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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

India’s Merchandise and Services Exports Grow 5.79% to USD 790.86 Billion in April–February 2025-26-Ministry of Commerce and Industry

• The Department of Commerce (DoC) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) reported that India’s cumulative exports (merchandise and services combined) for April-February 2025-26 reached an estimated USD 790.86 Billion (Bn), registering a growth of 5.79%.
• Merchandise exports during April-February 2025-26 stood at USD 402.93 Bn, up from USD 395.66 Bn in the previous year, registering a growth of 1.84%.
• Services exports are estimated at USD 387.93 Bn, compared to USD 351.93 Bn in the previous year, showing a growth of 10.23%.
• India’s total imports for April-February 2025-26 are estimated at USD 900.51 Bn, growing by 7.37%, with merchandise imports at USD 713.53 Bn compared to USD 657.46 Bn the previous year.
• In February 2026 alone, total exports reached USD 76.13 Bn, showing an 11.05% increase compared to February 2025.
• Engineering goods exports grew by 90%, reaching USD 10.36 Bn in February 2026, while Electronic goods exports increased by 10.37%, reaching USD 4.18 Bn, supported by domestic manufacturing initiatives.
• Cumulative non-petroleum exports rose by 5.03% to reach USD 354.12 Bn, reflecting growth beyond petroleum products.
• Market diversification contributed to trade growth, with positive gains in China (37.66%), USA (3.84%), and UAE (8.52%), and a significant rise in Spain (45.31%).
• Export categories like Meat, Dairy & Poultry grew by  22.66%, supporting government efforts to diversify the export basket beyond traditional goods.
• The double-digit growth in Electronic Goods (10.37%) positions India as a global electronics hub and is aligned with Make in India initiatives.
• Services surplus reached USD 200.96 Bn, supported by strong global demand for Indian services, contributing to national trade balance management.
• India’s integration into global supply chains has enhanced resilience against regional economic shifts and strengthened its export competitiveness.

Shriram General Insurance Introduces New Indemnity-Based Health Insurance Plan

• Shriram General Insurance Company (SGIC) launched Shri Health Suraksha 2.0, an upgraded health insurance plan designed to provide flexible and comprehensive medical coverage while reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
• The plan addresses gaps in traditional health policies by removing restrictions and offering benefits such as unlimited restoration of the sum insured within a policy year.
• Shri Health Suraksha 2.0 provides a cumulative bonus of up to 250% for claim-free years, increasing the base sum insured over time.
• The policy eliminates room rent capping and ICU charge limits, allowing policyholders to choose hospital rooms based on medical necessity without financial restrictions.
• The plan follows a zero co-payment structure, ensuring that the insurer covers the full admissible claim amount without requiring the insured to share costs.
• It provides coverage for ambulance and air ambulance services up to the sum insured, expanding access to emergency medical transport.
• The plan includes coverage for medical consumables, which are often excluded in standard health policies.
• Shri Health Suraksha 2.0 integrates modern medical procedures with AYUSH treatments (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy), offering holistic healthcare coverage.
• The upgraded plan is indemnity-based, designed to meet evolving healthcare needs and address rising medical costs for policyholders.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Kusunpur Village in Odisha to Become State’s First Smart Village Under Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Initiative

• Kusunpur village in Kendrapada district of Odisha is set to become the first smart village in the state under an initiative of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research functioning under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
• The project aims to transform the village, which has around 130 families and a population of about 700, into a model of sustainable and self-reliant rural development.
• The initiative seeks to bring advanced technology and scientific solutions directly to rural communities.
• The project follows a mission-mode approach where multiple research institutions collaborate to implement practical and scalable solutions.
• The primary objective is to create a self-sufficient, climate-resilient and sustainable village model, which can serve as a blueprint for developing smart villages across India.
• Several specialised institutions under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research are participating in the project.
• Key institutions involved include:
  – Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee
  – Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar
  – Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute
  – National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology
  – Structural Engineering Research Centre
  – Central Leather Research Institute

RECENT NEWS

• India has successfully test-fired the Agni-III intermediate-range ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha. The test was carried out on 6 February 2026 as part of a routine training exercise. Defense officials confirmed that the missile met all mission objectives and validated critical technical and operational parameters. 

