Dear Readers, get to know the daily current affairs today covering all the National & International Events provided here in this article. Current Affairs is an important topic in various competitive exams like IBPS/SBI/PO/Clerk and other competitive exams. To score better in this section, be updated with the daily happenings. Check the Daily Current Affairs March 2026 updates here. Revision is very important in remembering current affairs. Candidates after learning the Daily current affairs 14th  April 2026, can test their knowledge by attempting Current Affairs Quiz provided with answers. Daily current affairs 14th April 2026 covers current affairs from International & National news, Important Days, State News, Banking & Economy, Business News, Appointments & Resignation, Awards & Honour, Books & Authors, Sports News, etc.,

Daily Current Affairs PDF of 14th April 2026

Get More: Static GK Pdfs

CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Asian Development Bank approves $115.8 million loan to improve resilient urban services in Narayanganj, Bangladesh

• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $115.8 million loan for the Narayanganj Green and Resilient Urban Development Project in Narayanganj City Corporation (NCC), Bangladesh.

Key Highlights :

• The project aims to upgrade drinking water supply, modernise drainage systems, and expand green public spaces to improve urban sustainability and resilience.
• It is expected to benefit at least 400,000 residents, supporting efforts to reduce congestion in Dhaka and strengthen urban governance and service delivery.
• A key objective is to reduce non-revenue water (NRW) to below 20% through replacement and expansion of 230 km pipeline network and installation of metered household connections.
• The project will adopt digital technologies such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and strengthen online billing and revenue collection systems.
• The water supply capacity of NCC will increase from 113 million litres per day (MLD) to 162 MLD.
• This will be achieved through new tube wells, rehabilitation of water treatment plants, and upgrades of existing wells.
• The project will enhance climate resilience and flood management by increasing the share of surface water to 51%.
• It includes development of 22 km of drainage infrastructure using nature-based solutions to improve flood control and groundwater recharge.
• The project will also construct inclusive green parks and rehabilitate a playground to improve livability and reduce urban heat effects.
• The Narayanganj City Corporation (NCC) will be responsible for the long-term operation and maintenance of all facilities under the project.

About Asian Development Bank :

• Established : 19 December 1966
• Headquarters : Philippines
• President : Masato Kanda
• Membership : 69 members

CSB Bank launches its first retail savings product ‘SMART SAVE ACCOUNT’, expanding its retail banking portfolio

• CSB Bank Limited, one of India’s oldest private sector banks, launched its first dedicated retail savings product called the ‘SMART SAVE ACCOUNT’, marking a major expansion in retail banking portfolio.
• The launch aims to boost bank liquidity and provide automated, customer-centric banking services.
• The SMART SAVE ACCOUNT is available in three variants: Savings Account, Current Account, and Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) Account.
• The account is designed for salaried individuals, business professionals, and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), ensuring easy liquidity management without manual intervention.
• A key feature is the auto-sweep facility, which automatically transfers excess funds into Fixed Deposits (FDs).
• The account offers up to 7% interest on ‘Sweep-in FDs’ for a 13-month tenure.
• It comes with a ‘no lock-in’ facility, ensuring flexible fund access for customers.
• Customers receive a complimentary RuPay Platinum debit card for enhanced banking convenience.
• The account provides a maximum net banking transaction limit of ₹10 lakh per day.
• It also includes a daily ATM withdrawal limit of ₹75,000.
• Customers can avail up to a 30% discount on locker rentals, adding additional value benefits.

About CSB Bank Limited :

• Founded : 26 November 1920
• Headquarters : Thrissur, Kerala, India
• MD & CEO : Pralay Mondal

Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority approves PPFAS Asset Management Company to act as pension fund sponsor under National Pension System framework

• The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), under the Ministry of Finance (MoF), approved PPFAS Asset Management Company (AMC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Parag Parikh Financial Advisory Services Limited (PPFAS), to act as a sponsor for a pension fund under the National Pension System (NPS).
• This approval marks the entry of PPFAS into India’s retirement savings space, enabling it to manage long-term pension assets.

