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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Reserve Bank of India Honoured with ‘Initiative of the Year’ Award for Launching ‘.bank.in’ Domain

• The Reserve Bank of India won the ‘Initiative of the Year’ award from Central Banking at the 13th annual Central Banking Awards for its innovative ‘.bank.in’ domain rollout initiative.
• The ‘.bank.in’ domain was launched in February 2025 to combat rising cyber frauds and enhance security in India’s digital financial ecosystem.
• Only RBI-licensed banks are allowed to use the exclusive and secure domain, making India the first country in the world to mandate a dedicated banking internet domain.
• The Institute for Development and Research on Banking Technology (IDRBT) was appointed as the sole registrar for the .bank.in domain rollout.
• Banks were required to transition their net banking websites to the .bank.in domain by October 31, 2025, following a phase-wise rollout plan.
• The initiative aims to tackle phishing attacks and fake banking domains, which have increased due to the rapid growth of digital payments and online banking in India.
• Other winners at the Central Banking Awards included the Central Bank of Colombia for Bre-B (federated retail payments system), the National Bank of Ethiopia for wholesale payment services development, and the Bank of Namibia for its artificial intelligence initiative.
• The rollout of .bank.in domain strengthens cybersecurity, trust in digital banking, and protects consumers from online financial frauds.

Securities  Board of India Suggests Streamlined Nomination Norms for Demat and Mutual Fund Accountsand Exchange

• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed changes to nomination rules for demat accounts and mutual fund (MF) folios to simplify onboarding, reduce compliance burden, and align with banking norms.
• Under the new proposal, nomination will be the default option for new accounts, and investors must explicitly opt out if they do not wish to appoint a nominee.
• The number of nominees will be capped at four, replacing the earlier proposal to allow up to ten nominees, due to operational constraints and low usage of multiple nominees.
• SEBI clarified that if multiple nominees are not assigned specific shares, the assets will be divided equally among them.
• The mandatory information required for a nominee will be limited to their name and the nature of the relationship with the investor; other details like contact info and percentage share will be optional.
• SEBI suggested removing provisions that allow nominees to operate accounts during the investor’s incapacitation, continuing instead with the existing power of attorney
• The proposals include nudges like periodic reminders to investors without nominations and pop-up prompts highlighting the benefits of having a nominee.
• These changes aim to streamline nomination practices, reduce investor onboarding friction, prevent accumulation of unclaimed assets, and align with operational norms in the financial sector.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) set up a high-level expert working group to prepare short-term and long-term technology roadmaps for India’s securities market ecosystem.

About SEBI :

• Established : 12 April 1988 as an executive body and was given statutory powers on 30 January 1992 through the SEBI Act, 1992
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Chairman : Tuhin Kanta Pandey
• SEBI is the regulatory body for securities and commodity markets in India under the ownership of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), GoI.

Reserve Bank of India Compounds FEMA Violations by Metrocorp Infrastructure, Ending Directorate of Enforcement Proceedings

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has compounded FEMA violations by Metrocorp Infrastructure Limited, resulting in the termination of adjudication proceedings initiated by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED).
• The violations were related to non-compliance under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA), specifically delays in reporting foreign inward remittances.
• The compounding order was issued on February 10, 2026, after RBI received a “No Objection” from ED, allowing the matter to be settled.
• RBI imposed a penalty of ₹1,03,320 under Section 15 of FEMA, which was paid by Metrocorp Infrastructure Ltd to close the case.
• The action demonstrates RBI’s authority to compound violations under FEMA and provides a mechanism for settlement without prolonged legal proceedings.

Scapia Introduces ‘Scapia Pay’ UPI Service for Rewards on RuPay Credit Cards

• Scapia launched ‘Scapia Pay’, an in-application UPI payment service that allows users to earn rewards on transactions made using RuPay credit cards.
• The initiative aims to integrate daily payments, credit, and travel rewards within a unified platform, enhancing financial convenience and user engagement.
• Users can link their Scapia Federal RuPay and Scapia BOBCARD RuPay credit cards to the app for quick UPI payments and earn benefits on qualifying transactions.
• Key features of Scapia Pay include seamless interface, real-time payments, custom UPI ID for privacy, first-time payment notifications, high-value transaction alerts, and consolidated spend tracking.
• The platform has expanded from travel-first credit offerings to a multi-category services ecosystem, including flights, buses, visas, and financial services.
• Scapia Pay enhances digital payment adoption, encourages reward-based transactions, and supports multi-functional financial services within a single app.

