Daily GK Update- 27th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 9th PharmaMed 2026 to be Held in New Delhi with Focus on Healthcare Equity: The Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, in collaboration with the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will organise the 9th PharmaMed 2026 in New Delhi.The event will be held under the theme “Healthcare Equity: Reaching Every Citizen of Viksit Bharat”, focusing on inclusive and accessible healthcare for all citizens.

 

2. CBIC Enables Payment Aggregator on ICEGATE: The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs has enabled payment aggregator as an authorised mode on the ICEGATE platform to simplify customs duty payments.Importers can now pay duties using credit/debit cards, UPI, and internet banking, with the number of supported banks increasing from 23 to 41, alongside existing modes like NEFT/RTGS via Reserve Bank of India.Currently, banks like ICICI Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, State Bank of India, and HDFC Bank are onboarded, with more banks to be added in future for seamless and instant transactions.

 

3. RBI Payments Vision 2028 Targets Safer Digital Ecosystem : The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unveiled its ‘Payments Vision 2028’, outlining a comprehensive roadmap to transform India’s digital payments ecosystem over the next three years. The vision focuses on enhancing user control, strengthening fraud protection, improving cross-border payment systems, and promoting ease of doing business through 15 targeted initiatives. A key proposal is the extension of the switch-on and switch-off facility—currently available for card transactions—to all digital payment modes. This feature will allow users to control transaction permissions across platforms, including domestic and international payments. The move aims to boost consumer confidence and reduce fraud risks by empowering users with greater control over their financial transactions.

 

4. Jan Vishwas Bill 2026 Boosts Ease of Doing Business: The Government has introduced the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha to strengthen trust-based governance and simplify India’s regulatory framework. The Bill aims to reduce criminal liability for minor offences and promote ease of doing business and living. It follows approval by the Union Cabinet and builds upon earlier decriminalisation reforms initiated in 2023. A major feature of the Bill is the transition from criminal penalties to civil and administrative measures. Minor, technical, or procedural violations will no longer attract imprisonment. Instead, penalties will include monetary fines or warnings. The Bill introduces graded enforcement, allowing warnings for first-time violations and proportional penalties based on the nature of the offence.

 

5. Meghalaya Joins Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 Reform Framework: Meghalaya has become the twelfth State to sign a reform-linked Memorandum of Understanding with the Union Government under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0. The agreement marks a shift towards outcome-based and service-driven rural water supply. Approved by the Union Cabinet in March 2026, JJM 2.0 focuses on sustainability, decentralisation, and long-term water security across rural India. The MoU emphasises moving beyond infrastructure creation to ensuring reliable water services at the grassroots level. It promotes decentralisation by empowering Gram Panchayats and Village Water and Sanitation Committees to manage in-village water systems. District Water Sanitation Missions will be set up to prepare local action plans and oversee implementation in coordination with district administrations.

 

6. Government Cuts Fuel Excise Duty Amid Rising Global Oil Prices: The Government of India has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel to shield consumers and oil marketing companies from surging global crude prices. The decision comes as international oil prices have sharply increased due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, significantly impacting domestic fuel costs. The move is aimed at stabilising retail prices and easing the financial burden on both consumers and public sector oil companies. The Centre has cut the special additional excise duty on both petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre. This step follows mounting losses faced by oil marketing companies such as Indian Oil Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum, and Bharat Petroleum, which were reportedly losing around ₹24 per litre on petrol and ₹30 per litre on diesel. The duty reduction is expected to provide immediate relief by lowering retail fuel prices and reducing company losses.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Bank Flags Bangladesh in ‘Red Category’ Amid Prolonged Food Inflation Crisis: The World Bank has placed Bangladesh in the ‘red category’ due to consistently high food inflation over the past 10 months, signalling serious food security concerns.The red category indicates a high risk of food insecurity, meaning people may struggle to afford or access sufficient food.Along with Bangladesh, 13 other countries, including Ethiopia, Nigeria, Ukraine, and Russia, have remained in this category for the same duration.Other countries on the World Bank list of high food inflation have moved between red, purple, yellow, and green categories over the past year.

 

2. S&P Global Raises India’s GDP Growth Forecast to 7.1% for FY27: S&P Global Ratings has raised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY 2026–27 by 40 basis points to 7.1%, indicating a positive economic outlook.It has also revised the growth estimate for FY 2025–26 upward by 0.4 percentage points to 7.6%, reflecting stronger-than-expected economic performance.