About Odisha:

• Chief Minister: Mohan Charan Majhi
• Governor: Hari Babu Kambhampati
• Capital: Bhubaneswar
• National Parks: Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary

India’s Unemployment Rate Declines to 4.9% in February 2026: Periodic Labour Force Survey

• India’s unemployment rate declined marginally to 4.9 percent in February 2026, according to the National Statistics Office through the Periodic Labour Force Survey.
• The unemployment rate in January 2026 was recorded at 5 percent, indicating a slight improvement in the labour market during February 2026.
• The overall unemployment rate among persons aged 15 years and above declined to 4.9 percent, reflecting stable employment trends across rural and urban areas.
• Urban unemployment rate among persons aged 15 years and above declined to 6.6 percent in February 2026, compared to 6.7 percent in January 2026, indicating a marginal recovery in employment opportunities in urban areas.
• Rural unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.2 percent, showing stable employment conditions in rural regions without major fluctuations.
• The female unemployment rate among persons aged 15 years and above declined significantly from 5.6 percent in January 2026 to 5.1 percent in February 2026.
• Urban female unemployment rate decreased from 9.8 percent to 8.7 percent, indicating improvement in employment opportunities for women in urban areas.
• Rural female unemployment rate declined from 4.3 percent to 4.0 percent, showing better participation of women in rural employment.
• The Labour Force Participation Rate among persons aged 15 years and above remained unchanged at 55.9 percent in February 2026.
• The Labour Force Participation Rate represents the proportion of the population that is either employed or actively seeking employment.

Department of Posts Launches ‘24 Speed Post’ Service for Next-Day Delivery

• The Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, has launched the ‘24 Speed Post’ service to provide next-day guaranteed delivery for urgent consignments.
• The service was launched at Akashvani Bhawan.
• The 24 Speed Post service is designed for time-sensitive parcels and important documents, ensuring faster delivery compared to standard postal timelines.
• The service will initially operate in six major metropolitan cities of India.
• Cities covered in the first phase include:
  – New Delhi
  – Mumbai
  – Chennai
  – Kolkata
  – Bengaluru
  – Hyderabad
• These cities were selected due to high logistics demand and extensive business communication networks.
• The Department of Posts plans to expand the service gradually to additional cities across India.
• The 24 Speed Post service operates through dedicated processing windows and priority air transportation, helping to reduce transit delays and improve delivery efficiency.
• Key features of the 24 Speed Post service include:
  – Next-day guaranteed delivery (D+1 timeline)
  – 48-hour delivery option under ‘48 Speed Post’ (D+2 timeline)
  – One-Time Password based secure delivery confirmation
  – End-to-end tracking with Short Message Service alerts
  – Buy Now Pay Later facility for business customers
  – Free pickup facility for bulk consignments
  – Application Programming Interface integration and centralized billing for corporate clients
  – Money-back guarantee in case of delivery delays
• The initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of postal logistics and strengthen India’s parcel delivery ecosystem for businesses and individuals.

RECENT NEWS

• In a major push towards deepening financial inclusion, the Department of Posts (DoP) and BSE, Asia’s oldest stock exchange, have signed a landmark MoU to expand access to mutual fund services across India. 

India Submits First National Report on Nagoya Protocol to Convention on Biological Diversity

• India has submitted its first National Report on the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing to the Convention on Biological Diversity.
• The report was submitted on February 27, 2026 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Authority.
• The report highlights India’s progress in implementing global biodiversity agreements between November 1, 2017 and December 31, 2025.
• The submission has been made under Article 29 of the Nagoya Protocol, which requires countries to monitor and report progress in implementing Access and Benefit Sharing rules.
• The Access and Benefit Sharing mechanism ensures that benefits arising from the use of genetic resources and traditional knowledge are shared fairly with the countries and communities providing them.
• India’s report demonstrates the country’s commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity and progress towards Target 13 of the updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
• India had earlier submitted an interim national report in November 2017.
• India’s Access and Benefit Sharing framework operates under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, which provides the legal foundation for biodiversity governance in the country.
• The framework is further supported by the Biological Diversity Rules, 2024 and the Access and Benefit Sharing Regulations, 2025 to strengthen implementation.
• Biodiversity governance in India follows a three-tier institutional structure involving national, state and local level institutions.
• National level: National Biodiversity Authority.
• State level: State Biodiversity Boards and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils.
• Local level: Biodiversity Management Committees.
• India has established more than 2,76,653 Biodiversity Management Committees, enabling local communities to participate actively in biodiversity conservation and benefit sharing mechanisms.
• Financial outcomes include:
  – ₹216.31 crore mobilised through National Biodiversity Authority approvals.
  – ₹139.69 crore distributed to benefit claimers, including local communities, farmers and traditional knowledge holders.
  – ₹51.96 crore generated through State Biodiversity Boards approvals.
• The Nagoya Protocol is an international agreement adopted in 2010 under the Convention on Biological Diversity.