India’s Cumulative Exports (Merchandise & Services) Rise 5.79% to US$ 790.86 Billion in April–February FY26

• Total Exports (Merchandise + Services) for April–February FY26 reached US$ 790.86 Billion, up 5.79% from US$ 747.58 Billion in the previous year.
• Total Imports for April–February FY26 stood at US$ 900.51 Billion, registering a growth of 7.37% over the previous year.
• Merchandise Exports for April–February FY26 were US$ 402.93 Billion, compared to US$ 395.66 Billion last year, while Merchandise Imports were US$ 713.53 Billion, up from US$ 657.46 Billion.
• Merchandise Trade Deficit during April–February FY26 widened to US$ 310.60 Billion, compared to US$ 261.80 Billion in FY25.
• Services Exports during April–February FY26 were US$ 387.93 Billion, growing February FY26 were US$ 387.93 Billion, growing 10.23%, while Services Imports were US$ 186.98 Billion, leading to a Services Trade Surplus of US$ 200.96 Billion.
• February 2026 Exports were US$ 76.13 Billion (+11.05%) and Imports were US$ 80.09 Billion (+21.64%), reflecting stronger domestic demand and global trade activity.
• Non-Petroleum & Non-Gems Exports during April–February FY26 were US$ 327.96 Billion, while Non-Petroleum & Non-Gems Imports were US$ 454.82 Billion, both showing growth from the previous year.

Sector-wise Export Growth (February 2026)

• Engineering Goods grew by 12.9%, while Electronic Goods saw a 10.37% increase.
• Organic & Inorganic Chemicals increased by 6.85% and Gems & Jewellery by 4.08%.
• Agriculture & Allied sectors showed high growth: Other Cereals (170.14%), Coffee (31.92%), Meat, Dairy & Poultry (22.66%), and Marine Products (13.27%).
• Handicrafts (excluding carpets) grew by 10.25%, Mica, Coal & Other Ores by 10.51%, and Ceramic Products & Glassware by 6.36%.
• Drugs & Pharmaceuticals and Rice saw modest growth of 3.4% and 0.7% respectively.
• Negative growth sectors included Project Goods (-81.31%), Cotton Raw & Waste (-59.44%), Pulses (-38.49%), Newsprint (-34.12%), and Transport Equipment (-23.64%).

Key Export Destinations & Import Sources

• Top Export Destinations (Feb 2026): Togo (110.96%), Sri Lanka (57.3%), Vietnam (49.46%), China (32.37%), and Hong Kong (32.14%) recorded the highest YoY growth.
• Top Export Destinations (April–February FY26): Spain (45.31%), China (37.66%), Hong Kong (30.91%), UAE (8.52%), and USA (3.84%) were the lead growth partners.
• Major Import Sources (Feb 2026): Switzerland (719.3%) and Peru (377.65%) saw massive spikes, followed by the UK (202.59%), USA (36.53%), and China (30.49%).
• Major Import Sources (April–February FY26): Peru (67%), Hong Kong (25.01%), USA (15.65%), China (15.21%), and UAE (10%) remained key suppliers.

Health Insurance Is Government Priority, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Targets Universal Coverage by 2033

• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that health insurance is a priority of the government, aiming to provide insurance coverage for all by 2033.
• A major rural outreach plan will cover 25,000 Gram Panchayats, treating villages as the basic unit for insurance coverage under IRDAI norms (2024).
• India’s insurance penetration remains low, with per capita premium at $97, compared to the global average of $943.
• The health insurance sector is expanding rapidly, reaching ₹1,17,505 crore (2024–25) and covering around 58 crore lives.
• Both public and private insurers, along with government-backed insurance companies, are contributing to the expansion of coverage.
• The government has focused on keeping premium rates affordable, especially for poor and vulnerable sections.
• The Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) offers life insurance cover of ₹2 lakh for an annual premium of ₹436, making it accessible to low-income households.
• The PMJJBY scheme has seen massive uptake, with 79 crore cumulative enrolments, reflecting the government’s push for broader financial and social protection.