 

3. 25 March – International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members: The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members is observed annually on 25 March to honour staff members who have been detained, kidnapped, or gone missing while serving globally.The day was proclaimed by the United Nations in 1993 and also marks the anniversary of the abduction of journalist Alec Collett.

 

4. March 26  – Purple Day of Epilepsy: Purple Day of Epilepsy is observed every year on 26 March to raise awareness about Epilepsy and support people living with the condition.Theme 2026 – #EpilepsyPledge The day was founded in 2008 by Cassidy Megan, a young girl from Canada, to encourage open discussion and reduce stigma.

 

5. Japan Launches World’s First Freight-Only Bullet Train: Japan has introduced the world’s first dedicated freight-only Shinkansen, transforming its iconic bullet train into a high-speed cargo carrier. Operated by East Japan Railway Company, the initiative reflects a shift in logistics strategy, combining speed, efficiency, and sustainability to meet growing demands in supply chains. The project repurposes the E3 series Shinkansen, originally designed for passenger travel. The train’s interiors have been stripped of seats and redesigned with reinforced flooring and open layouts to maximise cargo capacity. It can now carry up to 1,000 boxes or approximately 17.4 tonnes of goods per trip while maintaining speeds of up to 275 kmph. The system is designed for high-value and time-sensitive goods such as fresh seafood, agricultural produce, dairy products, and precision equipment. It is also suitable for delicate items like semiconductors, medical supplies, and laboratory samples due to minimal vibration during transit. This model bridges the gap between slower rail freight and costly air cargo.

 

6. AI Tracks Painted Stork Nest Fidelity in Delhi Zoo: Researchers in India have demonstrated the use of artificial intelligence to monitor nest site fidelity in painted storks at the National Zoological Park, Delhi. The study focused on a single male stork, informally named “Ringo”, tracked over four breeding seasons from 2022 to 2025. The work highlights how non-invasive digital tools can advance behavioural ecology studies without disturbing wildlife. Painted storks (Mycteria leucocephala) are colonial waterbirds known for nesting in large groups. Nest site fidelity refers to the tendency of birds to return to the same nesting site across breeding seasons. Understanding this behaviour is important for conservation planning, especially in urban or semi-captive habitats like zoological parks.

 

7. Noida International Airport Phase I Inaugurated in Jewar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Phase I of the Noida International Airport (NIA) at Jewar in Uttar Pradesh on March 28, marking a major milestone in India’s aviation infrastructure expansion. The airport, located along the Yamuna Expressway in Gautam Buddha Nagar, is set to become the second international airport serving the Delhi-NCR region after Indira Gandhi International Airport. The project is expected to significantly ease congestion, improve connectivity, and strengthen India’s position as a global aviation hub. The Noida International Airport has been strategically developed to complement existing aviation infrastructure in the National Capital Region. Once fully operational, it will function alongside IGI Airport as part of an integrated system. This dual-airport model is aimed at reducing passenger load, improving efficiency, and expanding both domestic and international connectivity. Its location along a major expressway enhances accessibility for passengers from Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, and nearby regions.

 

8. Russia Bans Gasoline Exports to Stabilise Domestic Fuel Prices: Russia Bans Gasoline Exports to Stabilise Domestic Fuel Prices
The Government of Russia has announced a ban on gasoline exports starting April 1, 2026, in a move aimed at securing domestic fuel availability and controlling rising prices. The decision comes amid global oil market volatility triggered by ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The measure reflects Moscow’s priority to safeguard internal energy stability while navigating fluctuations in international demand and supply. The decision was taken following a high-level review chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak. Russian authorities highlighted that instability in global oil markets, driven by conflict in West Asia, has caused significant price fluctuations. Despite strong international demand for Russian energy exports, the government has opted to restrict gasoline exports to ensure sufficient domestic availability and prevent inflationary pressure on fuel prices.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. China Deploys J-6 Drone Fleet Near Taiwan Strait: China has reportedly deployed over 200 modified J-6 fighter jets, converted into unmanned attack drones, near the taiwan-strait/">Taiwan Strait. The move signals a shift in Beijing’s military strategy, emphasising large-scale, cost-effective systems designed to overwhelm enemy defences amid rising global geopolitical tensions. The J-6 aircraft, originally based on the Soviet-era MiG-19 design, once formed a core part of China’s air force. Now retired from active service, these jets have been converted into unmanned platforms, often referred to as J-6W drones. Equipped with automated flight systems and navigation capabilities, they are designed to function more like cruise missiles than conventional drones, targeting enemy assets in large numbers. Satellite imagery indicates that these drones are stationed across multiple airbases in Fujian and Guangdong provinces, close to Taiwan. Analysts estimate that over 200 such platforms have been deployed, with potentially more than 500 converted overall. Their proximity to the Taiwan Strait enhances China’s ability to launch rapid, large-scale aerial operations in a conflict scenario.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Kal Somani-Led Consortium Acquires Rajasthan Royals for $1.63 Billion in Landmark IPL Deal: Rajasthan Royals has been acquired with 100% ownership by a consortium led by Kal Somani at a valuation of $1.63 billion (₹15,286 crore), signaling a major boost in IPL franchise value ahead of 2026.The deal was facilitated by Raine Group, with Somani—earlier a minority investor—now taking full control of the franchise.The consortium includes key investors like Rob Walton and the Hamp family (owners of the Detroit Lions), making it one of the largest private equity investments in Indian sports history.

