Daily GK Update- 6th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative Debuts in New Delhi: The inaugural Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (SDI) was held on 5 March 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi as part of the Raisina Dialogue. The initiative was jointly launched by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF). It brought together leading scientists, diplomats, innovators and policy experts from around the world to discuss the growing role of science diplomacy in addressing global challenges and technological transformations.Around 80 participants from international organisations, academia, research institutions and policy circles attended the closed-door discussions designed to encourage open exchange of ideas. The initiative was chaired by Principal Scientific Adviser Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood and co-chaired by Sir Peter Gluckman, President of the International Science Council, Prof. Marilyne Andersen, Director General of the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator, and Dr. Vijay Chauthaiwale of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Foreign Affairs Department.The opening remarks emphasised the increasing importance of science and technology in shaping national development strategies, economic competitiveness and global security priorities. Participants noted that science diplomacy has become a critical tool for fostering international cooperation while navigating geopolitical shifts.

 

2. Gujarat Launches herSTART 5.0 to Support Women Entrepreneurs: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the fifth edition of the her START programme for women entrepreneurs at Gujarat University in Ahmedabad. The event also marked the inauguration of a new research park aimed at strengthening the state’s innovation ecosystem. The programme, run by the Gujarat University Startup and Entrepreneurship Council, focuses on supporting women-led startups through incubation, mentorship and market access.During the event, the Chief Minister also announced that the university’s convention centre would be named Vidyagauri Nilkanth Sabhapuram in honour of Vidyagauri Nilkanth, widely regarded as the first Gujarati woman graduate. The initiative reflects the state government’s emphasis on promoting women’s participation in entrepreneurship and innovation.The her START programme has been designed to encourage women entrepreneurs by providing institutional support, networking opportunities and guidance for business development. Through structured incubation and mentorship programmes, women-led startups receive assistance in developing business models, securing investment and expanding market access.The fifth edition of herSTART aims to further strengthen the participation of women in the startup ecosystem. The programme launch formed part of a broader set of initiatives described by organisers as a “development triveni,” highlighting the integration of entrepreneurship, research and innovation at Gujarat University.

 

3. Chhattisgarh’s Korea District Leads Community Water Conservation Initiative: Korea district in Chhattisgarh has emerged as a notable example of community-led water conservation through the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative. The programme encourages farmers to voluntarily allocate a small portion of their land for groundwater recharge and sustainable water management. Implemented under the Aawa Paani Jhoki movement, the initiative promotes participatory water conservation practices aimed at improving long-term water security in rural areas.The programme encourages farmers to dedicate five per cent of their agricultural land to build small recharge ponds and terraced pits. These structures capture rainwater during the monsoon season and allow it to gradually seep into the ground, helping replenish local groundwater reserves.The initiative focuses on decentralised water conservation directly within agricultural fields. Farmers construct small recharge structures such as ponds and pits that collect rainwater, preventing runoff and increasing groundwater infiltration. This approach has helped retain water that would otherwise flow away during heavy monsoon rainfall. The stored water gradually infiltrates the soil, improving soil moisture levels and reducing soil erosion. The method also supports sustainable farming by ensuring better water availability during dry periods.

 

4. Vinai Kumar Saxena Appointed New Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh: A major administrative reshuffle has taken place in India’s Union Territories as Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta resigned from his position after serving less than a year in office. Vinai Kumar Saxena, currently serving as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, has been appointed as the new Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh. Meanwhile, Kavinder Gupta has been reassigned as the Governor of Himachal Pradesh. The changes come amid a broader series of gubernatorial appointments across several states and Union Territories. Kavinder Gupta had assumed office as the third Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh in July 2025. His tenure followed that of Brigadier BD Mishra, who had taken charge in February 2024. Mishra himself succeeded RK Mathur, the first Lieutenant Governor appointed after the reorganisation of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.

Ladakh became a Union Territory without a legislative assembly after the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 came into force. Since then, the region has been administered by a Lieutenant Governor appointed by the President of India.