NPCI International Payments Limited Extends India’s UPI Payment Acceptance to Merchants in Sri Lanka

• NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) expanded the acceptance of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) across merchant establishments in Sri Lanka.
• The initiative aims to improve cross-border payment experiences for Indian tourists and strengthen economic and cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka.
• Indian tourists can now make real-time account-to-account payments by scanning Lanka Quick Response (QR) codes through their preferred UPI-enabled mobile applications.
• The expansion benefits merchants by increasing reach to digitally savvy customers, enhancing cash management, reducing reliance on physical cash, and improving operational efficiency.
• UPI processes over 20 billion monthly financial transactions and has more than 700 million UPI QR touch points across India, showcasing its dominance in digital payments.
• UPI is now operational in more than eight countries, including United Arab Emirates (UAE), Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Mauritius, and Qatar, reflecting its global adoption and reach.

SBI Securities Introduces ‘Women’s Mode’ Feature to Boost Women-Centric Investing

• SBI Securities launched ‘Women’s Mode’ on its mobile app to promote women-centric investing.
• The feature was developed under the Infinity8 initiative and validated using feedback from 6,000+ women investors.
• Women’s Mode offers goal-based investment journeys, simplified investment tools, and a special brokerage plan tailored for women.
• The launch aims to make investing more accessible, build financial confidence, and promote independence among women investors.
• The feature is based on direct feedback from women to enhance decision-making clarity.
• The initiative targets both first-time and experienced women investors, emphasizing practical support over symbolic recognition.
• Infinity8 initiative reflects SBI Securities’ commitment to innovation and consistent engagement with women investors.
• SSL offers equity trading, derivatives, and mutual fund services, providing a full-service stockbroking platform.

About SBICAP Securities Limited (SSL) :

• SBICAP Securities Limited (SSL) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SBI Capital Markets Limited, which is itself a wholly-owned subsidiary and investment banking arm of the State Bank of India (SBI).
• Managing Director and CEO of SBI Securities : Bhuvaneshwari A.,

Reserve Bank of India Revises Capital Adequacy Framework for Banks to Strengthen CCR Risk Management

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) amended its capital adequacy framework for commercial banks, providing clearer guidelines on calculating and maintaining capital against Counterparty Credit Risk (CCR) exposures.
• The amendment was issued under Section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 and became effective immediately on March 10, 2026.
• Banks must include CCR exposures of all consolidated entities while computing capital requirements.
• Under the updated framework, equity contracts carry add-on factors of 6% for up to one year, 8% for one to five years, and 10% for over five years.
• Precious metals (excluding gold) attract 7%, 7%, and 8% across the respective maturity bands, while other commodities are pegged at 10%, 12%, and 15%.
• Banks acting as clearing members of SEBI-recognised stock exchanges in equity and commodity derivatives must compute and maintain a capital charge for CCR.
• A bank acting as a clearing member of a Qualified Central Counterparty (QCCP) must apply a 2% risk weight on its trade exposure.
• The 2% risk weight also applies when a bank is liable to reimburse clients in case of QCCP default.

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Supreme Court Removes Age Limit on Maternity Leave for Adoptive Mothers

• The Supreme Court of India has struck down the age restriction on maternity leave for adoptive mothers, declaring the provision unconstitutional.
• The Court ruled that all adoptive mothers are entitled to 12 weeks of maternity leave, regardless of the age of the adopted child.
• The judgment was delivered in the case of Hamsaanandini Nanduri V.Union of India.
• The Court declared Section 60(4) of the Code on Social Security, 2020 unconstitutional, which earlier restricted maternity benefits to adoption of children below three months.
• The ruling held that such restriction violates Article 14 (Right to Equality) and Article 21 (Right to Life) of the Constitution.
• The Court emphasized that motherhood is based on caregiving, bonding and emotional support, not merely childbirth.
• The judgment ensures that adoptive and commissioning mothers receive equal maternity benefits, strengthening recognition of adoption as valid parenthood.
• The earlier provision was criticised as illogical and impractical, since most children are legally available for adoption after three months, making the benefit ineffective.
• The Court noted that denial of maternity leave to adoptive mothers of older children adversely affects child welfare and family bonding.
• The ruling highlights that maternity leave is essential for the child’s development, emotional adjustment and integration into the family.
• The Court also urged the Government to consider introducing paternity leave reforms, promoting shared parenting responsibilities.
• The judgment reflects a progressive approach towards gender equality, child welfare and inclusive social security in India.

Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati Develops MXene-Based Material for Hydrogen Fuel and Desalination

• Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati developed a MXene-based material capable of both hydrogen fuel production and seawater desalination.
• The innovation addresses two major challenges: clean energy generation and safe drinking water, using solar-powered technology.
• The material is based on MXenes, a class of two-dimensional materials known for high electrical conductivity.
• Researchers enhanced performance by creating ultra-thin ribbon-like structures and adding ruthenium atoms, improving charge movement and catalytic efficiency.
• For hydrogen production:
• Enables efficient hydrogen generation through electrolysis
• Achieved a very low hydrogen evolution reaction overpotential of 12 millivolts, outperforming platinum-based catalysts
• Supports development of clean and cost-effective hydrogen fuel, which produces only water as by-product
• For desalination:
• Uses a solar-powered system to convert seawater into safe drinking water
• Employs a Janus evaporator, a floating device that heats only the water surface
• Achieved an evaporation rate of 3.2 kilograms per square metre per hour
• Operated continuously for five days without salt accumulation
• The catalyst efficiency is improved through:
• Introduction of oxygen-deficient regions
• Embedding of ruthenium atoms for enhanced catalytic activity and stability
• Strong photothermal conversion, enabling efficient use of solar energy
• Overall, the innovation supports India’s clean energy goals and offers a sustainable solution for water scarcity and green hydrogen production.

RECENT NEWS

• In a major scientific breakthrough, researchers from Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati have developed a new method to predict glacial hazards in the fragile Eastern Himalayan region. The study identifies hundreds of locations where glacial lakes may form in the future, raising concerns about floods, infrastructure safety, and climate resilience in high-mountain areas. 

India Tourism Development Corporation Tribal Homestay Capacity Building Programme 2026 Launched

• The India Tourism Development Corporation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, launched the Tribal Homestay Capacity Building Programme 2026 in New Delhi.
• The initiative aims to promote community-based tourism and empower tribal communities by improving hospitality skills and service quality.
• The programme focuses on skill development and capacity building of tribal homestay owners to:
• Enhance hospitality and service standards
• Improve tourist experience in tribal regions
• Promote sustainable and community-based tourism
• Generate employment and income opportunities
• The training is being implemented by Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition, Ashok, the hospitality education arm of the India Tourism Development Corporation.
• Training modules include:
• Guest handling and customer service
• Hygiene and housekeeping standards
• Food preparation and local cuisine presentation
• Basic tourism and hospitality management
• The inaugural batch includes 40 participants from Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Gujarat.
• Senior officials from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and India Tourism Development Corporation attended the launch event.

About India Tourism Development Corporation

• The India Tourism Development Corporation, established in 1966, plays a key role in developing tourism infrastructure and promoting tourism through hotels, travel services, and training programmes.

Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana (BHAVYA) Scheme Approved by Union Cabinet to Develop 100 Industrial Parks

• The Union Cabinet approved the BHAVYA (Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana) Scheme to develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across India.
• The scheme will be implemented with a budget of ₹33,600 crore to strengthen industrial infrastructure and boost manufacturing growth.
• It aims to provide ready-to-use industrial facilities, reducing setup time and investment hurdles.
• Under the scheme, industrial parks will be developed over 100–1,000 acres, with financial assistance up to ₹1 crore per acre.
• Parks will include essential infrastructure such as roads, drainage systems, underground utilities, and digital connectivity.
• Facilities like ready-built factory sheds, testing laboratories, and warehousing units will also be provided.
• Support for external infrastructure up to 25% of project cost will be given to improve connectivity.
• The scheme is expected to boost manufacturing sector growth, reduce production costs, and improve efficiency.
• It will strengthen India’s position in global supply chains and attract Foreign Direct Investment.
• It is aligned with the government’s vision of industrial development and economic growth, and will generate direct and indirect employment in manufacturing, logistics, and services.
• The scheme will be implemented by the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
• The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation is currently working on 20 projects across 13 states and focuses on industrial corridor development.
• The scheme builds on this experience to create a strong nationwide industrial network.

RECENT NEWS

• The Union Cabinet has approved a several changes in India’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy for those countries sharing a land border with India. This revised rules are aim to provide greater clarity and faster approvals for investments. And it change for particularly in sectors such as startups, deep technology and manufacturing.

Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 Passed

• .The Bill was passed by voice vote and targets conversions through coercion, fraud, inducement, or marriage.
• The State Government stated that the law aims to ensure transparency and protect constitutional rights, and is not against any religion.
• The Bill focuses on ensuring that religious conversions are voluntary and free from illegal influence, while promoting legal accountability and freedom of choice.
• Key punishments under the law:
  • Conversion through marriage, fraud, or coercion: Up to 7 years imprisonment + ₹1 lakh fine
  • Conversion involving minors, women, SC/ST, or persons of unsound mind: 7 years imprisonment + ₹5 lakh fine
  • Mass conversions: Up to 7 years imprisonment + ₹5 lakh fine
  • Repeat offenders: Up to 10 years imprisonment + ₹5 lakh fine
• The law provides special protection for vulnerable groups such as minors, women, and SC/ST, considering them more prone to exploitation, with stricter penalties to prevent misuse of influence.
• Overall, the Act aims to curb forced conversions while ensuring freedom of religion and legal safeguards.

RECENT NEWS

• International Women’s Day 2026 was celebrated across Maharashtra with various events like the rallies, sports events, awareness campaigns, and cultural performances under the theme “Give to Gain.” Various districts organized activities highlighting women’s empowerment, health awareness and community participation.

About Maharashtra:

• Chief Minister: Devendra Fadnavis
• Governor: Jishnu Dev Varma.
• Capital: Mumbai
• National Parks: Tadoba National Park, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Chandoli National Park, Gugamal National Park, Navegaon National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Melghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary

Transgender Rights Amendment Bill 2026 Introduced in Parliament

• The Transgender Rights Amendment Bill 2026 has been introduced in Parliament to amend the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, proposing major changes in recognition of transgender identity in India.
• The Bill has sparked widespread debate, especially due to the proposed removal of self-identification rights, a principle established in the 2014 Supreme Court judgment (NALSA v. Union of India).
• The existing framework (2019 Act), based on the NALSA (2014) judgment, provides:
• Recognition of transgender persons as the third gender
• Right to self-identify as male, female, or third gender
• Issuance of transgender identity cards
• Access to government welfare schemes
• As per official data, over 32,000 transgender identity cards have been issued in India.
• Key changes proposed in the Bill include:
• Removal of self-identification: The Bill removes the right to self-identify gender, reversing the NALSA principle of identity as a personal choice.
• Medical certification introduced: A medical board will verify transgender identity and recommend certification to the District Magistrate, replacing the earlier self-declaration system.
• Narrower definition: The Bill introduces a more restrictive definition, recognizing only:
• Persons from specific socio-cultural groups
• Individuals with biological or congenital variations
• New category for forced identity: A new category is created for individuals forced into transgender identity through coercion, surgery, or manipulation, to address exploitation and abuse.
• Stricter punishments:
• 10 years to life imprisonment for forcing identity through violence
• Higher penalties for crimes against transgender children
• Punishment for forcing individuals into begging or bonded labour

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Argentina Officially Withdraws from World Health Organization

• Argentina has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), effective one year after formal notification.
• The withdrawal was initially announced in February 2025 under President Javier Milei.
• Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno confirmed the formal exit.
• The decision was motivated by “profound differences” with the WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic, with Milei calling the agency "nefarious" and an "enforcement arm" of social control.
• Despite leaving the WHO, Argentina will continue international health cooperation through bilateral agreements and regional platforms.
• The withdrawal drew criticism from local experts, who called it an "aberration" from a health perspective.
• The government defended the move, citing greater flexibility and sovereignty in implementing health policies.
• The US had also exited the WHO earlier in January, under Donald Trump, citing the WHO’s mismanagement of global health crises.

