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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Reserve Bank of India Holds 622nd Central Board Meeting in Patna Under Governor Sanjay Malhotra

• The 622nd meeting of the Central Board of Directors of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was held in Patna under the Chairmanship of Governor Sanjay Malhotra.
• The Board assessed the emerging global and domestic economic scenario, including evolving geopolitical developments and their impact on financial markets.
• During the meeting, the Board approved the RBI’s budget for the accounting year 2026-27.
• The Board also approved the Medium Term Strategy Framework (Utkarsh 3.0) for the period 2026-29.
• Deputy Governors Shri T. Rabi Sankar, Shri Swaminathan J., Dr. Poonam Gupta, and Shri Shirish Chandra Murmu attended the meeting.
• Other Directors of the Central Board present included Anuradha Thakur, Smt. Revathy Iyer, Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi, and Dr. Ravindra H. Dholakia.
• The discussions focused on associated challenges arising from the global and domestic economic environment and geopolitical developments.

Reserve Bank of India Imposes ₹3.10 Lakh Penalty on Cashfree Payments for Violating PA & PG Guidelines

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹3.10 lakh on Cashfree Payments India Private Limited for non-compliance with RBI guidelines on Payment Aggregators (PAs) and Payment Gateways (PGs).
• The penalty was issued under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007, specifically under Section 30(1) read with Section 26(6).
• The action followed a statutory inspection covering the company’s operations from April 2024 to June 2025, which revealed regulatory deficiencies.
• RBI issued a show-cause notice to the company, and after considering the company’s reply and additional submissions, it sustained the charge related to impermissible debits from the escrow account, warranting the penalty.
• The penalty is strictly for regulatory non-compliance and does not affect customer transactions.
• Further action may be initiated by RBI against the company without prejudice to the penalty imposed.
• This enforcement highlights the importance of compliance with RBI directions for Payment Aggregators and Payment Gateways.

Reserve Bank of India and Government Tighten Rules to Curb Illegal Digital Lending Apps

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) constituted a Working Group on Digital Lending, covering loans through Online Platforms and Mobile Apps.
• Based on the Working Group’s recommendations, RBI issued regulatory guidelines on digital lending to strengthen the regulatory framework, enhance customer protection, and ensure a safe digital lending ecosystem.

Key Highlights :

• All Regulated Entities (REs) must comply with these digital lending guidelines, with supervisory checks conducted on a sample basis, and enforcement action initiated for non-compliance.
• RBI launched the Digital Lending Apps (DLA) directory on July 1, 2025, allowing users to verify authorized digital lending apps linked to REs.
• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) can block fraudulent loan apps under Section 69A of IT Act, 2000, following due process under the IT Rules, 2009.
• The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) proactively monitors digital lending apps and launched a National Cybercrime Reporting Portal and a helpline number 1930 for reporting illegal apps.
• The SACHET portal and State Level Coordination Committees (SLCCs) facilitate citizens in lodging complaints against entities involved in illegal deposit or collection of money.
• RBI and banks conduct awareness campaigns via SMS, radio, and publicity on cybercrime prevention, including illegal loan apps, and run e-BAAT programmes for electronic banking awareness and fraud prevention.
• Internet intermediaries are instructed to implement technology-driven vetting and real-time enforcement to detect and prevent malicious advertisements of illegal loan apps, including those originating offshore.
• Police and Public Order are State subjects, and States/UTs are primarily responsible for prevention, investigation, and prosecution of crimes, with the Central Government providing advisories and financial support.
• These initiatives collectively aim to protect citizens from exploitation by unauthorized mobile loan apps while ensuring compliance, transparency, and accountability in the digital lending ecosystem.

