Dear Readers, get to know the daily current affairs today covering all the National & International Events provided here in this article. Current Affairs is an important topic in various competitive exams like IBPS/SBI/PO/Clerk and other competitive exams. To score better in this section, be updated with the daily happenings. Check the Daily Current Affairs March 2026 updates here. Revision is very important in remembering current affairs. Candidates after learning the Daily current affairs 27th  March 2026, can test their knowledge by attempting Current Affairs Quiz provided with answers. Daily current affairs 27th march 2026 covers current affairs from International & National news, Important Days, State News, Banking & Economy, Business News, Appointments & Resignation, Awards & Honour, Books & Authors, Sports News, etc.,

Daily Current Affairs PDF of 27th March2026

Get More: Static GK Pdfs

CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Health Insurance Sector Shows Strong Growth Momentum; Premiums Cross ₹1.2 Lakh Crore in 2024–25

• India’s health insurance sector is witnessing robust growth of around 9%, with total premiums exceeding ₹1.2 lakh crore in 2024–25, driven by rising awareness and increasing demand for financial protection.
• The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has introduced strict timelines for cashless health insurance claim processing to ensure efficiency.
• Under IRDAI norms, cashless pre-authorization must be completed within 1 hour, ensuring quick approval at the time of hospital admission.
• The final authorization for cashless claims must be completed within 3 hours, aimed at reducing delays in hospital discharge and payment settlement.
• The increase in health insurance premiums is driven by factors such as ageing policyholders, higher coverage, and rising healthcare costs.
• IRDAI’s 2024 regulations ensure that insurance products are fairly priced and remain value-driven with periodic review by the Appointed Actuary.
• The claims paid ratio (by number of claims) stood at 66% in 2022–23, 82.46% in 2023–24, and 87.50% in 2024–25, indicating strong claim settlement performance.
• As per the Bima Bharosa portal of IRDAI, in FY 2024–25, a total of 1,37,361 grievances were reported, out of which 93% were disposed of within the same year.
• Claims disallowance or repudiation occurs mainly due to policy conditions and exclusions, including sum insured limits, co-payment clauses, sub-limits, deductibles, and non-medical expenses.

About Ministry of Finance:

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

S&P Global Raises India’s FY27 Gross Domestic Product Growth Forecast to 7.1% with Improved Outlook

• S&P Global has raised India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) forecast by 40 basis points (bps) to 7.1% for FY27, reflecting strong economic momentum despite global uncertainties.
• For FY28, S&P Global increased the growth projection by 20 bps to 7.2%, indicating continued economic expansion.
• For FY29, the agency projected 7.0% GDP growth, also revised upward by 20 bps, showing medium-term growth stability.
• Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation is projected to rise to 4.3% in FY27, compared to 2.5% in FY26, reflecting normalisation of inflation levels.
• Rising crude oil prices are expected to widen the trade deficit, though a strong services trade surplus may help contain the current account deficit (CAD).
• The baseline forecast assumes Brent crude to average USD 92 per barrel in the June quarter and around USD 80 per barrel in 2026.
• The forecast also assumes temporary disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, with oil flows recovering gradually after early April.
• In an adverse scenario, Brent crude prices could surge to USD 185 per barrel (June quarter) and average around USD 130 per barrel in 2026, due to prolonged energy market disruptions.
• In such a scenario, India’s central bank (RBI) may tighten monetary policy to control energy-driven inflation, depending on its persistence.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, Goldman Sachs lowered India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for 2026 to 5.9%, down from 7% before the US-Iran conflict.

HDFC Securities Introduces NxtOption Platform to Streamline Advanced Options Trading for Investors

• HDFC Securities Limited launched a next-generation trading platform “NxtOption” for retail investors to analyse, build, and execute Futures & Options (F&O) strategies.
• NxtOption is an integrated platform that combines strategy building, real-time analytics, and trade execution into a single interface, eliminating fragmented workflows.
• The platform enables users to create and analyse options strategies such as Straddles, Strangles, and Iron Condors with pay-off charts and real-time performance tracking.
• It offers “Easy Options”, which converts market views (bullish, bearish, neutral) into strategy suggestions along with risk-reward profiles.
• The platform provides advanced derivatives analytics, including Delta, Gamma, Theta, Vega, Implied Volatility (IV), and Open Interest (OI) trends.
• Additional features include market movers tracking, rollover insights, and F&O ban list monitoring, enhancing decision-making capabilities.
• NxtOption supports multi-leg strategy execution, enabling seamless trading with institutional-grade analytics for retail users.
• The platform allows users to analyse risk, simulate payoff scenarios, execute trades, and monitor strategies in real time within a unified ecosystem.
• The launch aims to simplify derivatives trading and increase retail participation in capital markets in India.
• This initiative reinforces HDFC Securities’ commitment to “Powering India’s Investments” by providing advanced tools and analytics to investors.