About WHO : 

• Founded: 7 April 1948
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• Director-General: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

About Argentina :

• President : Javier Milei
• Capital : Buenos Aires
• Currency : Argentine peso ($)

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

William Dalrymple Wins Mark Lynton History Prize 2026 for ‘The Golden Road’

• Renowned historian William Dalrymple has been awarded the Mark Lynton History Prize 2026 for his book The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World.
• The prize recognises outstanding historical writing that combines rigorous research with engaging narrative style.
• The award carries a cash prize of 10,000 United States dollars and is presented annually to works that demonstrate both scholarly excellence and literary quality.
• The jury praised the book for reframing global history by placing ancient India at the centre of international trade, cultural exchange and intellectual development, challenging narratives that focus primarily on the Silk Road.
• In the book, Dalrymple introduces the concept of the “Golden Road”, highlighting India’s historical role in the spread of religion, mathematics, language and cultural practices across Asia and beyond.
• The Mark Lynton History Prize is part of the Anthony Lukas Book Prize Project, administered by the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Columbia University.
• The prize is named after Mark Lynton, an author and publishing executive, and honours books that make history accessible and relevant to a wider audience.
• The recognition of The Golden Road underscores the growing global interest in India’s historical contributions to ancient global networks and civilisational exchanges.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

BHIM Payments App Names MS Dhoni as Brand Ambassador

• NPCI BHIM Services Limited (NBSL), a subsidiary of National Payments Corporation of India, appointed Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the brand ambassador for the BHIM Payments Application (App).
• The partnership aims to enhance trust, financial inclusion, and scale in India’s digital payments ecosystem, supporting the BHIM app’s next growth phase by building user preference and confidence.
• MS Dhoni, as the face of the campaign, will feature in multi-channel promotional initiatives, highlighting BHIM’s ease of use, security features, and accessibility.
• The BHIM app, launched in 2016 on NPCI’s UPI platform, is positioned as “Bharat Ka Apna Payments App” and has a wide reach across Tier 1–3 cities.
• The app supports 15+ regional languages, is optimised for low-connectivity areas, and drives user engagement through rewards and merchant partnerships.
• The initiative reinforces India’s digital payments growth, strengthens user adoption of UPI-based apps, and promotes financial inclusion nationwide.

Atanu Chakraborty Quits as HDFC Bank Part-Time Chairman Over Ethical Concerns

• Atanu Chakraborty resigned as part-time chairman and independent director of HDFC Bank with immediate effect, citing ethical concerns.
• In his resignation letter, Chakraborty stated that certain practices within the bank over the past two years were not aligned with his personal values.
• His resignation highlighted governance standards at one of India’s largest private sector banks.
• The reason for resignation was ethical differences, with no other material reasons
• Keki Mistry was appointed as interim part-time chairman by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for three months starting March 19, 2026.
• Chakraborty joined the HDFC Bank board in 2021 and contributed significantly during the HDFC Bank–HDFC Ltd merger, valued at around $40 billion.
• The merger transformed HDFC Bank into one of India’s largest financial entities, though full benefits are yet to be realised.
• Following the resignation, HDFC Bank American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) declined by around 3% in early trading.

About HDFC Bank:

• Founded: 1994
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Managing Director & CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan
• Tagline: "We understand your world"

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ENVIRONMENT

Christ College & Mahatma Gandhi University Discover New Earthworm Species “Drawida vazhania” in Kerala

• Researchers from Christ College and Mahatma Gandhi University discovered a new earthworm species named “Drawida vazhania” in the Vazhani Dam area of Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, Thrissur district, Kerala.
• With this discovery, the total number of Drawida species in India increased to 83, including 55 species in the Western Ghats.
• Kerala leads with 31 Drawida species, of which 16 are endemic, highlighting its rich biodiversity.
• The discovery was published in the international journal Zootaxa, contributing to the biodiversity records of the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot.
• Drawida vazhania belongs to the genus Drawida under the family Moniligastridae and is part of the Barwelli group.
• The Drawida genus is widely distributed across South, Southeast, and East Asia in tropical regions.
• The species is identified by unique anatomical features such as a grooved male genital field, bean-shaped prostate gland, and specialised reproductive structures.
• India is one of the most diverse countries for earthworms, with about 71% of genera and 89% of species being endemic.
• The Western Ghats and west coast plains account for nearly 58.4% of India’s earthworm diversity, emphasizing their ecological significance.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Partners with YouTube for FIFA World Cup 2026 Streaming

• The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) partnered with YouTube to introduce a new digital streaming format for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
• Fans can watch the first 10 minutes of matches live on YouTube, after which they will be redirected to official broadcasters.
• The initiative aims to expand digital reach and attract younger, mobile-first audiences.
• The partnership creates a hybrid viewing model, combining traditional broadcasting with online accessibility.
• It allows viewers to get a preview of matches, encouraging them to shift to full live coverage platforms.
• Key features:
• First 10 minutes live streaming on YouTube
• Redirection to official broadcasters after preview
• Focus on increasing engagement and global audience reach
• The move is part of FIFA’s digital strategy to align with changing viewing habits and make football more accessible and interactive.
• The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the largest edition with 48 teams and 104 matches.
• It will be hosted by the United States of America, Canada, and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026.
• Overall, the partnership highlights a shift towards digital-first sports broadcasting and enhanced fan engagement.

