Daily GK Update- 20th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Government Expands ALMM Framework to Solar Ingots & Wafers to Boost Domestic Manufacturing: The government has expanded the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) framework by introducing ALMM List-III for solar ingots and wafers, effective from 1 June 2028.From this date, all solar projects (including net metering and open access) must use ALMM-listed wafers, making compliance mandatory.The move aims to boost domestic manufacturing, reduce import dependence, strengthen supply chains, and ensure high quality standards in the solar sector.The policy includes mandatory use in new bids, requires minimum domestic capacity (15 GW) with integrated production, and protects ongoing projects through grandfathering provisions.

 

2. Odisha’s Kusunpur Becomes State’s First ‘Smart Village’ Under CSIR Initiative: Kusunpur village in Odisha’s Kendrapada district has been selected as the state’s first “Smart Village” under the CSIR initiative.The project, launched on March 16, aims at technology-driven rural transformation under the vision of “Viksit Bharat @2047”.CSIR has identified six villages nationwide as “live laboratories” to implement innovations through a “Lab to Land” approach in areas like agriculture, infrastructure, and rural development.

 

3. Tata Steel Approves Merger with NINL and $2 Billion Investment in Singapore Arm: Tata Steel has approved the merger of Neelachal Ispat Nigam Ltd (NINL), its wholly-owned subsidiary, with itself.Tata Steel had earlier acquired NINL in July 2022 for around ₹12,100 crore.The company has also approved an investment of up to $2 billion (₹18,488 crore) in its Singapore-based arm T Steel Holdings Pte Ltd (TSHP).

 

4. Atanu Chakraborty Resigns; Keki Mistry Appointed Interim Chairman of HDFC Bank: Atanu Chakraborty has resigned as part-time chairman and independent director of HDFC Bank with immediate effect.Keki Mistry has been appointed as interim part-time chairman for 3 months from March 19, 2026, with approval from the Reserve Bank of India.

 

5. NMDC Limited Becomes First Indian Mining Company to Produce 50 MT Iron Ore in a Year: National Mineral Development Corporation Limited (NMDC), India’s largest iron ore producer, became the first mining company in the country to produce 50 million tonnes (MT) of iron ore in a single financial year (2025–26).Established in 1958, NMDC’s production has grown from about 10 MT in 1978 to 50 MT, reflecting significant long-term expansion.Since 2015, production has increased sharply from around 30 MT to 50 MT, highlighting NMDC’s key role in strengthening India’s iron ore supply chain.

 

6. India Notifies New Rules to Strengthen Toll Compliance: The Government of India has notified amendments to the National Highways Fee Rules, 2026 to enhance toll compliance and improve transparency in toll collection systems. The National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) (Second Amendment) Rules, 2026 introduce a structured and technology-driven framework to address unpaid user fees and streamline enforcement across National Highways. The amended rules focus on strengthening digital enforcement of toll collection by introducing a systematic recovery mechanism for unpaid toll charges. This step aims to reduce revenue leakage and ensure efficient realisation of user fees, thereby improving the financial sustainability of highway infrastructure projects.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 14 March – International Day of Mathematics: The International Day of Mathematics is celebrated every year on March 14, also known as Pi (π) Day.It was proclaimed by UNESCO in 2019 to promote the importance of mathematics in education and daily life. Theme 2026 – Mathematics and Hope The day highlights the role of mathematics in science, technology, innovation, and sustainable development, encouraging global participation through activities and awareness programs.

 

2. 20 March – International Day of Happiness: The International Day of Happiness is celebrated every year on March 20 to promote happiness and well-being as universal human goals.It was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2012, recognizing the importance of happiness in public policy and development.

 

3. 20 March – World Sparrow Day: World Sparrow Day is celebrated every year on March 20 to raise awareness about the conservation of sparrows.The day was initiated by the Nature Forever Society in 2010 to protect declining sparrow populations.It highlights the impact of urbanization, pollution, and habitat loss on sparrows and promotes efforts for their protection and conservation.

