- India’s trade performance (April–February FY 2025–26) showed resilience despite global uncertainties. On 16 March 2026, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoCI) reported that combined merchandise and services exports reached USD 790.86 billion, marking a 5.79% growth over the previous year. Merchandise exports stood at USD 405.28 billion, while services exports contributed USD 385.58 billion.
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- On 13 March 2026, the Asia-Africa Agri Alliance (AAAA) was formally launched as a not-for-profit institutional platform to accelerate agricultural trade, investment, technology transfer, and policy cooperation between Asia and Africa. The initiative brings together diplomats, policymakers, and agribusiness leaders from over ten nations.
- India Post launched its premium service ‘24 Speed Post’ on 17 March 2026, ensuring next-day delivery in six metro cities — Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. It offers 24-hour guaranteed delivery for parcels and documents, targeting businesses, e-commerce, and individuals needing urgent dispatch.
- On 16 March 2026, the World Bank, Government of India, and Government of Uttar Pradesh signed a USD 300 million (₹2,500 crore) loan agreement for the UP Clean Air Management Program (UP-CAMP). The program focuses on reducing vehicular, industrial, and household emissions across major UP cities.
- Shriram General Insurance has launched Shri Health Suraksha 2.0 on March 2026, offering enhanced health coverage with unlimited restoration of sum insured, no room rent caps, and zero co-payment — making it one of the most flexible and comprehensive health insurance plans available in India.
- Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) has signed a landmark USD 3 billion, 15-year green ammonia supply and purchase agreement (SPA) with South Korea’s Samsung C&T Corporation on 16 March 2026. The deal positions India as a major exporter of clean fuels, with supplies beginning in the second half of FY2029.
- ZSI scientists just announced two new lichen moth species from the Eastern Himalayas, published March 2, 2026, in Zootaxa. These finds spotlight the region's untapped biodiversity and the moths' role as air pollution indicators since they feed on sensitive lichens.
- World Sleep Day 2026 was observed on 13 March 2026, organized by the World Sleep Society. Originating in 2008, it is held annually on the Friday before the spring equinox to highlight sleep as a pillar of health and productivity. The theme “Sleep Well, Live Better” emphasized quality rest for physical health, mental sharpness, and daily performance.
- On 12 March 2026, Nita Ambani, Chairperson of Reliance Foundation, received the prestigious Global Humanitarian Award at a high-profile ceremony in New York. The honor recognized her extensive contributions to philanthropy and social development, transforming millions of lives across India.
- FIFA has partnered with YouTube as a Preferred Platform for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, allowing fans unprecedented digital access. For the first time, official media partners can stream the opening 10 minutes of every match on their YouTube channels, with select full matches also available.
Questions:
Q.1 What is the value of the loan agreement for the UP Clean Air Management Program (UP-CAMP)?a) USD 200 million
b) USD 250 million
c) USD 300 million
d) USD 500 million
Answer: c) The World Bank, Government of India, and Government of Uttar Pradesh signed a USD 300 million (₹2,500 crore) loan agreement for the UP Clean Air Management Program (UP-CAMP).
Q.2 FIFA partnered with which platform to provide digital streaming access for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
a) Netflix
b) YouTube
c) Amazon Prime Video
d) Disney+
Answer: b) FIFA has partnered with YouTube as a Preferred Platform for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, allowing fans unprecedented digital access.