APEDA Facilitates First Export of GI-Tagged Joha Rice from Assam to United Kingdom and Italy

• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry facilitated the first export consignment of 25 metric tonnes of Geographical Indication tagged Joha rice from Assam to the United Kingdom and Italy.
• The shipment was dispatched, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Government of Assam.
• Joha rice is an indigenous aromatic rice variety known for its distinct fragrance and fine grain texture.
• The rice variety received the Geographical Indication tag in 2017, enhancing its recognition in premium domestic and international markets.
• The initiative aims to promote unique agricultural products from India’s North-Eastern region in global markets and strengthen export opportunities for farmers.
• In Assam, Joha rice is cultivated across around 21,662 hectares with an estimated production of about 43,298 metric tonnes in Financial Year 2024–25.
• Major Joha rice producing districts in Assam include Nagaon, Baksa, Goalpara, Sivasagar, Majuli, Chirang and Golaghat.
• Prior to this shipment, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority had facilitated the export of 1 metric tonne of Geographical Indication tagged Joha rice to Vietnam and 2 metric tonnes to Middle Eastern countries including Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia.
• The latest export consignment was exported by Safe Agritrade Private Limited and processed at Pratik Agro Food Processing in Guwahati.
• The initiative is expected to strengthen market linkages between producers and international buyers while improving price realisation and export opportunities for farmers in Assam and the North-Eastern region of India.

About APEDA

• Founded: 13 February 1986
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India
• Preceding Statutory body: Processed Food Export Promotion Council (PFEPC)
• Statutory body executives: Abhishek Dev, IAS, Chairman; Dr. Saswati Bose, General Manager

NMDC Limited Becomes First Mining Company in India to Produce 50 Million Tonnes of Iron Ore in a Financial Year

• NMDC Limited, a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Steel, has become the first mining company in India to produce 50 million tonnes of iron ore in a single financial year (Financial Year 2025–26).
• The milestone was achieved days before the close of the Financial Year 2025–26, marking a historic achievement for the company.
• Established in 1958, NMDC Limited was created to develop and utilise India’s iron ore resources.
• The company produced around 10 million tonnes of iron ore in 1978, and over the decades its production has increased fivefold to reach 50 million tonnes in Financial Year 2025–26.
• The achievement highlights the transformation of NMDC Limited into the backbone of India’s iron ore supply chain.
• The company has recorded rapid growth in recent years, with production increasing from about 30 million tonnes in 2015 to 50 million tonnes in 2025–26.
• Nearly one-fifth of the current production capacity has been added in the last four years, marking the fastest expansion phase in the company’s history.
• The milestone is significant as India aims to expand its steelmaking capacity to 300 million tonnes by 2030, increasing the importance of stable domestic iron ore supply.
• According to Amitava Mukherjee, Chairman and Managing Director of NMDC Limited, the achievement reflects accelerated growth under the “NMDC 2.0” strategy, supported by efficient execution, responsible mining practices and alignment with national priorities.
• NMDC Limited operates highly mechanised mining projects in the mineral-rich regions of Chhattisgarh and Karnataka, which play a key role in maintaining India’s iron ore supply.
• The company continues to focus on operational excellence, technological advancement and sustainable mining practices to support the future growth of India’s steel sector.

Government Sanctions ₹100 Crore Integrated Aqua Park in Jammu and Kashmir to Boost Cold-Water Fisheries

• Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj, announced the sanction of a ₹100 crore Integrated Aqua Park Project in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir.
• The announcement was made during the National Conference on Cold Water Fisheries organised by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India at the Sher‑e‑Kashmir International Conference Centre in Srinagar.
• During the event, the “Model Guidelines for the Development of Cold-Water Fisheries” and Model Guidelines for Reservoir Fisheries and Aquaculture Management were also released.
• The Integrated Aqua Park in Anantnag will strengthen aquaculture infrastructure, boost cold-water fisheries development, increase fish production and create employment opportunities in the region.
• The event was attended by Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir; Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir;S. P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj; and Javid Ahmad Dar, Minister for Agriculture Production, Jammu and Kashmir.
• Awards were presented to Best Fisheries Cooperative Societies, Progressive Fish Farmers, Kisan Credit Card beneficiaries, fisheries start-ups and other stakeholders from across Jammu and Kashmir.
• Best Fisheries Cooperative Society Awards were given to Jehlum Fisherman Cooperative Limited (Baramulla), Affarwat Trout Fish Farmers Cooperative Limited (Tangmarg, Baramulla) and Bandi Trout Fish Cooperative Limited (Kupwara) for their contribution to collective fish farming and strengthening the fisheries value chain.
• Progressive Cold-Water Fish Farmer Awards were presented to Shakeel Mohd Teeli (Anantnag), Mehjoor Sultan Mir (Kupwara), Umer Akbar Dar (Pulwama), Zaid Ul Ahad (Srinagar) and Sara Bano (Srinagar) for promoting sustainable trout farming.
• In the Kisan Credit Card category, awards were given to Nusrat Jan, Abdul Rashid Ganie (Srinagar), Abdul Rashid Ganie (son of Habib Ullah Ganie), Bilal Ahmad Malik and Asif Ahmad Malik for adopting scientific aquaculture practices supported by institutional credit.
• Fisheries start-ups honoured included Sheeshang Trouts (Anantnag), Springvalley Feed Mill (Srinagar), Fisheries Paradise (Samba), Rakesh Biofloc (Jammu), Kashmir Trout (Srinagar) and Raina Trout Farm (Ganderbal) for contributions in fish farming, feed production, processing and value addition.
• Sara Bano (Srinagar) also received approval for establishing a Recirculating Aquaculture System unit under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund.
• Refrigerated vehicles were distributed to Arsalan Ali (Pulwama), Muzafar Ahmad Dar (Baramulla), Mohd Iqbal Malik (Kulgam), Shakir Ahmad Mir (Shopian) and Umar Akbar Dar (Pulwama) to improve post-harvest handling.
• Three-wheeler transport vehicles were provided to Farooq Ahmad Akhoon, Gh Nabi Kaloo (Budgam), Umar Farooq Dar (Baramulla), Irshad Ahmad Khuroo (Anantnag) and Muddasir Ahmad Khanday (Kupwara) to strengthen last-mile transportation and market access.
• The Model Guidelines for Reservoir Fisheries and Aquaculture Management provide a comprehensive framework for scientific seed stocking, cage and pen-based aquaculture, leasing mechanisms, biodiversity conservation, value-chain linkages and monitoring systems.
• According to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Integrated Aqua Park will act as a major catalyst for fisheries development in Jammu and Kashmir, with the Himalayan region serving as a natural hub for cold-water fisheries in India.