 

4. India Launches RELIEF Scheme to Support Exporters: Amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia and disruptions in maritime logistics, the Government of India has approved a targeted intervention named RELIEF (Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation) under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM). The move aims to support exporters affected by escalating freight costs, higher insurance premiums and operational uncertainties linked to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Gulf region. Recent security concerns in the Gulf have led to vessel diversions, longer shipping routes, congestion at transshipment hubs and additional war-related surcharges. These developments have significantly increased logistics costs and created uncertainty for Indian export consignments moving to or through West Asia, a key trade corridor.

 

5. India Vietnam Boost Tribal Development Cooperation Ties: India and Vietnam have strengthened bilateral cooperation in tribal and ethnic development following a high-level ministerial meeting held in New Delhi on 20 March 2026. The meeting marked an important step in elevating engagement between the two countries, building on earlier official-level discussions and reinforcing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The meeting was co-chaired by Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram and Vietnam’s Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung. It followed earlier deliberations between senior officials from both sides, where policy frameworks, development strategies, and best practices concerning tribal and ethnic communities were discussed. The ministerial dialogue aimed to institutionalise cooperation and expand collaboration at the leadership level.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy Participates in U.S.-Led ‘Sea Dragon 2026’ ASW Exercise in Guam: India is participating in the U.-led multinational anti-submarine warfare exercise ‘Sea Dragon 2026’, being held near Guam in March 2026.The exercise involves countries like Australia, Japan, and New Zealand, aiming to enhance coordination and combat readiness in undersea warfare.The Indian Navy is participating alongside the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), which has deployed a P-8A Poseidon aircraft and around 50 personnel.

 

2. Sagar Defence Lays Foundation of World’s First Autonomous Shipbuilding Centre in  Nellore: Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt. Ltd. has laid the foundation of the world’s first Autonomous Maritime Shipbuilding and Systems Centre in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh.The centre will operate as an advanced shipyard using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics for modern shipbuilding processes.It aims to enhance efficiency, productivity, and sustainability in the maritime and defence manufacturing sector.

 

3. Exercise Amogh Jwala Showcases Indian Army Combat Readiness: The Indian Army’s Southern Command recently conducted Exercise Amogh Jwala at the Babina Field Firing Ranges, highlighting advanced mechanised warfare capabilities. The high-intensity drill demonstrated India’s growing military preparedness through integrated, multi-domain operations involving land, air and technological assets. The exercise showcased coordinated operations using attack helicopters, fighter aircraft, drones and counter-drone systems. It emphasised the concept of multi-domain warfare, where forces operate simultaneously across land, air, cyber and space domains. Such integration is increasingly vital in modern conflict scenarios characterised by rapid technological advancements.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Chandrika Pujari Wins Gold as India Secures Five Medals at World Boxing Futures Cup: India secured a total of five medals (1 gold, 3 silver, 1 bronze) at the World Boxing Futures Cup.