 

5. RN Ravi Appointed West Bengal Governor Ahead of Assembly Elections: Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi has been appointed as the new Governor of West Bengal following the sudden resignation of CV Ananda Bose. The change comes just months before the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, drawing political attention across the country. Bose had served as the Governor of West Bengal since 2022, and his unexpected resignation has triggered debate over the timing of the leadership change. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee confirmed the appointment of Ravi and criticised the Union government for not consulting the state government before the decision. Ravindra Narayan Ravi is a retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the 1976 batch of the Kerala cadre. He holds a postgraduate degree in Physics. During his long career in national security and intelligence, he served in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB). His work largely focused on internal security and strategic intelligence matters.In 2014, Ravi was appointed Chairman of the Joint Intelligence Committee under the Prime Minister’s Office, a key body responsible for analysing intelligence inputs for national security decision-making.

 

6. Jalna Celebrates 138th Hatti Risala Procession on Dhulivandan : The historic Hatti Risala procession in Jalna, Maharashtra, completed its 138th year with vibrant celebrations during Dhulivandan, the day following the Holi festival. The annual event drew large crowds as residents gathered along the city’s main streets to witness the traditional procession. Known for its cultural significance and festive spirit, the procession reflects the deep-rooted heritage of the region and continues to remain a major symbol of community participation and harmony. The highlight of the procession is a decorated elephant carrying symbolic representations of a king and his prime minister. As the procession moves through the city, sweets known as revdis are distributed among the crowd from atop the elephant. Participants dressed in traditional attire accompany the procession while rhythmic drum beats and the scattering of dry colours add to the festive atmosphere. The event creates a lively spectacle that blends tradition, celebration, and local customs.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Obesity Atlas 2026 Warns of Rising Childhood Obesity in India: Childhood obesity in India has reached alarming levels, according to the World Obesity Atlas 2026 released on March 4 to mark World Obesity Day. The report estimates that nearly 15 million children aged five to nine and over 26 million adolescents aged 10 to 19 in India were overweight or obese in 2025. The findings highlight a growing public health challenge and indicate that global efforts to curb childhood obesity are falling short of targets. The report, published by the World Obesity Federation, shows that more than 200 million school-age children worldwide aged five to 19 living with overweight or obesity are concentrated in just ten countries. India ranks second globally after China in the number of children with high Body Mass Index (BMI).China leads with around 62 million children with high BMI and 33 million living with obesity. India follows with about 41 million children with high BMI, including 14 million classified as obese. The United States ranks third, with approximately 27 million children with high BMI and 13 million with obesity.

 

2. Adani Group Partners UNESCO For World Engineering Day 2026: The Adani Group has been named an official partner for the World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development (WED) 2026. The international observance is recognised by UNESCO and delivered by the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO). This marks the first time an Indian organisation has been selected by WFEO as a partner for this global platform that celebrates the role of engineers in sustainable development. World Engineering Day highlights the critical role of engineering in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By partnering for the 2026 edition, the Adani Group will help showcase engineering innovations that support sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, and digital transformation. The recognition also signals the growing influence of Indian engineering capabilities on the global stage.

 

3. India Promotes Sustainable Tourism Vision at ITB Berlin 2026: Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasised India’s commitment to building globally competitive, sustainable, and community-focused tourism destinations under the Vision 2047 framework. Addressing the UN Tourism Minister’s Summit at ITB Berlin 2026, he outlined India’s strategy for responsible and inclusive tourism growth. The minister stated that the country’s tourism policy is guided by the principle of “Growth with Responsibility”, aligning economic expansion with environmental protection and cultural preservation. The government aims to transform India into a leading global tourism hub while ensuring sustainability and local participation. The minister highlighted that tourism development in India is not only focused on increasing visitor numbers but also on strengthening local economies and protecting heritage assets. The approach emphasises balanced development that integrates infrastructure expansion with conservation of cultural landmarks and fragile ecosystems.

