Daily GK Update- 5th April, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. EaseMyTrip Partners NSDC, Sanatan Al to Launch Spiritual Entrepreneurship Initiative: Easy Trip Planners Limited partnered with National Skill Development Corporation, Sanatan AI, and Bhagva platform to launch an entrepreneurship initiative in India’s spiritual services sector.The initiative “1 Panchayat – 1 Pandit – SANATANAI Shop on Wheels by EMT” aims to deploy EV-based mobile service units across 2 lakh Panchayats, offering pooja services, samagri, virtual darshan, and religious event facilitation.

 

2. Meghalaya Signs Pact with Starlink to Pilot Satellite Internet in Remote Regions: The Meghalaya government signed a Letter of Intent with Starlink to pilot satellite-based internet connectivity in remote hill regions.The initiative aims to improve connectivity in key sectors like education, healthcare, disaster management, and economic development, addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges.

 

3. NCERT Granted Deemed University Status by Education Ministry: The Ministry of Education has granted the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) the status of an Institution deemed to be a university under a distinct category, following recommendations by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The move is aimed at strengthening research capacity and advancing academic innovation in the field of school education in India. The decision follows an online application submitted by NCERT through the UGC portal seeking deemed university status. An expert committee constituted by the UGC evaluated the proposal and recommended approval. The commission subsequently endorsed the recommendation, paving the way for the Ministry to confer the new status. This classification under a “distinct category” recognises NCERT’s specialised role in educational research and policy support.

 

4. Raja Ravi Varma Painting Fetches Record ₹167.2 Crore: A painting by renowned Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma, titled “Yashoda and Krishna”, has recently been sold for an impressive ₹167.2 crore at a Saffronart auction. This sale marks one of the highest prices ever achieved by an Indian artwork, reaffirming Varma’s enduring legacy in the global art market. The painting’s emotional depth, combined with Varma’s signature realism, continues to attract collectors and art enthusiasts alike. The record-breaking sale highlights the growing demand for classical Indian art. Raja Ravi Varma’s works have long been considered cultural treasures, and this auction underscores their investment and heritage value. The painting “Yashoda and Krishna” reflects maternal affection drawn from Hindu mythology, rendered with lifelike expressions and European artistic techniques. Such high valuations indicate increasing global recognition of Indian masters.

 

5. CAQM Enforcement Task Force Holds 128th Meeting: The 128th meeting of the Enforcement Task Force (ETF) under the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas was recently convened to review ongoing measures for controlling air pollution. The meeting focused on strengthening enforcement strategies and ensuring coordinated action among various states to tackle deteriorating air quality in the Delhi-NCR region. The Commission for Air Quality Management is a statutory body established under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021. Its primary mandate is to ensure better coordination, research, and resolution of issues related to air pollution. The commission works towards improving the Air Quality Index (AQI) and addressing associated environmental challenges in a comprehensive manner.

 

6. Rongali Bihu Celebrations Mark Assamese New Year Festivities: The vibrant festival of Rongali Bihu has recently brought festive enthusiasm across Assam, marking the beginning of the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring. Celebrated with music, dance, and traditional customs, the festival reflects the cultural richness and unity of Assamese society. Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, is the most prominent of the three Bihu festivals. It symbolises joy, renewal, and agricultural prosperity. The term ‘Rongali’ is derived from the word ‘Rong’, meaning happiness and celebration, highlighting the festive spirit associated with this occasion. It coincides with the sowing season, making it significant for agrarian communities.

 

7. Juang Tribe Girl Leads Change Against Child Marriage: A 16-year-old girl from the Juang tribe in Odisha has brought remarkable social change by influencing her village to reconsider practices related to child health and child marriage. Her efforts highlight the growing awareness within tribal communities and the role of youth in driving progressive change, especially among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). The Juang tribe is one of the 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) among the 62 tribes found in Odisha. They are primarily concentrated in the districts of Keonjhar and Dhenkanal. Due to their distinct socio-economic conditions and cultural practices, they are recognised as a vulnerable group requiring focused developmental support.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UNSC Vote on Hormuz Security Resolution Delayed: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) vote on a resolution aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz has been postponed once again and is now expected to take place next week. The delay follows an earlier shift from Friday to Saturday, reflecting ongoing diplomatic disagreements among key global powers. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical maritime chokepoint, central to global energy and trade flows, making the outcome of the resolution highly consequential. The proposed resolution, initiated by Bahrain in its capacity as the current UNSC chair, has encountered resistance from major powers including China and Russia. Diplomatic sources indicate that these countries raised objections during negotiations, prompting multiple revisions to the draft. As a result, the resolution has been softened from its original, more assertive language to accommodate differing geopolitical interests.