Chandrika Pujari won the gold medal in the women’s 51 kg category, defeating Uzbekistan’s Mardonova Nazokat by a unanimous decision.Other medal winners included Gunjan (48 kg), Joyshree Devi (54 kg), and L. Ambekar Meetei (50 kg) with silver medals, while Radhamani Longjam (57 kg) secured a bronze medal.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Ladakh Magmatic Arc Reveals Tectonic Evolution: Scientists have decoded the evolution of the Ladakh Magmatic Arc (LMA) in the north-western Himalaya, uncovering a geological record spanning nearly 130 million years. This arc provides crucial evidence of the long-term interaction between the Indian and Eurasian plates, including subduction, magmatic development and eventual continental collision. The findings shed light on processes that predate the rise of the Himalaya, when the present-day Ladakh region lay above the ancient Neo-Tethys Ocean. Before the Himalayan uplift, Ladakh existed above the Neo-Tethys Ocean, where oceanic crust was being forced beneath the Eurasian margin in a process called subduction. This led to the formation of the Ladakh Magmatic Arc, a belt of igneous rocks developed between the Jurassic and Eocene periods, roughly 201 to 34 million years ago. The arc represents a classic subduction-related volcanic system that recorded continuous tectonic activity beneath the ocean.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Banks Write Off ₹9.75 Lakh Crore Loans in 11 Years: Banks have written off ₹75 lakh crore worth of loans over the last 11 financial years, as stated by MoS Finance Pankaj Chaudhary.Loan write-offs peaked at ₹1.59 lakh crore in FY20 and have gradually declined to ₹47,568 crore in FY25.Write-offs showed a rising trend from ₹31,723 crore (FY15) to over ₹1 lakh crore in FY19, indicating increasing NPAs during that period.Banks have written off Rs 31,723 crore in FY15, Rs 40,416 crore in FY16, Rs 68,308 crore in FY 17, and Rs 99,132 crore in FY18.

 

2. World Bank Approves $300 Million Loan for Clean Air Programme in Uttar Pradesh: The World Bank has approved a loan of about USD 300 million for Uttar Pradesh to improve air quality through a clean air programme.The Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Management Program aims to reduce pollution across sectors like transport, agriculture, and industry, while promoting environmental sustainability and employment generation.The initiative focuses on measures such as the adoption of electric vehicles, industrial emission monitoring, and clean technologies to achieve sustainable growth and reduced pollution.

 

3. DCM Shriram Secures $90 Million Investment from IFC for Sustainable Growth: DCM Shriram has secured $90 million funding from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) through sustainability-linked non-convertible debentures (NCDs).The funds will be used to expand its chemicals business and support agriculture-related capital expenditure, promoting sustainable growth.The investment reflects IFC’s focus on sustainable industrial development in India, linking financing to environmental and performance targets.

 

Daily GK Update- 19th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ministry of Education and IIT Kanpur Launch Free SATHEE App for Competitive Exam Preparation: The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, launched the SATHEE (Self-Assessment Test and Help for Entrance Exams) app, a free digital learning platform to help students prepare for major competitive exams.The app provides high-quality study resources, including video lectures, mock tests, study material, and previous years’ question papers for exams like JEE, NEET, SSC, IBPS, and CUET.Designed with a simple interface, SATHEE ensures that students from rural areas and those who cannot afford expensive coaching can access competitive exam preparation easily.

 

2. Arpita Patra Becomes Second Indian Woman to Summit Nevado Ojos del Salado: Arpita Patra Becomes Second Indian Woman to Summit Nevado Ojos del Salado, World’s Highest Volcanic PeakArpita Patra, a professor at the Indian Institute of Science, became the second Indian woman to summit Nevado Ojos del Salado, the world’s highest volcanic peak (6,893 m).She achieved this feat on March 6, marking a significant milestone in Indian mountaineering.

Earlier, she had climbed the highest volcanic peaks of four continents, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Elbrus, Mount Giluwe, and Pico de Orizaba.

 

3. Andhra Pradesh Launches ‘Divyang Shakti’ Scheme for Free Bus Travel to Differently Abled Persons: The Andhra Pradesh government has launched a free bus travel scheme for differently abled persons under the Divyang Shakti scheme.The scheme was inaugurated by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu in Amaravati.Persons with 40% or more disability will be eligible for free travel in APSRTC buses, including express services.

 

4. Chhattisgarh Launches Gaudham Yojana to Protect Stray Cattle: Chhattisgarh CM, Vishnu Deo Sai, has launched the Gaudham Yojana in Bilaspur to manage and protect stray cattle.The scheme aims to establish 1,460 cattle shelters (Gaudhams) across Chhattisgarh.In the first phase, 29 Gaudhams in 11 districts were virtually inaugurated and named “Surabhi Gaudham.”