Securities and Exchange Board of India and Google Introduce ‘Verified’ Badge for Investment Apps to Curb Digital Fraud

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has partnered with Google to introduce a ‘verified’ badge for investment apps on the Play Store, aimed at combating rising digital financial frauds and scams.
• The verified badge will be issued only to SEBI-registered entities, enabling users to identify genuine stock broker and financial apps, with the feature already rolled out for over 600 apps.
• The move addresses the rise in fake investment apps, lookalike platforms, and social media-driven scams, where fraudsters lure investors with false promises of assured returns.
• The verified badge system will help users distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent platforms, reinforcing the message: “First verify, then invest.”
• India’s securities market now has over 140 million unique investors, with market capitalisation nearing ₹423 trillion, reflecting strong growth in retail participation and financial inclusion.
• The initiative also aims to reduce impersonation risks and financial frauds caused by fake apps promoted through social media and unregistered financial influencers.
• SEBI has taken additional steps to strengthen the digital financial ecosystem, including restricting regulated entities from associating with unregistered influencers.
• An API-based framework has been implemented to ensure that only verified intermediaries can run advertisements on Google and Meta platforms, improving ad ecosystem integrity.
• SEBI plans to sign an agreement with the Ministry of Electronics and IT within a month to enhance coordination in tackling financial frauds and strengthening digital investor protection systems.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) amended regulations for Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) to improve operational flexibility and investment efficiency.

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.

Japan International Cooperation Agency Inks Four ODA Loan Deals Worth ₹16,420 Crore to Support Major Development Projects in India

• Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan agreements worth ₹16,420 crore with the Government of India (GoI) for 4 major projects.
• The agreement was signed in New Delhi between Alok Tiwari (Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs) and Takeuchi Takuro (Chief Representative, JICA India Office).
• The projects cover key sectors including healthcare, agriculture, and urban infrastructure across Punjab, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.

Key Highlights :

• The Healthcare Project in Maharashtra is supported by a loan of 62,294 million Japanese Yen (JPY) to strengthen tertiary healthcare, medical education, and nursing systems.
• The Climate-Resilient Horticulture Project in Punjab is supported by 18,684 million JPY, focusing on sustainable horticulture, high-value crops, infrastructure development, and Indo-Japan collaboration.
• The Bengaluru Metro Rail Project (Phase 3) is supported by 102,480 million JPY and will develop 44.65 km of elevated corridors with multimodal integration.
• The Mumbai Metro Line 11 Project is supported by 92,400 million JPY and involves construction of a 17.51 km underground corridor to improve urban connectivity.
• The metro projects aim to reduce traffic congestion, enhance urban mobility, and support climate goals through mass rapid transport systems.
• The Punjab horticulture project aims to build a climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable value chain with improved market access and digital integration.
• The Maharashtra healthcare project focuses on expanding medical facilities, capacity building, and adoption of advanced technologies to achieve universal health coverage.
• These projects will contribute to economic growth, sustainable cities, and climate action, with expected completion timelines between 2032 and 2034.
• JICA is the sole Japanese government agency responsible for implementing ODA programmes, promoting international cooperation and development.

National Highways Authority of India-Backed Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust Listed on BSE in Presence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari

• Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari launched the Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT), sponsored by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which was listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
• The maiden public issue of RIIT witnessed a highly successful response, being oversubscribed nearly 14 times, reflecting strong investor confidence in India’s infrastructure sector and highway assets.
• The RIIT aims to monetise national highway assets, with a target to monetise 1,500 km of highways over the next 3 years, strengthening infrastructure financing mechanisms.
• The initiative enables public participation in infrastructure development, allowing citizens and investors to become stakeholders in highway assets, promoting inclusive investment models.
• The launch supports the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, by encouraging private and retail investment in infrastructure development and boosting domestic capital mobilisation.
• The listing of RIIT on BSE marks an important step in attracting investment into India’s highway infrastructure sector, improving funding efficiency and asset monetisation strategies under NHAI.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

NITI Aayog Sanctions ₹1.55 Crore to Rural Innovations Incubation Skilling and Entrepreneurship Centre in Andhra Pradesh to Promote Rural Women Entrepreneurship