Securities and Exchange Board of India Permits Mutual Funds to Carry Out Intraday Borrowing Operations

• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has tightened rules on intraday borrowings by mutual funds to manage temporary cash mismatches during redemptions.
• Intraday borrowing is used to bridge the timing gap between morning redemption payouts (T+1) and evening inflows from TREPS (Triparty Repo in Government Securities) and reverse repo.
• SEBI has mandated that mutual funds must frame a formal intraday borrowing policy, approved by the AMC board and trustees.
• As per SEBI (Mutual Funds) Regulations, 2026, the rules will come into effect from April 1, 2026.
• Intraday borrowings are allowed only for specific purposes, including repurchase/redemption of units, interest payments, and Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal (IDCW) payouts.
• The borrowing amount must not exceed guaranteed same-day receivables from entities like Government of India, Reserve Bank of India, and Clearing Corporation of India Limited.
• Eligible receivables include maturity proceeds from TREPS, reverse repo, G-Secs, Treasury Bills (T-Bills), State Development Loans (SDLs), STRIPS, along with interest and sale proceeds of these securities.
• SEBI clarified that the existing borrowing cap of 20% of net assets (up to 6 months) will not apply to intraday borrowings, subject to specified safeguards.
• The cost of intraday borrowing and any loss due to delay or unforeseen events must be borne by the Asset Management Company (AMC).
• The move aims to ensure liquidity management, protect investor interests, and improve operational efficiency in mutual fund schemes, especially liquid and overnight funds.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) proposed changes to nomination rules for demat accounts and mutual fund (MF) folios to simplify onboarding, reduce compliance burden, and align with banking norms.

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.

State Bank of India Raises ₹6,051 Crore via Basel III-Compliant Tier-2 Bond Issue

• The State Bank of India (SBI) raised ₹6,051 crore through the issuance of Basel III-compliant Tier-2 bonds.
• The bonds carry a coupon rate of 7.05% and have a tenor of 10 years, with a call option after 5 years and on each anniversary thereafter.
• The bonds received excellent investor response, with bids of approximately 2 times the base issue size of ₹5,000 crore.
• 47 bids were received from a diverse group of qualified institutional investors, including provident funds, pension funds, mutual funds, and banks.
• The bonds are rated AAA with a stable outlook by CRISIL Ratings Limited and India Ratings and Research Private Limited.
• This is SBI’s second Tier-2 bond issuance in the current financial year, reflecting its capital-raising strategy under Basel III norms.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, The State Bank of India (SBI) signed a strategic partnership with MUFG Bank, Ltd. (MUFG), a leading Japanese global financial institution, to strengthen cross-border capital flows and expand financing opportunities.

About State Bank of India (SBI):

• Founded Year: 1955
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Chairman: Challa Sreenivasulu Setty
• Slogan: "The Banker to Every Indian"

Edelweiss Asset Management Company Introduces India’s First Hybrid Passive Index Fund

• Edelweiss Asset Management Company (EAMC) launched India’s first hybrid passive index fund named ‘Edelweiss Nifty LargeMidcap250 Plus 8–13 yr G-sec 70:30 Index Fund’.
• The fund integrates equities and Government Securities (G-Secs) within a unified index-based structure.
• The New Fund Offer (NFO) is open for subscription from March 18 to April 01, 2026.
• The fund follows a rule-based investment strategy with automatic monthly rebalancing to maintain a 70:30 equity-debt allocation.
• It tracks the Nifty LargeMidcap250 Plus 8–13 Year G-Sec 70:30 Index.
• Asset allocation includes 70% investment in equity components and 30% in G-Secs via the Nifty 8–13 Year G-Sec Index.
• The minimum investment is ₹100, with additional investments in multiples of ₹1, and the scheme includes an exit load.
• The equity portion of the fund is managed by Bhavesh Jain and Bharat Lahoti, while the debt portion is managed by Dhawal Dalal and Hetul Raval.