 

5. March 18 Observed as Ordnance Factories Day in India: Ordnance Factories Day is observed annually on March 18 in India to commemorate the establishment of the first Ordnance Factory in Cossipore, Kolkata, in 1801.The day highlights the role of Ordnance Factories in strengthening India’s defence manufacturing and supplying arms, ammunition, and military equipment to the armed forces.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Omar Abdullah Inaugurates Asia’s Largest Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden: Omar Abdullah inaugurated the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, marking the start of the spring tourism season in the Valley.The garden, Asia’s largest tulip garden, features over 1.8 million tulips across 70–75 varieties, along with other spring flowers like hyacinths and daffodils.Spread over 74 acres near Dal Lake, the garden attracts thousands of tourists annually, with improved facilities and a Tulip Festival planned during peak bloom.

 

2. 22-Year-Old Indian Americans Become World’s Youngest Self-Made Billionaires: Three 22-year-old Indian Americans — Brendan Foody, Adarsh Hiremath, and Surya Midha — became the world’s youngest self-made billionaires by co-founding San Francisco-based AI hiring platform Mercor.Mercor raised $350 million in Series C funding, valuing the startup at $10 billion, surpassing Mark Zuckerberg’s record of becoming a billionaire at 23.Each founder holds over $2 billion in net worth and are Thiel Fellowship recipients, with Foody as CEO, Hiremath as CTO, and Midha as Board Chair.

 

3. Cabinet Approves ₹2584 Crore Small Hydro Scheme: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme for the period FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31. With an outlay of ₹2,584.60 crore, the scheme aims to develop approximately 1,500 MW of small hydro capacity across the country. It focuses on decentralised renewable energy generation, particularly in hilly and remote regions. The scheme supports small hydro projects with capacities ranging from 1 MW to 25 MW. It is designed to tap the untapped hydro potential in difficult terrains, especially in Himalayan and North Eastern regions. Out of the total outlay, ₹2,532 crore has been allocated for project implementation, while ₹30 crore is earmarked for preparing detailed project reports (DPRs) to build a future pipeline.

 

4. Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 Begins in New Delhi: The Bharat Electricity Summit 2026, a major global conference-cum-exhibition for the power sector, is being held from 19 to 22 March 2026 at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi. The event is expected to attract over 25,000 visitors, with participation from more than 80 countries, making it one of the largest global platforms focused on electricity and clean energy. The summit will host over 100 high-level sessions, more than 300 speakers and over 500 exhibitors, including 100 startups. It will see participation from international energy ministers, Indian Union and state ministers, policymakers, industry leaders and global investors. The wide international presence reflects India’s growing importance in the global energy transition.

 

5. India Launches RELIEF Scheme to Support Exporters: Amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia and disruptions in maritime logistics, the Government of India has approved a targeted intervention named RELIEF (Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation) under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM). The move aims to support exporters affected by escalating freight costs, higher insurance premiums and operational uncertainties linked to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Gulf region. Recent security concerns in the Gulf have led to vessel diversions, longer shipping routes, congestion at transshipment hubs and additional war-related surcharges. These developments have significantly increased logistics costs and created uncertainty for Indian export consignments moving to or through West Asia, a key trade corridor.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Jag Laadki Tanker Reaches Mundra Amid West Asia Tensions: An Indian-flagged crude oil tanker, Jag Laadki, has successfully docked at Mundra Port in Gujarat, strengthening India’s energy supply amid rising tensions in West Asia. The vessel carried around 80,886 metric tonnes of crude oil sourced from the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the resilience of India’s maritime logistics and energy import network. Jag Laadki is a large crude carrier measuring 274.19 metres in length with a beam of 50.04 metres. It has a deadweight tonnage of approximately 164,716 tonnes and a gross tonnage of about 84,735 tonnes. The crude oil cargo was loaded at Fujairah Port, a major global oil storage and export hub in the UAE, and transported safely to India.

