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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Government Revises Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme to Boost MSME Manufacturing and Exports under Budget 2025-26

• The Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS-MSME) was launched in January 2025 to improve credit access for MSMEs through National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC).

Key Highlights :

• The scheme provides 60% guarantee coverage to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) for loans up to ₹100 crore for purchase of plant and machinery.
• 5% upfront contribution by borrowers is now refundable in instalments from the 4th year, subject to satisfactory loan performance.
• Service sector MSMEs are now included, and the minimum machinery investment requirement has been reduced to 60% of project cost, making the scheme more flexible.
• The guarantee tenure is fixed at 10 years, providing long-term support for MSMEs.
• Exporter MSMEs that have exported at least 25% of turnover in each of the last three financial years are eligible for special provisions under the scheme.
• Guaranteed loan amount for eligible exporter MSMEs is up to ₹20 crore.
• Exporters pay an upfront contribution of 2% of the loan amount (max ₹40 lakh), refundable as 1% each in the 4th and 5th year, subject to loan performance.
• The scheme offers 75% guarantee coverage on the amount in default, significantly reducing lender risk.
• The guarantee fee is nil in the first year and 0.50% per annum thereafter on the loan outstanding.
• The scheme aims to boost manufacturing and exports, as MSMEs contribute around 30% to GDP, 45% to exports, and employ over 35 crore people.
• The modifications in MCGS-MSME are expected to increase credit availability for purchase of plant, machinery, and equipment, including for exporter MSMEs, supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

About Ministry of Finance:

• Cabinet Minister: Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman
• Minister of State (MoS): Shri Pankaj Chaudhary

Lloyd’s of London to Launch Operations in GIFT City, Boosting India’s Role as Regional Reinsurance Hub

• Lloyd’s of London is set to establish operations in GIFT City, marking a major step in developing India as a regional reinsurance hub.
• The proposal is under review with the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) under IFSCA Insurance Business Regulations, 2021 to set up a statutory insurance and reinsurance entity.
• Lloyd’s is a leading underwriting marketplace dealing with complex risks in sectors like aviation, shipping, energy, and catastrophe insurance.
• As of December 2025, the number of IFSC Insurance Offices (IIOs) increased to 24 from 19, while Insurance Intermediary Offices (IIIOs) reached 31, up from 25, highlighting growth in GIFT City.
• Echo Re, a Zurich-based reinsurer, recently received approval to establish a reinsurance branch office in GIFT City, strengthening its operational capacity.
• The Lloyd’s proposal involves setting up a statutory insurance and reinsurance corporation, authorised under the IFSCA Registration of Insurance Business Regulations, 2021, with funds remitted from London.
• Establishing Lloyd’s operations in GIFT City will enhance access to global underwriting capital, deepen risk-management capabilities, and increase India’s significance in global reinsurance.
• Global insurance and reinsurance players from South Korea, UK, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Kazakhstan have either received approval or are planning to establish operations in GIFT City.
• IFSC Insurance Offices (IIOs) support trade finance by offering trade credit insurance and export-related risk covers, protecting against credit, political, and non-payment risks.
• Currently, four IIOs in GIFT IFSC offer seven trade credit insurance products, with plans to expand the ecosystem and product range.
• Premiums transacted by IIOs and IIIOs together reached USD 299 million in Q3 FY2025–26, more than double the USD 148 million a year earlier, reflecting robust year-on-year growth.
• The establishment of Lloyd’s and other global reinsurers is expected to boost India’s reinsurance market, increase investor confidence, and support cross-border trade finance.

Bank of Baroda Launches UPI-Based Overdraft Facility for Women SHG Members with PMJDY Accounts

• Bank of Baroda (BoB) has launched an Overdraft (OD) facility on Credit Line via UPI for verified women Self-Help Group (SHG) members holding Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)

Key Highlights :