About FIFA

• FIFA stands for Fédération Internationale de Football Association, which is French for "International Federation of Association Football". Founded in 1904, it is the worldwide governing body for football (soccer), futsal, and beach soccer, headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND REPORTS

Hurun Global Rich List 2026 Released

• The Hurun Global Rich List 2026 reported over 4,020 billionaires globally, with 578 new billionaires added in one year.
• Elon Musk remains the world’s richest person with a net worth of $792 billion, holding the top position for the fifth time in six years.
• Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Industries, continues as the richest person in Asia with a net worth of $109 billion.
• Shah Rukh Khan re-entered the billionaire list with a net worth of $1.3 billion.
• Top 10 billionaires globally:
• Elon Musk – $792 billion
• Jeff Bezos – $300 billion
• Larry Page – $271 billion
• Larry Ellison – $267 billion
• Sergey Brin – $247 billion
• Mark Zuckerberg – $234 billion (rank dropped to 6th)
• Bernard Arnault – $178 billion (only non-United States member in top 10)
• Warren Buffett – $173 billion
• Jensen Huang – $172 billion (new entrant)
• Steve Ballmer – $159 billion
• Key changes in rankings:
• Jensen Huang, Chief Executive Officer of Nvidia, entered the top 10 after the company crossed $5 trillion valuation
• Mark Zuckerberg slipped from top 3 to 6th position
• Bill Gates dropped out of the top 10 for the first time in 15 years due to a $20 billion donation
• India’s performance:
• India ranks third globally with 308 billionaires
• It remains one of the fastest-growing wealth hubs globally
• Mukesh Ambani’s dominance reflects the strength of energy, telecommunications, and retail sectors
• The return of Shah Rukh Khan highlights the growing contribution of the entertainment industry in global wealth creation.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Ex-All India Football Federation General Secretary Kushal Das Passed away at 66

• Kushal Das, former General Secretary of All India Football Federation (AIFF), passed away in New Delhi at the age of 66.

About Kushal Das :

• He was born in 1959.
• Kushal Das was a Chartered Accountant (CA) by profession with extensive experience in sports management and administration.
• He worked with global firms such as PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), and Shell, gaining corporate and financial expertise.
• In 1996, he joined International Management Group (IMG) as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and later served as CFO of International Cricket Council (ICC) in Dubai,United Arab Emirates (UAE).
• He served as AIFF General Secretary from 2010 to 2022, making him one of the longest-serving officials in Indian football administration.
• During his tenure, he played a key role in hosting the International Federation of Association Football(FIFA) U-17 World Cup 2017, which was India’s first FIFA tournament and recorded the highest attendance in youth World Cup history.
• He contributed to the launch of the Indian Women’s League (IWL) in 2017, promoting women’s football development in India.
• He also facilitated the development of the Indian Super League (ISL) through partnership with Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL).

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Sparrow Day 2026 Observed on 20 March

• World Sparrow Day is observed annually on 20 March to raise awareness about the House Sparrow and other common urban birds.
• It highlights the need for conservation of sparrows and protection of urban biodiversity.
• The initiative was launched by the Nature Forever Society of India in collaboration with the Eco-Sys Action Foundation (France) and other international organisations.
• World Sparrow Day was first observed in 2010, marking the beginning of a global campaign to protect sparrows.
• The Nature Forever Society was founded by Indian conservationist Mohammad Dilawar, who started efforts to protect sparrows in Nashik.
• He was recognised as a “Hero of the Environment” (2008) by Time Magazine for his conservation work.
• The day emphasizes the importance of protecting urban bird species, maintaining ecological balance, and promoting environmental awareness.