 

4. India–Canada Strategic Reset: The Prime Minister of Canada's visit to India marked a reset in India–Canada relations after the 2023–24 diplomatic tensions. Major outcomes included restarting CEPA trade negotiations, a USD 2.6 billion uranium supply deal with Cameco, cooperation on critical minerals and clean energy, the launch of the first India–Canada Defence Dialogue, and initiatives in innovation, research internships, and food technology.India and Canada share strong economic and diaspora ties (1.8 million Indians in Canada) and aim to double trade to $50 billion by 2030. However, issues like Khalistani extremism, trade barriers, and visa delays remain challenges. Stronger security cooperation, early trade agreements, and Indo-Pacific collaboration can help rebuild trust and deepen the partnership.Defense and Security: The two nations announced the establishment of the first-ever India-Canada Defence Dialogue to foster strategic security discussions. Political and Diplomatic Ties: The India-Canada Parliament Friendship Group was established to enhance political networking. 

 

5. India's Export Surge: Overall Export Performance: India's total exports (goods and services combined) reached an estimated USD 720.76 billion between April 2025 and January 2026. This marks a growth of 6.15% compared to the same period the previous year, achieved despite global uncertainties.Export Diversification: India ranks among the top 5 globally for export product diversity and top 3 for trade partner diversity, helping it better withstand global demand fluctuations and supply chain disruptions.Export Promotion Mission (EPM): It was approved with a total outlay of Rs 25,060 crore for FY 2025-26 to FY 2030-31 to strengthen the export ecosystem, improve access to affordable trade finance, and enhance global market readiness. The scheme operates through two sub-schemes i.e., Niryat Protsahan and Niryat Disha. Key EPM Interventions for export boost include: Trading Partners and Trade Agreements: In the last 3 years, India signed 9 free trade agreements (FTAs) covering 38 countries, granting it zero-duty access to markets representing ~70% of global GDP. This strategy aims to diversify trade ties and reduce dependence on any single market.

 

6. World Obesity Atlas 2026 : The World Health Organization (WHO) defines Obesity as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that poses health risks, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or above classified as overweight and 30 or above as obese.Health Consequences (2025-2040): Cases of BMI-related hypertension are expected to increase from 2.99 million to 4.21 million, hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar) from 1.39 million to 1.91 million, high triglycerides from 4.39 million to 6.07 million, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) from 8.39 million to 11.88 million.Preventable Risk Factors: Key contributors include 74% of adolescents (11-17 years) failing to meet physical activity recommendations, only 35.5% receiving school meals, 32.6% of infants (1-5 months) experiencing sub-optimal breastfeeding, and children aged 6-10 consuming up to 50 ml of sugary drinks daily..Global Trends and Warnings: The world is set to miss the 2025 target to halve childhood obesity rise (now extended to 2030). Currently, 20.7% of children aged 5-19 worldwide are overweight/obese (up from 14.6% in 2010), with projections of 507 million affected children by 2040 and over 57 million showing early cardiovascular disease signs.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. US Torpedo Sinks Iranian Warship in Indian Ocean: A US submarine torpedoed and sank the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena about 40 nautical miles off Sri Lanka’s southern coast near Galle in the Indian Ocean, bringing the US-Israel-Iran Conflict closer to the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and marking the first US torpedo sinking of an enemy ship since World War II. India is a signatory to the SAR, 1979, ratified in 2001. In India, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) coordinates rescue operations in the Indian Search and Rescue Region (ISRR), with the Director General ICG serving as the National Maritime Search and Rescue Coordinating Authority (NMSARCA). The ICG also operates INDSAR, a voluntary ship reporting system that helps track vessels and respond quickly to maritime distress situations.About: A torpedo is a self-propelled underwater missile designed to destroy ships or submarines. Unlike naval mines, torpedoes actively travel through water, track targets, and detonate at the most destructive point, often beneath a ship’s hull.Working:  Modern torpedoes use electric batteries or thermal propulsion systems and can travel at speeds above 50 knots for distances exceeding 50 km. They use sophisticated guidance systems, onboard sensors, and computers to track targets and maintain optimal attack depth.