 

2. Indian Navy Launches IOS SAGAR Initiative 2026: The Indian Navy has commenced the second edition of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative from 16 March 2026, reinforcing India’s commitment to maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. The initiative follows India’s recent assumption of chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) and involves participation from 16 member nations, highlighting growing regional engagement. The IOS SAGAR initiative is aligned with India’s broader vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). It also supports the expanded MAHASAGAR framework, which focuses on mutual and holistic advancement in maritime security. The programme is designed as an operational engagement platform to strengthen naval cooperation and regional stability.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India Tops Medal Table with 208 Medals at World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2026, New Delhi: India topped the medal table at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2026 in New Delhi, winning a total of 208 medals — 75 gold, 69 silver, and 64 bronze.Russia finished second with 35 medals, while Bosnia and Herzegovina placed third with three medals. The event featured 257 athletes from eight countries and served as the second stop of the 13th Grand Prix season, offering key classification opportunities ahead of the 2026 World Para Athletics Championships and 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Gujarat Achieves Space Milestone with First Sounding Rocket Launch at Dholera: Gujarat achieved a historic milestone in space research with the successful launch of its first sounding rocket at Dholera, reaching an altitude of approximately three kilometres.The single-stage sub-orbital rocket, developed by an Ahmedabad-based startup, carried a mini-satellite to collect essential weather data.The rocket’s carbon fiber airframe was developed under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, with the launch authorised by IN-SPACe and supported by the Gujarat Spacetech Policy 2025-2030.

 

2. India Tests Indigenous Floating LiDAR Buoy System: India has achieved a technological milestone with the successful testing of an indigenously developed Floating LiDAR Buoy System by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT). Conducted off the coast of Muttom in Tamil Nadu, the innovation marks a major step forward in ocean observation and atmospheric data collection, especially for offshore environments. The Floating LiDAR Buoy System is an advanced ocean-based instrument designed to measure wind conditions over the sea. It combines a floating buoy platform with LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. This system uses laser pulses to capture precise atmospheric data, including wind speed, direction, and variations at different altitudes above the ocean surface.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Imposes ₹2.7 Lakh Penalty on Manappuram Finance for KMP Pay Rule Violation: Reserve Bank of India imposed a penalty of ₹2.7 lakh on Manappuram Finance for violating guidelines related to compensation of Key Managerial Personnel (KMP).The violation involved paying full variable pay upfront without deferral, identified during RBI’s inspection based on the company’s financial position as of March 31, 2025.

 

2. NPCI International Payments Limited Expands UPI Acceptance in Sri Lanka via LankaQR Codes: NPCI International Payments Limited plans to expand UPI merchant acceptance in Sri Lanka, allowing payments via LankaQR codes.The initiative aims to enhance cross-border payment convenience for Indian tourists and support Sri Lanka’s growing digital economy.UPI, developed by the National Payments Corporation of India, enables real-time, secure, account-to-account transactions through mobile apps.

 

3. Jio Payments Bank Launches UPI-Based Cardless Cash Withdrawal Facility to Boost Financial Inclusion: Jio Payments Bank has introduced UPI-based cash withdrawal at business correspondent (BC) touchpoints to strengthen the digital payments ecosystem.The feature allows customers, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, to withdraw cash by scanning a UPI QR code without using debit cards or ATMs.This initiative promotes financial inclusion by bridging the gap between digital payments and cash access, offering a secure and assisted experience for first-time UPI users.

 

4. RBI Wins ‘Initiative of the Year’ Award for Launching “.bank.in” Domain to Boost Digital Banking Security: Reserve Bank of India received the “Initiative of the Year” award from Central Banking for launching the “.bank.in” domain to enhance digital banking security in India.The initiative was implemented in coordination with multiple stakeholders, including the Government of India, National Internet Exchange of India, Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology, and various banks.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. “One Battle After Another” Dominates Oscars 2026 with Six Awards; Michael B. Jordan Wins Best Actor: The 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026) were held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, USA, celebrating the best films of 2025.The ceremony was hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien.One Battle After Another emerged as the biggest winner, securing six awards, while Michael B. Jordan won his first Best Actor Oscar for Sinners.Presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), the Oscars remain the most prestigious film awards globally, first held in 1929.