 

2. Omaxe to Name ‘Pink Stand’ After Harmanpreet Kaur at Dwarka Cricket Stadium: Omaxe Limited will name a stand at its upcoming cricket stadium in Dwarka after Harmanpreet Kaur, honouring her contribution to Indian women’s cricket.The stand, located in the North Pavilion Lower Bowl of the 30,000-seater stadium, will feature over 1,500 seats and be India’s first dedicated “Pink Stand” designed for women and families.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Neoloboptera peninsularis Discovered in Deccan Peninsula: Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have identified a new species of cockroach, Neoloboptera peninsularis, in the Deccan Peninsula. The discovery, made in Pune district of Maharashtra, marks a significant advancement in entomological research and highlights the biodiversity richness of Peninsular India. This discovery is notable as it represents the first instance in India where modern DNA technology has been used to identify a cockroach species. It strengthens the role of molecular tools in taxonomy and species identification. Additionally, Neoloboptera peninsularis is only the third recorded species of the genus Neoloboptera in India, after Neoloboptera indica (1865) and Neoloboptera chakrabortyi (1995), with no new specimen-based records reported in the intervening period.

 

2. CALM-Brain Digital Repository for Neuropsychiatric Research: Researchers at the Rohini Nilekani Centre for Brain and Mind (CBM), a collaboration between NIMHANS and NCBS-TIFR, have developed CALM-Brain, a pioneering digital repository focused on neuropsychiatric disorders. This initiative represents a major step forward in India’s mental health research ecosystem by integrating diverse datasets for advanced scientific analysis. CALM-Brain is the first-of-its-kind digital repository in India that compiles comprehensive data on brain structure and function across various psychiatric conditions. It was initiated in 2016 under the Accelerator program for Discovery in Brain Disorders using Stem Cells (ADBS). The project is jointly funded by the Department of Biotechnology and the Pratiksha Trust, reflecting strong institutional support for neuroscience research.

 

3. Honshu Island Earthquake and Key Geographical Features: A magnitude 6.2 earthquake recently struck off the east coast of Honshu, Japan’s largest and most significant island. The event highlights the region’s high seismic vulnerability due to its location along active tectonic plate boundaries within the Pacific Ring of Fire. Honshu, historically known as Akitsushima, is the largest of Japan’s four main islands. It lies between the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Sea of Japan to the west, forming a long northeast–southwest arc of approximately 1,287 kilometres. Covering an area of about 227,898 square kilometres, Honshu is the seventh-largest island in the world and the most prominent landmass of Japan.

 

4. NASA Plans Satellite Rescue to Prevent Swift Crash: NASA has launched a ₹283.8 crore ($30 million) mission to prevent its ageing Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory from falling out of orbit and potentially crashing towards Earth. The observatory, operational since 2004, is gradually losing altitude due to increased atmospheric drag, prompting an innovative rescue effort to extend its lifespan. The Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is a key space telescope under NASA’s Medium Explorer (MIDEX) programme. Launched in 2004 into low-Earth orbit, it has played a crucial role in detecting gamma-ray bursts—extremely powerful cosmic explosions. Equipped with multiple instruments, including a Burst Alert Telescope, it enables rapid observation of high-energy astronomical events and contributes significantly to astrophysics research.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Government Retains 4% Inflation Target Framework for 2026–2031 Period: The Ministry of Finance has decided to retain India’s inflation targeting framework unchanged for another five-year period from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2031.The inflation target remains at 4%, with a tolerance band of 2% to 6%, ensuring price stability while supporting economic growth.This marks the third consecutive five-year term (2026–2031) of the same framework, following earlier periods 2016–2021 and 2021–2026.Under Section 45ZA of the RBI Act, the government, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India, sets the inflation target every five years; the framework was first introduced on 5 August 2016.

