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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Government Finalises Borrowing Plan for first half of Financial Year 2026–27

• The Government of India (GoI), in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has finalised the borrowing programme for the first half (H1) of Financial Year (FY) 2026–27.

Key Highlights :

• The Gross Market Borrowing (Budget Estimate 2026–27) was set at ₹17.20 lakh crore, which was later reduced to ₹16.09 lakh crore due to G-Sec switch operations.
• Out of the total ₹16.09 lakh crore borrowing plan, ₹8.20 lakh crore (51.0%) will be raised in H1 FY27 through issuance of dated securities.
• The H1 borrowing includes ₹15,000 crore worth of Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs) to support green financing initiatives.
• The borrowing will be conducted through 26 weekly auctions, ensuring smooth and phased market mobilisation.
• The issuance will be distributed across different maturity segments, including 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 30, 40, and 50-year government securities.
• The largest share of borrowing will be in the 10-year segment (29%), followed by 5-year (15.4%) and 15-year (14.5%)
• Other allocations include 3-year (8.1%), 7-year (8.1%), 30-year (7.3%), 40-year (8.0%), and 50-year (9.6%)
• The Government will also undertake switching and buyback of securities to ensure a smooth redemption profile and debt management efficiency.
• A greenshoe option of up to ₹2,000 crore per auction will be retained to allow additional subscription flexibility.
• For Q1 FY 2026–27, the weekly borrowing through Treasury Bills (T-Bills) is estimated at ₹24,000 crore.
• The T-Bill issuance includes ₹12,000 crore in 91-day bills, ₹6,000 crore in 182-day bills, and ₹6,000 crore in 364-day bills.
• To manage temporary cash flow mismatches, the RBI has set the Ways and Means Advances (WMA) limit at ₹2.50 lakh crore for H1 FY27.
• Overall, the borrowing plan reflects a structured approach to government market borrowing, fiscal management, and debt sustainability.

Reserve Bank of India imposes ₹3.10 lakh penalty on Pine Labs Limited for regulatory non-compliance

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹3.10 lakh on Pine Labs Limited for non-compliance with regulatory guidelines.
• The penalty was imposed for violations of RBI directions related to Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs).
• The RBI exercised its powers under Section 30(1) read with Section 26(6) of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 to impose the penalty.
• The key regulatory breach involved issuing Full-KYC Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs) without completing proper Know Your Customer (KYC) verification of customers.
• This violation is considered a serious compliance lapse in digital payment regulations, highlighting the importance of strict adherence to RBI KYC norms.

Reserve Bank of India sets ₹2.5 lakh crore Ways and Means Advances limit for H1 FY 2026–27 in consultation with Government of India

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in consultation with the Government of India, has fixed the Ways and Means Advances (WMA) limit at ₹2,50,000 crore for the first half of FY 2026–27 (April–September 2026).
• The Ways and Means Advances (WMA) is a temporary loan facility provided by RBI to the government to manage short-term mismatches between receipts and expenditures.
• The RBI may initiate fresh market borrowings (floatation of government securities) when 75% of the WMA limit is utilised, ensuring fiscal liquidity management.
• The RBI retains the flexibility to revise the WMA limit based on changing economic and fiscal conditions.
• The interest rate on WMA is linked to the Repo Rate, making it a relatively low-cost borrowing option for the government.
• In case of Overdraft (when WMA limit is exceeded), the interest rate becomes Repo Rate + 2%, making it costlier and discouraging excessive borrowing.
• The framework ensures efficient cash management and fiscal discipline for the Government of India.