Reserve Bank of India Revises Prudential Guidelines Linking Bank Dividend Payouts to CET1 Capital Ratios

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued revised prudential directions linking dividend payouts by commercial banks to their CET1 (Common Equity Tier 1) capital ratios, replacing guidelines issued in November 2025.
• The new framework is titled “RBI (Commercial Banks – Prudential Norms on Declaration of Dividend and Remittances of Profits) Directions, 2026”, which will take effect from April 1, 2027.
• These directions apply to commercial banks, including SBI and foreign banks operating in branch mode, but exclude SFBs, LABs, Payments Banks, and RRBs.
• Under the revised rules, dividend payouts are structured across 10 capital-ratio buckets based on the CET1 ratio.
• Banks with a CET1 ratio at or below 8% are barred from paying any dividend.
• Banks with CET1 ratio above 20% may pay up to 100% of their adjusted profit after tax (PAT), subject to overall limits.
• Total dividend payout is capped at 75% of PAT, irrespective of the CET1 bucket.
• Banks are required to report dividend or remittance details within 15 days to the RBI’s Department of Supervision.

Jio Payments Bank Introduces Cardless UPI Cash Withdrawal at Business Correspondent Points

• Jio Payments Bank (JPBL), a subsidiary of Jio Financial Services, has launched UPI-based cash withdrawal at Business Correspondent (BC) points.
• The feature allows customers to withdraw cash by scanning a UPI QR code and authorising transactions through UPI apps, without debit cards or ATMs.
• The initiative is particularly beneficial for rural and semi-urban users, improving access to banking services and financial inclusion.
• The service enables cardless cash withdrawal, bridging the gap between digital payments and physical cash access.
• This step strengthens the digital payments ecosystem while providing first-time digital users with a secure and assisted UPI transaction experience.
• JPBL leverages its last-mile BC network and digital infrastructure to expand accessible banking services and enhance UPI adoption among cash-dependent segments.

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Small Hydro Power Development Scheme Approved by Union Cabinet

• The Union Cabinet approved the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme for the period Financial Year 2026–27 to Financial Year 2030–31 with an outlay of ₹2,584.60 crore.
• The scheme aims to develop around 1,500 megawatts of small hydro power capacity across India.
• Focus is on promoting clean and renewable energy, especially in hilly and North Eastern regions.
• The scheme supports decentralised hydropower projects with capacity ranging from 1 megawatt to 25 megawatt.
• It aims to utilise untapped hydro potential while ensuring minimal environmental impact.
• Special emphasis on remote and difficult regions where large-scale projects are not feasible.
• Financial assistance under the scheme:
• North Eastern and border areas: Up to ₹3.6 crore per megawatt or 30% of project cost (maximum ₹30 crore per project)
• Other states: Up to ₹2.4 crore per megawatt or 20% of project cost (maximum ₹20 crore per project)
• Around ₹2,532 crore allocated specifically for project development.
• The scheme is expected to attract investment of around ₹15,000 crore and strengthen renewable energy capacity in India.
• Promotes use of 100% indigenous equipment, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and reducing import dependency.
• Employment impact:
• Expected to generate around 51 lakh person-days of employment during construction
• Will create long-term jobs in operation and maintenance
• Contributes to rural development and local economic growth in remote areas
• Overall, the scheme will enhance clean energy generation, boost regional development, and support sustainable growth.

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. 

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

City Union Bank Appoints Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja as Primary Brand Ambassador

• City Union Bank (CUB), a private sector bank headquartered in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, has appointed cricketer Ravindra Jadeja as its primary Brand Ambassador.
• The bank signed a two-year agreement on March 16, 2026 with Ravindra Jadeja and Baseline Ventures (India) Private Limited.
• The partnership aims to enhance brand visibility and outreach for the bank.
• The collaboration is expected to boost customer acquisition and expand market presence.
• The association with Jadeja, who is known for reliability and multifaceted excellence, is intended to strengthen long-term customer engagement.
• Managing Director and CEO of City Union Bank :Dr. N. Kamakodi

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

Reserve Bank of India Clears Bain Capital’s Investment in Manappuram Finance and Its Subsidiaries