• The NITI Aayog sanctioned ₹1.55 crore for the Rural Innovations Incubation Skilling and Entrepreneurship (RISE) Centre located at Guntupalli in NTR District.
• The announcement was made by Dr. G. Lakshmisha.
• The funding followed a detailed proposal submitted by the district administration to promote rural women entrepreneurship.
• The initiative aligns with the State Government’s vision of “One Family–One Entrepreneur”.
• It focuses on empowering women, especially members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through:
  • Skill development
  • Entrepreneurship support
  • Livelihood opportunities
• The sanctioned funds will be utilised for:
  • AI-based skill surveys
  • Training programmes
  • Strengthening infrastructure at the RISE Centre
• The RISE Centre provides integrated support services through dedicated desks:
  • Help Desk
  • Idea Desk
  • Skilling Desk
  • Placement Desk
  • Banking Desk
• More than 1,000 women have already been trained in various skill areas, including:
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Spoken English
  • Paper crafts
  • Car driving
  • Micro food processing
  • Solar panel installation
• The centre has also conducted workshops on:
  • Digital commerce platforms
  • Value-added product development
• Over 300 families have started small enterprises with support from the initiative.
• Regular activities conducted under the programme include:
  • Training sessions
  • Field visits
  • Job melas in collaboration with partner institutions
• The District Collector encouraged interested individuals to utilise the RISE Centre for self-employment opportunities, strengthening rural entrepreneurship ecosystems.

RECENT NEWS

• NITI Aayog has released the second annual edition of the Fiscal Health Index 2026. This is the report designed to assess the fiscal performance and financial stability of Indian states. This report was launched in New Delhi by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery and CEO Nidhi Chhibber.

About NITI Aayog

• NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is the premier policy think tank of the Government of India, established on January 1, 2015, to replace the Planning Commission. It promotes cooperative federalism through bottom-up planning, providing strategic, technical advice, and fostering innovation to achieve sustainable development goals.
• NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery and CEO Nidhi Chhibber

Government Revamps PM Internship Scheme 2026: Expands Scope, Eases Eligibility & Increases Stipend

• The Government revamped the PM Internship Scheme in March 2026 to improve participation and outcomes.
• The updated scheme includes new-age sectors such as semiconductors, renewable energy and Global Capability Centres (GCCs).
• The reforms aim to address low participation and high drop-out rates, making the scheme more inclusive and accessible.
• A major reform is the removal of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) requirement for companies.
• Earlier, only firms with CSR obligations could participate; now all companies can join, significantly expanding participation.
• The scheme now includes emerging and future-ready sectors, reflecting the government’s focus on advanced technologies and green energy.
• Eligibility criteria for candidates have been relaxed:
  • Postgraduates and MBA graduates are now eligible
  • Minimum age reduced from 21 to 18 years
  • Maximum age increased from 24 to 25 years
• This enables wider participation of youth, including fresh graduates and early professionals.
• The monthly stipend has been increased from ₹5,000 to ₹9,000.
• This is expected to:
  • Encourage higher participation
  • Reduce drop-out rates
  • Make internships financially viable for diverse candidates
• The scheme has seen growth in corporate participation:
  • From 280 companies (October 2024) to 549 companies, exceeding the target of 500 companies
• Major participating companies include:
  • Reliance Industries
  • Tata Consultancy Services
  • HDFC Bank
  • Maruti Suzuki
  • Larsen & Toubro
  • Mahindra & Mahindra
• The third phase of the scheme is currently underway with a target of 1 lakh (100,000) internship opportunities.

Lok Sabha Passes Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026

• The Lok Sabha passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026.
• The Bill redefines the term “transgender” by excluding sexual orientation and self-perceived gender identity from its scope.
• The amendment aims to bring clarity in implementation of welfare schemes, but it has triggered debate on identity rights, legal recognition and inclusivity.
• The amended definition focuses on traditionally and socially recognised transgender communities, including:
  • Hijras
  • Kinnars
  • Aravanis
  • Jogtas
  • Persons with intersex variations
• The government stated that the revised definition is intended to ensure benefits and protections reach the intended beneficiaries.
• The Bill introduces a revised definition based on biological and socio-cultural identity, instead of self-identification alone.
• The revised provisions include:
  • Inclusion of persons with intersex conditions or congenital variations
  • Inclusion of members of traditional transgender communities
  • Recognition through a designated medical authority
• The Bill defines an “authority” as a medical board led by senior medical officials, empowered to verify and certify transgender identity where required.
• The amendment introduces graded punishments for offences against transgender persons.
• The maximum punishment has been increased from 2 years (under the 2019 Act) to 14 years imprisonment, strengthening legal protection against violence and discrimination.
• The Bill was presented by Virendra Kumar, who stated that the amendment aims to protect individuals facing discrimination due to biological factors.
• The government argued that the earlier law created difficulties in identifying beneficiaries, affecting the effective delivery of welfare schemes.
• The amendment has faced criticism from opposition leaders and activists.
• Critics argue that it violates the right to self-identification recognised by the Supreme Court in the landmark National Legal Services Authority vs Union of India (2014)
• Opposition members also stated that the Bill was introduced without adequate consultation with the transgender community.
• In the NALSA (2014) judgment, the Supreme Court of India recognised gender identity as a fundamental right and upheld the right to self-identification of gender.
• The Amendment Bill’s emphasis on biological and medical certification is viewed as contrary to the self-identification principle laid down in the NALSA judgment.