99.92% of India’s villages have banking access within 5 km radius via branches,Business Correspondents, and India Post Payments Bank outlets

• The Government of India aims to ensure the availability of a banking outlet (Bank branch / Business Correspondent (BC) / India Post Payments Bank (IPPB)) within 5 kilometres of all inhabited villages in the country.
• The coverage of banking infrastructure is monitored through a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based application called the Jan Dhan Darshak (JDD) App.
• As per data uploaded on the JDD App, about 99.92% of villages in India are covered with banking outlets within a 5 km radius as on 06 March 2026.
• In the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, 100% villages are covered with banking access within 5 km.
• The major challenges in expanding banking infrastructure include lack of connectivity, inadequate infrastructure, and unavailability of suitable premises.
• As per Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, the expansion of banking outlets in uncovered areas is a continuous process.
• This process is managed by the State Level Bankers’ Committee (SLBC) and Union Territory Level Bankers’ Committee (UTLBC) in coordination with State Governments, banks, and stakeholders.
• Banks decide on opening new banking outlets based on RBI instructions, business plans, and commercial viability.
• To assess feasibility, banks conduct field surveys and viability studies before opening new outlets.
• The initiative reflects the government’s focus on financial inclusion and last-mile banking connectivity across rural India.

Reserve Bank of India imposes ₹58.50 lakh penalty on Bank of India for regulatory violations

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹58.50 lakh on Bank of India for regulatory non-compliance.
• The violations were related to RBI directions on Priority Sector Lending (PSL) – Targets and Classification and Interest Rate on Deposits.
• The penalty was imposed under Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 51(1) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
• The first violation involved charging ad-hoc service, inspection, and processing fees in certain priority sector loans up to ₹25,000, which is not permitted under RBI guidelines.
• The second violation was the failure to pay interest on certain Term Deposit Receipts (TDRs) from the date of maturity until repayment, violating deposit interest norms.
• The action highlights strict enforcement of RBI regulatory compliance norms in banking operations.

About Bank of India:

• Founded: 1906
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Managing Director & CEO: Rajneesh Karnatak
• Tagline: "Relationships Beyond Banking"

Reserve Bank of India issues directions on Net Open Position in INR (NOP-INR) for Authorised Dealers under Risk Management Master Direction

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued directions on Net Open Position in INR (NOP-INR) for Authorised Dealers (ADs) under the Master Direction on Risk Management and Inter-Bank Dealings (July 05, 2016).
• As per the Master Direction, the RBI is empowered to set limits on open positions in Indian Rupee (INR) to manage exchange rate volatility based on prevailing market conditions.
• Exercising this authority, the RBI has introduced a specific cap on NOP-INR positions for Authorised Dealers operating in the onshore deliverable foreign exchange market.
• Authorised Dealers (ADs) must ensure that their Net Open Position in INR (NOP-INR) does not exceed USD 100 million at the end of each business day.

Securities and Exchange Board of India extends suspension of derivatives trading in seven agricultural commodities till March 31, 2027

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the suspension of trading in derivatives of seven agricultural commodities till 31 March 2027.
• The affected commodities include wheat, moong, paddy (non-basmati), chana, crude palm oil, mustard seeds, and soybean, along with their derivative contracts.
• The suspension was originally imposed in December 2021 and has been extended multiple times due to ongoing concerns regarding market stability.
• The decision aims to curb excessive speculation and volatility in essential agricultural commodities that significantly influence food prices and inflation.
• The suspension allows market participants to square off existing positions but prohibits any fresh futures trading in the specified commodities.
• The move is intended to stabilize key agricultural commodity markets and protect consumers from price shocks.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) tightened rules on intraday borrowings by mutual funds to manage temporary cash mismatches during redemptions.

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.

Government and Reserve Bank of India initiatives ensure smooth and uninterrupted flow of rural credit access

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) aims to maintain sufficient liquidity in the banking system to ensure that the productive requirements of the economy, including the rural sector, are met and that monetary policy transmission to market rates remains effective.
• The Government has taken various measures to ensure uninterrupted rural credit flow, especially for Self Help Groups (SHGs) and rural development initiatives.
• The RBI Priority Sector Lending (PSL) guidelines and Government Ground Level Agriculture Credit (GLC) targets act as key instruments for expanding Kisan Credit Card (KCC) coverage and enhancing institutional credit to farmers.

