Daily GK Update- 2nd April, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. MoU Signed to Modernise Delhi Prepaid Taxi System: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on 4 February 2026 between Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited (STCL) and Delhi Traffic Police marks a significant step towards modernising Delhi’s prepaid taxi services. The agreement aims to enhance commuter convenience, safety, and operational transparency through digital integration and improved management across 34 prepaid taxi booths located at 21 key points in the national capital. The MoU establishes a clear operational framework between the two entities. Delhi Traffic Police has been entrusted with managing booth operations, recruiting staff, verifying drivers, and ensuring passenger safety. It will also oversee the establishment of a control room mechanism for monitoring and coordination. Meanwhile, STCL will handle digital integration, financial management including staff salaries, maintenance of booths, and branding initiatives.

 

2. AR Rahman Named Brand Ambassador of Yamaha Music India: Yamaha Music India has appointed Academy Award-winning composer A.R. Rahman as its brand ambassador, marking a strategic move to strengthen India’s evolving music ecosystem. The collaboration reflects a shared vision of promoting musical excellence, expanding access to quality instruments, and nurturing emerging talent across the country. Rahman’s global stature adds significant value to Yamaha’s efforts to deepen its presence in India. Yamaha Music India aims to go beyond instrument manufacturing by fostering a comprehensive music culture. The company is actively investing in initiatives such as music education programmes, workshops, and institutional collaborations. Through its “Made in India” initiative, Yamaha seeks to produce high-quality instruments domestically while making them accessible to a wider audience.

 

3. Sloth Bear Captured Near Shivamogga Airport: A sloth bear was recently captured by Karnataka Forest Department officials after it was found roaming in villages near Shivamogga airport. The incident raised concerns over increasing human-wildlife conflict in forest fringe areas, highlighting the need for better habitat management and conservation strategies. Sloth bears are characterised by long, shaggy dark brown or black fur and distinctive curved claws, which are among the longest of any bear species. They are also referred to as “labiated bears” due to their long lower lip and palate, which help them suck insects efficiently. These bears are mostly nocturnal, foraging at night and resting in secluded areas during the day.

 

4. NAAC Accreditation Halt Raises Concerns in Higher Education: In a significant development, not a single university or college has received fresh accreditation in the current academic year from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). This pause has raised concerns regarding quality assurance processes in India’s higher education system and the timely evaluation of institutions. The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) was established in 1994 as an autonomous body under the University Grants Commission (UGC). Its primary objective is to ensure and enhance the quality of higher education in India through systematic assessment and accreditation of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), including universities and colleges.

 

5. MSRTC Launches NCMC Smart Card for Digital Bus Travel: The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has launched the RuPay On-The-Go National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) scheme on April 1, 2026, marking a major step towards digitalising public transport in the state. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the initiative, highlighting its role in enhancing convenience, transparency, and efficiency in bus travel. Under the scheme, NCMC-enabled smart cards linked to Aadhaar will be issued to students, senior citizens, women, persons with disabilities, and other concession holders. The initiative aims to simplify the process of availing fare concessions while ensuring seamless and transparent ticketing. The cards were symbolically distributed during the launch to beneficiaries representing different categories.

 

6. New Waste Rules Mandate Four-Way Segregation From April 2026: The Government of India has notified the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, replacing the earlier 2016 framework, with effect from April 1, 2026. Issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the revised rules aim to strengthen waste management through principles of circular economy, extended producer responsibility, and stricter enforcement based on the ‘polluter pays’ principle. A key feature of the new rules is the compulsory segregation of waste into four categories—wet, dry, sanitary, and special care waste. Wet waste such as food and biodegradable material must be composted or processed locally. Dry waste, including plastic, paper, and metal, will be directed to material recovery facilities for recycling. Sanitary and hazardous household waste must be handled separately through authorised disposal channels.

 

7. POWERGRID Appoints Burra Vamsi Rama Mohan as CMD: State-run Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (POWERGRID) has appointed Burra Vamsi Rama Mohan as its Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), marking a significant leadership transition in India’s power transmission sector. The appointment came into effect from April 1, 2026, as per an order issued by the Ministry of Power. According to the official notification, Vamsi’s tenure will begin from the date he assumes charge and will continue until July 31, 2030, coinciding with his superannuation, or until further orders. The company clarified in its regulatory filing that he is not related to any existing directors or key managerial personnel and is eligible for the position under all applicable norms.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Indonesia Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Alert, One Dead: A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Indonesia in the early hours of Thursday, causing casualties, structural damage, and brief tsunami concerns across the region. The tremor occurred in the seismically active Molucca Sea, located between Sulawesi and Maluku islands, prompting immediate emergency responses and regional alerts. According to the United States Geological Survey, the earthquake originated at a shallow depth of 35 kilometres, intensifying its impact on nearby coastal regions. The epicentre lay in a tectonically volatile zone, part of the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where earthquakes and volcanic activity are frequent. The shallow depth contributed to stronger surface shaking, particularly across North Sulawesi and surrounding islands.