Key Highlights :

• The initiative aims to manage long-term retirement savings of NPS subscribers with a focus on investor protection, disciplined investing, and consistent returns.
• A separate pension fund company will be established to manage NPS schemes and invest across Equities (EQ), Government Securities (G-Secs), and Corporate Bonds (CBs).
• The operations of the fund will begin after completion of regulatory approvals, procedural requirements, and infrastructure setup.
• The National Pension System (NPS) was launched in 2004 for government employees and extended to all citizens in 2009, and is regulated by PFRDA.
• NPS allows subscribers to choose and switch fund managers for flexible long-term retirement planning.
• Currently, ten Asset Management Companies (AMCs) operate under NPS, including:

1. Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC
2. Axis Asset Management Company
3. DSP Asset Managers
4. HDFC Asset Management Company
5. ICICI Prudential AMC
6. Kotak AMC
7. LIC AMC
8. SBI Funds Management
9. Tata Asset Management Company
10. UTI Asset Management Company

• With the new approval, PPFAS AMC will soon begin managing NPS retirement assets through a dedicated pension fund entity.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, The Digital India BHASHa Interface for India (BHASHINI) Division (DIBD) under Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) under Ministry of Finance (MoF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the initiative “BHASHINI for Seva–Sanchalan”.

About PFRDA:

• Established: 2003 (Statutory status from PFRDA Act, 2013)
• Under which Ministry: Ministry of Finance, Government of India
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Chairman: Sivasubramanian Ramann

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Patent Filings in India Increased by 30.2% to 1,43,729 in Financial Year 2025–26

• Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Ministry of Commerce and Industry, announced that patent applications in India increased by 30.2% to 1,43,729 in Financial Year 2025–26, marking a historic high and reflecting the country’s growing focus on research, innovation, and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR).

Key Highlights

• India emerged as the 6th largest patent filer globally, indicating strong progress in technology and innovation.
• More than 69% of patent applications were filed by domestic applicants, reflecting a shift from dependence on foreign innovations towards “Invented in India”.
• Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra emerged as leading contributors to patent filings, driven by strong industrial and research ecosystems.
• Patent filings showed consistent growth over the years:
• 2016–17: 45,444 applications
• 2021–22: 66,440 applications
• 2023–24: 92,163 applications
• 2025–26: 1,43,729 applications
• The surge in patent filings is attributed to proactive government measures to strengthen the Intellectual Property Rights ecosystem, including:
• reduction in patent filing fees for startups, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and educational institutions,
• introduction of expedited examination procedures for faster approvals, and
• provision of pro bono support for startups in filing patents, trademarks, and designs.
• Patent applications in India are governed by the Patents Act, 1970, which ensures examination based on novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability.
• The patent grant process includes a two-tier review system by examiners and controllers.
• The Act also provides provisions for pre-grant opposition and post-grant opposition to ensure that only genuine innovations receive patent protection.

Supreme Court Ruled Right to Vote and Contest Elections Are Statutory Rights

• The Supreme Court of India clarified that the right to vote and the right to contest elections are statutory rights and not Fundamental Rights under Part III of the Constitution of India.
• The judgment was delivered by a Bench comprising V. Nagarathna and R. Mahadevan in a case related to cooperative society elections in Rajasthan.

Key Highlights

• The Supreme Court of India ruled that the right to vote is a statutory right and not a Fundamental Right.
• The right to contest elections is also a statutory right subject to eligibility conditions prescribed by law.
• These rights are governed by the Representation of the People Act, 1950 and the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
• The case originated from a dispute related to elections in District Milk Producers Cooperative Unions under the Rajasthan Cooperative Societies Act, 2001.
• The Supreme Court upheld the validity of bye-laws prescribing eligibility conditions such as:
• minimum number of days of milk supply,
• quantity of milk supplied,
• operational status of cooperative societies, and
• audit compliance standards.
• The Court set aside earlier decisions of the Rajasthan High Court that had struck down these bye-laws.
• The Court observed that cooperative societies are generally not treated as ‘State’ under Article 12 of the Constitution of India.
• Therefore, internal election matters of cooperative societies normally do not fall within judicial review under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, unless there is clear illegality.
• The judgment reaffirmed that electoral rights exist within the statutory legal framework created by Parliament and State Legislatures.

RECENT NEWS

• Rajasthan state government has launched the Industrial Park Promotion Policy for the year 2026 to attract investment and create jobs. It will be led Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and the policy aims to develop the world-class industrial parks. With this it will position the state as a future ready industrial destination.