Key Highlights :

• Under PSL guidelines, banks including Commercial Banks, Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), Small Finance Banks, Local Area Banks, and Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) must allocate at least 18% of Adjusted Net Bank Credit (ANBC) or Credit Equivalent of Off-Balance Sheet Exposures (CEOBSE) to agriculture sector lending.
• A sub-target of 10% is prescribed for Small and Marginal Farmers (SMFs) to ensure inclusive agricultural credit distribution.
• The PSL framework also includes incentive and dis-incentive mechanisms for districts to promote balanced and equitable credit flow to agriculture.
• The collateral-free short-term agricultural loan limit has been increased from ₹1.60 lakh to ₹2.00 lakh per borrower (w.e.f. 01 January 2025) to enhance credit accessibility for farmers.
• The RBI provides concessional refinance support to Rural Financial Institutions (RFIs) through special funds such as the Short-Term Cooperative Rural Credit Fund (STCRCF), Short-Term RRB Credit Refinance Fund (STRRBF), and Long-Term Rural Credit Fund (LTRCF).
• The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) implements several programmes to strengthen Self Help Groups (SHGs) and rural livelihoods.
• NABARD supports training of SHGs for onboarding on e-commerce platforms, Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), and social media platforms to promote digital integration.
• It also promotes skill upgradation for women-led microenterprises under the “m-Suwidha” initiative.
• NABARD provides training and capacity building for microfinance clients through the Financial Inclusion Fund (FIF) to strengthen financial literacy and inclusion.
• Under the Tribal Development Programme, NABARD supports activities such as SHG formation, health and sanitation camps, and microenterprise development training, promoting inclusive rural development.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Rajasthan Launches Industrial Park Promotion Policy 2026 to Boost Investment and Employment

• The Rajasthan Government has launched the Industrial Park Promotion Policy 2026 under the leadership of Bhajanlal Sharma to attract investments, generate employment and develop world-class industrial parks.
• The policy aims to position Rajasthan as a future-ready industrial destination and aligns with national initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• The policy provides a structured and flexible framework for industrial development with participation from both public and private sectors.
• Industrial parks will be developed through multiple models including:
• Fully private ownership
• Hybrid land-sharing models
• Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework
• The government has mandated:
• Minimum area of 50 acres for private industrial parks
• At least 10 industrial units in each park
• These provisions aim to create integrated industrial ecosystems instead of fragmented development.
• The policy focuses on boosting investment, employment generation and economic growth by:
• Attracting domestic and foreign investors
• Promoting manufacturing and industrial expansion
• Ensuring balanced regional development across the state
• It is expected to strengthen Rajasthan’s position as an emerging industrial hub in India.
• A key feature of the policy is its emphasis on green and sustainable industrial development.
• Provisions include:
• 50% reimbursement of expenditure on Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETP) (subject to a cap)
• Incentives for adoption of clean and renewable energy
• Promotion of eco-friendly infrastructure in industrial parks
• The policy also enhances ease of doing business through multiple incentives and reforms:
• Exemption in electricity duty for renewable energy usage
• Concessions on stamp duty and land conversion charges
• Faster approvals through the Raj Nivesh Portal

RECENT NEWS

• Kal Somani has acquired the Rajasthan Royals IPL franchise for a staggering value of $1.63 billion (₹16,290 crore). This deal has scripted the one of the highest valuations in IPL history. Somani who already an existing shareholder now he will take full control of the franchise after the 2026 IPL season. 