 

2. William Dalrymple Wins Mark Lynton History Prize 2026: Historian William Dalrymple has been awarded the prestigious Mark Lynton History Prize 2026 for his book “The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World”. The award recognises outstanding historical writing that combines scholarly depth with literary excellence. Dalrymple’s work was praised for its blend of rigorous research, engaging narrative and strong social relevance. The Mark Lynton History Prize is an annual award carrying a cash prize of $10,000. It honours a history book that demonstrates both intellectual distinction and clarity of expression. The prize is part of the J. Anthony Lukas Book Prize Project, jointly administered by the Nieman Foundation for Journalism and the Columbia University School of Journalism. It is named after Mark Lynton, a noted author and advocate of historical writing.

 

Daily GK Update- 18th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

Safdarjung Hospital Launches India’s First Online Critical Care Follow-Up Clinic for ICU Patients: Safdarjung Hospital will launch India’s first online critical care follow-up clinic for ICU-discharged patients to receive medical guidance from home.The service will be available through the e-Sanjivani OPD portal every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 AM to 11 AM.Patients and their families can log in online to consult doctors, ensuring continuous post-ICU care and better recovery monitoring.

 

Department of Posts Launches ‘24 Speed Post’ with Next-Day Guaranteed Delivery in Six Major Cities: Department of Posts has launched the ‘24 Speed Post’, offering next-day (D+1) guaranteed delivery for urgent consignments, inaugurated by Jyotiraditya M. Scindia.In the first phase, the service will be available in six major cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, enhancing fast logistics in metro regions.The service includes OTP-based secure delivery, real-time tracking with SMS alerts, free pickup, BNPL facility, and money-back guarantee, strengthening premium services of India Post.

 

PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Fully Automated Haldia Bulk Terminal at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port: PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Haldia Bulk Terminal, a fully automated dry bulk handling facility at the Haldia Dock Complex.The terminal is part of Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port and is India’s first fully automated dry bulk cargo handling facility on the Hooghly River.It has been developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited, boosting efficiency in cargo operations and maritime infrastructure.

 

PM Modi Virtually Inaugurates 120 MW Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project in Assam: Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the 120 MW Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project in Assam, located in Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong districts.The project is a run-of-river hydropower project built in the Kopili River basin, enhancing clean energy generation.It has been developed by Assam Power Generation Corporation Limited with financial support from the Asian Development Bank under the Assam Power Sector Investment Program.

 

Himachal Pradesh Govt Signs MoU with National Dairy Development Board to Boost Dairy Sector and Milk Processing Capacity: The Government of Himachal Pradesh signed an MoU with the National Dairy Development Board to strengthen the dairy sector and boost milk processing capacity.The agreement, led by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, aims to introduce world-class technology and improve dairy infrastructure, including bio-products.The initiative will support the Dagwar dairy project, enhance computerised quality control, and generate employment opportunities for farmers.

 

Govt Appoints Kompella Venkata Ramana Murty as Whole-Time Member of SEBI: The Government has appointed Kompella Venkata Ramana Murty as Whole-Time Member (WTM) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India for a three-year term.A 1991-batch IDAS officer, Murty previously served as Additional Controller General of Defence Accounts and had also been a part-time member of SEBI representing the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.The SEBI board, headed by Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey, consists of a chairman, four whole-time members, and four part-time members.