First Life-Size Statue of Swami Vivekananda Unveiled in Seattle, United States

• In a significant cultural milestone, the first life-size statue of Swami Vivekananda in the United States was unveiled at Westlake Square in Seattle, honouring his legacy as a spiritual leader and philosopher and strengthening India–United States cultural ties.
• The bronze statue was sculpted by Naresh Kumar Kumawat, making Seattle the first city in the United States to host a life-size statue of Swami Vivekananda at a prominent public location visited by large numbers of people daily.
• The statue is strategically located near major landmarks including the Amazon Spheres, Seattle Convention Center, and the Seattle Center Monorail, ensuring high visibility among residents and international visitors.
• The statue was unveiled by Katie Wilson, Mayor of Seattle, along with Prakash Gupta, Consul General of India in Seattle, in the presence of local leaders, community representatives, and members of the Indian-American diaspora.
• The statue was gifted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) under the Government of India, and the unveiling coincided with the observance of ICCR Day, reinforcing India’s cultural diplomacy efforts globally.
• The initiative aims to:
• enhance India–United States cultural engagement,
• promote Indian philosophy and heritage internationally, and
• strengthen ties with the Indian diaspora community.
• Swami Vivekananda’s historic address at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago in 1893 introduced Hindu philosophy to the Western world and brought him global recognition.
• Key contributions of Swami Vivekananda include:
• popularising Vedanta and Yoga in the West,
• advocating interfaith harmony and universal brotherhood,
• inspiring India’s freedom movement through spiritual awakening and national consciousness, and
• founding the Ramakrishna Mission.

RECENT NEWS

• S. President Donald Trump claimed that the United States and India have reached a trade deal, with tariffs set to be reduced immediately. The announcement followed a direct call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

India Moving Towards Fully Digital Toll Collection on National Highways

• India has initiated the transition towards a fully digital toll collection system across National Highways, enabling payments through FASTag (Electronic Toll Collection System using Radio Frequency Identification Technology) and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) from 11 April 2026, aimed at improving transparency, reducing congestion, and enhancing commuter convenience.
• The initiative marks a shift from the hybrid toll payment system (cash and digital) to an exclusively digital toll payment ecosystem, supporting the development of technology-driven transport infrastructure in India.
• Under the new system, toll payments at plazas will be processed through:
• FASTag, and
• Unified Payments Interface
  thereby eliminating cash-based toll transactions.
• Key objectives of the digital-only toll collection system include:
• faster vehicle movement at toll plazas,
• reduction in waiting time and traffic congestion,
• minimisation of cash handling and revenue leakages,
• improved transparency and traceability of transactions, and
• promotion of digital payment adoption and strengthening of India’s fintech ecosystem.
• However, the nationwide rollout has been temporarily paused in certain regions due to enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct by the Election Commission of India, which restricts implementation of new policy measures during election periods.
• The temporary pause applies to areas including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, and the Union Territory of Puducherry, where elections are underway.
• The initiative reflects India’s broader push towards cashless mobility solutions, transparent toll operations, and efficient highway travel infrastructure.

RECENT NEWS

• The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched the innovative which named as the ‘Arogya Van’ initiative. This project will focuses on to planting the medicinal trees along the national highways to enhance biodiversity and sustainability.

Karnataka Postal Circle Released Commemorative Stamps Honouring Indian Space Research Organisation Achievements

• The Department of Posts, Karnataka Postal Circle, released commemorative postage stamps and souvenir sheets in Bengaluru to honour the achievements of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and highlight India’s progress from early satellite missions to advanced human spaceflight and space exploration initiatives.
• The stamps depict India’s journey in space exploration, beginning with the launch of Aryabhata in 1975 and extending to the upcoming Gaganyaan mission, reflecting the country’s steady technological advancement in the space sector.
• The stamp design also includes references to Jantar Mantar, symbolising India’s long-standing heritage in astronomy and scientific inquiry.
• The Gaganyaan mission, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation, aims to send Indian astronauts (Gaganyatris) to Low Earth Orbit for a short-duration mission and return them safely to Earth, making India the fourth country after the United States, Russia, and China to independently achieve human spaceflight capability.
• The commemorative release also highlighted the Indian Space Research Organisation’s plan to establish an Indian Space Station, consisting of 52-tonne modules, with the first module targeted for launch by 2028, to support long-duration space research, strengthen India’s orbital infrastructure, and enable future deep-space exploration missions