About Rajasthan:

• Capital: Jaipur
• Governor: Haribhau Bagade
• Chief Minister: Bajan Lal Sharma
• National Parks: Ranthambhore National Park, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), Desert National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary, Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary

Great Indian Bustard Chick Hatched in Wild in Gujarat After Nearly a Decade

• A Great Indian Bustard chick was successfully hatched in the wild in Gujarat after nearly a decade, marking a major milestone in wildlife conservation.
• The chick hatched in the grasslands of Kutch, offering renewed hope for the survival of one of India’s most critically endangered bird species, the Great Indian Bustard.
• The Great Indian Bustard is among the heaviest flying birds in the world and is native to the grasslands of India, especially in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
• It is listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
• The total population is estimated to be fewer than 150 individuals in India.
• Major threats include:
• Habitat loss
• Power line collisions
• Low breeding rate
• In Gujarat, the situation was critical with only three surviving females in Kutch and no breeding success for several years.
• The successful hatching was achieved through the ‘Jumpstart Approach’, an innovative conservation method.
• Under this approach:
• A fertile partially incubated egg was transported from Sam to Naliya.
• The egg was placed in a wild nest for natural incubation by a female bustard.
• The egg was transported over approximately 770 kilometres in about 19 hours using a portable incubator.
• The conservation effort was coordinated by:
• Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
• Wildlife Institute of India
• Forest Departments of Rajasthan and Gujarat
• The last successful breeding of the Great Indian Bustard in Gujarat was recorded in 2016, and the species was close to local extinction in the state.
• The recent hatching is significant because it:
• Revives breeding potential in Gujarat
• Demonstrates successful inter-state conservation cooperation
• Provides a model for future wildlife conservation interventions
• Boosts morale among conservationists
• Marks the first successful inter-state ‘Jumpstart’ initiative for the species in India

RECENT NEWS

• The Gujarat state government has created history after passing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill 2026 in the State Assembly on March 24 2026. It was tabled by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the Bill proposes the common legal framework for marriage, divorce, succession and live-in relationships across all religions. 

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

Indian Railways Imposes ₹10 Lakh Fine on Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Over Food Quality Complaint on Patna–Tatanagar Vande Bharat Express

• Indian Railways imposed a ₹10 lakh penalty on Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation following a food quality complaint on the Patna– Tatanagar Vande Bharat Express.
• The incident was reported on Train No. 21896, where a passenger raised concerns regarding poor onboard food quality.
• After investigation, authorities identified deficiencies in service standards, leading to strict action.
• Along with Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, the private catering service provider responsible for the lapse was fined ₹50 lakh, and its contract was immediately terminated.
• The action reflects the Government of India’s focus on improving passenger experience and enforcing accountability in railway services.
• Indian Railways serves approximately 58 crore meals annually, making it one of the largest railway catering networks in the world.
• The complaint rate remains very low at around 0.0008%, but each complaint is treated seriously due to its impact on:
• Passenger health and hygiene
• Public trust in railway services
• Overall travel experience
• The Ministry of Railways has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards negligence affecting passenger safety and service quality.
• Over the last three years, penalties worth ₹2.6 crore have been imposed in cases related to catering and service deficiencies.
• In 2025, three incidents involving assault by pantry staff were reported, which resulted in strict legal action by railway authorities and police.
• Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a series of reforms under the ‘Reform Express’ initiative (2026) aimed at improving operational efficiency and passenger convenience.

RECENT NEWS

• In a major passenger-friendly reform, Indian Railways is set to introduce a new ticket rescheduling feature through the IRCTC portal. This upcoming policy will let travellers change their travel date or train for confirmed tickets without paying cancellation fees.