• The Reserve Bank of India approved an investment of around ₹4,385 crore by Bain Capital in Manappuram Finance Limited (MFL) and its subsidiaries.
• The deal includes granting joint management control in Manappuram Finance Limited (MFL), Asirvad Micro Finance Limited, and Manappuram Home Finance Limited.
• The transaction involves a mandatory open offer under Securities and Exchange Board of India’s Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers Regulations, 2011.
• The capital infusion is expected to be completed by March 31, 2026.
• Bain Capital will acquire stake through its affiliates BC Asia Investments XXV Limited and BC Asia Investments XIV Limited.
• Post-transaction, Bain Capital is expected to hold 18% to 41.66% stake in MFL (fully diluted basis), while existing promoters’ stake will reduce to 9% from 35.25%.
• After the deal, Bain Capital will be classified as a promoter and will have joint control along with existing promoters.
• The Board of Directors of MFL and its subsidiaries will be reconstituted to include nominee directors from Bain Capital as per the agreement.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Shipping Corporation of India Inks Deal with Mazagon Dock to Build Green Methanol-Powered Vessel

• Shipping Corporation of India signed a shipbuilding contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited for a 3,000 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT) Platform Supply Vessel (PSV).
• The vessel will be powered by green methanol dual-fuel technology, allowing operation on conventional marine fuel and green methanol to reduce emissions.
• This will be the first alternative-fuel vessel in SCI’s fleet and India’s first methanol dual-fuel PSV.
• A Platform Supply Vessel (PSV) is used for offshore oil and gas operations, including transporting supplies, equipment, and personnel.
• The contract was disclosed under Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements - LODR) Regulations, 2015.
• The project aligns with the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), supporting India’s net-zero goals and green shipping initiatives.
• The development marks an early transition in India’s maritime sector towards low-emission fuels such as green methanol.
• The initiative reflects the Government of India’s push for sustainable and eco-friendly shipping technologies.

ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute Initiates Deep-Sea Survey of Seamount Fisheries in the Arabian Sea

• The ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has launched a deep-sea expedition in the Arabian Sea to study seamount fisheries.
• The project focuses on cephalopods such as squid, cuttlefish, and octopus, aiming to study their diversity, ecology, distribution, and biology.
• The expedition is funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences with a total cost of ₹4.986 crore for a two-year duration.
• The project will develop AI-based tools for automated species identification, strengthening deep-sea biodiversity research.
• It is implemented under Vertical-3 of the Deep Ocean Mission, in collaboration with the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Surathkal.
• The research is carried out by CMFRI’s Kochi headquarters and Mangaluru Regional Centre.
• The first exploratory survey targeted selected seamounts in the southeastern Arabian Sea onboard CMFRI research vessel F.V. Silver Pompano, led by Senior Scientist Divya Viswambharan and Scientist Kavitha M.
• A parallel sampling operation was conducted from Azheekal Fishing Harbour, Kollam, headed by Principal Scientist V. Venkatesan.
• The findings aim to generate insights for conservation strategies and sustainable management of seamount-associated fishery resources.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India–Vietnam Strengthen Cooperation in Tribal and Ethnic Development

• India and Vietnam enhanced cooperation in tribal and ethnic development following a high-level ministerial meeting held in New Delhi.
• The engagement aims to deepen ties under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and promote inclusive development.
• Both countries agreed to share best practices, improve livelihoods, and preserve cultural heritage.
• The meeting was co-chaired by Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram and Vietnam’s Minister Dao Ngoc Dung.
• It marks a step towards institutionalised cooperation and structured dialogue in tribal development.
• India highlighted Vietnam as a key partner under the Act East Policy, focusing on economic, cultural, and strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Discussions emphasised historical and cultural ties, including shared Buddhist traditions.
• Exhibition of Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha from Sarnath in Vietnam strengthened people-to-people connections.
• Key areas of cooperation:
• Livelihood promotion and skill development
• Sustainable agriculture practices
• Value addition to forest-based products
• Research and institutional collaboration
• Cultural preservation and community development
• The partnership supports regional stability and cooperation while promoting sustainable and inclusive growth in both countries.