• BoB becomes the first bank in India to introduce such a UPI-based digital credit solution.
• The facility allows eligible women to access up to ₹5,000 overdraft, promoting financial inclusion and women-led economic empowerment.
• The initiative was launched by Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan during the 25th Central Level Coordination Committee (CLCC) Meeting held in Hyderabad.
• The scheme is implemented in collaboration with National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), Indian Banks’ Association (IBA), and Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
• The facility enables digital access to credit through UPI-enabled apps, eliminating the need for branch visits, paperwork, and traditional borrowing barriers.
• Eligible SHG members can link their OD account to UPI apps, make QR payments, repay loans, and track transactions digitally.
• The initiative provides collateral-free, small-ticket credit to meet working capital and emergency financial needs of rural women.
• It helps in building credit history, enabling SHG members to access higher-value loans in the future.
• The system ensures transparency and traceability of fund flows, utilisation, and repayments.
• The initiative is scalable nationwide for other financial inclusion and small-ticket lending
• It aligns with major government initiatives like PMJDY, DAY-NRLM, and Digital India, strengthening the digital financial ecosystem.
• The scheme represents a major step in integrating digital payments (UPI) with accessible credit delivery for underserved and rural communities.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, Bank of Baroda raised a USD 500 million five-year syndicated term loan through its IFSC Banking Unit in GIFT City, Gujarat.

About Bank of Baroda (BoB):

• Founded: 1908
• Headquarters: Vadodara, Gujarat, India
• Managing Director & CEO: Debadatta Chand
• Tagline: "India’s International Bank"

RNFI Services Launches UPI QR-Based Cash Withdrawal Service Nationwide with Jio Payments Bank

• RNFI Services, through its platform Relipay, has launched a nationwide UPI QR-based cash withdrawal service in partnership with Jio Payments Bank.
• The service eliminates the need for ATM cards or biometric authentication, providing a simple and accessible assisted banking solution.
• The facility offers a per transaction limit of ₹5,000, a daily limit of ₹10,000, and a monthly limit of ₹50,000.
• The launch marks a significant expansion of RNFI’s assisted digital banking offerings and strengthens its partnership with Jio Payments Bank.

About Jio Payments Bank Limited :

• It is operating since 2018, is a subsidiary of Jio Financial Services
• MD & CEO : Vinod Easwaran

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Tata Steel Limited Inaugurates India’s First Scrap-Based Electric Arc Furnace Facility in Ludhiana, Punjab

• Tata Steel Limited inaugurated India’s first scrap-based Electric Arc Furnace facility in Ludhiana, Punjab, marking a major step towards sustainable steel production in India.
• The project was developed with an investment of ₹3,200 crore (approximately 341.62 million United States dollars).
• The facility has a production capacity of 0.75 million tonnes per annum.
• It uses 100 percent steel scrap as raw material, supporting circular economy practices in the steel sector.
• The plant is designed to operate with nearly 50 percent renewable energy, reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
• The facility is expected to reduce carbon emissions to less than 0.3 tonnes per tonne of steel produced, significantly lower than emissions from conventional blast furnace routes.
• The plant will manufacture construction-grade steel rebar under the Tata Tiscon brand, strengthening the company’s presence in the domestic construction sector.
• The initiative supports the long-term target of Tata Steel Limited to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.
• The company plans to replicate similar Electric Arc Furnace-based facilities across multiple locations in India, depending on availability of steel scrap.
• The project supports India’s climate commitments by promoting low-carbon steelmaking technologies.
• It also enhances resource efficiency and reduces dependence on traditional raw materials such as iron ore and coking coal.
• The initiative represents a strategic shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly steel production in India.

RECENT NEWS

• The state of Punjab Vidhan Sabha has unanimously passed the Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur World-Class University Bill 2026. This new university will be established at Sri Anandpur Sahib. This place is the place of deep historical and spiritual significance

About Punjab:

• Chief Minister: Bhagwant Mann ​
• Governor: Gulab Chand Kataria
• Capital: Chandigarh ​
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary, Aishvan Wildlife Sanctuary, Bir Bhadson Wildlife Sanctuary, Bir Bunerheri Wildlife Sanctuary, Bir Dosanjh Wildlife Sanctuary ​