India’s Sports Economy Crosses $2 Billion Mark in 2025: Reaches ₹18,864 Crore

• India’s sports economy crossed the $2 billion mark in 2025, reaching ₹18,864 crore ($2.13 billion).
• According to the WPP Media report titled “Sporting Nation: Building a Legacy”, the growth reflects rapid commercialization, rising investments, expanding media rights and increasing fan engagement.
• The sector recorded a 4% year-on-year growth compared to ₹16,633 crore in 2024.
• Growth trend in India’s sports economy:
  • 2023: ₹15,766 crore
  • 2024: ₹16,633 crore
  • 2025: ₹18,864 crore
• This steady rise indicates that sports in India are emerging as a major business ecosystem beyond entertainment.
• Media spending remained the largest contributor, accounting for 51% of the total market in 2025:
  • Television advertising: ₹5,117 crore (16–17% growth)
  • Digital advertising: ₹4,449 crore (around 24% growth)
• The data highlights a shift towards digital sports consumption, though television remains dominant.
• Sponsorship investments contributed ₹7,943 crore, accounting for 42% of the total sports economy.
• Sponsorship components included:
  • Team sponsorships
  • League partnerships
  • On-ground event branding
• Athlete endorsement deals reached approximately ₹1,350 crore, recording over 10% annual growth.
• Cricket continued to dominate India’s sports economy, contributing ₹16,704 crore (about 89% of the total market) in 2025.
• Cricket accounted for:
  • 81% of sponsorship spending
  • 87% of athlete endorsements
  • 95% of media investments
• Major leagues contributing to cricket’s dominance include:
  • Indian Premier League
  • Women's Premier League
• Other sports such as football, kabaddi and badminton are gradually expanding their presence in the sports ecosystem.
• Leagues supporting diversification include:
  • Pro Kabaddi League
  • Indian Super League

Supreme Court Rules SC Status Lost After Conversion to Christianity; Reaffirms Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950

• The Supreme Court of India ruled in March 2026 that Scheduled Caste (SC) status is limited to persons professing Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism.
• The Court clarified that conversion to Christianity results in immediate loss of SC status, irrespective of birth background.
• The judgment upheld an earlier decision of the Andhra Pradesh High Court.
• The ruling reinforced the constitutional framework governing caste-based reservations and protections.
• A Bench comprising Justice P. K. Mishra and Justice Manmohan held that a person ceases to be a Scheduled Caste member after conversion to Christianity and active practice of the new religion.
• The Court stated that the restriction is rooted in the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950.
• It clarified that SC eligibility cannot be determined by birth alone after religious conversion outside the notified religions.
• The Court relied on Clause 3 of the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, which provides:
  • Initially, SC status applied only to persons professing Hinduism
  • It was extended to Sikhism in 1956
  • It was further extended to Buddhism in 1990
• Persons professing Christianity or Islam are excluded from SC classification under this Order.
• The Court held that this provision is binding and cannot be diluted through judicial interpretation.
• The judgment also clarified implications for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989:
  • A person who loses SC status after conversion cannot claim protection under the Act
  • The Act applies only to notified Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
• The Court observed that SC classification historically relates to untouchability within the Hindu caste structure.
• Sikhism and Buddhism were later included due to their historical and social linkages with caste-based discrimination in India.
• Scheduled Castes are groups identified under the Constitution to address historical social exclusion and untouchability.
• Benefits available to Scheduled Castes include:
  • Reservation in education
  • Reservation in government employment
  • Political representation
  • Legal protection under special laws
• Under Article 341 of the Constitution of India, the President of India notifies the list of Scheduled Castes.
• Any modification to the SC list requires Parliamentary approval, not judicial interpretation.

RECENT NEWS

• The respectable Supreme Court of India has struck down the age limit on maternity leave for adoptive mothers. And Supreme Court stated it the calling it unconstitutional. The higher court ruled out that all the adoptive mothers are entitled to 12 weeks of maternity leave and regardless of the child’s age at adoption.