 

16 March – National Vaccination Day: National Vaccination Day, also called National Immunisation Day, is observed every year on March 16 in India to promote the importance of immunisation and vaccines for preventing diseases.The day commemorates the first oral polio vaccine dose administered in 1995 and aims to raise awareness about vaccination against vaccine-preventable diseases like polio, tuberculosis, measles, mumps, and rubella.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

15 March -World Consumer Rights Day: World Consumer Rights Day is observed every year on March 15 to raise awareness about consumer rights and promote fair practices in the marketplace.Theme 2026 – Safe Products, Confident ConsumersThe day highlights issues such as consumer protection, product safety, digital rights, and ethical business practices globally.

 

Force Majeure Invoked Amid Strait of Hormuz Disruptions: Several Gulf energy producers have recently declared force majeure on oil and gas shipments following disruptions in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. This development has significant implications for global energy supply chains, highlighting the importance of contractual safeguards in times of unforeseen crises. Force majeure refers to extraordinary events that prevent parties from fulfilling contractual obligations. The term originates from French, meaning “superior force.” It is closely linked to the concept of an “act of God,” denoting events beyond human control for which no party can be held responsible. Such provisions are commonly included in contracts to address unforeseen contingencies.

 

Göbekli Tepe Mystery Challenges Origins of Civilisation: Göbekli Tepe, located in present-day Turkey, is regarded as the world’s oldest known temple complex, dating back to around 9600 BCE. Built nearly 12,000 years ago, the site predates agriculture, pottery and urban settlements. Its discovery has fundamentally reshaped understanding of early human civilisation, suggesting that organised religious activity may have preceded settled life. The site consists of massive circular structures made of large T-shaped limestone pillars, many weighing several tonnes. These pillars are intricately carved with depictions of animals such as foxes, lions and birds. Remarkably, the builders were hunter-gatherers, not settled agricultural communities, indicating a high level of social organisation and cooperation even in pre-agricultural societies.

 

Neanderthal ‘Factory’ Discovery Rewrites Human Evolution: Archaeologists have uncovered compelling evidence of a highly organised Neanderthal activity site dating back nearly 125,000 years in present-day Germany. The discovery at Neumark-Nord near Leipzig suggests that Neanderthals systematically processed animal bones for fat extraction, challenging long-standing assumptions about their cognitive and survival capabilities. Excavations at the lakeside site revealed thousands of animal bones broken in a consistent pattern. The bones were first cracked open to extract marrow and then further crushed and heated to obtain grease. This repeated method indicates a deliberate and systematic approach rather than random scavenging. Such behaviour reflects an advanced understanding of resource utilisation.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

India Eyes European Sixth-Gen Fighter Jet Collaboration: India is considering joining one of Europe’s major sixth-generation fighter aircraft programmes—Future Combat Air System (FCAS) or Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)—as part of its strategy to enhance future air combat capabilities. A Parliamentary panel has recommended evaluating such partnerships to accelerate access to advanced aerospace technologies while complementing domestic defence initiatives. FCAS is a collaborative project led by France, Germany and Spain, aimed at developing a networked combat ecosystem that integrates a next-generation fighter with drones and digital warfare systems. GCAP, led by the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan, focuses on building a stealth sixth-generation fighter expected to enter service by the mid-2030s. Both programmes represent cutting-edge advancements in air combat design and integration.

 

SPORTS

 

Uniqlo Appoints Jasprit Bumrah as Brand Ambassador for India: Uniqlo has appointed Jasprit Bumrah as its brand ambassador for India.Uniqlo is a subsidiary of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd. and is a leading global apparel retailer from Japan.

 

Sina Ruppenthal Sets Guinness Record for Strength Feat: German strongwoman Sina Ruppenthal has gained global attention after setting a remarkable Guinness World Record by lifting and throwing 10 men in just 37.44 seconds. The feat, performed during a television programme in Munich in August 2025, has recently gone viral, drawing widespread admiration for both her physical prowess and technical precision. The record was achieved on the show “Die große Show der Weltrekorde,” where Ruppenthal demonstrated extraordinary strength and efficiency. Each participant had to be lifted and thrown over her shoulder in a controlled and safe manner. Completing all 10 throws within 37.44 seconds required not only brute force but also precise coordination, endurance, and speed. The performance stood out for its seamless execution and consistency.