National District Mineral Foundation Summit 2026 Held in New Delhi

• The National District Mineral Foundation Summit 2026 was scheduled to be held on 23–24 March 2026 at SCOPE Convention Centre, New Delhi.
• The summit was organized by the Ministry of Mines.
• The summit focused on improving the utilisation of District Mineral Foundation funds in mining-affected regions.
• It brought together policy makers, administrators and experts to ensure better planning, coordination and transparency in the use of District Mineral Foundation funds.
• The summit emphasised efficient utilisation of District Mineral Foundation funds to improve the socio-economic conditions of people living in mining-affected areas.
• It highlighted the need for better coordination between Central Government, State Governments and District authorities.
• The summit aimed to identify policy reforms for ensuring proper planning and timely implementation of development projects funded through District Mineral Foundation resources.
• It focused on achieving measurable outcomes so that funds directly benefit local communities and improve living standards.
• The summit included participation from representatives of Central Ministries, State Governments and District administrations.
• The discussions were based on extensive consultations conducted since January 2026 to incorporate diverse stakeholder inputs for improving fund utilisation.
• These thematic discussions aimed to improve accountability and effectiveness in fund utilisation across States.
• The summit gave special focus to the Aspirational District Programme and Aspirational Block Programme for accelerating development in underdeveloped regions.
• The District Mineral Foundation is a statutory body created under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.
• District Mineral Foundation funds are financed through contributions from mining companies.
• These funds are utilised for the welfare of people affected by mining-related activities.

RECENT NEWS

• Bharat Tribes Fest 2026 will kick off on the March 18 in New Delhi. This fest will be celebrating the vibrant culture, art and entrepreneurship of India’s tribal communities. This fest will be organized by TRIFED along with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Becomes India’s Longest-Serving Elected Head of Government

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the longest-serving elected head of government in India, completing 8,931 days in office and entering his 25th year in executive leadership.
• He surpassed Pawan Kumar Chamling, who previously held the record with 8,930 days in office.
• The milestone combines his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat (from 7 October 2001 to May 2014) and Prime Minister of India (since May 2014).
• This achievement reflects continuous leadership at both State and national levels, making it a rare milestone in Indian politics.
• He served for more than 13 years as Chief Minister of Gujarat, becoming the longest-serving Chief Minister of the State.
• In May 2014, he became the 14th Prime Minister of India, marking a major shift to national-level leadership.
• He became the first non-Indian National Congress leader to secure a full majority in the Lok Sabha and has been leading the country since 2014.
• He won three consecutive Lok Sabha elections in 2014, 2019, and 2024.
• He became the first non-Indian National Congress Prime Minister to complete two full consecutive terms.
• He is also the first Prime Minister in recent decades to return for a third consecutive term.
• He holds the distinction of having the longest prior experience as Chief Minister before becoming Prime Minister.
• He has one of the strongest global digital presences among world leaders, with:
• Over 30 million subscribers on YouTube
• More than 100 million followers on Instagram
• Around 106.4 million followers on X (formerly Twitter)

Long-Serving Global Leaders (Elected/De facto):

RECENT NEWS

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi received several of the world’s highest civilian honours from different countries. These awards were given in recognition of his global leadership, India’s growing international influence, and his role in strengthening diplomatic ties, especially with the Global South, Africa, the Caribbean, and island nations.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

India and Italy Hold 9th Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi to Boost Strategic Partnership

• The 9th India–Italy Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) were held in New Delhi on 20 March 2026 to review bilateral relations and discuss regional and global issues.
• The Indian delegation was led by Shri Sibi George, Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and the Italian delegation by Ambassador Nicoletta Bombardiere, Director General at Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
• The consultations were held in the backdrop of high-level engagements, including meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni at the G20 Summit 2025 (Johannesburg), and between Dr. S. Jaishankar and Antonio Tajani in December 2025.
• Both sides reviewed progress of the Joint Strategic Action Plan (JSAP) 2025–29, covering sectors like trade & economy, technology, space, defence & security, renewable energy, education, research & innovation, and people-to-people ties.
• India and Italy agreed to expedite the Joint Initiative to Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT), reaffirming commitment to combat terrorism.
• Both countries are working towards holding the first Maritime Security Dialogue (MSD) to enhance maritime cooperation and security.
• The discussions highlighted the strengthening of the India–EU Strategic Partnership, including progress on the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Security and Defence Partnership, and Mobility Cooperation Framework.
• Key regional issues discussed included developments in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia.
• Both sides emphasized enhancing cooperation in the skilling, mobility, and healthcare sector under the Migration and Mobility Agreement.
• India–Italy relations are on an upward trajectory, marked by regular high-level interactions, ministerial dialogues, and private sector engagement.
• Both countries agreed to continue strengthening institutional mechanisms in trade, defence, and science & technology for effective implementation of JSAP.
• It was decided that the next (10th) round of FOC will be held in Italy on mutually convenient dates.