Gujarat Digitises 20 Citizen Services under Sugam Digital Gujarat Initiative (Faceless, Cashless, Paperless Governance)

• The Government of Gujarat digitised 20 high-demand citizen services under the Sugam Digital Gujarat Initiative to promote faceless, cashless and paperless governance.
• The initiative was announced on 23rd March 2026 and enables end-to-end online service delivery through the Digital Gujarat Portal.
• It uses technologies such as Aadhaar authentication, DigiLocker, eSign, and UPI to improve transparency and ease of access.
• The initiative aims to:
  • Eliminate physical paperwork
  • Reduce dependency on in-person visits
  • Provide anytime-anywhere access to government services
  • Ensure faster and more efficient service delivery
• In Phase-1, services are digitised across five departments:

Social Justice and Empowerment Department

• Caste Certificates (SC, SEBC)
• Non-Creamy Layer Certificates
• Economically Weaker Section (EWS) Certificates
• Income Certificates

Food and Civil Supplies Department

• Ration card services (new applications, corrections, duplicate cards, addition/deletion of members)

Revenue Department

• Certified document services

Tribal Development Department

• Scheduled Tribe (ST) Certificates

Legal Department

• Ready affidavits, reducing legal paperwork and office visits

• Key digital features of the initiative include:
  • Aadhaar-based authentication
  • DigiLocker integration
  • eSign digital approvals
  • UPI-based online payments
  • API-based verification systems
  • QR code-enabled certificates
  • WhatsApp-based service access
• The initiative improves citizen-government interaction by reducing time, cost and complexity, enabling real-time tracking, and enhancing transparency, especially benefiting rural populations.
• The initiative is implemented under the leadership of Bhupendra Patel.
• It is guided by recommendations of the Gujarat Administrative Reforms Committee.
• It aligns with the vision of Narendra Modi for a Digitally Empowered India.
• The initiative is spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology, Gujarat.

RECENT NEWS

• Gujarat has taken a important step towards to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). The Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai committee submitted its final report to Chief Minister of Gujarat Bhupendra Patel. This report has been presented in three volumes and it outlines a detailed legal framework.

About Gujarat:

• Chief Minister: Bhupendra Patel
• Governor: Acharya Devvrat
• Capital: Gandhinagar
• National Parks: Gir National Park, Blackbuck National Park, Vansda National Park, Marine National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary

Union Cabinet Approves India’s Updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for 2031–2035

• The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Shri Narendra Modi, approved India’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for 2031–2035.
• The updated targets will be submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
• The revised NDC supports India’s long-term goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070.
• The updated targets focus on three major pillars:
  • Emission reduction
  • Clean energy transition
  • Carbon sequestration
• Key Targets for 2031–2035
  • 47% reduction in emissions intensity of GDP
  • 60% installed power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources
  • Creation of an additional  3.5–4 billion tonnes carbon sink through forests and tree cover
• India has consistently achieved its climate targets ahead of schedule under the Paris Agreement (2015)
• The original 2015 NDC targets included:
  • 33–35% reduction in emissions intensity of GDP by 2030
  • 40% installed power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030
• India achieved the following ahead of targets:
  • 36% reduction in emission intensity (by 2020)
  • 57% installed power capacity from non-fossil sources (as of February 2026)
• These achievements enabled India to enhance its climate ambition for 2035 and strengthen its global leadership role in climate action.
• India’s clean energy transition strategy focuses on expanding renewable energy capacity and green technologies to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
• Major government initiatives supporting this transition include:
  • National Green Hydrogen Mission
  • PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
  • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes
  • PM-KUSUM Scheme
• The strategy also includes:
  • Battery energy storage systems
  • Green Energy Corridors
  • Cleaner manufacturing practices
• India is actively contributing to global climate cooperation through initiatives such as:
  • International Solar Alliance
  • Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
• Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are climate action plans submitted by countries under the Paris Agreement framework of the UNFCCC.
• Key features of NDCs include:
  • Each country sets its own climate targets
  • NDCs are updated every 5 years
  • Focus on emission reduction and climate adaptation measures
  • Guided by the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC)
• The updated NDC reflects India’s commitment to balancing economic development with climate responsibility while progressing towards its Net Zero target by 2070.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation Raises Concerns Over Aghanashini River-Linking Project

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has raised concerns over the proposed Aghanashini–Vedavathi river-linking project, urging India to strictly follow World Heritage conservation norms under the World Heritage Convention, 1972.
• UNESCO’s advisory came after a representation by environmental activists, highlighting ecological risks in the Western Ghats, a sensitive and globally recognised biodiversity hotspot.
• UNESCO stressed that all infrastructure and river-linking projects in ecologically fragile areas must ensure environmental balance, sustainability, and compliance with international conservation guidelines.
• The organisation reiterated that the protection of natural heritage sites is the responsibility of member states, requiring strict adherence to conservation obligations.
• The proposed project plans to divert around 35 thousand million cubic feet (tmc ft) of water from the Aghanashini river to the Vedavathi river, raising concerns over large-scale ecological alteration.
• The project is also expected to affect thousands of families dependent on the river system for livelihood, agriculture, and water security.
• The outcome of the Aghanashini–Vedavathi river-linking project may influence future policies on river interlinking and environmental conservation in India’s critical natural landscapes.