Amrit Bharat Station Scheme to Redevelop 1,338 Railway Stations Across India

• The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme has been launched by the Government of India to modernise railway infrastructure and improve passenger amenities across railway stations.
• The scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Railways and aims to redevelop 1,338 railway stations across the country with modern facilities, improved connectivity and enhanced passenger experience.
• Indian Railways continues to strengthen passenger connectivity and undertake large-scale infrastructure modernisation across the country, with focused interventions in Maharashtra, Goa and the Konkan region.
• Under the scheme, 13 major railway stations in Delhi are being redeveloped, including:
• New Delhi Railway Station
• Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station
• Delhi Junction Railway Station
• Anand Vihar Terminal
• Delhi Cantonment Railway Station
• Safdarjung Railway Station
• Narela Railway Station
• Sabzi Mandi Railway Station
• Tilak Bridge Railway Station
• Redevelopment is based on station-specific master plans and focuses on improving station accessibility and passenger convenience.
• Key infrastructure upgrades include:
• Improved station access
• Wider foot overbridges
• Enhanced waiting areas
• Modern toilets
• Lifts and escalators
• Comfortable seating arrangements
• Digital information systems
• Executive lounges
• Improved signage systems
• Railway stations are being developed as multi-modal transport hubs integrating connectivity with bus services, metro systems and other urban transport networks, ensuring smooth passenger movement and reduced congestion.
• Under the One Station One Product Scheme initiative, local products and handicrafts are promoted and sold at railway stations, supporting local economies and artisans.
• The scheme also emphasises sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure development, including:
• Ballast-less tracks
• Energy-efficient systems
• Improved waste management systems
• These measures aim to reduce environmental impact and ensure long-term sustainability of railway infrastructure.

Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Scheme Provides ₹3,000 Monthly Pension to Unorganised Workers

• The Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) is a voluntary pension scheme launched in 2019 by the Government of India to provide social security to unorganised sector workers.
• Under the scheme, eligible workers receive a minimum assured monthly pension of ₹3,000 after attaining 60 years of age.
• The scheme is applicable to workers not covered under EPFO, ESIC or NPS, ensuring financial security during old age.
• Workers contribute a small monthly amount depending on their entry age, and the Central Government contributes an equal matching amount:
• At 18 years – ₹55 per month
• At 40 years – ₹200 per month
• Eligibility criteria:
• Age between 18 and 40 years
• Monthly income up to ₹15,000
• Must not be a member of EPFO, ESIC or NPS
• The scheme mainly targets unorganised sector workers, including street vendors, construction workers, agricultural labourers, domestic workers, and small shop owners.
• Key benefits of the scheme:
• ₹3,000 guaranteed monthly pension after 60 years
• Equal government co-contribution
• Lifetime pension benefit
• Simple and accessible enrolment process
• Workers can enrol through Common Service Centres (CSCs) across India or through the official online portal.
• As of March 2026, around 52.5 lakh beneficiaries have enrolled under the scheme.
• Other pension initiatives such as Atal Pension Yojana (APY) and National Pension System (NPS) also contribute significantly towards strengthening social security coverage in India, especially for workers without formal retirement benefits.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

India & European Union ink aviation manufacturing pact to enhance safety; Airbus helicopter unit planned in Karnataka

• The Government of India (GoI) signed a working arrangement with the European Union (EU) in the field of industrial aviation production to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
• The agreement aims to align India’s aviation manufacturing processes with global safety standards and enhance regulatory harmonisation.
• The arrangement was signed ahead of a regional aviation workshop in New Delhi under the EU-South Asia Aviation Partnership Project.
• The agreement was exchanged between the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
• The collaboration will focus on certification, production processes, and regulatory cooperation in the aviation sector.
• A key project under this arrangement includes the assembly of Airbus Helicopters H125/AS350 in Bengaluru, Karnataka, boosting domestic aerospace manufacturing.
• The initiative supports India’s ‘Make in India’ programme by promoting indigenous manufacturing with foreign collaboration.
• It is expected to enhance technical know-how, employment generation, and industrial capacity in the aviation sector.
• The partnership will improve aviation safety, quality standards, and compliance with international norms.
• Overall, the agreement positions India as an emerging global hub for aviation manufacturing and maintenance operations.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND INDEX