RECENT NEWS

• Inaugural edition of Khelo India Tribal Games of 2026 (KITG) concluded on the 4th of April, 2026. As the tournament concludes state of Karnataka has clinched the top position and it is showcasing an outstanding all-round performance by them. As they have clinched the 23 gold, 8 silver and 7 bronze medals. 

About Karnataka:

• Capital: Bengaluru
• Chief Minister: Siddaramaiah
• Governor: Thaawarchand Gehlot
• National Parks: Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park, Kudremukh National Park, Anshi (Kali) National Park, Bannerghatta National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND REPORTS

Indian Tech Startups Raised USD 11.7 Billion in Financial Year 2025–26: Tracxn Report

• According to the Tracxn India Tech Annual Funding Report 2026, India’s tech startups raised USD 11.7 billion in Financial Year 2025–26, ranking 4th globally, despite an 18% year-on-year decline compared to USD 14.3 billion in Financial Year 2024–25.
• However, funding remained 20% higher than Financial Year 2023–24, indicating sustained investor confidence and strong early-stage momentum.

Key Highlights

• India ranked 4th globally in tech startup funding, after the United States, United Kingdom, and China, while outperforming Germany and France.
• Total funding declined 18% year-on-year, from USD 14.3 billion in Financial Year 2024–25 to USD 11.7 billion in Financial Year 2025–26.
• Early-stage funding increased to USD 4.8 billion, registering a 33% growth compared to the previous year.
• Enterprise applications emerged as the top funded sector, attracting USD 3.6 billion, followed by strong funding in fintech and enterprise infrastructure sectors.
• Major acquisition deals included:
• Resulticks acquired by Diginex for USD 2 billion.
• Brahma acquired by Polymarket for USD 1.2 billion.
• The startup ecosystem witnessed the emergence of 6 new unicorns during the year.
• A total of 47 Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) were recorded, reflecting a 52% surge, including notable listings from:
• Lenskart
• Groww
• Meesho
• Key early-stage investors included:
• Blume Ventures
• Peak XV Partners
• Accel

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

National Cadet Corps launches nationwide Cyber Security Capacity Building Programme for cadets

• The National Cadet Corps (NCC), in collaboration with the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), has launched a Cyber Security Capacity Building Programme aimed at strengthening cyber awareness, digital hygiene, and cyber defence skills among cadets.
• A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between NCC and NIELIT in the presence of DG NCC Lt Gen Virendra Vats and DG NIELIT Dr Madan Mohan Tripathi, marking formal cooperation for cyber training initiatives.
• The programme is designed to develop structured cyber training for NCC cadets and create a skilled pool of Cyber Cadets to support cyber awareness at grassroots level.
• The initiative is implemented in two stages with progressive training modules.
• The first stage, Cyber Security Awareness Programme, is a 15-hour online module focused on digital literacy, safe internet practices, cyber hygiene, and cyber threat awareness.
• This first stage is open to all enrolled NCC cadets across India and is delivered through the NIELIT Digital University platform.
• The second stage, Cyber Defender Programme, is an advanced 60-hour offline training module for cadets selected through a merit-based screening process.
• This advanced stage includes hands-on training, real-life cyber simulations, and practical exposure to cyber security tools and techniques.
• It enables cadets to develop skills to identify, respond to, and mitigate cyber threats
• The overall objective is to build a trained cadre of NCC Cyber Cadets who can promote safe digital behaviour and cyber awareness initiatives.
• The programme aligns with national initiatives such as Digital India and the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), supporting India’s goal of strengthening digital security capacity building.

Indian Army contingent leaves for India–Uzbekistan joint military exercise DUSTLIK

• The Indian Army contingent has departed for the 7th edition of the India–Uzbekistan joint military exercise DUSTLIK, aimed at strengthening bilateral defence cooperation.
• The exercise will be conducted at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area, Namangan, Uzbekistan, from 12 to 25 April 2026.