About Jammu & Kashmir:

• Chief Minister: Omar Abdullah

• Lieutenant Governor: Manoj Sinha
• Capital: Srinagar (Summer), Jammu (Winter)
• National Parks: Dachigam National Park, Hemis National Park, Kishtwar National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary, Surinsar-Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary

 CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Brazil Implements Stricter Social Media Regulations for Users Under 16

• Brazil has begun enforcing a new law regulating minors’ access to social media and online platforms, marking a significant step in global efforts to safeguard children in the digital space.
• The law came into effect in 2026, following its approval in 2025 after a major scandal involving alleged sexual exploitation of minors on Instagram.
• Brazil has a population of over 212 million with high internet penetration, raising concerns about the psychological and social impact of online platforms on adolescents.
• Key provisions: Children and adolescents under 16 years must link their social media accounts to a legal guardian, and self-declaration of age is no longer permitted.
• Platforms are required to implement reliable age verification systems, including identity document uploads and biometric verification, to prevent access to violent, pornographic, or harmful content.
• Tech companies must remove content involving sexual exploitation or abuse and report such instances to authorities, with penalties for non-compliance including fines up to 50 million reais, account suspensions, or complete bans.
• Brazil’s data protection authority (ANPD) is responsible for implementing and monitoring the law.
• The law bans targeted advertising aimed at children and adolescents and restricts “loot boxes” in video games.
• Brazil joins countries like Australia in tightening regulations on children’s digital access, emphasizing accountability, parental involvement, and platform responsibility.

About Brazil :

• President : Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
• Capital : Brasília
• Currency : Real

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Bhumika Shrestha Elected as Nepal’s First Transgender Woman Member of Parliament

• Bhumika Shrestha, a 37-year-old LGBTQ rights activist, has become Nepal’s first transgender woman Member of Parliament, marking a historic milestone in South Asia for inclusivity and representation of marginalised communities.
• Bhumika Shrestha was elected as a proportional representation MP under the Rastriya Swatantra Party and is a prominent advocate for transgender and sexual minority rights in Nepal.
• Her appointment follows political changes in Nepal, including anti-corruption protests in 2025 that led to the fall of the previous government and the rise of a reform-oriented leadership, enabling greater representation for underrepresented communities, including LGBTQ individuals.
• Shrestha’s policy priorities include effective implementation of constitutional provisions for LGBTQ rights, legal protection, social inclusion, and addressing systemic discrimination against sexual minorities.
• Nepal recognised third gender identity in citizenship documents in 2013, becoming a progressive South Asian country regarding LGBTQ rights.
• Discrimination based on sexual orientation was banned in Nepal in 2007, and in 2023, Nepal’s Supreme Court allowed registration of same-sex and transgender marriages.
• Blue Diamond Society is a key organisation advocating LGBTQ rights in Nepal and has supported visibility and legal recognition of sexual minorities.
• Shrestha’s election represents a shift from legal recognition to active political participation, highlighting greater hope for policy implementation and broader societal acceptance of gender diversity.