About Vietnam

• Capital: Hanoi
• Currency: Vietnamese dong
• Prime minister: Pham Minh Chinh

Himachal Pradesh Signs Memorandum of Understanding with National Dairy Development Board to Boost Dairy Sector

• The Himachal Pradesh Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to strengthen the dairy sector.
• The agreement aims to enhance milk processing capacity, improve dairy infrastructure, and generate employment opportunities for farmers.
• It will also promote dairy-based industries and products under the ‘HIM’ brand.
• The MoU focuses on modernising dairy infrastructure and strengthening the milk supply chain across the state.
• The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) will support adoption of advanced technology in milk processing and dairy-based bio-products.
• It is expected to help farmers by reducing wastage and increasing value addition to milk.
• A key component is the Dagwar Dairy Project, which will be developed as a major milk processing hub in the state.
• The State Government had earlier reached an understanding with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in 2023, and the new agreement focuses on operation and expansion of the project.
• The initiative also promotes marketing of dairy products under the ‘HIM’ brand, aiming to build a strong regional identity.
• These products are expected to attract consumers seeking high-quality and naturally produced dairy goods.
• Overall, the MoU will strengthen the dairy value chain, support farmer income, and boost rural economic development in Himachal Pradesh.

RECENT NEWS

• In response to increasing demand for cannabis cultivationand global recognition of its medicinal, agricultural, and industrial value, the Himachal Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, approved a pilot project for cannabis (hemp) farming. The project aims to explore the potential benefits of cannabis cultivation in the region, with an emphasis on its medicinal and industrial uses.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RSNKING AND REPORTS

Tamil Nadu Emerges as India’s Top Textile Exporter in 2024–25

• Tamil Nadu became the leading textile exporting state in Financial Year 2024–25, surpassing Gujarat and Maharashtra.
• The state recorded textile exports worth $7,997.17 million, contributing 21.84% to India’s total textile exports.
• Over the last four years, exports grew by over 29%, reflecting consistent policy support and sectoral expansion.
• Textile exports increased from $6,193 million in Financial Year 2020–21 to nearly $8 billion in Financial Year 2024–25.
• Growth driven by strong industrial base, skilled workforce, and export-oriented production ecosystem.
• Rising global demand and infrastructure development initiatives also supported export growth.
• State-wise textile export ranking:

• Tamil Nadu’s performance reflects its competitive advantage in value-added textiles, innovation, and strong supply chain networks.
• India’s total textile exports stood at $36,610 million, highlighting the sector’s role in foreign exchange earnings.
• Tamil Nadu’s high share indicates large-scale production capacity and export readiness.
• Key drivers of growth:
• Supportive industrial policies
• Improved infrastructure and logistics
• Focus on export-oriented units
• Availability of skilled workforce
• India is one of the largest textile producers globally, with strong presence in cotton, garments, and synthetic fibres, contributing significantly to employment and industrial growth.

RECENT NEWS

• Tamil Nadu has taken a major step in strengthening India’s multilingual literary culture by announcing a new annual state-sponsored literary honour that will recognise outstanding books in leading Indian languages other than Hindi.

Forbes Top 10 Youngest Billionaires 2026 Released

• The latest Forbes list of youngest billionaires 2026 highlights 35 billionaires under 30 with a combined wealth of $92.4 billion.
• The list reflects a mix of inherited wealth and self-made entrepreneurs, with increasing influence of technology and start-ups.
• From India, Surya Midha (22) secured the 6th position, representing the rise of Artificial Intelligence-based entrepreneurship.
• Top 10 Youngest Billionaires (Under 30):

• Surya Midha built wealth through his Artificial Intelligence recruitment start-up “Mercor” and is among the few self-made billionaires on the list.
• His co-founders Brendan Foody and Adarsh Hiremath also feature, highlighting the role of collaborative start-up ecosystems.
• Key trends:
• Majority of billionaires come from family business backgrounds in sectors like pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and retail
• Rising number of self-made entrepreneurs from Artificial Intelligence and technology sectors
• Artificial Intelligence boom emerging as a major driver of global wealth creation
• Overall, the list reflects a shift towards younger wealth creators, driven by innovation, digital platforms, and start-up ecosystems.