 

2. SEBI Partners with Google to Curb Misleading Finfluencers, Introduces Verified Tick System: The Securities and Exchange Board of India has partnered with Google to curb the misleading activities of financial influencers (finfluencers) and protect investors.SEBI Chairperson Tuhin Kanta Pandey announced that Google will use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to identify and remove rule-violating financial content online.A ‘tick mark verification system’ has also been introduced, where a verified badge will appear next to apps of registered intermediaries to ensure authenticity and build investor trust.

 

3. Paisalo Digital Partners with Indian Overseas Bank as BC: Paisalo Digital Limited has been appointed as a Business Correspondent (BC) partner for Indian Overseas Bank, expanding its Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) platform, which already includes State Bank of India and Bank of India.The new partnership adds a third public sector bank to Paisalo’s BC network, strengthening its reach in delivering last-mile banking services across rural and semi-urban areas.Through this network, Paisalo provides services such as account opening, deposits & withdrawals, remittances, and social security schemes, enhancing financial inclusion at the grassroots level.

 

4. CCI Approves MUFG’s ₹39,618 Crore Investment in Shriram Finance: The Competition Commission of India has approved Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Bank’s ₹39,618 crore investment in Shriram Finance Ltd, marking the largest FDI in India’s NBFC sector.MUFG will acquire a 20% stake in Shriram Finance through this ₹39,618 crore ($4.4 billion) deal, surpassing the previous record investment in RBL Bank by around 47%.The deal, expected to close by April 2026, will help MUFG expand into India’s rural and MSME lending market, while strengthening Shriram Finance’s capital base and balance sheet.

 

5. L&T Finance Joins UN Global Compact: L&T Finance Ltd has become a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, marking a major step in its sustainability journey.By joining UNGC, the company commits to integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its core business strategy and operations. The move aligns L&T Finance with global standards on human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption, reinforcing its commitment to ethical practices, sustainable development goals, and long-term value creation.

 

Daily GK Update- 26th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NBA Internship Programmes Boost Youth Role in Biodiversity Conservation: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has introduced a short-term internship programme of up to three months for undergraduate and postgraduate students to strengthen practical exposure in biodiversity conservation. The initiative focuses on hands-on, project-based learning through direct involvement in NBA activities. It aims to enhance environmental awareness, build capacity, and improve employment prospects for young individuals while nurturing them as biodiversity ambassadors. The newly launched programme targets students currently pursuing higher education. It offers experiential learning by engaging interns in ongoing biodiversity projects and institutional activities. The emphasis is on developing practical skills and real-world understanding of conservation challenges, thereby bridging the gap between academic knowledge and field application.

 

2. Hudsonian Godwit Faces Sharp Decline Amid Climate Threats: The Hudsonian godwit, a long-distance migratory shorebird, is witnessing a dramatic population decline of nearly 95% over the past four decades. Known for its extraordinary annual journey from the Arctic to South America and back, the species now faces growing threats due to environmental changes across multiple continents, raising global conservation concerns. The Hudsonian godwit undertakes one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom, travelling nearly 30,000 km annually between Arctic breeding grounds and Patagonia. Remarkably, it can fly up to 11,000 km in a single stretch without stopping to eat, drink or sleep. This feat depends on precise ecological timing and reliable food availability at various stopover points along its route.

 

3. Gujarat Passes Uniform Civil Code Bill 2026: Gujarat has become the second Indian state after Uttarakhand to pass a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026, establishing a common legal framework for personal laws across communities. The legislation, approved by the state assembly on March 24, seeks to regulate marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships uniformly, irrespective of religion. The move reflects the government’s emphasis on legal uniformity, gender justice, and social harmony. The law mandates compulsory registration of marriages and divorces, with penalties of up to ₹10,000 for non-compliance. It introduces strict legal procedures for divorce, allowing only court-sanctioned separation. Practices such as polygamy have been banned, while coercive or fraudulent marriages can attract imprisonment of up to seven years. The bill also permits remarriage without conditions after divorce and prohibits practices like halala in certain communities.