JP Nadda Appointed as Chairman of Reconstituted Hindi Advisory Panel in Chemicals & Fertilizers Ministry

• The Union Government has reconstituted the Hindi Advisory Committee for the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
• Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda has been appointed as the Chairman, while Minister of State Anupriya Patel is the Vice-Chairperson of the committee.
• The reconstitution was officially notified through a Gazette of India resolution.
• The committee includes 6 Members of Parliament (MPs) nominated from different bodies:
• 4 MPs nominated by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
• 2 MPs nominated by the Parliamentary Committee on Official Language
• The panel ensures diverse representation, including:
• 4 members from the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
• 3 members from the Department of Official Language (MHA)
• 1 member each from Vishwa Hindi Parishad and Hindi Prachar Sabha, Hyderabad
• The committee comprises a total of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, 15 nominated members, and 37 official members.
• Secretaries of three departments—Fertilizers, Chemicals & Petrochemicals, and Pharmaceuticals—are part of the official members.
• An Additional/Joint Secretary (Department of Fertilizers) serves as the Member Secretary of the committee.
• The primary mandate is to review and recommend the progressive use of Hindi in official administrative work of the ministry and its subordinate offices.
• The committee ensures compliance with:
• Constitutional provisions on Official Language
• Official Languages Act
• Policies of the Central Hindi Committee
• Directives of the Department of Official Language (MHA)
• The tenure of the committee is 3 years, which may be modified under special circumstances.
• MP members’ tenure depends on their parliamentary term, while ex-officio members serve as long as they hold their official positions.
• In case of vacancy (resignation/death), the new member serves only for the remaining term.
• The committee is headquartered in New Delhi, but meetings can be held across India.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

Indian Animated Film ‘CHYIMI’ Wins Best Director Award at New York Short Animation Festival 2026

• The animated short film CHYIMI, directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta, won the Best Director Award at the New York Short Animation Festival 2026.
• The achievement highlights the growing global recognition of Indian and Assamese animation storytelling on international platforms.
• Partha Sarathi Mahanta, a senior police officer, is currently serving as Inspector General of Police in Assam and Commissioner of Police in Guwahati.
• The award marks a significant milestone for Indian animation at international film festivals.
• The New York Short Animation Festival is an international event that showcases innovative animated short films from filmmakers around the world.
• By winning the Best Director Award, the film CHYIMI stood out among numerous entries from different countries.
• The recognition celebrates excellence in storytelling, creativity and artistic direction in animated filmmaking.

Sahitya Akademi Announces Sahitya Akademi Award 2025 for 24 Indian Languages

• The Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters, announced the Sahitya Akademi Award 2025, recognising outstanding literary works in 24 Indian languages.
• The award honours 8 poetry collections, 4 novels, 6 short story collections, 2 essay books, 1 literary criticism work, 1 autobiography and 2 memoirs.
• The selection process began in January 2025 when Sahitya Akademi issued an open call for nominations for literary works in recognised languages.
• Jury members representing each language evaluated the submitted works, and the final recommendations were approved by the competent authority of Sahitya Akademi.
• The selection process ensures that literary works are honoured based on merit, originality and contribution to Indian literature.
• Genre-wise distribution of awards:
  – Poetry – 8 books
  – Novels – 4 books
  – Short story collections – 6 books
  – Essays – 2 books
  – Literary criticism – 1 book
  – Autobiography – 1 book
  – Memoirs – 2 books
• Selected winners include:
  – Prasun Bandyopadhyay (Bengali) – Shrestha Kabita (Poetry)
  – Yogesh Vaidya (Gujarati) – Bhattkhadaki (Poetry)
  – Girijakumar Baliyar Singh (Odia) – Padapurana (Poetry)
  – Nandini Sidha Reddy (Telugu) – Animesha (Poetry)
  – Pritpal Singh Betab (Urdu) – Safar Jaari Hai (Poetry)
  – Sadhu Bhadreshdas (Sanskrit) – Prasthanacatustaye Brahmaghosah (Poetry)
• Novel category winners include:
  – Devabrat Das (Assamese) – Karhi Khelar Sadhu
  – Sahaisuli Brahma (Bodo) – Dwngnwi Lama Mwnse Gathwn
  – Navtej Sarna (English) – Crimson Spring
  – Prabhakaran (Malayalam) – Maayaamanushyar
• Other notable winners include:
  – Mamta Kalia (Hindi) – Jeete Jee Allahabad (Memoir)
  – Amaresh Nugadoni (Kannada) – Dada Seerisu Tande (Short Stories)
  – Jinder (Punjabi) – Safety Kit (Short Stories)
  – Tamilselvan (Tamil) – Thamiz Sirukathaiyin Thadangal (Literary Criticism)
• The Sahitya Akademi Award 2025 ceremony will be held on March 31, 2026 in New Delhi.
• Each award recipient will receive ₹1,00,000 cash prize, a ceremonial shawl and an engraved copper plaque.

