husband, father and grandfather who fought bravely in intensive care following a major surgical procedure. The family emphasised his warmth and affection, noting that he was widely known by the nickname “Bampi” among loved ones. They requested privacy during the difficult period while expressing gratitude for the support and condolences received from fans across the world.

 

3. Actor Madhu Malhotra of Hero and Satte Pe Satta Dies at 71: Veteran Hindi film actor Madhu Malhotra, known for her roles in several popular films of the 1970s and 1980s, passed away in Mumbai at the age of 71. Her death was reported by a film trade publication. Though she often appeared in supporting roles, Malhotra remained a familiar face in Hindi cinema and contributed to more than 100 films during her career. Madhu Malhotra gained wide recognition for her appearance in Subhash Ghai’s blockbuster “Hero” (1983). She performed on screen in the iconic song “Lambi Judaai”, sung by Pakistani folk singer Reshma. The melancholic track became one of the most enduring songs from the film and continues to be remembered for its emotional depth and haunting melody.The film itself featured several hit songs such as “Tu Mera Jaanu Hai”, “Pyar Karne Wale Kabhi Darte Nahi” and “Ding Dong Baby Sing a Song”, which contributed to its commercial success.

 

4. New Plant Species Discovered in Manas Named After Zubeen Garg: Botanists from Gauhati University have discovered a new plant species in the grasslands of Manas National Park in Assam and named it after renowned Assamese singer Zubeen Garg. The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of the region and adds to the growing list of plant species identified from the ecologically significant national park. The newly identified plant has been named “Osbeckia zubeengargiana” and belongs to the Melastomataceae family. The discovery was made by researchers Barnali Das and Namita Nath from Gauhati University along with Prasobh Pulpra from NSS College in Kerala.The plant was documented during botanical surveys conducted between 2021 and 2025 in the grasslands of Manas National Park, located in Assam’s Baksa district. The findings were published in the scientific journal “Phytotaxa”, which focuses on plant taxonomy and biodiversity research.

 

5. Zydus’ Desidustat Gets China Approval for CKD Anaemia Treatment: Zydus Lifesciences has received marketing approval in China for its drug Desidustat, used to treat anaemia in patients suffering from Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). The approval was granted by China’s drug regulator, the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), marking a significant step for the Ahmedabad-based pharmaceutical company as it enters one of the world’s largest healthcare markets. The NMPA has approved Desidustat for the treatment of renal anaemia in adult CKD patients who are not on dialysis. The drug will be commercialised in China through CMS International Development and Management Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of China Medical System Holdings.Zydus had granted an exclusive licence for the therapy to the Chinese company in 2020. Following successful clinical trials and regulatory evaluation, the approval now enables the partners to launch the drug in the Chinese market.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India’s Defence Forces Vision 2047: The Defence Minister of India unveiled the “Defence Forces Vision 2047: A Roadmap for a Future-Ready Indian Military”. Prepared by the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, this vision document outlines a comprehensive strategy to transform the Indian military into an integrated, agile, and multi-domain force by the centenary of India's independence. Defence Forces Vision 2047 is a long-term roadmap to transform India’s military into a technologically advanced, integrated, and multi-domain force through AI, drones, cyber, and space capabilities while strengthening jointness among the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The strategy links military modernisation with defence indigenisation and economic growth, aiming to reduce import dependence, strengthen domestic defence manufacturing, and build a self-reliant world-class military by 2047.About: The document acts as a "meta-strategy," explicitly acknowledging that national security in the 21st century relies as heavily on industrial capacity and technological ecosystems as on direct battlefield capabilities. 

 

SPORTS

 

1. BCCI Honours World Cup Champions at Naman Awards 2026: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) celebrated the achievements of India’s World Cup-winning teams at the Naman Awards 2026 held in New Delhi. The ceremony recognised the success of Indian teams across multiple formats and age groups in recent international tournaments. Leading cricketers Shubman Gill and Smriti Mandhana were named BCCI Cricketers of the Year, highlighting their outstanding performances during the 2024-25 season. The event also honoured several legends of Indian cricket for their long-standing contributions to the sport. During the ceremony, the BCCI felicitated five Indian teams that recently secured World Cup titles across different categories. These include the Under-19 Women’s World Cup, the ICC Champions Trophy, the Under-19 Men’s World Cup, the Women’s ODI World Cup and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The achievements reflect the depth of talent within Indian cricket and the strength of the country’s developmental system across both men’s and women’s formats.

 

2. Chandrika Pujari Wins Gold at World Boxing Futures Cup: India concluded its campaign at the World Boxing Futures Cup 2026 in Bangkok with a strong medal haul of five medals, including one gold, three silver and one bronze. The tournament, held from March 8 to 15, brought together emerging boxers competing in Youth Olympic weight categories. India’s Under-19 men’s and women’s teams displayed consistent performances throughout the competition, reflecting the steady growth of the country’s youth boxing programme and its increasing competitiveness at the international level. Chandrika Pujari delivered the standout performance for India by winning the gold medal in the women’s 51 kg category. She defeated Uzbekistan’s Mardonova Nazokat in the final by a unanimous decision, showcasing technical superiority and strong ring control. Her victory highlighted India’s rising talent in women’s boxing and demonstrated the effectiveness of structured training and international exposure for young athletes.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. HSV Outbreak in Jalpaiguri Jail Leaves Seven Dead: A viral outbreak inside Jalpaiguri Central Correctional Home in West Bengal has raised serious public health concerns after 92 inmates were infected with the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) between August 2025 and March 2026. Official records indicate that seven inmates died due to complications linked to the infection. The cases highlight the health risks associated with overcrowded prison facilities and the challenges of controlling infectious diseases in closed institutional environments. According to official documents, four inmates died at the North Bengal Medical College and Hospital while three others died at the Jalpaiguri District Hospital during treatment. The most recent fatality occurred on March 6 when 48-year-old inmate Deben Mondal died after being admitted to Jalpaiguri Medical College and Hospital on March 2. Authorities stated that while several infected inmates recovered, nearly half of the affected prisoners required segregation or treatment at government healthcare facilities.