Key Highlights :

• Exercise DUSTLIK is a yearly joint military exercise, conducted alternatively in India and Uzbekistan.
• The previous (6th edition) was held at the Foreign Training Node, Aundh (Pune), India in April 2025.
• The Indian Armed Forces contingent (60 personnel) includes 45 personnel from the Indian Army (mainly from a Battalion of the MAHAR Regiment) and 15 personnel from the Indian Air Force.
• The Uzbekistan Armed Forces contingent also comprises approximately 60 personnel from the Uzbekistan Army and Air Force.
• The aim of Exercise DUSTLIK is to enhance military cooperation and develop combined capabilities for joint operations in semi-mountainous terrain.
• The exercise focuses on high physical fitness, joint planning, joint tactical drills, and special arms skills.
• It aims to establish a unified operational algorithm between command-and-control structures of both countries for planning and execution of joint operations.
• Key operational activities include land navigation, strike missions on enemy bases, and seizure of enemy-held areas.
• The exercise includes a 48-hour validation exercise to test tactical drills for joint special operations, focusing on neutralisation of unlawful armed groups.
• It enhances interoperability, operational synergy, and joint command-and-control coordination between both contingents.
• It also promotes bonhomie, camaraderie, and defence cooperation between the armed forces of India and Uzbekistan.
• The first edition of Exercise DUSTLIK was held in November 2019 at Chirchiq Training Area near Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Indian Army Launches Operation Him Setu to Rescue Tourists Stranded in North Sikkim After Landslide

• The Indian Army Trishakti Corps launched Operation Him Setu to rescue and evacuate stranded tourists in North Sikkim (Lachen region).
• The operation was triggered after a major landslide disrupted road connectivity between Lachen and Chungthang, severely affecting regional mobility.
• The mission is being carried out under the Eastern Command of the Indian Army in extreme weather conditions with heavy snowfall.
• The Army has opened critical passes and alternate routes to support safe evacuation of tourists.
• The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working in close coordination with the Army for road clearance, snow removal, and restoration of connectivity.
• The operation is being executed in phases, ensuring systematic and safe evacuation of affected individuals.
• So far, 135 tourists have been safely evacuated, along with 32 light vehicles and 10 motorcycles.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Indian Space Research Organisation successfully conducts Integrated Air Drop Test-02 at Sriharikota for Gaganyaan mission

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted the second Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-02) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, marking a key milestone in the Gaganyaan Mission.
• The test is part of the Gaganyaan Mission, aimed at ensuring safe human spaceflight capability for India.

Key Highlights :

• The objective of IADT-02 was to evaluate and validate parachute-based deceleration and recovery systems for controlled descent of the crew module.
• It ensures safe astronaut return during re-entry and abort situations.
• A simulated Crew Module weighing ~5.7 tonnes (equivalent to Gaganyaan G1 mission) was lifted by an Indian Air Force (IAF) Chinook helicopter to an altitude of ~3 km and released over a sea drop zone near Sriharikota coast.
• A sequence of 10 parachutes (four types) was deployed to reduce velocity for a safe splashdown and touchdown.
• After splashdown, the Crew Module was successfully recovered in coordination with the Indian Navy (IN).
• The test validated descent, landing, and recovery systems, marking a major step toward Gaganyaan G1 mission readiness.
• The Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT) is designed to simulate the final phase of spacecraft returning to Earth.
• It tests critical scenarios such as:
• Parachute deployment during abort conditions
• System performance in case of parachute failure
• Spacecraft orientation and safety during splashdown
• The first IADT was conducted on 24 August 2025 at Sriharikota, where a 8-tonne dummy crew module was dropped from 3 km altitude using a Chinook helicopter.
• The IADT-02 further strengthens validation of human spaceflight safety systems and supports India’s goal of first human spaceflight (Gaganyaan) planned around 2027.

Recent News :

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) conducted Mission MITRA in Leh, Ladakh from April 2–9, 2026 to enhance human spaceflight preparedness.