About Sahitya Akademi

• The Sahitya Akademi, established in 1954, is India’s national institution dedicated to promoting literature, translation, publishing and cultural exchange across multiple Indian languages.
• The Sahitya Akademi Award is considered one of the most prestigious literary honours in India, recognising outstanding books published in 24 recognised Indian languages.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India Initiates Trade Negotiations with Philippines and Maldives for New Trade Agreements

• India has started the process of signing Terms of Reference to begin trade negotiations with the Philippines and Maldives, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• The initiative aims to strengthen economic relations and promote bilateral trade between India and the two countries.
• India will negotiate a Preferential Trade Agreement with the Philippines and a Free Trade Agreement with the Maldives.
• Under the Terms of Reference, India and the Philippines will start negotiations for a Preferential Trade Agreement.
• A Preferential Trade Agreement allows partner countries to reduce or eliminate import duties on selected goods, making trade more affordable and competitive.
• India’s exports to the Philippines increased by 3.11 percent to 2.16 billion United States dollars in 2024–25.
• Imports from the Philippines declined by 17.8 percent to 1.17 billion United States dollars during the same period.
• India has also initiated negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with the Maldives to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation.
• A Free Trade Agreement generally covers a wider range of goods and services and significantly reduces or eliminates tariffs on most traded products.
• The proposed agreement with the Maldives also aims to simplify regulations related to trade in services, investments and broader economic cooperation.
• India’s exports to the Maldives declined by 37.11 percent to 56.88 million United States dollars in 2024–25.
• Imports from the Maldives increased by 37.14 percent to 118.82 million United States dollars during the same period.

Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Coalition of the Willing to Empower Persons with Hearing Impairment

• The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Coalition of the Willing in New Delhi to strengthen empowerment and opportunities for persons with hearing impairment.
• The agreement aims to accelerate inclusive development and improve accessibility for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community in India.
• The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in the presence of V. Vidhyavathi, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities; Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary; Pradeep A., Director, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities; and Kumar Raju, Director of the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre.
• The partnership seeks to create an integrated life-cycle model of empowerment for persons with hearing impairment, covering early intervention, education, skill development, employment and social inclusion.
• The Coalition of the Willing is a consortium of organisations working in technology, education, accessibility and social empowerment.
• The coalition includes organisations such as Yunikee (Gopalakrishnan Foundation for the Deaf), Blee Tech Innovations Private Limited, Training and Educational Centre for Hearing Impaired, WinVinaya Foundation, Buddy4Study India Foundation and VCrop Technologies Private Limited along with the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre.
• Under the partnership, stakeholders will design and implement innovative programmes to strengthen accessibility and empowerment for persons with hearing impairment.
• The collaboration will focus on several priority areas, including:
  – Awareness generation about hearing impairment.
  – Expansion of accessibility and assistive technologies.
  – Early identification and educational support.
  – Skill development and employment opportunities.
  – Scholarships and financial assistance.
  – Development of Indian Sign Language learning and digital content.
  – Promotion of sustainable livelihood opportunities.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Keel Laid for Yard 16402 & 16403, Second and Third Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels at YMPL, Ratnagiri

• The keel laying ceremony of Yard 16402 & 16403, the second and third ships of six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), was held at M/s YMPL, Ratnagiri.
• These Next Generation OPVs have a range of 5,000 nautical miles and can achieve a maximum speed of 23 knots.
• Each ship measures 117 meters in length and has a crew strength of 11 officers and 110 men.
• The OPVs will feature state-of-the-art machinery and advanced technological systems, including AI-based predictive maintenance, Remote Piloted Drones, Integrated Bridge System (IBS), and Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS).
• The ships are being indigenously designed, developed, and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, in line with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat
• The contract for the construction of six Next Generation OPVs was concluded on December 20, 2023.
• The initiative marks a key milestone in the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) efforts to enhance operational capabilities and bolster coastal security.
• The addition of this new fleet of NGOPVs will strengthen the ICG’s role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
• The ceremony was presided over by IG Sudhir Sahni, TM, DDG (M&M), in the presence of senior officials from the ICG and MDL.

Indian Navy Advances IOS SAGAR Initiative to Enhance Maritime Cooperation with Indian Ocean Nations

• India reaffirmed its commitment to collaborative maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) with the commencement of the second edition of Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR.
• The Indian Navy assumed the chair of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) in February 2026, and the current edition of IOS SAGAR includes participation from 16 IONS nations.
• The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s SAGAR vision (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and contributes to the broader MAHASAGAR framework (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions).
• IOS SAGAR is a unique operational engagement programme enabling naval personnel from Friendly Foreign Countries to train and sail together onboard an Indian Naval Ship, promoting practical cooperation, interoperability, and shared understanding of maritime operations.
• The programme begins with professional training interactions at Indian Naval training establishments in Kochi, exposing participants to key aspects of naval operations, seamanship practices, and maritime security concepts.
• This training phase is followed by deployment onboard an Indian Naval Ship, where international participants sail together with Indian Navy personnel and participate in operational activities at sea.
• During the voyage, the ship will undertake maritime engagement activities and port visits, facilitating interaction with partner navies and maritime agencies across the region.
• These engagements aim to strengthen professional linkages, encourage exchange of best practices, and foster a deeper understanding of shared maritime challenges.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Gujarat Achieves Historic Space Milestone with Launch of First Sounding Rocket at Dholera