 

2. India Azerbaijan Relations Reviewed During Baku Meeting: India and Azerbaijan recently held discussions in Baku to comprehensively review their bilateral relations, focusing on areas of mutual interest such as trade, energy, and regional cooperation. The meeting reflects growing diplomatic engagement between the two nations and highlights Azerbaijan’s strategic importance in Eurasian geopolitics. The review of ties in Baku signals an effort to deepen cooperation across sectors. Energy remains a key pillar, as Azerbaijan is rich in hydrocarbons and plays a crucial role in regional energy security. Both countries are also exploring opportunities in trade, connectivity, and investment. The dialogue underscores India’s outreach towards the Caucasus region as part of its broader foreign policy objectives.

 

3. India Manufacturing PMI Falls to 45-Month Low: India’s manufacturing activity witnessed a slowdown in March, as reflected in the HSBC India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), which declined to 53.9 from 56.9 in February. Although the index remains above the neutral 50 mark, indicating expansion, the drop signals a moderation in the pace of growth in the manufacturing sector. The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) is a key economic indicator used to assess business activity in both manufacturing and services sectors. It is a survey-based measure that captures the perceptions of purchasing managers regarding changes in business conditions compared to the previous month. The index is compiled separately for manufacturing and services, and a composite PMI is also calculated to provide an overall picture of economic activity.

 

4. Gourami Fish Fossils Discovered in Shivalik Foothills: A major palaeontological discovery in the Shivalik foothills near Dehradun has revealed freshwater fish fossils for the first time in the region, previously known only for terrestrial remains. The finding offers crucial insights into the prehistoric ecosystem of northern India, particularly during the Pliocene epoch, estimated between 5 and 2.5 million years ago. The fossils were unearthed near Mohand on the outskirts of Dehradun by researchers from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) and collaborating institutions. The discovery includes otoliths, or ear bones, of three freshwater fish groups—snakehead (Channa), goby, and gourami. Notably, the gourami fossil marks its first recorded presence in India and only the second globally, after an earlier discovery in Sumatra.

 

5. Appemidi Mango Faces Climate Threat in Aghanashini Valley: The indigenous Appemidi mango, known for its unique flavour and cultural significance, is facing increasing threats due to climate change in Karnataka’s Aghanashini valley. Despite receiving the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2009, experts warn that changing rainfall patterns and rising temperatures are affecting its survival, prompting urgent calls for conservation efforts in its natural habitat. A group of nearly 30 conservationists conducted a 30-km padayatra from Sarakuli in Siddapur taluk to Unchalli Falls in Sirsi taluk between March 30 and April 1. The field assessment documented reduced fruit yield and declining tree health, with farmers attributing the changes to erratic weather patterns. Observations revealed that tree density remains higher in regions with minimal human interference.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Sunayna Mission Strengthens Indian Ocean Maritime Cooperation: Amid escalating tensions in West Asia and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, the Indian Navy has launched a significant maritime initiative to reinforce regional security. INS Sunayna has been flagged off as the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR from Mumbai, signalling India’s commitment to cooperative maritime engagement and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. The deployment comes as the West Asia conflict enters its fifth week, affecting global energy supply chains and maritime trade routes. The mission was flagged off by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth in the presence of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi. The initiative reflects India’s proactive approach to ensuring freedom of navigation and safeguarding critical sea lanes amid rising geopolitical tensions.

 

2. India Advances Ghatak Stealth UCAV Deployment Plan: India has taken a significant step towards strengthening its air combat capabilities with the planned induction of indigenous stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) under the ‘Ghatak’ programme. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on March 27 cleared the procurement of remotely piloted strike aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF), paving the way for four squadrons of advanced combat drones. The move aligns with India’s long-term defence modernisation strategy under the Vision 2047 roadmap. The Ghatak UCAV, earlier known as the Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft (AURA), is being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Designed as a stealth combat drone, it represents India’s push for self-reliance in advanced military technologies. The programme aims to deliver a next-generation unmanned platform capable of executing high-risk missions without endangering human pilots.

 

3. National Maritime Day Highlights India’s Shipping Legacy: India observes National Maritime Day annually on April 5 to commemorate its rich maritime heritage and underline the critical role of the shipping sector in economic growth and global connectivity. The occasion honours seafarers, port authorities, and maritime institutions that sustain international trade and logistics, while also emphasising the sector’s evolving future. The significance of the day traces back to April 5, 1919, when the Indian-owned ship SS Loyalty embarked on its maiden voyage from Mumbai to London. Operated by the Scindia Steam Navigation Company, this journey marked a turning point during colonial rule, symbolising India’s emergence from foreign dominance in maritime trade. It laid the foundation for the country’s modern shipping industry.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Khelo India Tribal Games Conclude with Karnataka on Top: The Khelo India Tribal Games concluded in Chhattisgarh with a vibrant closing ceremony attended by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai. The event also witnessed the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, along with celebrated sportspersons Mary Kom and Bhaichung Bhutia. The Games brought together tribal athletes from across India, highlighting sporting talent and promoting inclusivity in national sports development. Archery competitions witnessed remarkable performances across categories. Jharkhand’s Komalika Bari clinched gold in the women’s recurve individual event, while Nagaland secured the top position in the women’s recurve team category. In the men’s recurve individual event, Arjun Khara of Odisha won gold, whereas Jharkhand emerged victorious in the men’s team event, underlining its strength in archery.