 

2. IAEA–Iran Dispute Over Alleged Natanz Strike: The UN nuclear watchdog International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) held an emergency meeting in Vienna at the request of Russia and Iran following the military engagement between the US-Israel bloc and Iran. IAEA’s Assessment: The IAEA stated there is no current indication of damage to Iran’s nuclear installations (including Bushehr and the Tehran research reactor) and confirmed that radiation levels in the region remain normal.Iran’s Contradictory Claim: Iran alleged that US and Israeli airstrikes targeted the Natanz uranium enrichment facility.The IAEA was established in 1957 within the United Nations system, following US President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s “Atoms for Peace” speech (1953) at the UN General Assembly. The IAEA Statute was approved by 81 countries in 1956, with India as a founding member.  As of December 2025, the agency has 181 member states.The organization operates as the world’s “Atoms for Peace” agency, tasked with promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy while preventing its diversion for military purposes. Headquartered in Vienna, Austria, IAEA functions as the global nuclear watchdog, conducting nuclear safeguards, inspections, and promoting nuclear safety and peaceful applications in energy, medicine, and agriculture.

 

3. ALH Mk-III and Shtil Missiles : The Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth Rs 5,083 crore to procure six Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk-III for the Indian Coast Guard from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, and Shtil Surface-to-Air Missile System along with missile holding frames for the Indian Navy from JSC Rosoboronexport, Russia. Acquisition of ALH Mk-III: This contract falls under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category.The ALH Mk-III are twin-engine vehicles that strengthen maritime security operations such as protection of offshore installations, fishermen, and the marine environment, while supporting Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat through participation of over 200 MSMEs and generating about 65 lakh man-hours of employment. Shtil Surface-to-Air Missile System: It is a ship-based medium-range air defence system designed to intercept aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, and anti-ship missiles targeting naval vessels. Developed by Russian defence industries, it is derived from the Buk Missile System family. The system uses a Vertical Launch System (VLS), enabling rapid, all-weather interception of multiple aerial threats and integration with naval radar and fire-control systems. For the Indian Navy, it strengthens layered maritime air defence and enhances the survivability of frontline warships in the Indian Ocean Region.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Flying Axar Patel, brainy Jasprit Bumrah take India to World Cup final: On a night when batsmen - Sanju Samson for India and Jacob Bethell for England- hit the high notes, it was a fielding effort that was the difference between the two teamsTwo acts of sporting greatness deflated England and revealed India’s desperation to win.The target of 254 to enter the T20 World Cup final demanded English captain Harry Brook do what he does. The flat pancake at Wankhede demanded Jasprit Bumrah do what he does. But Axar Patel ensured he didn’t have to do it alone – with an act of athleticism that will long be recalled, the kind that embeds itself straight into viral reels. Unbelievably, he would better it when the chase tightened with another breathtaking effort.On the night when batsmen from both teams repeatedly hit high notes, Axar delivered a match-winning performance with his hands, feet and eyes. Despite scoring 253, India won by just 7 runs.Before Flying Axar and Brainy Bumrah, it was Sanju Samson who set up the game with a 42-ball 89, an innings of grace, maturity, and inspiration. It still might not have been enough. Jacob Bethell conjured an impeccable knock – startlingly assured shot selections, purposeful targeting of bowlers, and a calmness that smoothed all that aggression. It needed repeated interventions by Axar and Bumrah to keep Bethell just out of reach of a dream finish.