About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization:

• Formation: 16 November 1945
• Headquarters: Paris, France
• Director-General: Khaled El-Enany
• Parent organization: United Nations Economic and Social Council

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Raksha Mantri Chairs Ministry of Defence Parliamentary Consultative Committee Meeting on Border Roads Organisation

• Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh chaired a Parliamentary Consultative Committee meeting for the Ministry of Defence on the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in New Delhi, discussing defence, infrastructure development, and strategic initiatives for national security and operational preparedness.
• The BRO has enhanced mobility of defence forces and positively transformed the lives of local residents, and is tasked with developing infrastructure along the Indo-Myanmar border spanning approximately 1,600 km, strengthening border management capabilities.
• Under the Border Roads Development Programme 2023–28, the BRO is executing over 1,000 projects, including new construction, upgradation, and maintenance works, ensuring all-weather connectivity in remote and high-altitude regions and enhancing operational mobility and defence preparedness.
• Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the rapid adoption of modern construction technologies by the BRO, including High Altitude Equipment, Modular Bridges, and Precast Technologies, improving both quality and pace of infrastructure development.
• The Government is committed to strengthening the BRO with budgetary support, modern equipment, and personnel welfare initiatives, ensuring future-ready infrastructure.
• Since its establishment in 1960, the BRO has constructed over 64,000 km of roads, 1,179 bridges, 22 airfields, and 7 tunnels, significantly enhancing operational readiness and socio-economic development in border areas.
• BRO projects have accelerated socio-economic growth of border areas and contributed to the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, with execution of projects in friendly foreign countries like Afghanistan, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Tajikistan.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPS & PORTALS

PRISM-SG Portal Launched to Digitise and Fast-Track Approval Processes for ROBs in Highway and Railway Projects

• Hon’ble Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari and Hon’ble Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, Electronics & IT Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the PRISM-SG (Portal for Rail-Road Inspection & Stages Management – Steel Girders) Portal in New Delhi to enhance efficiency, transparency, and inter-agency coordination in infrastructure development.
• The PRISM-SG Portal is designed to digitise key approval and inspection processes for the construction of Road Over Bridges (ROBs), including Quality Assurance Plan (QAP), Welding Procedure Specification Sheet (WPSS), and fabrication stage inspection of steel girders.
• The portal enables end-to-end online submission of documents, scrutiny, raising and resolution of queries, approvals, scheduling of inspections, and uploading of inspection reports, photographs, and test results, supported by complete audit trail and real-time monitoring.
• Previously, construction of ROBs required multiple approvals from Indian Railways, including General Arrangement Drawing (GAD), Structural Drawings, QAP, WPSS, and fabrication stage inspections, with most processes conducted offline, causing delays and limited real-time tracking.
• The PRISM-SG Portal provides an integrated digital platform connecting Road Owning Departments, Indian Railways, contractors, fabricators, and inspection agencies, thereby streamlining coordination and approvals.
• The initiative is expected to reduce the approval and inspection timeline from around 12 months to 3–4 months, improving project efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
• The portal will play a critical role in timely completion of ROBs and Railway Bridges, thereby strengthening infrastructure delivery and enhancing connectivity across India.

About Ministry of Road Transport & Highways :

• Cabinet Minister : Nitin Gadkari
• Minister of State : Ajay Tamta, Harsh Malhotra

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Agnikul Cosmos Successfully Conducts Test of Fully 3D-Printed ‘Agnite’ Booster Engine in Chennai, Tamil Nadu

• Agnikul Cosmos successfully conducted a critical booster engine test of its rocket engine Agnite at the Agnikul Launchpad (ALP-01), Chennai, Tamil Nadu in March 2026.
• The test marked a major milestone in India’s private space sector, with successful testing of a full metre-long rocket engine, the largest single-piece Inconel rocket engine.