Kalinga Stadium Hosts National Para Athletics Championship: Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar is set to host the National Para Athletics Championship from 19 to 21 March 2026, bringing together top para-athletes from across India. The event, organised by the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) in collaboration with the Odisha government, highlights the growing prominence of para sports and aims to promote inclusivity and excellence in athletics. The championship will witness participation from 1,460 athletes representing 28 states, along with teams from the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB). A total of 145 medal events will be conducted over the three-day competition, making it one of the largest para athletics events in the country.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

Maharashtra Govt Signs MoU with Wadhwani AI to Boost AI-Driven Public Health Services: The Government of Maharashtra signed an MoU with Wadhwani AI to deploy AI technologies in public health programmes like tuberculosis control, maternal & child health, and primary healthcare.The agreement was signed under the guidance of Devendra Fadnavis to enhance diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and healthcare service delivery.The initiative aims to make public health services more technology-driven, efficient, and accessible across the state.

 

Progerinin Therapy Offers Hope for Rare Progeria Disorder: A recent agreement between Sentynl Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Zydus Lifesciences, and South Korea’s PRG S&T marks a significant step towards developing Progerinin, an oral drug aimed at treating Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS). This rare genetic disorder leads to accelerated ageing in children and remains one of the most severe paediatric conditions with no definitive cure so far. HGPS, commonly known as progeria, is an extremely rare genetic disease affecting approximately one in four million live births worldwide. Children with this condition appear normal at birth but begin to exhibit rapid ageing symptoms within the first two years. Despite severe physical deterioration, cognitive and motor development generally remain unaffected, making the disease particularly distressing.

 

Butis bargabhimae: New Estuarine Fish Discovered in Bengal: Scientists in West Bengal have identified a new species of estuarine fish named “Butis bargabhimae”, marking a notable addition to India’s aquatic biodiversity. The discovery was made in the Rupnarayan River near Tamluk, a region known for its rich ecological and cultural heritage. This finding highlights the importance of estuarine ecosystems as hotspots of unique and often unexplored species. The newly identified species was discovered in the Rupnarayan River, a tributary of the Hooghly River in West Bengal. Estuarine environments, where freshwater meets seawater, provide a dynamic habitat that supports diverse aquatic life. The identification of “Butis bargabhimae” underlines the ecological significance of such transitional zones in sustaining specialised species.

 

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

RBI Imposes ₹3.1 Lakh Penalty on Cashfree Payments India Private Ltd for Regulatory Violations: Reserve Bank of India imposed a ₹1 lakh penalty on Cashfree Payments India Private Ltd for non-compliance with regulatory directions.The penalty was due to an impermissible debit from an escrow account, as identified by the RBI.

 

India’s WPI Inflation Rises to 2.13% in February 2026: India’s Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation rose to 2.13% in February 2026, marking an 11-month high.It recorded the fourth consecutive monthly increase, rising from 1.81% in January 2026.WPI data is released by the Office of the Economic Adviser under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

Naman Awards 2026: BCCI to honour Rahul Dravid, Mithali Raj, Roger Binny with Lifetime Achievement Awards: The Board of Control for Cricket in India hosted the Naman Awards 2026 in New Delhi to honour excellence across international, domestic, and age-group cricket.

Roger Binny and Rahul Dravid received the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honour of the BCCI.Mithali Raj was honoured with the BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award for Women for her outstanding contribution to women’s cricket.Shubman Gill and Smriti Mandhana received the Best International Cricketer (Men & Women) awards for the 2024–25 season.The awards also recognised top domestic performers like Ira Jadhav, Shafali Verma, Ayush Mhatre, and Harsh Dubey, along with the Mumbai Cricket Association for best performance.A major highlight was the felicitation of five ICC trophy-winning Indian teams, marking a historic celebration of India’s global cricketing success.