Daily GK Update- 25th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ram Mohan Naidu Announces ₹58 Crore Development Plan for Arasavalli Sri Surya Narayana Swamy Temple Under PRASAD Scheme: Ram Mohan Naidu announced a comprehensive development plan for Arasavalli Sri Surya Narayana Swamy Temple under the PRASAD Scheme to enhance pilgrim facilities.A total of ₹58 crore development plan has been prepared, including modern kitchen, dining halls, accommodation, and better connectivity; ₹4 crore has already been sanctioned for the Indrapushkarini temple tank modernisation.

 

2. Manipur Launches ‘Ningol Van Initiative’ to Boost Forest Conservation & Women Participation: The Manipur Government launched the “Ningol Van Initiative” on the occasion of International Day of Forests to strengthen forest conservation and promote community participation.The initiative focuses on enhancing women’s participation in biodiversity protection and sustainable practices, with plans to expand similar programmes across all districts.

 

3. 23 March – Martyrs’ Day: March 23 is observed as Martyrs’ Day (Shaheed Diwas) in India to honour the sacrifice of three great freedom fighters.It commemorates the martyrdom of Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru, and Sukhdev Thapar, who were executed by the British in 1931.The day reminds the nation of their courage, patriotism, and contribution to India’s freedom struggle.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Elon Musk Announces ‘Terafab’ Project to Build AI Chips with Terawatt-Scale Power Near Austin: Elon Musk has launched the Terafab project to manufacture advanced chips for AI, robotics, and data centres, including future space-based applications. The facility will be located near Austin, Texas.The facility will be set up near Austin and aims to produce one terawatt of computing power annually.One terawatt equals one trillion watts, which is nearly comparable to the total power generation capacity of the United States.

 

2. 23 March – World Meteorological Day: 23 March is observed as World Meteorological Day every year to highlight the importance of meteorology and weather-related services.Theme 2026 – Observing Today, Protecting TomorrowThe day commemorates the establishment of the World Meteorological Organisation in 1950.It aims to raise awareness about climate change, weather forecasting, and disaster risk reduction worldwide.

 

3. 24 March – World Tuberculosis (TB) Day: March 24 is observed as World Tuberculosis (TB) Day every year to raise awareness about tuberculosis, a serious infectious disease.Theme 2026 – Yes! We can end TB!The day commemorates the discovery of the TB bacterium by Robert Koch in 1882.The day is supported by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) to eliminate TB as a public health threat.

 

4. 25 March – International Day of the Unborn Child: International Day of the Unborn Child is observed every year on March 25 to recognise and value the life of unborn children.It highlights the importance of protecting life before birth and raising awareness about ethical and moral values.The day is observed in many countries through prayers, awareness campaigns, and discussions.It is associated with the Feast of the Annunciation, which commemorates the announcement of the birth of Jesus.

 

5. Iran Appoints Zolghadr as Security Council Chief: Iran has appointed Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr as the new head of its Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), replacing senior leader Ali Larijani who was recently killed in ongoing regional conflict. The development comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia, where military escalation has significantly reshaped Iran’s political and security leadership. Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr is a veteran figure within Iran’s political and security establishment. A former commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), he currently serves as Secretary of the Expediency Discernment Council, a body that advises the Supreme Leader on policy matters. Over the years, Zolghadr has held several key positions, including deputy interior minister for security affairs during Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s presidency. He has also worked within Iran’s judiciary, focusing on strategic security and crime prevention.

 

6. Pakistan Tops Global Pollution List, India Ranks Sixth: The latest World Air Quality Report 2025 has identified Pakistan as the most polluted country globally, followed by Bangladesh and Tajikistan, while India ranks sixth. The report, released by Swiss air quality technology firm IQAir, highlights worsening global air quality and underscores the growing public health challenge posed by pollution. According to the report, the five most polluted countries are Pakistan, Bangladesh, Tajikistan, Chad and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. India occupies the sixth position, reflecting persistent air quality concerns despite policy interventions. In contrast, countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom rank much lower on the pollution scale, at 120th and 110th positions respectively, indicating relatively better air quality standards.