About ISRO:

• Established: 15 August 1969
• Headquarters: Bangalore, Karnataka
• Chairman: V. Narayanan

Technology Development Board signs agreement with Casey Aviation for Boost Electric Jump Take-Off project to develop hybrid propulsion aviation technology

• The Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, has signed an agreement with Casey Aviation Private Limited, Gurugram for the “Boost Electric Jump Take-Off (BE-JTO)” project, aimed at advancing hybrid propulsion-based aviation technology.
• The project has received a conditional grant under the India–UK Collaborative R&D Programme for Industrial Sustainability, in partnership with UK-based ARC Aerosystems Ltd, strengthening international R&D collaboration.
• The initiative focuses on developing an advanced hybrid propulsion-based Jump Take-Off (JTO) system to enhance the operational capability of unmanned aerial systems and light aircraft platforms.
• A key component of the project is the establishment of a dedicated test bench facility for validation of rotorcraft propulsion systems, supporting next-generation aerial mobility technologies.
• The proposed technology enables short take-off and near-vertical take-off capabilities for platforms such as gyrocopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
• It aims to reduce take-off distance requirements and improve operational flexibility and efficiency in aviation systems.
• The technology is expected to support applications in regional connectivity, disaster response, medical evacuation, unmanned logistics, and surveillance operations, especially in remote and inaccessible regions.
• The project will establish one of the first propulsion testing facilities in North India, strengthening aviation research infrastructure.
• This facility will provide validated testing services for startups and developers working in unmanned and advanced aerial mobility systems, promoting ecosystem development and commercialization.
• The initiative will also support broader industry participation by enabling testing, validation, and scaling of hybrid propulsion technologies.
• Casey Aviation Private Limited is a newly established aerospace startup focused on small aircraft design and specialized aviation solutions, integrating expertise from industry, academia, and research institutions.
• Overall, the project strengthens India’s capabilities in advanced aviation technology, hybrid propulsion systems, and unmanned aerial innovation.

Recent News :

• In April 2026, Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, extended financial assistance to Indigenous Energy Storage Technologies Private Limited, based in Roorkee, Uttarakhand.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ENVIRONMENT

New plant species Fimbristylis wayanadensis discovered in Western Ghats high-altitude region

• Researchers have identified a new plant species named Fimbristylis wayanadensis in the high-altitude regions of the Western Ghats, highlighting the region’s rich biodiversity.
• The species was discovered during a botanical expedition in Wayanad district, Kerala, and is named after its place of discovery, reflecting its geographical uniqueness.
• Fimbristylis wayanadensis belongs to the sedge family (Cyperaceae), a group of grass-like plants known for their ecological importance in diverse habitats.
• The genus Fimbristylis is already known for its diversity, and this new species further enhances the understanding of plant variation in the Western Ghats.
• The plant was found in transitional zones between rocky terrains and high-altitude grasslands, which are fragile and climate-sensitive ecosystems.
• It occurs at elevations of up to 1,900 metres, showing its adaptation to high-altitude and extreme environmental conditions.
• The species shows distinct morphological features such as long leaves that may exceed its hairy stems in height.
• It produces fewer spikelets (flower clusters) that are chestnut-brown in colour, unlike related species that typically have yellowish spikelets.
• Its fruits are larger, smoother, and show microscopic rectangular surface patterns, distinguishing it from related taxa.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

India Won Two Gold Medals at Asian Wrestling Championships 2026 in Bishkek

• India delivered a strong performance at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2026 held in Bishkek, where Sujeet Kalkal and Abhimanyou Mandwal won gold medals in freestyle wrestling, strengthening India’s overall medal tally and demonstrating dominance at the continental level.
• Sujeet Kalkal won the gold medal in the 65 kilogram freestyle category after defeating Umidjon Jalolov of Uzbekistan by 8–1 in the final.
• He became the first Indian wrestler to win the 65 kilogram gold medal since Bajrang Punia in 2019.
• He secured his third consecutive gold medal in 2026.
• He displayed strong offensive and defensive techniques throughout the competition.
• Abhimanyou Mandwal won the gold medal in the 70 kilogram freestyle category after defeating Tulga Ochir of Mongolia by 5–3 in the final.
• He defeated an Olympian opponent in the final match.
• He demonstrated strong tactical awareness and resilience.
• The victory marked a breakthrough moment in his international wrestling career.
• With these victories, India secured a total of 14 medals at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2026, including:
• 2 gold medals
• 4 silver medals
• 8 bronze medals
• The Asian Wrestling Championships is one of the most competitive continental wrestling tournaments and features leading wrestlers from countries such as Iran, Kazakhstan, Japan, Mongolia, and India, reflecting the high level of competition in Asian wrestling