Loni Becomes World’s Most Polluted City as Per 2025 World Air Quality Report

• Loni near Ghaziabad in the state of Uttar Pradesh, has overtaken Delhi to become the world’s most polluted city, according to the 2025 World Air Quality Report released by IQAir.
• The finding highlights the worsening air pollution crisis across the National Capital Region (NCR) and raises serious public health concerns.
• Loni recorded an annual average PM2.5 concentration of 112.5 µg/m³, which is more than 22 times higher than the safe limit prescribed by the World Health Organization.
• PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, posing severe health risks.
• Earlier, Delhi symbolised India’s air pollution crisis, but the emergence of Loni at the top of global rankings indicates that pollution has expanded beyond the national capital to the wider National Capital Region (NCR).
• Cities such as Ghaziabad, Noida and Faridabad are increasingly forming a continuous pollution belt, showing that air pollution is now a regional crisis rather than a localised issue.
• Major causes behind severe pollution levels in Loni include:
• Unregulated industrial emissions
• Vehicular pollution due to heavy traffic and outdated fuel standards
• Construction dust and weak enforcement of dust-control norms
• Open waste burning and biomass combustion
• Stubble burning in neighbouring states

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Adani Defence and Aerospace delivers first batch of ‘Prahar’ light machine guns to Indian Army

• In a boost to India’s defence capability, the Indian Army received the first batch of 2,000 ‘Prahar’ Light Machine Guns (LMGs) under the Make in India initiative.
• The weapons are 7.62 mm calibre Light Machine Guns (LMGs), manufactured by Adani Defence and Aerospace at its Small Arms Complex in Gwalior in partnership with Israel Weapon Industries.

Key Highlights :

• The ‘Prahar’ LMG (known in Israel as Negev NG7) is designed to enhance infantry firepower, operational effectiveness, and combat readiness.
• The delivery of the first batch of 2,000 LMGs is part of a larger order exceeding 40,000 guns, strengthening large-scale infantry modernisation.
• The weapons were delivered 11 months ahead of schedule, reflecting efficient defence production and procurement timelines.
• The induction highlights the growing role of the private sector in defence manufacturing and supports India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
• The Prahar LMG features a 7.62 mm calibre, open bolt mechanism, rotating bolt, and gas-operated piston system, improving reliability and performance in combat conditions.
• It has a 508 mm barrel and an overall length of 1,000 mm, which can be reduced to 820 mm with a folded stock, enhancing mobility for paratroopers and field deployment.
• The weapon weighs 7.6 kg without a magazine, making it lighter than comparable systems, improving soldier maneuverability.
• The induction of Prahar LMGs strengthens the Indian Army’s operational readiness and combat capability, especially in infantry firepower enhancement.
• The programme was flagged off by senior officials including the Additional Secretary and Director General (Acquisition) A Anbarasu and Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO of Adani Defence and Aerospace, marking a key milestone in defence modernization under Make in India.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh leads inaugural Informal Group of Ministers meeting to assess West Asia developments and their impact on India

• Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh chaired the first meeting of the Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM) to monitor the evolving situation in West Asia.
• The meeting was held at Kartavya Bhawan-2 and focused on assessing impacts and recommending proactive measures.
• Key participants included Nirmala Sitharaman, Kiren Rijiju, Hardeep Singh Puri, Manohar Lal Khattar, Jagat Prakash Nadda, Prahlad Joshi, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, and Jitendra Singh.
• The IGoM conducted a holistic review of the situation and its impact on multiple sectors in India.
• Rajnath Singh emphasised a proactive, coordinated, and forward-looking approach, highlighting the need for constant vigilance.
• Presentations were made by the seven Empowered Groups of Secretaries (EGoS) outlining sectoral challenges and policy measures already implemented.
• The Raksha Mantri directed EGoS to ensure continuous monitoring, adopt a medium- to long-term preparedness strategy, and maintain high-level coordination.
• He stressed the importance of swift decision-making, policy synergy, and time-bound implementation of all measures.
• The IGoM highlighted the need for close coordination with States and district administrations to ensure effective governance and response.
• Emphasis was placed on assessing the impact across various industries and ensuring economic resilience.
• It was directed that all Ministries and Departments share updates through the WhatsApp channel of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) for accurate and timely dissemination of information.
• The initiative aims to counter rumours, misinformation, and fake news, ensuring transparent communication with citizens.