India and Indonesia Partner to Restore Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta

• India and Indonesia announced a collaborative initiative to restore the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, strengthening cultural diplomacy and heritage conservation.
• The discussion took place on March 16, 2026, during a meeting between Indonesia’s Culture Minister Fadli Zon and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team in Jakarta.
• Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia, located in Sleman near Yogyakarta (Java), and is locally known as Roro Jonggrang.
• The temple complex was built in the 9th century by the Sanjaya dynasty and is dedicated to the Hindu Trimurti—Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.
• Prambanan was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, highlighting its global cultural significance.
• The architecture reflects a blend of indigenous Javanese styles and South Indian Pallava influences.
• The complex consists of 240 temples featuring intricate carvings from the Ramayana and other Hindu epics.

About Indonesia :

• President : Prabowo Subianto
• Capital : Jakarta
• Currency : Indonesian rupiah (Rp)

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

South Indian Bank Names Former RBI Executive Director Jose Kattoor as Part-Time Chairman

• Jose Joseph Kattoor, appointed as non-executive part-time chairman (Independent Director) of South Indian Bank for three years, following RBI approval.
• Kattoor succeeds V J Kurian, who retires on March 22, 2026, after serving as independent director since March 23, 2018.
• Kattoor has been an independent director on the South Indian Bank board since July 18, 2024.
• He has over 30 years of experience at Reserve Bank of India (RBI), serving from 1991 to 2023, including as Executive Director handling Enforcement, Corporate Strategy, Currency Management, and Human Resources.
• In his new role, Kattoor will strengthen governance standards and support the bank’s long-term strategic vision.
• Thomson Thomas was appointed as non-executive independent director for a three-year term, effective March 23, 2026.
• Board approved elevation of senior management personnel, effective April 1, 2026, reflecting an internal succession strategy.
• PR Seshadri, MD & CEO, will step down in September 2026, choosing not to seek reappointment.
• Anto George T promoted from Chief General Manager (CGM) & COO to Executive Vice President, continuing as Chief Operating Officer.
• Senthil Kumar, previously Senior General Manager & Head of Credit, elevated to CGM and now serves as Chief Credit Officer.
• Sony A elevated from SGM & Chief Information Officer to CGM, with expanded responsibilities including Strategic Alliances, Digital Business, Marketing, and Customer Experience.
• The appointments and promotions aim to strengthen the bank’s operations, credit, digital transformation, and corporate banking functions.

About South Indian Bank:

• Founded Year: 1929
• Headquarters: Thrissur, Kerala, India
• CEO: P.R. Seshadri
• Slogan: "Experience Next-Gen Banking"

Yamaha Music India Appoints AR Rahman as Brand Ambassador

• A. R. Rahman has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Yamaha Music India Private Limited.
• Yamaha Music India is the Indian subsidiary of Yamaha Corporation, Japan, engaged in manufacturing musical instruments and professional audio equipment.
• The company operates a manufacturing facility in Chennai, a corporate office in Gurugram, and an experience centre in Bengaluru.
• AR Rahman acknowledged Yamaha’s products as an integral part of his musical journey and plans to include them in his music school in Chennai.
• The appointment reflects Yamaha Music India’s growth roadmap and strategic focus on brand promotion in India.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ENVIRONMENT

New Wild Kiwi Species “Actinidia indica” Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh by Botanical Survey of India

• Scientists from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have identified a new species of wild kiwi named “Actinidia indica” in Arunachal Pradesh.
• The discovery adds to India’s botanical diversity and highlights the ecological richness of the Eastern Himalayas.
• Actinidia indica was recorded near Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, at an elevation of 1,725 metres.
• The species grows in a transition zone between temperate and subtropical forests with high biodiversity and favourable climatic conditions.
• It is a perennial climbing shrub, growing 2–4 metres in height, with densely hairy young branches and large ovate leaves.
• The plant produces white to creamy flowers measuring 4–6 cm, adding to its distinct morphology.
• The fruit is globose, olive-green, measuring 2.5–4 cm, with a reticulate lenticel pattern, distinguishing it from other species in the genus.
• The discovery increases the global count of Actinidia species to 56, with few species found in India.