 

2. Has Lakshya Sen turned the corner in dealing with lost leads? Li Shifeng quarters at All England, will tell: How Lakshya Sen goes from leading 17-11, 19-14 to losing the second set 21-23, is in the realms of speculation or snakes-and-ladder on a badminton court. That’s effectively a net 4-11 points from a very advantageous position straight into the ditch.But like a good doctor would tell you, they can’t keep the rains from raining down, they can only arm you with a sturdy umbrella. So what India’s shuttler-in-need-of-Sherlock and his massively varied coaching team have done is try to respond to these familiar lapses by staying solid in the third. NG Ka Long Angus must’ve expected Sen to crumble after one of his usual blunderings took the All England Round 2 into the decider. Because he had slumped at the Olympics (twice), and myriad other tournaments. But Sen played an absolutely laser-focussed third set, to win 21-19, 21-23, 21-10 and defeat the opponent from Hong Kong, aged 31, ranked 29 to reach quarterfinals.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. IISc Launches Brain Co-Processors Moonshot for Stroke Rehabilitation: The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, has launched an ambitious “moonshot” project to develop brain co-processors that integrate neuromorphic hardware with artificial intelligence algorithms to enhance or restore brain function. The initiative is supported by the Pratiksha Trust, founded by Infosys co-founder Kris Gopalakrishnan and Sudha Gopalakrishnan. A memorandum of understanding formalising the partnership was signed at IISc in the presence of senior institutional leaders and researchers.The project seeks to develop advanced neural technologies capable of decoding brain signals, processing them using AI systems and sending corrective signals back to the brain. Researchers believe the innovation could significantly improve cognitive rehabilitation, especially for stroke survivors who experience loss of motor functions.Brain co-processors are an emerging class of neurotechnology designed to augment or restore the brain’s natural functions. The IISc initiative aims to develop both implantable and non-invasive devices capable of recording neural activity, interpreting the signals through AI algorithms and delivering feedback through neural stimulation or neurofeedback.These systems will function as closed-loop devices that continuously interact with the brain. By analysing neural patterns and sending corrective signals, the technology may help patients regain lost abilities such as coordinated movement, goal-directed reaching and grasping.

 

2. IBM Launches Sangam Infrastructure Innovation Centre in India: echnology company IBM has launched its first Infrastructure Innovation Centre in India at its India Systems Development Lab (ISDL) campus. Named the Sangam Infrastructure Innovation Centre, the facility aims to strengthen India’s role as a hub for advanced infrastructure engineering and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. The centre is expected to support both Indian enterprises and global markets by accelerating the development of secure and scalable AI-driven systems.The new facility will operate as a collaborative engineering hub where IBM’s systems architects and infrastructure specialists work with industry partners to design next-generation technology solutions. It reflects the company’s long-term strategy to expand its research and development capabilities in India while supporting the growing demand for enterprise AI infrastructure.The Sangam Infrastructure Innovation Centre will bring together IBM engineers, enterprise clients, independent software vendors, global system integrators and global capability centres under a single collaborative environment. The objective is to jointly design and develop AI-enabled infrastructure solutions suited for complex enterprise environments.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. ₹13,000 Crore Bio-Pharma SHAKTI and Chemical Parks Announced: Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers J. P. Nadda highlighted the government’s strategic push towards strengthening India’s bio-pharmaceutical and chemical sectors through major budgetary provisions. Addressing a post-Budget webinar on “Sustaining and Strengthening Economic Growth”, he emphasised that the ₹13,000 crore allocation for Bio-Pharma SHAKTI and the establishment of three dedicated chemical parks reflects a long-term investment in India’s industrial and healthcare future. The initiative aligns with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat and aims to enhance India’s global competitiveness in high-value pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing. The minister noted that India has already established itself as the “pharmacy of the world” through large-scale production of affordable generic medicines. However, the global pharmaceutical landscape is rapidly shifting towards biologics. By 2035, nearly 40 percent of medicines worldwide are expected to be biologics. Additionally, patents worth around 300 billion dollars are set to expire by 2030, creating major opportunities in the biosimilars market. To capitalise on this transition, the government has launched the BioPharma Mission with a budget of ₹10,000 crore to be utilised over the next five years.