 

7. Philippines Declares Energy Emergency Amid West Asia Crisis: The Philippines has declared a national energy emergency in response to escalating tensions in West Asia, citing an “imminent danger” to its fuel supply. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the decision as global oil markets face volatility and supply disruptions triggered by the ongoing conflict, raising concerns over energy security and economic stability. The declaration comes amid sharp fluctuations in global oil prices and uncertainty in supply chains due to geopolitical tensions. The Philippine government warned that these developments could significantly impact domestic fuel availability and economic activities. The move aims to pre-empt shortages and ensure uninterrupted access to essential energy resources.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Rashtriya Raksha University Signs MoU with Sashastra Seema Bal to Boost National Security Training and Accreditation: Rashtriya Raksha University and Sashastra Seema Bal Academy signed an MoU in New Delhi to strengthen national security training and bridge the gap between academic research and field requirements.Under the agreement, RRU will provide academic accreditation for SSB training programmes and both institutions will exchange faculty expertise, training tools, and facilities.The collaboration will offer hands-on training, modern labs, and tech-driven curriculum, enhancing border surveillance and internal security capabilities.

 

2. Indian Navy to Commission INS Taragiri Stealth Frigate on April 3 in Visakhapatnam: The Indian Navy will commission INS Taragiri, an indigenous stealth frigate, on April 3, 2026. The commissioning ceremony will be held in Visakhapatnam and will be presided over by Rajnath Singh.INS Taragiri is the fourth ship of the Nilgiri-class (Project 17A), showcasing India’s advanced naval capabilities.It is the third vessel built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilding Ltd (MDL) under this project.

 

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

 

SPORTS

 

1. Anahat Singh and Abhay Singh Clinch Singles Titles at Indian Open Squash in Dominant Fashion: Anahat Singh won the Women’s Singles title at the Indian Open Squash, defeating Hana Moataz 3-1 to successfully defend her title.Anahat delivered a dominant performance throughout the tournament, losing only one game across the entire event.In Men’s Singles, Abhay Singh defeated Veer Chotrani 3-0 in an all-Indian final to clinch the title convincingly.

 

2. Japan Clinch Third AFC Women’s Asian Cup Title, Defeat Australia in Final: Japan won their third AFC Women’s Asian Cup title, defeating host Australia in the final of the 21st edition.Maika Hamano scored the only goal of the match, securing victory for Japan.Japan had previously won the tournament in 2014 and 2018, reaffirming their dominance in Asian women’s football.

 

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

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

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

 

2. Indian Study Explains Formation of Titanium-Rich Lunar Basalts: A new study by researchers from IIT-Kharagpur and the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad, has provided fresh insights into the formation of titanium-rich basalts on the Moon. Published in “Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta”, the research addresses a long-standing puzzle in planetary science regarding why lunar volcanic rocks contain unusually high levels of titanium dioxide compared to Earth. Unlike Earth’s volcanic rocks, which typically contain less than 2% titanium dioxide (TiO₂), some lunar basalts exhibit concentrations as high as 18%. These rocks originated from ancient lava flows formed billions of years ago. Scientists have struggled to explain how such high titanium levels formed under lunar conditions, making this study a significant advancement in understanding the Moon’s geological evolution.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Axis Bank Partners with DP World Professional Golf Tour of India to Boost Professional Golf in India: Axis Bank has partnered with the DP World Professional Golf Tour of India as its official banking partner.The collaboration aims to promote the growth of professional golf in India and strengthen sporting excellence and community engagement.Under this partnership, Axis Bank will support all tournaments this season, enhancing player opportunities, tournament experience, and fan engagement.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Kaveh Madani Wins 2026 Stockholm Water Prize for Outstanding Contributions to Water Science: Kaveh Madani, Director of the United Nations University Institute for Water Environment and Health, has been named the 2026 Stockholm Water Prize laureate, one of the most prestigious awards in the field of water.The award is presented by the Stockholm Water Foundation in collaboration with the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.The prize includes a cash award of 1 million Swedish Krona along with a crystal sculpture.