 

4. KV Ramana Murty Appointed SEBI Whole-Time Member: The Government of India has appointed Kompella Venkata Ramana Murty as a whole-time member of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for a tenure of three years. The appointment, notified on March 25, 2026, reinforces the regulatory body’s leadership with an experienced administrator possessing strong financial oversight credentials. Murty’s induction comes at a time when India’s capital markets are witnessing rapid expansion and increasing regulatory complexity. Kompella Venkata Ramana Murty brings extensive experience from the public financial administration domain. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Additional Controller General of Defence Accounts under the Ministry of Defence. In this role, he handled high-value financial management, auditing, and accountability mechanisms within one of the largest government spending departments. His expertise in public finance is expected to strengthen SEBI’s regulatory efficiency.

 

5. Lok Sabha Passes Transgender Rights Amendment Bill 2026: The Lok Sabha has passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, amid strong protests from opposition parties and LGBTQIA+ activists. The legislation seeks to modify the framework governing recognition of transgender identity and strengthen provisions related to welfare and protection, but has sparked debate over its approach to identity certification. The Bill introduces a revised process for recognising transgender identity. Individuals must apply to the District Magistrate for an official certificate of identity. The certification will now be granted based on recommendations from a designated medical board, headed by a Chief Medical Officer or Deputy Chief Medical Officer. The government states that this mechanism aims to streamline identification and ensure targeted delivery of welfare benefits.

 

6. What is the Difference Between LPG and PNG?: Did you know that the gas you use for cooking can come in different forms, each with its own way of storage and supply? These options are designed to make daily life easier, safer, and more convenient for households and businesses.In today’s modern world, energy sources for cooking and heating have evolved a lot. People now have choices that depend on availability, cost, safety, and ease of use in their homes.Some types of cooking gas are delivered directly through pipelines, while others are stored in cylinders. This difference changes how people use, store, and manage their fuel in everyday life.Understanding these variations helps you make better decisions for your home. It also gives a clear idea about efficiency, maintenance, and long-term convenience. Let’s explore how these two common types of fuel differ from each other and which one might suit your needs better.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. GARBH-INi Study Targets Preterm Birth with AI Solutions: India has launched its largest pregnancy cohort study under the GARBH-INi initiative, enrolling around 12,000 women to tackle preterm births through indigenous, AI-driven solutions. The programme, led by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), aims to address one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality and long-term health complications, particularly in a country that bears a significant share of the global burden. The programme has developed AI-based pregnancy dating models suited to Indian conditions, along with microbiome-based predictors of preterm birth. It has also contributed to rapid diagnostic tools and identification of genetic markers for early risk detection. These innovations are expected to enable timely interventions and improve neonatal health outcomes.

2. Indian Study Explains Formation of Titanium-Rich Lunar Basalts: A new study by researchers from IIT-Kharagpur and the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad, has provided fresh insights into the formation of titanium-rich basalts on the Moon. Published in “Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta”, the research addresses a long-standing puzzle in planetary science regarding why lunar volcanic rocks contain unusually high levels of titanium dioxide compared to Earth. The researchers simulated lunar interior conditions using high-pressure and high-temperature experiments, replicating depths of up to 700 km inside the Moon. Their findings suggest that titanium-rich basalts formed through a complex two-stage process involving melting, chemical interaction and mixing between dense titanium-rich layers and the Moon’s mantle. This model successfully explains the observed composition of lunar basalts, including their titanium and magnesium content.

 

3. UNESCO Flags Concerns Over Aghanashini River Linking Project: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has raised concerns over the proposed Aghanashini–Vedavathi river-linking project, urging India to adhere strictly to World Heritage conservation norms. The response came after a representation by environmental activists highlighting ecological risks associated with the project in the sensitive Western Ghats region. UNESCO emphasised that any infrastructure or river-linking project must comply with international guidelines under the World Heritage Convention, 1972. It stated that development activities in ecologically fragile areas should not disturb environmental balance and must follow sustainable practices. The organisation reiterated that protection of natural heritage sites is the responsibility of member states.