Desert Moss Syntrichia caninervis Identified as Key for Future Mars Ecosystems

• Syntrichia caninervis is a resilient desert moss identified as a potential candidate for future Mars colonisation.
• The study was published in the journal The Innovation.
• The moss can survive extreme dehydration, freezing temperatures, and intense radiation, making it highly adaptable to harsh conditions.
• It can lose over 98% of its cellular water and enter a dormant state, resuming photosynthesis within seconds when exposed to moisture.
• Tested in simulated Martian conditions with high carbon dioxide, low pressure, and UV radiation, the moss survived for several days and regenerated growth.
• The moss can withstand temperatures as low as -196°C and radiation levels up to 5,000 Gy, far exceeding levels lethal to humans.
• Its resilience is due to efficient cellular repair systems that recover damage lethal to other organisms.
• Mars has a thin atmosphere dominated by carbon dioxide and harsh environmental conditions.
• Syntrichia caninervis could act as a pioneer species on Mars by enriching soil with organic matter, supporting oxygen production and laying the foundation for sustainable extraterrestrial ecosystems.
• Although not suitable for human consumption, it may enable future cultivation of crops in controlled habitats on Mars.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

National Productivity Council Appointed as Environment Audit Designated Agency by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

• The National Productivity Council (NPC) has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to act as the Environment Audit Designated Agency (EADA).
• The initiative aims to strengthen environmental compliance, monitoring, and sustainable industrial practices across India.
• NPC was established in 1958 as an autonomous, non-profit organisation under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
• NPC is a member of the Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), headquartered in Tokyo.
• The EADA role involves auditing environmental performance, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and promoting sustainable practices.
• NPC’s responsibilities as EADA include:
• Certification and registration of Certified Environmental Auditors (CEA) and Registered Environmental Auditors (REA).
• Monitoring auditor performance and issuing necessary directions.
• Capacity building through training programmes, workshops, seminars, conferences, and online courses.
• Maintaining an online register of all Certified and Registered Environmental Auditors.
• The Environment Audit framework supports compliance with major environmental legislations, including:
• Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
• Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
• Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
• Van Adhiniyam, 1980
• Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
• Regulatory approvals like Environmental Clearance (EC), Consent to Establish (CTE), and Consent to Operate (CTO).
• NPC will manage the eligibility criteria, examinations, certification, registration, and disciplinary actions for environmental auditors.
• The initiative enhances transparency, standardisation of environmental audits, and institutionalises monitoring practices across India.
• With 13 offices across India including its headquarters in New Delhi, NPC is well-positioned to implement this nationwide environmental audit framework.
• This collaboration reflects the Government of India’s commitment to environmental governance while promoting sustainable industrial growth.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SUMMITS & CONFERENCE

India Submits Proposals at World Trade Organization’s 14th Ministerial Conference to Safeguard Food Security and Fishermen’s Livelihoods

• India has submitted proposals for the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) focusing on food security and the livelihoods of traditional fishermen.
• The Ministerial Conference is the highest decision-making body of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
• MC14 will be held from 26 to 29 March 2026 in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
• The Conference will be chaired by Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, Cameroon's Minister of Trade.
• The WTO was established under the Marrakesh Agreement, 1994, replacing earlier ministerial meetings under GATT (General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade).
• The Ministerial Conference is required to meet at least once every two years to negotiate trade agreements and address global trade issues.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, The World Trade Organization (WTO) released its ‘Global Trade Outlook and Statistics – March 2026’

About World Trade Organization WTO):

• Founded: 1 January 1995
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• Director-General: Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (since 2021)
• Membership: 166 members (162 UN member states, the European Union, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan)

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India and Bhutan Sign Memorandum of Understanding on Postal Cooperation

• India and Bhutan signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Postal Cooperation to strengthen bilateral collaboration in the postal sector.
• The Memorandum of Understanding provides a structured framework for cooperation between India Post and Bhutan Post.
• The agreement was signed between the Ministry of Communications and Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport during the Bhutan visit of the Secretary of the Department of Posts.
• The Memorandum of Understanding aims to enhance cooperation in key areas including:
• Postal operations
• Technology development
• Capacity building
• Logistics connectivity
• Philately
• Knowledge exchange
• Both countries agreed to strengthen collaboration in the technology domain, including sharing experience and best practices related to India Post’s evolving technology ecosystem.
• The agreement is expected to improve efficiency, connectivity and service delivery in postal networks between the two countries.