 

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

 

Daily GK Update- 24th March, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NBA Forms Expert Committee to Combat Invasive Alien Species and Protect India’s Biodiversity: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has constituted an Expert Committee on Invasive Alien Species to address ecological, agricultural, and socio-economic threats posed by such species in India.The decision follows a National Green Tribunal (NGT) suo motu case and recommendations from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to conduct a comprehensive study and form a dedicated expert body.The Committee will prepare a national list of invasive alien species, identify high-risk species, and recommend management strategies, control measures, and policy guidelines under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 (amended in 2023).Chaired by Dhananjai Mohan, the committee includes experts from key institutions like ZSI, BSI, ICAR, WII, and will function for two years to strengthen biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience.

 

2. Narendra Modi Becomes India’s Longest-Serving Elected Leader: Narendra Modi has become India’s longest-serving head of an elected government, completing 8,931 days in office.

This tenure includes his service as Chief Minister of Gujarat (2001–2014) and as Prime Minister of India (since 2014).He surpassed the previous record of 8,930 days held by Pawan Kumar Chamling.

 

3. Third North-East India Film Festival 2026 begins in Imphal: The 3rd North-East India Film Festival has begun at TanthaPolis Cinema Lamphel in Imphal, Manipur.The two-day festival will showcase nine films from the North-East, including films from Manipur, Assam, and Meghalaya.

The event aims to promote a vibrant and inclusive film industry and encourage appreciation of cinema as an art form.

 

4. Revanth Reddy Launches ₹9,000 Crore Rythu Bharosa Disbursement for Farmers: Telangana CM, A. Revanth Reddy announced ₹9,000 crore under the Rythu Bharosa to be deposited in farmers’ accounts in three instalments within 45 days.The first instalment was released by the Telangana government during the inauguration of an Oil Palm factory at Narmetta.The scheme mainly benefits farmers with up to one acre of land, providing financial assistance for agricultural activities.

 

5. South Indian Bank Appoints Jose Joseph Kattoor as New Non-Executive Chairman: South Indian Bank has appointed Jose Joseph Kattoor as Non-Executive Part-Time Chairman (Independent Director) for a three-year term starting March 23, 2026.He succeeds V J Kurian after RBI approval; Kattoor has been serving as an Independent Director since July 18, 2024.

 

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

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Yamaha Music India Private Ltd Appoints A. R. Rahman as Brand Ambassador: Yamaha Music India Private Ltd has appointed music legend A. R. Rahman as its brand ambassador.It is the Indian arm of Japan’s Yamaha Corporation.

 

2. 21 March – International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination: The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed every year on March 21 to promote equality and end all forms of racial discrimination worldwide.Theme 2026 – Mobilizing political will: 60 years of commemorating the International Day for the Elimination of Racial DiscriminationThe day commemorates the Sharpeville Massacre (1960) in South Africa, a key event in the fight against apartheid, where peaceful protestors were killed during a demonstration.The observance is supported by the United Nations and aims to encourage awareness, education, and action to build a society free from discrimination and racial inequality.

 

3. 21 March – International Nowruz Day: International Nowruz Day is celebrated every year on 21 March to mark the beginning of the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring, symbolising renewal and rebirth.It is recognized by the United Nations and celebrated across countries in regions like Central Asia, the Middle East, and South Asia, promoting peace, cultural diversity, and harmony.

 

4. 21 March – World Down Syndrome Day: World Down Syndrome Day is observed every year on 21 March to raise awareness about Down syndrome and promote the rights, inclusion, and well-being of people with the condition.The date 21/3 symbolizes the triplication of the 21st chromosome, which is the genetic cause of Down syndrome.It is supported by the United Nations and encourages people worldwide to wear different socks as a symbol of diversity and inclusion.

 

5. 21 March – World Day for Glaciers: World Day for Glaciers is observed on 21 March to raise awareness about the importance of glaciers and their role in maintaining the global climate and water cycle.The day highlights the rapid melting of glaciers due to climate change, which poses serious threats to sea levels, freshwater availability, and ecosystems.

 

6. 22 March – Bihar Diwas: Bihar Diwas is celebrated every year on 22 March to mark the formation of the state of Bihar in 1912, when it was separated from the Bengal Presidency during British rule.The day highlights Bihar’s rich history, culture, and heritage, including its contributions to education, politics, and ancient civilizations like Magadh.