• Gujarat achieved a major milestone in the space sector with the successful launch of its first sounding rocket at Bavaliyari village near Dholera, marking its entry into India’s private space technology ecosystem.
• The launch was conducted by Ahmedabad-based startup Omspace Rocket and Exploration Private Limited (OSRE), highlighting the role of private players in India’s space sector.
• The single-stage sub-orbital rocket was launched from a temporary launch facility/complex and successfully reached an altitude of approximately 3 kilometres (km).
• The rocket carried a mini-satellite designed for weather data collection, showcasing its scientific and practical application.
• The rocket was developed under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, with its airframe built using carbon fibre and advanced composites at the startup’s Ahmedabad laboratory.
• The launch was conducted with approval from Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), ensuring regulatory authorization for private space activities in India.
• The initiative was supported by the Gujarat Spacetech Policy 2025–2030, which aims to promote space technology and innovation in the state.
• This achievement marks a historic milestone in Gujarat’s space research sector and strengthens its position as a significant player in India’s private space ecosystem.
• Arjun Modhwadia, Minister for Science and Technology, was present at Bavaliyari during the launch and emphasized that this success enhances Gujarat’s role in the private space sector.

Reliance Industries Limited Inks $3 Billion Green Ammonia Supply Agreement with South Korea’s Samsung C&T

• Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) signed a binding long-term Supply and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with Samsung C&T Corporation for the supply of green ammonia over a 15-year period starting from the second half of FY2028-29.
• The deal is valued at over USD 3 billion, making it one of the world’s largest long-term green ammonia offtake agreements.
• Under the SPA, RIL will supply green ammonia produced through a fully integrated clean energy ecosystem established in India.
• This partnership is the first in a series of global offtake agreements supporting RIL’s clean energy expansion.
• The agreement is aligned with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), aiming to build a competitive clean-energy platform and achieve net-zero emissions by 2035.
• Hydrogen and ammonia are considered key building blocks of the transition to cleaner energy, as they act as CO2-neutral fuels and feedstocks for the production of green chemicals.
• The agreement supports the scale-up of RIL’s New Energy platform, which includes investments across renewable energy, energy storage, green hydrogen, and downstream green fuels and chemicals.
• RIL manufactures key clean energy technologies in-house, ensuring an end-to-end value chain for green ammonia and related products.
• The deal contributes to India’s goal under NGHM to become a major green hydrogen production hub, targeting 5 million tonnes of production and nearly $100 billion of investment by 2030.
• This agreement is expected to set a benchmark in the green fuels industry and enhance India’s position as an exporter of green fuels.

India Tests Indigenous Floating LiDAR Buoy System, Achieving Key Technological Milestone Off Tamil Nadu Coast

• India achieved a technological milestone with the successful testing of an indigenously developed Floating LiDAR Buoy System by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) off the coast of Muttom, Tamil Nadu.
• The Floating LiDAR Buoy System is an advanced ocean-based instrument designed to measure wind conditions over the sea using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)
• The system emits laser pulses from a buoy on the ocean surface, which interact with airborne particles and are reflected back to sensors to determine wind speed, direction, and atmospheric variations at different altitudes.
• Unlike traditional tools, the system can measure wind profiles up to 300 metres above sea level, providing comprehensive and accurate real-time data.
• Key advantages include continuous monitoring in remote marine areas, high-precision vertical wind profiles, and support for offshore energy planning, including wind power projects.
• The system reduces dependency on imported technologies, supporting India’s push for self-reliance in scientific innovation.
• The Floating LiDAR Buoy System is expected to enhance weather forecasting accuracy, improve cyclone tracking capabilities, and provide valuable data for climate change studies and ocean-atmosphere interactions.
• By offering real-time insights into marine wind dynamics, the system strengthens India’s capabilities in disaster management, renewable energy planning, and long-term environmental monitoring.

Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati Develops Advanced Material for Hydrogen Production and Solar-Powered Desalination

• Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) developed an advanced material capable of producing hydrogen fuel via water electrolysis and enabling solar-powered desalination, addressing clean energy generation and access to safe drinking water
• The findings were published in the journal “Advanced Functional Materials” by a research team led by Prof. P.K. Giri.
• The material demonstrates exceptional performance in the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) with an ultralow overpotential of 12 mV, significantly outperforming conventional platinum-based catalysts (Pt/C).
• Hydrogen fuel produced by this material is clean, emitting only water upon use, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based hydrogen production.
• The innovation uses MXenes, a class of two-dimensional materials with high electrical conductivity, engineered into ultra-thin, ribbon-like structures.
• Ruthenium atoms were introduced into oxygen-deficient sites of MXenes, enhancing catalytic efficiency, charge transport, and metal-support interactions, resulting in superior catalytic activity.
• In addition to hydrogen production, the material acts as a photocatalyst for desalination, integrated into a three-dimensional Janus evaporator that uses solar energy to convert seawater into potable water.
• The system achieved an evaporation rate of 3.2 kg/m²/h under sunlight and operated continuously for five days without salt accumulation, meeting international drinking water standards.
• The dual-function material is cost-effective, scalable, stable, and efficient, making it suitable for real-world applications in transportation, industrial energy systems, and decentralised water treatment.
• This innovation contributes to sustainable development and reduces environmental impact by providing clean energy and safe drinking water