Key Highlights :

• The Agnite engine is fully 3D printed, reducing manufacturing time from 7 months to just 7 days, significantly lowering costs to one-tenth and improving production efficiency.
• The engine test validated performance, structural integrity, and propulsion efficiency, enhancing launch readiness and rapid turnaround capability.
• The engine is the first of its scale to be tested with electric motor-driven pumps, marking a major advancement in rocket propulsion technology.
• The test demonstrated large-scale 3D printing capability, positioning Agnikul as a leader in advanced aerospace manufacturing.
• Agnikul operates a fully integrated launch ecosystem, including in-house mission control, ground stations, and flight-proven propulsion systems.
• The company enables faster launch responsiveness, allowing satellite operators to access firm launch schedules, custom orbital trajectories, and greater mission certainty.
• The system allows payload flexibility, enabling changes up to 30 days before launch, unlike traditional shared launch models.
• Agnikul’s end-to-end platform reduces coordination complexity by integrating vehicle manufacturing, launch services, and ground operations under one system.
• The technology benefits defence, disaster response, constellation deployment, and government missions, where timely launches are critical.
• The test builds on earlier milestones, including 2024 controlled ascent flight and synchronised testing of three semi-cryogenic engines, the first such test in India.
• Agnikul has established India’s first large-format aerospace manufacturing facility, enabling rapid rocket production.
• The company has secured commercial partnerships for space-based AI infrastructure and holds patents in the United States, Europe, and India.
• Agnikul is valued at over $500 million, with investments from HDFC Bank, Advenza Global Limited, and Artha Select Fund.
• Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) invested ₹25 crore under the TIDCO Startup Investment Policy 2025, marking the first government equity investment in an Indian space startup.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

Competition Commission of India Approves MUFG’s ₹39,618 Crore Investment in Shriram Finance, Marking Largest FDI in India’s NBFC Sector

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) Bank’s ₹39,618 crore investment in Shriram Finance Ltd, marking the largest FDI in India’s NBFC sector.
• Under the deal, MUFG will acquire a 20% stake in Shriram Finance through preferential allotment of shares, gaining strategic access to India’s retail and MSME lending market.
• The transaction size of ₹39,618 crore (approximately $4.4 billion) is a record deal and is around 47% higher than the earlier RBL Bank investment, highlighting its scale and strategic importance.
• With approvals from the RBI, shareholders, and CCI, the deal is expected to be completed by April 2026, subject to final regulatory conditions.
• The capital infusion will strengthen Shriram Finance’s Tier-1 capital ratio from around 20% to over 35%, significantly improving its balance sheet strength and financial stability.
• The investment will help Shriram Finance reduce funding costs and enhance its lending capacity and operational efficiency.
• The deal will enable Shriram Finance to compete more aggressively with major banks such as HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, strengthening its position in the NBFC and retail lending space.
• It will also support expansion into key segments such as MSME loans, gold finance, and electric vehicle (EV) financing, diversifying its credit portfolio.
• The partnership will accelerate Shriram Finance’s transition into a data-driven NBFC model, improving risk assessment, credit underwriting, and digital lending capabilities.

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.

Competition Commission of India Approves Acquisition of Equity Stake in Aditya Birla Renewables by GIP EM Star Limited.

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the subscription of equity share capital of Aditya Birla Renewables Limited by GIP EM Star Pte. Ltd. (Acquirer).
• The Acquirer (GIP EM Star Pte. Ltd.) is incorporated in Singapore and is owned by funds managed by GIM EM Manager LLC, which is wholly owned by Global Infrastructure Management (GIM).
• GIM is an indirect majority-owned subsidiary of BlackRock Inc., a S.-based publicly traded investment management firm.
• BlackRock Inc. is a global leader in investment management, risk management, and advisory services, serving both institutional and retail investors
• The Target company (Aditya Birla Renewables Limited) is headquartered in Mumbai, India, and operates in the renewable energy sector.
• Target, along with its subsidiaries, is engaged in power generation through renewable energy sources, including solar and wind energy.

About CCI:

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is a statutory body within the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and is responsible for enforcing the Competition Act of 2002.
• Founded: October 14, 2003
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India
• Chairperson: Ravneet Kaur

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

India Wins Two Bronze Medals & Assures Multiple Finals Spots at Asia Cup World Ranking Tournament Stage 1