About Kyrgyzstan

• Capital: Bishkek
• Currency: Kyrgyz som
• President: Sadyr Japarov

Jannik Sinner Won Monte Carlo Masters 2026 and Reclaimed World No. 1 Ranking

• Jannik Sinner defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the final to win the Monte-Carlo Masters 2026, securing his first title at the event and reclaiming the World No. 1 ranking.
• Jannik Sinner won the final in straight sets (7–6 (5), 6–3), completing a dominant run in ATP Masters 1000 tournaments after earlier victories at the Indian Wells Masters and the Miami Open in 2026.
• With this victory, Jannik Sinner:
• won three consecutive ATP Masters 1000 titles in 2026,
• extended his winning streak to 17 matches, and
• joined legends like Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal among the few players to achieve multiple consecutive ATP Masters 1000 titles in a season.
• The final was a high-quality contest where:
• the first set was decided in a tie-break (7–5),
• Jannik Sinner demonstrated strong resilience under pressure, and
• he secured a decisive victory in the second set to close the match in 2 hours and 15 minutes.
• The rivalry between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz is emerging as one of the most exciting next-generation rivalries in men’s tennis, continuing the legacy of players like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.
• The Monte-Carlo Masters is one of the most prestigious clay-court tournaments and serves as a key preparation event for the French Open (Roland Garros), testing players’ endurance, strategy, and adaptability on clay surfaces.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Veteran Congress leader and former Union Minister Abu Hasem Khan Chowdhury passed away

• Veteran Indian National Congress (INC) leader) and former Union Minister, Abu Hasem Khan Chowdhury popularly known as ‘Dalu Babu’, passed away at the age of 88 in Kolkata, West Bengal.

About Abu Hasem Khan Chowdhury :

• He was born on 12 January 1938 in Malda district, Bengal Province (present-day West Bengal).
• He was a prominent political figure from West Bengal, widely respected for his contributions to public service and grassroots politics.
• He served as the District Congress President for 15 years, highlighting his strong organizational leadership.
• He was elected as Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Kaliachak assembly constituency from 1996 to 2006.
• In 2006, he was elected as Member of Parliament (MP) in a by-election following the demise of Ghani Khan Choudhury.
• He served as a Congress MP from Malda South from 2009 to 2019.
• He was appointed as Minister of State (MoS) for Health and Family Welfare in 2012 and served until 2014.

India’s Oldest Living Test Cricketer C.D. Gopinath Passed away at 96

• Chingleput Doraikannu (C.D.) Gopinath, India’s oldest living Test cricketer, passed away at the age of 96 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

About C. D. Gopinath :

• He was born on March 01, 1930, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN).
• He was the world’s second-oldest living Test cricketer, after Neil Harvey (97 years, 183 days).
• Following his demise, Chandu Patankar (95 years, 136 days) became the oldest living Indian Test cricketer.
• In his Test career, he played 8 Test matches and 12 innings, scoring 242 runs at an average of 22, including one half-century.
• As a right-handed batter, he had a notable first-class career, playing 83 matches and 119 innings.
• He scored 4259 runs at an impressive average of 42.16, including 9 centuries (100s) and 23 half-centuries (50s).
• He is remembered as a significant figure in early Indian cricket history with consistent performances in domestic cricket.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Jayanti Observed on 14 April

• Every year 14 April is observed as Ambedkar Jayanti across India to commemorate the birth anniversary of R. Ambedkar, the Chief Architect of the Constitution of India and a prominent social reformer, economist, and champion of the rights of socially disadvantaged communities.
• B. R. Ambedkar is widely regarded as the principal architect of the Constitution of India.
• He served as the first Law and Justice Minister of independent India.
• In 1923, he founded the Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha to promote education and socio-economic upliftment of marginalized communities.
• He belonged to a socially disadvantaged community and faced discrimination during his childhood, which shaped his commitment to social justice and equality.
• Despite social barriers, he excelled academically and became a leading intellectual and reformer.
• In 1942, he served as a member of the Viceroy's Executive Council during the British period.
• After independence, he played a key role in drafting the Constitution of India, ensuring provisions for social justice, equality, and fundamental rights.
• He consistently worked for the upliftment of Scheduled Castes and other weaker sections of society throughout his life.
• He emphasized that the problems of socially disadvantaged communities cannot be solved through political power alone but require social and educational empowerment.