 

4. Panama Canal Sees Surge in LNG Traffic Amid War: The Panama Canal is operating at full capacity, handling between 36 and 38 vessels daily, as global shipping patterns shift בעקבות the ongoing West Asia conflict. The closure of key maritime routes and rising energy demand have positioned the canal as a critical alternative for global trade, particularly for liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments. The ongoing conflict involving Iran has disrupted major global shipping routes, notably the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal. With the Strait of Hormuz closed and vessels avoiding the Suez route, shipping companies are increasingly rerouting through the Panama Canal. This has led to a surge in demand, especially from LNG carriers transporting energy supplies from the United States to global markets.

 

5. Philippines Declares Energy Emergency Amid West Asia Crisis: The Philippines has declared a national energy emergency in response to escalating tensions in West Asia, citing an “imminent danger” to its fuel supply. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the decision as global oil markets face volatility and supply disruptions triggered by the ongoing conflict, raising concerns over energy security and economic stability. Under the emergency order, the government has initiated coordinated measures to secure fuel supply and maintain distribution networks. A special committee has been established to oversee the transport and availability of essential commodities, including fuel, food, medicines and agricultural goods. The government has also been authorised to procure petroleum products in advance and build strategic reserves to cushion against potential disruptions.

 

6. QS World University Rankings 2026: India’s Rising Global Competitiveness Explained: The remarkable feat achieved by the India in the QS World University Rankings 2026. While doubling its top 50 entries from 12 in 2024 to 27 in 2026. It was released by QS Quacquarelli Symonds and this rankings highlight India’s growing academic strength. As India’s leading surge institutions are premier institutions like IITs and IIM Ahmedabad with the strong performances across fields like engineering, management, and emerging disciplines. India’s rise in QS rankings is mainly driven by the multiple structural improvements .First there has been the significant push toward research and innovation especially in STEM fields. Secondly institutions are building the global partnerships and collaborations and enhancing visibility. QS CEO Jessica Turner noted that India’s progress reflects not just scale but ‘momentum in quality and competitiveness.’

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Operation Urja Suraksha Explained: India’s Naval Mission for Energy Security: As the tensions are rising in West Asia India has launched Operation Urja Suraksha. Under which it has deployed multiple naval warships to safeguard cargo vessels near the Strait of Hormuz. The Indian Navy is actively escorting the India-bound ships which are carrying critical energy supplies such as crude oil, LPG and LNG. As with nearly 20 vessels stuck due to conflict-related risks and this mission showcase the India’s urgent efforts to protect its energy security. Operation Urja Suraksha is the strategic naval mission launched by the Indian Navy. This to ensure the safe movement of cargo ships in conflict affected areas.Under this operation more than five frontline warships which are including destroyers and frigates have been deployed in the Gulf of Oman.Their primary task is to escort those vessels who are coming to India after they exit the Strait of Hormuz which is currently a high-risk zone.The mission operates through multiple layered security system where naval ships will guide cargo vessels along safe routes towards the Arabian Sea.With this it will ensuring minimal risk from threats such as mines or attacks.

 

SPORTS

 

1. National Indoor Athletics Championships Begin in Bhubaneswar: The inaugural National Indoor Athletics Championships has commenced at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant milestone for track and field sports in India. The two-day event aims to strengthen the country’s indoor athletics ecosystem and provide athletes with early-season competitive exposure. The championships have attracted 278 entries, including 97 women participants, reflecting growing interest in indoor athletics. Competitions are being held across senior and under-20 categories, offering a platform for both emerging and experienced athletes to showcase their talent.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Helium Supply Concerns Loom Over India’s Semiconductor Sector: India’s semiconductor and electronics industry is facing potential disruption following Iran’s reported attack on Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG hub on 19 March. The incident has raised concerns over helium availability, a critical byproduct of liquefied natural gas essential for semiconductor manufacturing. The development comes at a crucial time when India is expanding its ambitions to become a global hub for electronics and chip production. Helium plays a vital and largely non-substitutable role in semiconductor fabrication, including cooling systems, testing environments, and high-precision manufacturing processes. Industry leaders have indicated that while there is no immediate halt in production, the situation is becoming a strategic concern. Companies are shifting towards precautionary planning to mitigate potential risks in supply chains.

 

2. Sperm Whale Headbutting Behaviour Captured by Drones: Sperm whales have been recorded headbutting each other for the first time, confirming long-standing accounts from 19th century whaling narratives. Researchers from the University of St Andrews documented this behaviour using drone technology during field studies conducted between 2020 and 2022 in the Azores and Balearic Islands. The findings, published in the journal “Marine Mammal Science”, provide new insights into whale social interactions and behaviour. The study relied on aerial drone footage to observe near-surface interactions among sperm whales. This approach allowed researchers to capture behaviours that are difficult to detect from boats. The footage not only recorded headbutting incidents but also provided valuable context regarding group dynamics and social interactions. The use of drones is increasingly transforming marine biology by enabling precise and non-intrusive observation.