 

7. 22 March – World Water Day: World Water Day is observed every year on 22 March to highlight the importance of freshwater and promote sustainable management of water resources. Theme 2026 – Water and Gender It was established by the United Nations in 1993 to raise awareness about the global water crisis and scarcity issues. The day focuses on ensuring access to safe and clean drinking water and achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 – clean water and sanitation for all.

 

8. Litani River Bridge Strike Highlights Strategic Importance: Recent Israeli airstrikes have destroyed the Qasmiyeh Bridge, a crucial crossing over Lebanon’s Litani River along the southern coastal highway. The incident underscores the strategic and economic importance of the river, which plays a vital role in Lebanon’s water resources, agriculture and infrastructure connectivity. The Litani River is the longest river entirely within Lebanon. It originates near Baalbek in a low divide and flows southwest through the fertile Bekaa Valley, situated between the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain ranges. Near Marjayoun, the river takes a sharp westward turn, carving a deep gorge through the Lebanon Mountains before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea south of Sidon.

 

9. Pakistan Tops Global Pollution List, India Ranks Sixth: The latest World Air Quality Report 2025 has identified Pakistan as the most polluted country globally, followed by Bangladesh and Tajikistan, while India ranks sixth. The report, released by Swiss air quality technology firm IQAir, highlights worsening global air quality and underscores the growing public health challenge posed by pollution. According to the report, the five most polluted countries are Pakistan, Bangladesh, Tajikistan, Chad and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. India occupies the sixth position, reflecting persistent air quality concerns despite policy interventions. In contrast, countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom rank much lower on the pollution scale, at 120th and 110th positions respectively, indicating relatively better air quality standards.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. CAPF Umbrella Bill 2026 Aims to Reform Force Administration: The Union Government is set to introduce the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, in the Rajya Sabha. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a unified legal framework governing recruitment, deputation, promotions and service conditions across all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). At present, CAPFs such as the CRPF, BSF, ITBP and SSB are governed by separate Acts, leading to fragmented service regulations. The absence of a unified framework has resulted in administrative challenges and frequent litigation on service-related issues. The proposed bill aims to streamline these provisions and ensure consistency in governance

 

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

 

SPORTS

 

1. Ria Solanki Wins Shot Put Gold at Para Athletics: Ria Solanki, a 19-year-old para-athlete from Meerut, has secured a gold medal in shot put at the national para-athletics championship held in Bhubaneswar. Her achievement stands as a powerful example of determination and resilience, overcoming both physical disability and financial hardship. Born without her left hand below the elbow, Ria Solanki began training in shot put in 2018. Despite limited resources, she remained committed to her sport. Her family faced severe financial challenges, often struggling to provide even basic nutrition required for athletic training. Yet, her perseverance and focus helped her rise steadily in the field of para-athletics.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Discovers New Cockroach Species Using DNA Taxonomy: India has recorded a major scientific breakthrough with the discovery of a new cockroach species, Neoloboptera peninsularis, using advanced DNA-led taxonomy. The finding by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) marks a significant shift from traditional classification methods to modern, integrative approaches in biodiversity research. The new species was identified using an integrative taxonomy approach that combines morphological analysis, genitalic study, DNA barcoding and phylogenetic assessment. This marks the first time in over 267 years of cockroach research in India that such a comprehensive scientific framework has been applied to establish a new species with high precision.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Nirmala Sitharaman Launches ‘PRARAMBH 2026’ to Promote Awareness of New Income Tax Act 2025: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched ‘PRARAMBH 2026’, a nationwide awareness campaign by the Income Tax Department to educate citizens about the Income Tax Act, 2025, effective from April 1, 2026.The campaign will run across print, TV, radio, digital, and social media, and will provide guidance materials, FAQs, tutorials, and multilingual content in 10 regional languages, along with Hindi and English.She also unveiled Income Tax Website 2.0 and emphasised a simple, stable, and technology-driven tax system to encourage voluntary compliance and citizen-centric reforms. An AI chatbot ‘Kar Saathi’, workshops, and support through Aaykar Seva Kendras have been introduced to assist taxpayers and spread awareness under the PRARAMBH initiative.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

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