Daily CA One- Liner: April 14

• Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Ministry of Commerce and Industry, announced that patent applications in India increased by 30.2% to 1,43,729 in Financial Year 2025–26, marking a historic high and reflecting the country’s growing focus on research, innovation, and Intellectual Property Rights
• The Supreme Court of India clarified that the right to vote and the right to contest elections are statutory rights and not Fundamental Rights under Part III of the Constitution of India
• In a significant cultural milestone, the first life-size statue of Swami Vivekananda in the United States was unveiled at Westlake Square in Seattle, honouring his legacy as a spiritual leader and philosopher and strengthening India–United States cultural ties
• India has initiated the transition towards a fully digital toll collection system across National Highways, enabling payments through FASTag (Electronic Toll Collection System using Radio Frequency Identification Technology) and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) from 11 April 2026, aimed at improving transparency, reducing congestion, and enhancing commuter convenience.
• The Department of Posts, Karnataka Postal Circle, released commemorative postage stamps and souvenir sheets in Bengaluru to honour the achievements of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and highlight India’s progress from early satellite missions to advanced human spaceflight and space exploration initiatives
• According to the Tracxn India Tech Annual Funding Report 2026, India’s tech startups raised USD 11.7 billion in Financial Year 2025–26, ranking 4th globally, despite an 18% year-on-year decline compared to USD 14.3 billion in Financial Year 2024–25
• India delivered a strong performance at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2026 held in Bishkek, where Sujeet Kalkal and Abhimanyou Mandwal won gold medals in freestyle wrestling, strengthening India’s overall medal tally and demonstrating dominance at the continental level
• Jannik Sinner defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the final to win the Monte-Carlo Masters 2026, securing his first title at the event and reclaiming the World No. 1 ranking
• Every year 14 April is observed as Ambedkar Jayanti across India to commemorate the birth anniversary of B. R. Ambedkar, the Chief Architect of the Constitution of India and a prominent social reformer, economist, and champion of the rights of socially disadvantaged communities.
• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $115.8 million loan for the Narayanganj Green and Resilient Urban Development Project in Narayanganj City Corporation (NCC), Bangladesh.
• CSB Bank Limited, one of India’s oldest private sector banks, launched its first dedicated retail savings product called the ‘SMART SAVE ACCOUNT’, marking a major expansion in retail banking portfolio.
• The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), under the Ministry of Finance (MoF), approved PPFAS Asset Management Company (AMC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Parag Parikh Financial Advisory Services Limited (PPFAS), to act as a sponsor for a pension fund under the National Pension System (NPS).
• The National Cadet Corps (NCC), in collaboration with the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), has launched a Cyber Security Capacity Building Programme aimed at strengthening cyber awareness, digital hygiene, and cyber defence skills among cadets.
• The Indian Army contingent has departed for the 7th edition of the India–Uzbekistan joint military exercise DUSTLIK, aimed at strengthening bilateral defence cooperation.
• The Indian Army Trishakti Corps launched Operation Him Setu to rescue and evacuate stranded tourists in North Sikkim (Lachen region).
• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted the second Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-02) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, marking a key milestone in the Gaganyaan Mission.
• The Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, has signed an agreement with Casey Aviation Private Limited, Gurugram for the “Boost Electric Jump Take-Off (BE-JTO)” project, aimed at advancing hybrid propulsion-based aviation technology.
• Researchers have identified a new plant species named Fimbristylis wayanadensis in the high-altitude regions of the Western Ghats, highlighting the region’s rich biodiversity.
• Veteran Indian National Congress (INC) leader) and former Union Minister, Abu Hasem Khan Chowdhury popularly known as ‘Dalu Babu’, passed away at the age of 88 in Kolkata, West Bengal.
• Chingleput Doraikannu (C.D.) Gopinath, India’s oldest living Test cricketer, passed away at the age of 96 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.