 

3. Gujarat Digitises Key Citizen Services Under Sugam Initiative: The Gujarat government has digitised around 20 high-demand public services as part of administrative reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and accessibility. Acting on recommendations of the Gujarat Administrative Reforms Committee (GARC), the move marks a significant step towards end-to-end digital governance, with a focus on seamless citizen-government interaction. In the first phase, services across five major departments—Social Justice and Empowerment, Revenue, Legal, Food and Civil Supplies, and Tribal Development—have been brought online. These include issuance of caste, income, non-creamy layer and Economically Weaker Section (EWS) certificates. Additionally, ration card services such as addition or deletion of members, corrections, and issuance of duplicate cards are now digitised. Revenue department documents and ready affidavits from the Legal department are also included.

 

4. Akasha300 3D Printer Boosts India’s Space Manufacturing: India has strengthened its push towards technological self-reliance with the successful deployment of the Akasha300, an advanced high-temperature multi-material 3D printer. The system has been delivered to the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Valiyamala, marking a significant step in enhancing indigenous capabilities in additive manufacturing for space and industrial applications. The Akasha300 is a high-performance multi-material extrusion 3D printer designed for complex engineering applications. It features dual-extrusion technology capable of operating at temperatures up to 350°C, with planned upgrades extending to 500°C. Its modular design allows integration of multiple extruders, enabling hybrid additive manufacturing techniques and greater flexibility in material usage.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. India Extends Inflation Targeting Framework Until March 2031: RBI Guidelines Explained: The Government of India has directed the Reserve Bank of India to continue pre decided retail inflation target at 4% (+ or -) till March 2031 and reaffirming its commitment to price stability. With this it marks the second extension of India’s inflation targeting framework since its introduction in 2016. The move looks like a continuity in monetary policy when the global uncertainty all around. As per this number of inflation currently at 3.21% (February 2026) and the framework aims to balance economic growth while keeping prices under control. It ensures that inflation neither rises too high or nor falls too low. It provides the clear indication for monetary policy and will helping businesses and consumers to plan for future.

The framework was first introduced in 2016 and after introduction it marking a major shift in India’s economic policy towards transparency and accountability.

 

2. Which Country is the Largest Consumer of Fish in the World?: Did you know that fish is one of the most widely eaten foods across the world? From coastal regions to inland areas, millions of people include fish in their daily meals because it is both tasty and healthy.Fish is rich in protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients, making it an important part of a balanced diet. Many cultures have traditional dishes based on fish, showing how deeply it is connected to different lifestyles.

In some countries, fish is more than just food—it is a way of life. Fishing supports the economy, provides jobs, and plays a major role in local traditions and festivals.Global consumption of fish has increased over the years due to growing awareness of its health benefits and rising demand for seafood. Both fresh and processed fish are now easily available in markets around the world.

Understanding which country consumes the most fish helps us learn about food habits, culture, and the importance of natural resources in different parts of the world.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Kalpana Soren Honoured with Women Empowerment Award: Kalpana Soren, Gandey MLA and wife of Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, has been conferred the ‘Women Empowerment Trailblazers Award’ at the BRICS CCI WE Annual Women Summit and Felicitation 2026 held in New Delhi. The award recognises her contributions towards promoting women’s empowerment and inclusive development. The honour was presented by the Women Empowerment Vertical of the BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry during the summit at Hyatt Regency. The award acknowledges leaders who have significantly contributed to advancing gender equality and strengthening the role of women in socio-economic development.

 

2. Karnataka Grameena Bank Wins National SHG Linkage Award: Karnataka Grameena Bank has been honoured with the National Award for Outstanding Performance in Self-Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage for 2024–25 by the Union Ministry of Rural Development. The recognition highlights the bank’s significant contribution to rural economic empowerment and financial inclusion, particularly through strengthening SHG-based credit systems. The award was presented at the National Conference on Financial Literacy and Capacity Building, alongside the 25th Central Level Coordination Committee meeting held in Hyderabad. The honour reflects the bank’s sustained efforts in promoting inclusive banking and empowering rural communities through structured financial support mechanisms.