World Happiness Report 2026: Finland Tops for 9th Consecutive Year

• The World Happiness Report 2026, released by the Wellbeing Research Centre, ranked Finland as the happiest country globally for the 9th consecutive year.
• The report highlights strong performance of Nordic countries and a decline in happiness levels in Western nations.
• A major concern identified is the negative impact of social media on youth well-being.
• Top 10 Happiest Countries 2026:

• Costa Rica achieved its highest-ever ranking (4th position).
• Key observations on youth well-being:
• Higher screen time reduces life satisfaction
• Greater impact on teenagers and young adults, especially girls
• Social comparison and online pressure increase stress
• Countries such as the United States of America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have seen a decline in happiness among people below 25 years.
• Finland’s top rank is due to strong social welfare system, high trust in institutions, quality education and healthcare, and work-life balance.
• For the second consecutive year, no English-speaking country is in the top 10:
• New Zealand – 11th
• Ireland – 13th
• Australia – 15th
• The report notes a rise in negative emotions globally and improvement in Central and Eastern European countries.
• India ranked 116th with a score of 4.536, indicating challenges in social support, income, governance, and freedom of choice.
• Rankings are based on three-year average life evaluations, considering factors such as Gross Domestic Product per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, freedom, generosity, and corruption perception.

About Finland

• Capital: Helsinki
• President: Alexander Stubb
• Currency: Euro

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Defers Decision on Ban for Government Officials

• The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) postponed its decision on a proposed rule to ban government officials from attending major sporting events.
• The decision has been deferred until September 2026, after the FIFA World Cup 2026 to be held in the United States of America, Canada, and Mexico.
• The proposed rule seeks to restrict officials from countries that fail to pay financial dues to the World Anti-Doping Agency.
• The Executive Committee stated that further discussions and consultations are required due to the global and sensitive nature of the issue.
• The issue is linked to a funding dispute with the United States of America, which has withheld around $7.3 million since 2023.
• The United States raised concerns over the handling of doping cases, including those involving Chinese athletes.
• The decision ensures that the FIFA World Cup 2026 remains unaffected, with no restrictions on attendance of political leaders.
• If implemented, the rule may impact future events such as the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, raising concerns over diplomatic tensions and enforcement challenges.
• The World Anti-Doping Agency highlighted that irregular funding may affect global anti-doping programmes and athlete welfare worldwide.

About WADA

• The World Anti-Doping Agency is an international organization co-founded by the governments of over 140 nations along with the International Olympic Committee based in Canada to promote, coordinate, and monitor the fight against drugs in sports.
• President: Witold Bańka
• Founder: Dick Pound
• Headquarters: Montreal, Canada
• Founded:10 November 1999

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

International Day of Forests 2026 Observed on 21 March

• International Day of Forests, also known as World Forest Day, is observed annually on 21 March to raise awareness about the importance of forests and their benefits.
• The day emphasizes conservation, sustainable management, and protection of all types of forests.
• The observance is held under the United Nations (UN).
• The concept of World Forestry Day was introduced in 1971 during the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) conference.
• From 2007 to 2012, the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) organised Forest Day events in collaboration with global partners.
• The year 2011 was declared as the International Year of Forests.
• On 28 November 2012, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) officially declared 21 March as the International Day of Forests, first observed in 2013.
• The day highlights the role of forests in biodiversity conservation, climate regulation, ecological balance, and livelihood support.