Indian Navy sail training ship INS Sudarshini reaches Sète during Lokayan-26 transoceanic expedition

• The Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini arrived at the historic port city of Sète as part of the transoceanic expedition Lokayan-26.
• The visit of INS Sudarshini marks a significant milestone in its journey and highlights India’s commitment to maritime cooperation and cultural diplomacy.
• During its stay, INS Sudarshini will participate in the ‘Escale à Sète’ festival, one of Europe’s most prestigious gatherings of traditional tall ships and seafaring communities.
• The Escale à Sète festival provides a global platform to showcase India’s maritime heritage and promote international camaraderie.
• The participation also aims to strengthen naval partnerships and maritime cooperation across nations.
• Prior to reaching Sète, INS Sudarshini completed port calls at Salalah (Oman), Safaga and Alexandria (Egypt), and Valletta (Malta).
• The ship covered a distance of approximately 5,500 nautical miles during its voyage.
• Throughout the expedition, INS Sudarshini served as a “Floating Ambassador” of India.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

National Aeronautics and Space Administration releases detailed ocean floor map using Surface Water and Ocean Topography satellite data, filling long-standing seabed exploration gap

• The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has released a new and more detailed map of the ocean floor using data from the SWOT satellite, addressing a long-standing gap in seabed exploration.
• The Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite is a joint mission developed with CNES, with contributions from the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and the UK Space Agency, launched in December 2022.
• The SWOT satellite can scan nearly 90% of Earth’s surface every 21 days, enabling large-scale ocean and water body mapping.
• Instead of directly imaging the seabed, the satellite measures minute variations in ocean surface height, which help in indirect identification of underwater structures.
• This technique allows scientists to detect submarine features such as ridges, trenches, and seamounts using satellite-based oceanography.
• The initiative is part of a global mission to map the entire ocean floor by 2030 for better understanding of marine geology and climate systems.
• The mapping approach combines satellite remote sensing for wide coverage and ship-based sonar for high-precision seabed mapping.
• The project enhances global capabilities in ocean exploration, climate research, and maritime scientific studies.

Recent News :

• In March 2026, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announced that Van Allen Probe A made its final re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere after nearly 14 years in orbit.

About NASA:

• Established: 1958
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., USA

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Sheetal Devi Named ‘Para Archer of the Year 2025’ by World Archery

• Sheetal Devi was honoured with the ‘Para Archer of the Year 2025’ award by World Archery.
• At the age of 19, the para-archer from Jammu and Kashmir received global recognition for her outstanding performances and inspiring journey in para-archery.
• The award highlights India’s growing dominance in para-sports at the international level.
• Sheetal Devi created history by becoming the first female armless archer to win a gold medal at the World Para Archery Championships.
• She achieved this milestone in the women’s compound individual event held in Gwangju.
• At the same championship, she won a complete set of medals, demonstrating exceptional consistency:
• Gold – Women’s compound individual event
• Silver – Women’s team event
• Bronze – Mixed team event
• She also secured a bronze medal in the mixed team event at the Paris Paralympics 2024.
• Additionally, she won:
• Silver medal at the Asian Para Games 2022
• Silver medal at the 2023 Asian Archery Championships in Bangkok
• The World Archery Awards were launched in 2011 to recognise excellence and outstanding achievements in archery across various categories.
• Other major award winners in 2025 include:
• ‘Archer of the Year’ – Emircan Haney
• ‘Young Archer of the Year’ – Baptiste Addis
• ‘Best Team of the Year’ – South Korea men's recurve archery team
• World Archery was founded in 1931 and serves as the global governing body for Olympic and Paralympic archery.
• Born without arms, Sheetal Devi mastered archery using her feet, and her journey continues to inspire athletes and persons with disabilities worldwide.