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ENVIRONMENT

Zoological Survey of India Discovers Two New Lichen Moth Species, Caulocerahalollowayi and Asura buxa, in the Eastern Himalayas

• The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has announced the discovery of two new species of lichen moths, namely “Caulocerahollowayi” and “Asura buxa”, from the Eastern Himalayas.
• The discovery enhances India’s biodiversity records and was published in the international journal Zootaxa.
• Caulocerahollowayi was discovered near Golitar in Sikkim, while Asura buxa was identified in Panijhora, West Bengal.
• The species were identified and described by scientists Navneet Singh, Santosh Singh, and Srishti Bhattacharya associated with ZSI.
• The identification was based on scientific characteristics such as wing colouration, fascia patterns, and genitalia structure differences.
• Additional distinguishing features include unique body scales, bristle patterns (chaetotaxy), and specialised appendages.
• Lichen moths act as important bioindicators of air pollution, as their caterpillars feed on lichens, which are highly sensitive to atmospheric quality.
• The discovery highlights the ecological significance of the Eastern Himalayas as a hotspot of biodiversity and environmental monitoring.

Daily CA One- Liner: March 19

• Kusunpur village in Kendrapada district of Odisha is set to become the first smart village in the state under an initiative of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research functioning under the Ministry of Science and Technology
• India’s unemployment rate declined marginally to 4.9 percent in February 2026, according to the National Statistics Office through the Periodic Labour Force Survey
• The Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, has launched the ‘24 Speed Post’ service to provide next-day guaranteed delivery for urgent consignments
• India has submitted its first National Report on the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing to the Convention on Biological Diversity.
• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry facilitated the first export consignment of 25 metric tonnes of Geographical Indication tagged Joha rice from Assam to the United Kingdom and Italy
• NMDC Limited, a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Steel, has become the first mining company in India to produce 50 million tonnes of iron ore in a single financial year (Financial Year 2025–26).
• Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj, announced the sanction of a ₹100 crore Integrated Aqua Park Project in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir.
• The animated short film CHYIMI, directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta, won the Best Director Award at the New York Short Animation Festival 2026
• The Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters, announced the Sahitya Akademi Award 2025, recognising outstanding literary works in 24 Indian languages
• India has started the process of signing Terms of Reference to begin trade negotiations with the Philippines and Maldives, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Coalition of the Willing in New Delhi to strengthen empowerment and opportunities for persons with hearing impairment
• The Department of Commerce (DoC) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) reported that India’s cumulative exports (merchandise and services combined) for April-February 2025-26 reached an estimated USD 790.86 Billion (Bn), registering a growth of 5.79%.
• Shriram General Insurance Company (SGIC) launched Shri Health Suraksha 2.0, an upgraded health insurance plan designed to provide flexible and comprehensive medical coverage while reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
• Brazil has begun enforcing a new law regulating minors’ access to social media and online platforms, marking a significant step in global efforts to safeguard children in the digital space.
• Bhumika Shrestha, a 37-year-old LGBTQ rights activist, has become Nepal’s first transgender woman Member of Parliament, marking a historic milestone in South Asia for inclusivity and representation of marginalised communities.
• The Union Government has reconstituted the Hindi Advisory Committee for the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
• The keel laying ceremony of Yard 16402 & 16403, the second and third ships of six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), was held at M/s YMPL, Ratnagiri.
• India reaffirmed its commitment to collaborative maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) with the commencement of the second edition of Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR.
• Gujarat achieved a major milestone in the space sector with the successful launch of its first sounding rocket at Bavaliyari village near Dholera, marking its entry into India’s private space technology ecosystem.
• Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) signed a binding long-term Supply and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with Samsung C&T Corporation for the supply of green ammonia over a 15-year period starting from the second half of FY2028-29.
• India achieved a technological milestone with the successful testing of an indigenously developed Floating LiDAR Buoy System by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) off the coast of Muttom, Tamil Nadu.
• Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) developed an advanced material capable of producing hydrogen fuel via water electrolysis and enabling solar-powered desalination, addressing clean energy generation and access to safe drinking water
• The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has announced the discovery of two new species of lichen moths, namely “Caulocerahollowayi” and “Asura buxa”, from the Eastern Himalayas.