World Poetry Day 2026 Observed on 21 March

• World Poetry Day is observed annually on 21 March to honour poets and promote the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry.
• The day celebrates poetry recitals, music, theatre, dance, painting, and other cultural expressions.
• It aims to highlight how poetry builds emotional connections, preserves history, and promotes cultural understanding.
• The observance was adopted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1999 during its 30th General Conference in Paris.
• The first World Poetry Day was celebrated on 21 March 2000.
• Historically, poetry dates back to ancient times, with early works like the “Epic of Gilgamesh” (around 2000 Before Christ).
• In the 14th century, sonnets gained prominence, with Francesco Petrarca known for his early contributions.
• The day encourages preservation of linguistic diversity and supports poetry movements at national and international levels.

World Down Syndrome Day 2026 Observed on 21 March

• World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is observed annually on 21 March to raise awareness about Down syndrome and promote inclusion of persons with disabilities.
• The theme for 2026 is “Together Against Loneliness”, focusing on social exclusion, isolation, and loneliness faced by individuals with Down syndrome.
• The date 21 March (21/3) signifies the triplication of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome.
• The observance aligns with the vision of the United Nations (UN) to ensure that no one is left behind under the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a key role in promoting health, inclusion, and well-being of persons with disabilities globally.
• The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD):
• Opened for signature on 30 March 2007
• Received 82 signatories and 44 Optional Protocol signatories on the opening day
• Came into force on 3 May 2008
• It is the first comprehensive human rights treaty of the 21st century

Daily CA One- Liner: March 21

• The Union Cabinet approved the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme for the period Financial Year 2026–27 to Financial Year 2030–31 with an outlay of ₹2,584.60 crore.
• India and Vietnam enhanced cooperation in tribal and ethnic development following a high-level ministerial meeting held in New Delhi
• The Himachal Pradesh Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to strengthen the dairy sector
• Tamil Nadu became the leading textile exporting state in Financial Year 2024–25, surpassing Gujarat and Maharashtra
• The latest Forbes list of youngest billionaires 2026 highlights 35 billionaires under 30 with a combined wealth of $92.4 billion
• The World Happiness Report 2026, released by the Wellbeing Research Centre, ranked Finland as the happiest country globally for the 9th consecutive year
• The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) postponed its decision on a proposed rule to ban government officials from attending major sporting events.
• The 622nd meeting of the Central Board of Directors of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was held in Patna under the Chairmanship of Governor Sanjay Malhotra.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹3.10 lakh on Cashfree Payments India Private Limited for non-compliance with RBI guidelines on Payment Aggregators (PAs) and Payment Gateways (PGs).
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) constituted a Working Group on Digital Lending, covering loans through Online Platforms and Mobile Apps.
• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has tightened rules on intraday borrowings by mutual funds to manage temporary cash mismatches during redemptions.
• The State Bank of India (SBI) raised ₹6,051 crore through the issuance of Basel III-compliant Tier-2 bonds.
• Edelweiss Asset Management Company (EAMC) launched India’s first hybrid passive index fund named ‘Edelweiss Nifty LargeMidcap250 Plus 8–13 yr G-sec 70:30 Index Fund’.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued revised prudential directions linking dividend payouts by commercial banks to their CET1 (Common Equity Tier 1) capital ratios, replacing guidelines issued in November 2025.
• Jio Payments Bank (JPBL), a subsidiary of Jio Financial Services, has launched UPI-based cash withdrawal at Business Correspondent (BC) points.
• City Union Bank (CUB), a private sector bank headquartered in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, has appointed cricketer Ravindra Jadeja as its primary Brand Ambassador.
• The Reserve Bank of India approved an investment of around ₹4,385 crore by Bain Capital in Manappuram Finance Limited (MFL) and its subsidiaries.
• Shipping Corporation of India signed a shipbuilding contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited for a 3,000 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT) Platform Supply Vessel (PSV).
• The ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has launched a deep-sea expedition in the Arabian Sea to study seamount fisheries.
• International Day of Forests, also known as World Forest Day, is observed annually on 21 March to raise awareness about the importance of forests and their benefits
• World Poetry Day is observed annually on 21 March to honour poets and promote the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry
• World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is observed annually on 21 March to raise awareness about Down syndrome and promote inclusion of persons with disabilities