 

2. Thailand Prepares to Host IMF-World Bank Meetings 2026: Thailand is gearing up to host the prestigious IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings in October 2026, marking a significant return after 35 years since it last hosted the event in 1991. Held annually, these meetings rotate between Washington, D.C., and a member country every third year, symbolising global cooperation and regional representation. The 2026 edition positions Thailand on a major international platform, reinforcing its role in the global financial system. Often described as the “Olympics of Finance,” the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings bring together finance ministers, central bank governors, policymakers, and global stakeholders. In 2026, over 15,000 participants from 191 countries are expected to attend. The event serves as a key forum to deliberate on global economic challenges, financial stability, and development priorities, shaping the trajectory of the world economy.

 

3. Rare Albino Tahr Spotted in Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary: A rare sighting of a white female albino Himalayan tahr has recently been recorded in Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Bharmour region of Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh. The discovery is significant as albino individuals are extremely uncommon in the wild and indicate unique genetic variation within species. The sighting has drawn attention from wildlife experts and conservationists. Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh. It lies between the Ravi and Chenab rivers and is characterised by high-altitude terrain. The sanctuary ranges in elevation from 2,195 metres to 5,040 metres, making it a challenging habitat with harsh climatic conditions. It is bordered by Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary in the south-east and Tundah Wildlife Sanctuary in the north-west.

 

4. Stranded Humpback Whale Escapes Baltic Sea Trap: A humpback whale recently stranded in the Baltic Sea near Germany has managed to swim free, drawing attention from marine experts and conservationists. The whale had entered shallow coastal waters, an unusual and risky environment for the species. Despite repeated strandings, it eventually navigated back towards deeper waters, raising cautious optimism about its survival. The Baltic Sea poses significant risks for humpback whales due to its low salinity, shallow depth, and limited food availability. These whales are not adapted to such enclosed marine conditions. Experts believe that the whale may have accidentally entered the region while following prey or due to navigational disorientation. Returning to the Atlantic Ocean remains critical for its long-term survival.

 

5. New Delhi to host BRICS Foreign Ministers meet in May: The ministerial meeting is expected to prioritise digital public infrastructure, with India promoting successful models such as Aadhaar and UPI for wider adoption among member countries. Climate finance will also feature prominently, with discussions centred on enabling green transitions without overburdening developing economies. Additionally, India is likely to push for reforms in global institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council. The meeting will be the first major engagement after the expansion of BRICS to include countries such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia and Indonesia. This enlarged grouping presents both opportunities and challenges, especially in managing internal differences. Ongoing tensions in West Asia are expected to dominate discussions, testing the bloc’s ability to maintain consensus on sensitive geopolitical issues.

 

6. India Boosts Chip Ecosystem with Kaynes Semiconductor Plant: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a semiconductor manufacturing facility of Kaynes Technology in Sanand, Gujarat, marking a significant step in India’s ambition to build a robust domestic chip ecosystem. The development reflects accelerating momentum in the country’s semiconductor sector, following recent milestones in chip manufacturing. The Kaynes facility will manufacture Intelligent Power Modules, which are critical components for electric vehicles and industrial applications. A significant portion of the output is expected to be exported, integrating India into global semiconductor supply chains and enhancing its role in international markets.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Spain Closes Airspace Amid US-Iran Military Tensions: Spain has recently closed its airspace to American aircraft involved in military operations against Iran, signalling a cautious stance amid rising geopolitical tensions. The move reflects Spain’s strategic balancing between its NATO commitments and concerns over escalation in West Asia. It also highlights the role of European nations in regulating military transit within their sovereign airspace. Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It shares land borders with Portugal to the west, France and Andorra to the northeast, and the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar to the south. The country is surrounded by major water bodies, including the Mediterranean Sea to the east and southeast, the Bay of Biscay to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the northwest and southwest. Its capital city is Madrid.

 

2. Indian Navy Receives Sanshodhak Survey Vessel: The Indian Navy has recently received ‘Sanshodhak’ (Yard 3028), the fourth and final Survey Vessel (Large) under a key indigenous shipbuilding programme. Delivered by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE), Kolkata, the vessel strengthens India’s hydrographic capabilities and supports both defence and civil maritime operations. The contract for the construction of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships was signed on 30 October 2018. Sanshodhak is the last vessel in this series, following INS Sandhayak, INS Nirdeshak, and INS Ikshak, which have already been commissioned into service. These ships have been designed and built in accordance with the classification rules of the Indian Register of Shipping, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

 