 

2. Silverpit Crater Confirmed as Ancient Asteroid Impact Site: Recent research has confirmed that the Silverpit Crater in the North Sea was created by a massive asteroid impact millions of years ago. Scientists analysed geological samples and identified mineral evidence associated with high-energy space impacts. The finding strengthens earlier theories that the structure beneath the seabed is a genuine impact crater rather than a geological formation caused by other processes. The discovery offers valuable insights into Earth’s impact history and the geological evolution of the North Sea region. The Silverpit Crater lies approximately 700 metres beneath the seabed in the North Sea, about 80 miles off the coast of Yorkshire in the United Kingdom. The crater remained hidden for millions of years under thick layers of sediment. It was first discovered in 2002 during seismic surveys conducted for oil and gas exploration. Advanced imaging techniques revealed a circular geological structure beneath the seabed, prompting scientists to investigate whether it could be an ancient meteorite impact site.

 

3. Nor'westers and Local Winds of India: A severe Nor’wester storm wreaked havoc in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district, leaving a trail of destruction that included uprooted trees, toppled electricity poles, and extensive damage to thatched houses. About: Nor’westers are intense, brief thunderstorms driven by convection that occur across eastern and northeastern India. These violent local winds typically strike during the pre-monsoon months, spanning from April through June.  Geographical Extent: These storms primarily affect West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, and Tripura, as well as Bangladesh, southern Nepal, and Bhutan. They are most prominent over Gangetic West Bengal and the eastern Gangetic plain. Kalbaisakhi (Bengali): Translates to the "calamity of the month of Baisakh" (mid-April to mid-May), signifying their destructive and sudden nature. 

Bordoisila or Bardoli Cheerha (Assamese): Named after a "fierce, speedy goddess," reflecting the storm's high wind speeds. 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. First Export of Assam’s Joha Rice: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, facilitated the 1st export consignment of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Joha Rice from Assam to the United Kingdom and Italy. About: Aromatic short-grain winter paddy cultivated in Assam and the Northeastern region of India, known for its distinct fragrance, fine grain texture and rich taste. Varieties: Around 22 traditional Joha rice varieties exist, with Kola Joha, Kunkuni Joha and Keteki Joha among the most popular. Possesses anti-diabetic properties as it helps lower blood glucose levels and may prevent the onset of diabetes. Contains essential unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid (omega-6) and linolenic acid (omega-3), which support metabolic and cardiovascular health. Has a balanced omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio, making it nutritionally superior compared to many conventional rice varieties. Rich in antioxidants, flavonoids and phenolic compounds such as oryzanol, ferulic acid and tocotrienol, which provide antioxidant, hypoglycaemic and cardio-protective benefits. 

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. KPop Demon Hunters Wins Best Animated Feature at Oscars 2026: The animated film “KPop Demon Hunters” won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature at the 98th Academy Awards, marking one of the major highlights of the ceremony held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The film, released by Netflix, triumphed over a strong lineup that included “Arco”, “Elio”, “The Character of Rain”, and “Zootopia 2”. The win continues the film’s successful awards-season run and reflects the growing global influence of Korean cultural content. Directed by Korean-Canadian filmmaker Maggie Kang, “KPop Demon Hunters” combines the world of K-pop music with fantasy action. The story follows a K-pop girl group that secretly operates as demon hunters, protecting the world from supernatural threats. The film’s genre-blending narrative, vibrant animation style, and music-driven storytelling helped it gain widespread popularity among global audiences.

 

2. Oscars 2026 Winners Highlights from 98th Academy Awards: The 98th Academy Awards are underway at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, marking the culmination of Hollywood’s awards season. Hosted by Conan O’Brien for the second consecutive year, the ceremony features strong competition across major categories. Ryan Coogler’s vampire drama “Sinners” entered the event with a record 16 nominations, making it one of the night’s most closely watched films. India’s presence is marked by actor Priyanka Chopra Jonas appearing as a presenter and Indian-American filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir receiving dual nominations in the documentary categories. Several films are competing for the prestigious Best Picture award this year. The nominees include “Bugonia”, “F1”, “Frankenstein”, “Hamnet”, “Marty Supreme”, “One Battle After Another”, “The Secret Agent”, “Sentimental Value”, “Sinners”, and “Train Dreams”. Among them, “Sinners” gained significant momentum after winning the top honour at the Screen Actors Guild Awards. The film’s strong nominations tally and the popularity of its cast have made it a major contender.

 

3. India Tops Medal Table at Para Athletics Grand Prix: India finished at the top of the medal standings at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2026 New Delhi leg, winning a total of 208 medals as the three-day competition concluded at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The host nation secured 75 gold, 69 silver and 64 bronze medals, showcasing strong performances across multiple track and field events. The competition featured 257 athletes from eight countries and served as an important international platform for para-athletes. India delivered an outstanding performance to finish first in the medal standings. Russia secured the second position with 35 medals, while Bosnia and Herzegovina finished third with three medals. Indian athletes dominated several events and achieved multiple podium sweeps, reflecting the growing strength of the country’s para-athletics programme.