 

2. National Sub-Junior Boxing Championship Begins in Nagpur: The 7th National Sub-Junior (Under-17) Boxing Championship commenced in Nagpur, marking a significant event in India’s youth sporting calendar. The week-long tournament was inaugurated by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and has attracted widespread participation from across the country, reflecting the growing popularity of boxing among young athletes. The championship has drawn nearly 600 young boxers, including around 350 boys and 250 girls. The event is supported by approximately 180 coaches and team managers, along with 70 officials ensuring smooth conduct. Competitions are being held across 13 weight categories, allowing athletes to showcase their skills across diverse divisions.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA Launches Artemis II Mission for First Crewed Lunar Flyby in Over 50 Years: NASA launched the Artemis II mission, marking the first crewed lunar flyby in over 50 years since the Apollo era, using the Space Launch System (SLS) from Kennedy Space Center.The mission carries four astronauts—Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen—on a 10-day journey around the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft.The spacecraft will orbit the Moon without landing and conclude the mission with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.The primary objective is to test spacecraft safety, perform system checks, and simulate manual piloting to prepare for future human Moon landing missions.

 

2. Sleep Apnea Raises Cardiovascular Death Risk by 71%: A major new study has found that individuals living with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) face a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events or death from any cause. The findings, to be presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO) 2026 in Istanbul, highlight the growing health burden linked to sleep disorders, particularly among individuals with obesity. The research revealed that adults diagnosed with OSA have a 71 per cent higher risk of experiencing cardiovascular events or all-cause mortality compared to those without the condition. The study analysed electronic health records of 2.9 million individuals, making it one of the largest matched case-control studies on OSA conducted outside the United States. A total of 20,300 OSA patients were compared with 97,412 individuals without the disorder.

 

3. ISRO Conducts Mission MITRA in Ladakh for Astronaut Study: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has initiated Mission MITRA in Leh, Ladakh, to analyse astronaut behaviour under extreme environmental conditions. Conducted at an altitude of nearly 3,500 metres from April 2 to April 9, 2026, the mission replicates space-like challenges such as low oxygen levels, extreme cold and isolation. The exercise is a crucial step towards strengthening India’s human spaceflight ambitions under the Gaganyaan programme. Ladakh’s terrain offers natural conditions similar to those experienced in space missions. Reduced oxygen levels (hypoxia), freezing temperatures and geographic isolation create a controlled yet realistic environment. These factors impact human physiology and cognitive performance, allowing ISRO to simulate operational stress without leaving Earth. Such analogue missions are globally recognised as essential for pre-spaceflight testing.

 

4. Namo Drone Didi Scheme Expands Women Drone Training: Karnataka has emerged as the leading state in training women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) as drone pilots under the Namo Drone Didi Yojana (NDDY). The initiative marks a significant step towards women’s empowerment and the adoption of modern technology in agriculture, aligning with India’s push for precision farming and rural livelihood enhancement. The Namo Drone Didi Yojana is a central sector scheme aimed at empowering women-led SHGs under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). The scheme integrates advanced drone technology into agriculture by enabling SHGs to provide rental services to farmers. These services primarily include spraying liquid fertilisers and pesticides, improving efficiency and reducing manual labour.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. FAO Food Price Index Rises Amid Global Energy Pressures: The FAO Food Price Index recorded an increase in March 2026, primarily driven by rising energy costs linked to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The surge highlights the vulnerability of global food prices to external shocks such as conflicts and fuel price fluctuations, which directly affect production, transportation and supply chains. The FAO Food Price Index is a key indicator that measures the monthly change in international prices of a basket of food commodities. It reflects global price trends and serves as an important benchmark for policymakers and economists. The index is calculated as a weighted average of five commodity group price indices: cereals, vegetable oils, dairy products, meat and sugar.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Tripura Panchayats Win Top Honours at Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar 2025: Three Panchayats of Tripura won top honours in the Deen Dayal Upadhyay and Nanaji Deshmukh Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar 2025, showcasing excellence in local governance.Sepahijala district was ranked the best District Panchayat, while Kanchabari topped in the Health-Friendly category and Baikunthapur secured third place in the Women-Friendly category. Winners will receive financial assistance ranging from ₹50 lakh to ₹5 crore, highlighting progress in development, healthcare, and women empowerment.