About Bhutan

• Capital: Thimphu
• Currencies: Bhutanese Ngultrum
• King: Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND REPORTS

China Becomes India’s Third-Largest Export Destination in February 2026

• China became India’s third-largest export destination in February 2026, overtaking Netherlands.
• India’s exports to China increased by 32.4% to 1.67 billion United States dollars in February 2026.
• At the same time, India’s overall exports declined slightly by 0.81% year-on-year to 36.61 billion United States dollars during the month.
• The change reflects a significant shift in India’s trade dynamics and indicates growing economic engagement between India and China, despite geopolitical tensions between the two countries since 2020.
• The increase in exports to China was mainly driven by higher shipments in electronics and marine products, which played a major role in boosting export performance.
• These sectors are becoming increasingly important components of India’s export strategy.
• India’s overall export decline of 0.81% suggests that global demand remained uncertain and uneven across regions in February 2026.
• During the same period, India’s exports to seven out of its top ten trading partners contracted, reflecting broader global trade challenges.
• The rise in exports to China highlights new opportunities for India in large international markets, especially in high-demand sectors.
• However, India–China trade relations remain complex, influenced by both economic cooperation and strategic competition.
• Strengthening domestic industries and diversifying export markets remain important strategies for ensuring stable and sustainable export growth in the long term.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 Begins in Chhattisgarh from 25 March 2026

• The Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 will be held from 25 March to 3 April 2026 in Chhattisgarh.
• The Games will be hosted across Raipur, Jagdalpur and Surguja.
• The event will bring together over 6,000 participants, including around 2,300 athletes from across the country.
• The initiative aims to promote tribal sporting talent at the national level and preserve indigenous sports traditions.
• The Khelo India Tribal Games is a national-level initiative focused on showcasing the talent of tribal athletes and celebrating India’s tribal sporting heritage.
• Chhattisgarh was selected as the host State due to its strong tribal cultural connection and the presence of over 32% tribal population.
• The Games will feature major sports disciplines including Archery, Athletics, Football, Hockey, Swimming, Weightlifting and Wrestling.
• Special focus will be given to indigenous sports such as Mallakhamb and Kabaddi.
• The Games aim to provide a national platform for tribal athletes who often remain underrepresented in mainstream competitions.
• The initiative will help in the promotion of indigenous sports traditions and cultural identity of tribal communities.
• It will encourage youth participation in sports among tribal communities across India.
• The Games will also promote cultural exchange among tribal communities from different States.
• The event is expected to contribute to the overall development of sports infrastructure and talent identification among tribal athletes in India.

LeBron James Becomes National Basketball Association’s All-Time Leader in Regular Season Games Played

• LeBron James became the all-time leader in National Basketball Association regular season games played, appearing in his 1,612th game for the Los Angeles Lakers against the Orlando Magic.
• He surpassed the previous record of 1,611 games held by Robert Parish since 1997.
• At the age of 41, he achieved this milestone across 23 seasons, highlighting exceptional longevity, durability, and consistency in professional basketball.
• On the same occasion, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a 105–104 victory over the Orlando Magic.
• The match ended dramatically when Luke Kennard scored a buzzer-beating three-pointer, extending the Los Angeles Lakers’ winning streak to nine games.
• The milestone adds to LeBron James’ historic career achievements in the National Basketball Association, including:
• Most points scored in National Basketball Association history
• Most field goals made and attempted
• Longest streak of 1,297 consecutive games scoring at least 10 points

Arundhati Reddy Named International Cricket Council Women’s Player of the Month for February 2026

• Arundhati Reddy was named the International Cricket Council Women’s Player of the Month for February 2026 for her outstanding performance in the Twenty20 International series against Australia.
• She played a key role in India’s historic Twenty20 International series victory in Australia, one of the most challenging overseas tours in women’s cricket.
• She emerged as the leading wicket-taker of the series, taking 8 wickets in 3 matches with a bowling average of 10.87 and an economy rate of 7.25.
• She delivered a career-best performance of 4 wickets for 22 runs in Sydney and received the Player of the Match award.
• She also recorded 2 wickets for 30 runs in Canberra and 2 wickets for 35 runs in Adelaide, contributing consistently to India’s series win.
• This recognition marks her first International Cricket Council Player of the Month award.