3. INS Malwan Boosts India’s Coastal Defence Capability: The Indian Navy has inducted ‘Malwan’, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, Kochi. The induction marks a key step in strengthening India’s coastal surveillance and underwater defence capabilities. It is part of an eight-vessel programme aimed at enhancing operational readiness in shallow and littoral waters. ‘Malwan’ is the second ship in a series of eight ASW SWCs designed and constructed indigenously as per Indian Navy requirements and international classification standards. These vessels are specifically tailored for operations close to the coast, where detection of submarines and underwater threats is more complex. The project reflects a focused effort to improve maritime security in near-shore regions.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Bodhana Sivanandan Becomes Britain’s Top Female Chess Player: Bodhana Sivanandan, an 11-year-old Indian-origin chess prodigy from Harrow, has emerged as Britain’s top-rated female player according to the FIDE rating list of April 2026. With an impressive rating of 2,366, she has surpassed established competitors and secured the 72nd position globally in women’s chess rankings. Her rapid rise reflects a blend of natural talent, disciplined training, and consistent international performance. Bodhana’s journey into chess began at the age of five during the COVID-19 pandemic. A chessboard owned by her father sparked her curiosity, leading to a growing fascination with the game. With only basic guidance initially, her interest quickly evolved into skill. Regular practice at home and participation in local clubs, including the Harrow Chess Club, helped her build a strong foundation at an early age.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. YUVIKA Programme Boosts Space Science Interest Among Students: The Government of India has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting scientific temper among youth through initiatives like the Yuva Vigyani Karyakram (YUVIKA). Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted in Parliament that the programme is playing a crucial role in inspiring school students to explore careers in space science. The statement was made during the ongoing Budget Session in response to a parliamentary query. YUVIKA is designed to inculcate interest in space science at an early stage of education. The programme specifically targets students of Class 9 from across the country. It aims to provide foundational knowledge in space technology, applications, and research while encouraging students to consider careers in the space sector.

 

2. Costa Rica Launches ICP App to Identify Venomous Snakes: Costa Rica has introduced a free mobile application to help users quickly identify venomous snakes and reduce risks associated with misidentification. Developed by the Universidad de Costa Rica’s Clodomiro Picado Institute, the ICP App provides scientific, easy-to-access information for both residents and tourists. The initiative addresses long-standing confusion over snake species and promotes safer human-wildlife interactions.

The app was developed in response to frequent public queries about snake identification. Experts at the institute reported receiving daily requests from individuals seeking to confirm whether a snake was venomous. These uncertainties often led to unnecessary panic or harm to non-venomous species. The ICP App centralises verified scientific data, reducing reliance on informal or inaccurate sources.

 

3. Centre cracks down on misuse of weight-loss GLP-1 drugs: The Central government has intensified action against the misuse and unauthorised sale of weight-loss and diabetes drugs, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists, amid rising concerns over their unchecked availability. The move comes as demand for these drugs surges across India, with authorities warning of serious health risks linked to unsupervised consumption. The Drug Controller General of India, along with State Drug Controllers, has conducted inspections across 49 entities, including online pharmacies, wholesalers, retailers and weight-loss clinics. Authorities have issued notices for violations and warned that non-compliance could lead to licence cancellations, financial penalties and legal proceedings. The crackdown targets both physical and digital supply chains enabling easy access to such drugs.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IRDAI Introduces Ind AS for Insurance Sector: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has recently introduced Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) for the insurance sector, marking a significant reform in financial reporting practices. The move aims to enhance transparency, comparability, and global alignment of financial statements in India’s insurance industry. It is expected to improve investor confidence and bring uniformity in reporting across financial institutions. Before the introduction of Ind AS, India followed Indian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (IGAAP). Indian GAAP was developed mainly by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) under the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956. It included 18 accounting standards and primarily relied on historical cost accounting and legal compliance. The transition to Ind AS represents a shift towards a more dynamic and globally comparable financial reporting system.

 

2. PM e-Drive Scheme Subsidies Extended for EV Adoption: The PM E-DRIVE (Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement) scheme was launched in October 2024 and came into effect from 1 October 2024. It is a flagship initiative aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), strengthening charging infrastructure, and developing a robust domestic EV manufacturing ecosystem. The scheme focuses on reducing upfront costs of EVs while supporting long-term sustainability goals. The scheme aims to facilitate a faster transition to electric mobility by offering demand incentives for various EV categories, including electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, e-ambulances, and e-trucks. It also provides financial support for capital asset creation, such as the procurement of electric buses and the establishment of widespread charging infrastructure. Additionally, funds are allocated for upgrading testing facilities and implementing awareness campaigns.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Odisha Police Awarded President’s Colour for Service Excellence: Odisha Police has been conferred the prestigious President’s Police Colour, the highest honour granted to a police force or military unit in India. The recognition marks exceptional service, professionalism, and sustained contributions to maintaining law and order. The announcement coincides with the 90th Police Foundation Day of Odisha, celebrated on Utkal Divas, highlighting both historical legacy and modern achievements of the force. The President’s Police Colour represents the highest form of institutional recognition for police organisations in India. It is awarded based on parameters such as discipline, bravery, professionalism, and notable contributions to public safety. The honour symbolises a unit’s exemplary service record over the years and is considered a milestone in its institutional history.