Sunil Narine Becomes Most Capped Overseas Player in Indian Premier League History

• West Indies player Sunil Narine became the most capped overseas player in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after surpassing Kieron Pollard, who had played 189 matches.
• He achieved this milestone during the match against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on 29th March 2026.
• Notably, Sunil Narine has played all his IPL matches only for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
• Top overseas players with most IPL appearances:
• Sunil Narine – 190 matches – Kolkata Knight Riders
• Kieron Pollard – 189 matches – Mumbai Indians
• AB de Villiers – 184 matches – Royal Challengers Bangalore & Delhi Capitals (earlier Delhi Daredevils)
• David Warner – 184 matches – Delhi Capitals & Sunrisers Hyderabad
• Dwayne Bravo – 161 matches – Chennai Super Kings
• Sunil Narine began his IPL journey in 2012 after being signed by Kolkata Knight Riders for ₹3.4 crore and played a key role in KKR’s title-winning campaign in 2012.
• He has taken 192 wickets, including 7 four-wicket hauls and 1 five-wicket haul in IPL history.
• With the bat, he has scored 1,780 runs in 122 innings, including 1 century and 7 half-centuries, and is known for his explosive powerplay strike rate.
• His role as a pinch-hitter and mystery spinner makes him one of the most valuable all-rounders in IPL history.

Daily CA One- Liner: March 31

• The Rajasthan Government has launched the Industrial Park Promotion Policy 2026 under the leadership of Bhajanlal Sharma to attract investments, generate employment and develop world-class industrial parks
• A Great Indian Bustard chick was successfully hatched in the wild in Gujarat after nearly a decade, marking a major milestone in wildlife conservation
• Indian Railways imposed a ₹10 lakh penalty on Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation following a food quality complaint on the Patna– Tatanagar Vande Bharat Express
• The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme has been launched by the Government of India to modernise railway infrastructure and improve passenger amenities across railway stations
• The Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) is a voluntary pension scheme launched in 2019 by the Government of India to provide social security to unorganised sector workers
• Loni near Ghaziabad in the state of Uttar Pradesh, has overtaken Delhi to become the world’s most polluted city, according to the 2025 World Air Quality Report released by IQAir
• Sheetal Devi was honoured with the ‘Para Archer of the Year 2025’ award by World Archery
• West Indies player Sunil Narine became the most capped overseas player in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after surpassing Kieron Pollard, who had played 189 matches.
• The Government of India (GoI), in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has finalised the borrowing programme for the first half (H1) of Financial Year (FY) 2026–27.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹3.10 lakh on Pine Labs Limited for non-compliance with regulatory guidelines.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in consultation with the Government of India, has fixed the Ways and Means Advances (WMA) limit at ₹2,50,000 crore for the first half of FY 2026–27 (April–September 2026).
• The Government of India aims to ensure the availability of a banking outlet (Bank branch / Business Correspondent (BC) / India Post Payments Bank (IPPB)) within 5 kilometres of all inhabited villages in the country.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹58.50 lakh on Bank of India for regulatory non-compliance.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued directions on Net Open Position in INR (NOP-INR) for Authorised Dealers (ADs) under the Master Direction on Risk Management and Inter-Bank Dealings (July 05, 2016).
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the suspension of trading in derivatives of seven agricultural commodities till 31 March 2027.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) aims to maintain sufficient liquidity in the banking system to ensure that the productive requirements of the economy, including the rural sector, are met and that monetary policy transmission to market rates remains effective.
• The Government of India (GoI) signed a working arrangement with the European Union (EU) in the field of industrial aviation production to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
• In a boost to India’s defence capability, the Indian Army received the first batch of 2,000 ‘Prahar’ Light Machine Guns (LMGs) under the Make in India initiative.
• Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh chaired the first meeting of the Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM) to monitor the evolving situation in West Asia.
• The Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini arrived at the historic port city of Sète as part of the transoceanic expedition Lokayan-26.
• The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has released a new and more detailed map of the ocean floor using data from the SWOT satellite, addressing a long-standing gap in seabed exploration.