World Oral Health Day 2026 Observed on 20 March

• World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is observed annually on 20 March to promote oral hygiene and awareness about oral diseases.
• The theme for World Oral Health Day 2026 is “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life”.
• The day is organized by the Fédération Dentaire Internationale (FDI) World Dental Federation, serving as a global platform to promote dental care and oral health awareness.
• World Oral Health Day was first declared in 2007 and initially observed on 12 September, but the campaign gained momentum from 2013.
• The date was later shifted to 20 March to avoid conflict with the FDI World Dental Congress held in September.
• The date 20 March signifies oral health benchmarks:
• Children should have 20 baby teeth
• Healthy adults should have 32 teeth with no dental cavities
• Senior citizens should retain at least 20 natural teeth

International Day of Happiness 2026 Observed on 20 March

• International Day of Happiness 2026 is observed globally on 20 March 2026 to promote happiness, well-being, and positivity.
• The day encourages people to spread happiness and urges nations to prioritise the well-being of citizens in public policy.
• The concept was proposed in 2011 to the United Nations (UN) by Jayme Illien.
• He also founded the United Nations New Economic Paradigm project and promoted the concept of ‘happytalism’, focusing on well-being over economic growth.
• The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) officially declared the day in July 2012, and it was first observed in 2013.
• The observance highlights that happiness is a fundamental human goal and emphasizes its importance in policy-making and global development.
• Overall, the day underlines the need to integrate happiness and well-being into governance and development frameworks.

Daily CA One- Liner: March 20

• The Supreme Court of India has struck down the age restriction on maternity leave for adoptive mothers, declaring the provision unconstitutional.
• Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati developed a MXene-based material capable of both hydrogen fuel production and seawater desalination
• The India Tourism Development Corporation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, launched the Tribal Homestay Capacity Building Programme 2026 in New Delhi

• The Union Cabinet approved the BHAVYA (Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana) Scheme to develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across India.

• The Maharashtra Assembly passed the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 to prevent forced religious conversions in the state
• The Transgender Rights Amendment Bill 2026 has been introduced in Parliament to amend the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, proposing major changes in recognition of transgender identity in India
• Renowned historian William Dalrymple has been awarded the Mark Lynton History Prize 2026 for his book The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World
• The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) partnered with YouTube to introduce a new digital streaming format for the FIFA World Cup 2026
• The Hurun Global Rich List 2026 reported over 4,020 billionaires globally, with 578 new billionaires added in one year.

• The Reserve Bank of India won the ‘Initiative of the Year’ award from Central Banking at the 13th annual Central Banking Awards for its innovative ‘.bank.in’ domain rollout initiative.
• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed changes to nomination rules for demat accounts and mutual fund (MF) folios to simplify onboarding, reduce compliance burden, and align with banking norms.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has compounded FEMA violations by Metrocorp Infrastructure Limited, resulting in the termination of adjudication proceedings initiated by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED).
• Scapia launched ‘Scapia Pay’, an in-application UPI payment service that allows users to earn rewards on transactions made using RuPay credit cards.
• Total Exports (Merchandise + Services) for April–February FY26 reached US$ 790.86 Billion, up 5.79% from US$ 747.58 Billion in the previous year.
• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that health insurance is a priority of the government, aiming to provide insurance coverage for all by 2033.
• NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) expanded the acceptance of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) across merchant establishments in Sri Lanka.
• SBI Securities launched ‘Women’s Mode’ on its mobile app to promote women-centric investing.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) amended its capital adequacy framework for commercial banks, providing clearer guidelines on calculating and maintaining capital against Counterparty Credit Risk (CCR) exposures.
• NPCI BHIM Services Limited (NBSL), a subsidiary of National Payments Corporation of India, appointed Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the brand ambassador for the BHIM Payments Application (App).
• Atanu Chakraborty resigned as part-time chairman and independent director of HDFC Bank with immediate effect, citing ethical concerns.
• Argentina has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), effective one year after formal notification.
• Researchers from Christ College and Mahatma Gandhi University discovered a new earthworm species named “Drawida vazhania” in the Vazhani Dam area of Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, Thrissur district, Kerala.
• Kushal Das, former General Secretary of All India Football Federation (AIFF), passed away in New Delhi at the age of 66.

• World Sparrow Day is observed annually on 20 March to raise awareness about the House Sparrow and other common urban birds
• World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is observed annually on 20 March to promote oral hygiene and awareness about oral diseases

• International Day of Happiness 2026 is observed globally on 20 March 2026 to promote happiness, well-being, and positivity.