Sahibzada Farhan Named International Cricket Council Men’s Player of the Month for February 2026

• Sahibzada Farhan was named the International Cricket Council Men’s Player of the Month for February 2026 following his outstanding performance in the International Cricket Council Men’s Twenty20 World Cup 2026.
• He emerged as the highest run-scorer of the tournament, scoring 383 runs in 7 matches at an average of 76.60 and a strike rate of 160.25, including 2 centuries and 2 half-centuries.
• He broke the record for most runs in a single edition of the International Cricket Council Men’s Twenty20 World Cup, surpassing the previous record held by Virat Kohli.
• He became the first batter to score two centuries in a single edition of the International Cricket Council Men’s Twenty20 World Cup.
• He scored 100 runs off 60 balls against Sri Lanka and another century against Namibia during the tournament.
• He also formed a 176-run partnership with Fakhar Zaman, which is the highest partnership for Pakistan in Twenty20 Internationals.
• He was also included in the International Cricket Council Team of the Tournament for the International Cricket Council Men’s Twenty20 World Cup 2026.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Tuberculosis Day 2026 Observed on 24 March

• World Tuberculosis Day 2026 was observed globally on 24 March 2026 to raise awareness about the global epidemic of Tuberculosis and efforts to eliminate the disease.
• The theme for World Tuberculosis Day 2026 was “Yes! We can end Tuberculosis!”.
• The day is observed every year to highlight the health, social and economic consequences of Tuberculosis and to strengthen global efforts to end the Tuberculosis epidemic.
• The date 24 March marks the announcement made in 1882 by Robert Koch regarding the discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes Tuberculosis.
• At the time of the discovery, Tuberculosis caused one out of every seven deaths in the United States of America and Europe.
• The discovery of the Tuberculosis-causing bacterium was considered a major scientific breakthrough that laid the foundation for the control and elimination of the disease.
• A century later, 24 March was officially designated as World Tuberculosis Day to educate the public about the impact of Tuberculosis worldwide and promote prevention and treatment efforts.

Daily CA One- Liner: March 24

• Tata Steel Limited inaugurated India’s first scrap-based Electric Arc Furnace facility in Ludhiana, Punjab, marking a major step towards sustainable steel production in India
• The National District Mineral Foundation Summit 2026 was scheduled to be held on 23–24 March 2026 at SCOPE Convention Centre, New Delhi
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the longest-serving elected head of government in India, completing 8,931 days in office and entering his 25th year in executive leadership
• India and Bhutan signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Postal Cooperation to strengthen bilateral collaboration in the postal sector
• China became India’s third-largest export destination in February 2026, overtaking Netherlands.
• The Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 will be held from 25 March to 3 April 2026 in Chhattisgarh
• LeBron James became the all-time leader in National Basketball Association regular season games played, appearing in his 1,612th game for the Los Angeles Lakers against the Orlando Magic
• Arundhati Reddy was named the International Cricket Council Women’s Player of the Month for February 2026 for her outstanding performance in the Twenty20 International series against Australia
• Sahibzada Farhan was named the International Cricket Council Men’s Player of the Month for February 2026 following his outstanding performance in the International Cricket Council Men’s Twenty20 World Cup 2026.
• The Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS-MSME) was launched in January 2025 to improve credit access for MSMEs through National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC).
• Lloyd’s of London is set to establish operations in GIFT City, marking a major step in developing India as a regional reinsurance hub.
• Bank of Baroda (BoB) has launched an Overdraft (OD) facility on Credit Line via UPI for verified women Self-Help Group (SHG) members holding Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
• RNFI Services, through its platform Relipay, has launched a nationwide UPI QR-based cash withdrawal service in partnership with Jio Payments Bank.
• The 9th India–Italy Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) were held in New Delhi on 20 March 2026 to review bilateral relations and discuss regional and global issues.
• India and Indonesia announced a collaborative initiative to restore the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, strengthening cultural diplomacy and heritage conservation.
• Jose Joseph Kattoor, appointed as non-executive part-time chairman (Independent Director) of South Indian Bank for three years, following RBI approval.
• A. R. Rahman has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Yamaha Music India Private Limited.
• Scientists from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have identified a new species of wild kiwi named “Actinidia indica” in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Syntrichia caninervis is a resilient desert moss identified as a potential candidate for future Mars colonisation.
• The National Productivity Council (NPC) has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to act as the Environment Audit Designated Agency (EADA).
• India has submitted proposals for the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) focusing on food security and the livelihoods of traditional fishermen.
• World Tuberculosis Day 2026 was observed globally on 24 March 2026 to raise awareness about the global epidemic of Tuberculosis and efforts to eliminate the disease