• India won two bronze medals in team events at the Asia Cup World Ranking Tournament Stage 1.
• Indian archers also secured multiple finals berths, ensuring strong medal prospects in upcoming matches.
• Compound teams performed consistently, while the men’s recurve section showed a dip in performance.
• The Women’s Recurve Team comprising Ruma Biswas, Kirti and Ridhi Phor defeated Malaysia 5–1 to win the bronze medal.
• The team dominated the first two sets and maintained composure to seal the match.
• This marks a strong comeback after missing the podium finish in the previous edition.
• The Men’s Compound Team comprising Rajat Chauhan, Rishabh Yadav and Uday Kamboj secured the bronze medal after defeating Bhutan 234–232.
• The team recovered strongly after a narrow semifinal loss to Vietnam.
• The medal highlighted resilience after missing the chance to defend their title.
• The Men’s Recurve Team consisting of Devaang Gupta, Sukhchain Singh and Juyel Sarkar entered the final after defeating Malaysia 5–1.
• The team will face Kazakhstan in the final, aiming for a gold medal.
• The Women’s Compound Team comprising Chikitha Taniparthi, Raj Kaur and Tejal Salve defeated Thailand 229–226 in the semifinal.
• The team advanced to the final against Kazakhstan, improving upon their previous bronze finish.
• India has confirmed three individual medals, especially in the compound category.
• In Men’s Compound Individual Event, Abhishek Jawkar and Uday Kamboj reached the final, ensuring one gold and one silver medal for India.
• Rajat Chauhan will compete for the bronze medal.
• In Women’s Recurve Individual Event, Ridhi Phor reached the final after a dominant straight-set victory.
• She is now aiming for her first international gold medal.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Theatre Day 2026 Observed on 27 March

• World Theatre Day was observed globally on 27 March 2026.
• Theme for 2026: “Theatre and a Culture of Peace.”
• The day highlights the importance of theatre arts in educating, entertaining and promoting social change across societies.
• World Theatre Day was designated in 1961 by the International Theatre Institute (ITI).
• It celebrates the essence, beauty and significance of theatre arts and their role in cultural expression and public awareness.
• The first World Theatre Day was celebrated in 1962 by:
  • ITI Centres
  • Theatre professionals and organisations
  • Theatre academies
  • Theatre lovers worldwide
• Important milestones in theatre history:
  • 534 B.C.: Thespis performed with his troupe in Athens, marking one of the earliest recorded theatrical performances.
  • 55 B.C.: Pompey the Great constructed the first permanent stone theatre in Rome.
  • 1585: Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza, regarded as the world’s oldest surviving indoor theatre, was inaugurated with Oedipus the King by Sophocles.

Daily CA One- Liner: March 27

• The NITI Aayog sanctioned ₹1.55 crore for the Rural Innovations Incubation Skilling and Entrepreneurship (RISE) Centre located at Guntupalli in NTR District
• The Government revamped the PM Internship Scheme in March 2026 to improve participation and outcomes
• The Lok Sabha passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026.
• India’s sports economy crossed the $2 billion mark in 2025, reaching ₹18,864 crore
• The Supreme Court of India ruled in March 2026 that Scheduled Caste (SC) status is limited to persons professing Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism
• The Government of Gujarat digitised 20 high-demand citizen services under the Sugam Digital Gujarat Initiative to promote faceless, cashless and paperless governance
• The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Shri Narendra Modi, approved India’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for 2031–2035
• India won two bronze medals in team events at the Asia Cup World Ranking Tournament Stage 1
• World Theatre Day was observed globally on 27 March 2026.
• India’s health insurance sector is witnessing robust growth of around 9%, with total premiums exceeding ₹1.2 lakh crore in 2024–25, driven by rising awareness and increasing demand for financial protection.
• S&P Global has raised India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) forecast by 40 basis points (bps) to 7.1% for FY27, reflecting strong economic momentum despite global uncertainties.
• HDFC Securities Limited launched a next-generation trading platform “NxtOption” for retail investors to analyse, build, and execute Futures & Options (F&O) strategies.
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has partnered with Google to introduce a ‘verified’ badge for investment apps on the Play Store, aimed at combating rising digital financial frauds and scams.
• Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan agreements worth ₹16,420 crore with the Government of India (GoI) for 4 major projects.
• Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari launched the Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT), sponsored by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which was listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has raised concerns over the proposed Aghanashini–Vedavathi river-linking project, urging India to strictly follow World Heritage conservation norms under the World Heritage Convention, 1972.
• Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh chaired a Parliamentary Consultative Committee meeting for the Ministry of Defence on the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in New Delhi, discussing defence, infrastructure development, and strategic initiatives for national security and operational preparedness.
• Hon’ble Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari and Hon’ble Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, Electronics & IT Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the PRISM-SG (Portal for Rail-Road Inspection & Stages Management – Steel Girders) Portal in New Delhi to enhance efficiency, transparency, and inter-agency coordination in infrastructure development.
• Agnikul Cosmos successfully conducted a critical booster engine test of its rocket engine Agnite at the Agnikul Launchpad (ALP-01), Chennai, Tamil Nadu in March 2026.
• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) Bank’s ₹39,618 crore investment in Shriram Finance Ltd, marking the largest FDI in India’s NBFC sector.
• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the subscription of equity share capital of Aditya Birla Renewables Limited by GIP EM Star Pte. Ltd. (Acquirer).