- On 20 March 2026, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved two major initiatives:
.png "Current Affairs One - Liner : 19th March 2026")
- On 21 March 2026, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) declared Kalinjar Fort Hill in Banda district, Uttar Pradesh, as a National Geo-Heritage Site. The recognition highlights the fort hill’s unique geological and historical significance, linking natural heritage with cultural legacy. The aim is to ensure preservation, protection, and promotion of the site under national heritage frameworks.
- On 18 March 2026, Metropolis by Reliance MET City in Haryana became India’s first project to secure LEED Platinum Pre-Certification under the “LEED for Cities: Plan and Design” rating system. This recognition was granted by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), placing the project among a select group of globally planned sustainable developments.
- On 18 March 2026, the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) signed a landmark contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) to build India’s first green methanol dual-fuel vessel. This 3,000 DWT Platform Supply Vessel (PSV) will run on methanol as an alternative fuel, advancing India’s clean shipping goals under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
- On 17 March 2026, the Punjab Government signed a ₹3,500 crore pact with the World Bank to launch Punjab Sikhya Kranti 2.0, a transformative school education reform programme. The initiative aims to modernize government schools, expand career pathways, and align Punjab’s education ecosystem with global standards.
- On 18 March 2026, the Union Government approved a ₹472 crore Road Over Bridge (ROB) project at Tuna-Tekra in Kutch, Gujarat, to strengthen port connectivity and support the upcoming mega container terminal. The project will significantly improve cargo evacuation, reduce congestion, and enhance supply chain efficiency.
- In March 2026, the Election Commission of India extended the postal ballot facility to senior citizens aged 85+, persons with disabilities (PwDs), and essential service voters, including armed forces, paramilitary, police, and election duty staff. The reform aims to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in voting, reflecting ECI’s commitment to “No Voter Left Behind” and strengthening democratic participation.
- Argentina formally withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO) effective March 17, 2026, following a one-year notice period given in March 2025. The move was announced by President Javier Milei’s government, citing sovereignty over health policy and dissatisfaction with WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- On 18 March 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved Bain Capital’s ₹4,385 crore investment in Manappuram Finance Ltd (MFL) and its subsidiaries. This clearance allows Bain Capital to acquire joint control of MFL along with its promoters, marking a major foreign investment in India’s NBFC sector.
- India’s bioeconomy expanded rapidly from $10 billion in 2014 to nearly $195 billion in 2025. This growth was driven by advances in biotechnology, bio-agriculture, and bio-manufacturing. Government support through BIRAC, startups, and R&D initiatives boosted innovation.
- On 19 March 2026, the Ministry of AYUSH signed an MoU with the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at its headquarters in New Delhi. The agreement aims to promote preventive healthcare, yoga, stress management, and wellness among CISF personnel and their families.
- On 19 March 2026, NITI Aayog released a report in New Delhi titled “Realising the Export Potential of India’s Sports Equipment Manufacturing Sector.” It highlights India’s opportunity to become a global hub, with the sports goods market projected to cross US$ 1 trillion by 2036. India’s current exports stand at US$ 275 million, mainly from MSME clusters in Jalandhar and Meerut.
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, is safe from any immediate WADA ban rule. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has postponed its decision on a proposed regulation that could bar government officials from attending major sporting events if their countries fail to pay dues.
- On March 20, 2026, Rwanda’s 15-year-old Fanny Utagushimaninde created history by becoming the youngest player to score a T20I century, smashing 111* off 65 balls against Ghana in Lagos. Her debut knock powered Rwanda to 210/3 and a massive 122-run victory in the Nigeria Invitational Women’s T20 tournament.
- In February 2026, India’s Arundhati Reddy was named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month, while Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan clinched the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award. Reddy earned recognition for her impactful all-round performances, strengthening India’s campaign in international cricket.
- On 18 March 2026, the Union Cabinet approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojna (BHAVYA) with an outlay of ₹33,660 crore to develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across India. The scheme aims to create world-class industrial infrastructure, boost manufacturing, attract investments, and generate about 15 lakh direct jobs, forming a key pillar of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat.
- The Government of India launched the ₹497 crore RELIEF scheme (Resilience and Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation) on March 19, 2026, under the Export Promotion Mission to support exporters facing disruptions due to the West Asia crisis. It provides insurance, logistics aid, and financial support to safeguard Indian exports.
- The Ministry of Civil Aviation has launched the ‘Fare Se Fursat’ scheme to make regional air travel more affordable. The scheme was inaugurated with the Rewa–Raipur flight on March 18, 2026. It aims to expand connectivity to tier‑II and tier‑III cities, strengthening the UDAN vision. This initiative is expected to boost regional integration and local economies.
- On 18 March 2026, the Government of Andhra Pradesh launched the Divyang Shakti Yojana to provide free bus travel for persons with disabilities across the state. The scheme was announced by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu as a Ugadi gift, aiming to improve mobility, independence, and inclusivity for differently-abled citizens.
- Exercise Amogh Jwala 2026 was conducted by the Indian Army’s Southern Command from 6–18 March 2026 at the Babina Field Firing Ranges in Uttar Pradesh. It showcased technology-driven mechanised warfare in a multi-domain environment, integrating mechanised forces with helicopters, fighter aircraft, drones, and counter-drone systems.
- Exercise Lamitiye‑2026 was the 11th edition of the Indo‑Seychelles joint military drill, held from 9–20 March 2026 at the Seychelles Defence Academy. It marked the first tri‑services participation from India (Army, Navy, Air Force) alongside the Seychelles Defence Forces, highlighting deepening defense ties.
- International Day of Happiness 2026 was celebrated on 20 March with the theme “Happiness for All, Together.” It highlighted kindness, social connection, and well-being as essential goals for societies worldwide. The day, established by the UN in 2012 and first observed in 2013, draws inspiration from Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
- Global Recycling Day 2026 was observed on 18 March worldwide, highlighting the importance of recycling as the “Seventh Resource” to protect our planet. The theme for 2026 focused on “Recycling Heroes”, celebrating individuals, communities, and organizations driving sustainable practices.
- Vikram Kumar Doraiswami, a seasoned Indian diplomat and 1992-batch IFS officer, was appointed as India’s new Ambassador to China on March 19, 2026. He succeeds Pradeep Kumar Rawat and is expected to play a crucial role in managing the complex Sino-Indian relationship.
- Krishna Kumar Thakur has been appointed as the new Director (Personnel) at NMDC – National Mineral Development Corporation Limited, effective 17 March 2026. His tenure will be for five years from the date of assumption of charge or until further orders.
- On March 16, 2026, global apparel retailer UNIQLO announced Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah as its brand ambassador in India. The partnership launches with a new campaign highlighting UNIQLO’s LifeWear philosophy—clothing designed for everyday comfort, simplicity, and quality.
- On 19 March 2026, HDFC Bank appointed veteran banker Keki Mistry as Interim Part-time Chairman. This followed the resignation of Atanu Chakraborty on 17 March, citing ethical concerns. The Reserve Bank of India approved Mistry’s appointment for a three-month term starting 19 March.
- Kaveh Madani, Director of UNU-INWEH (United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health), won the Stockholm Water Prize 2026 at age 44, becoming the youngest-ever recipient. He was honored for introducing the concept of “Water Bankruptcy” and advancing the Water-Energy-Food Nexus. Known as the “Nobel Prize for Water”, the award was presented at UNESCO HQ, Paris ahead of World Water Day.
- Renowned Indian actress Rituparna Sengupta was honoured with the Women Empowerment Award for Art and Culture at the UK House of Commons in March 2026. The award was presented during an International Women’s Day event, recognizing her cultural contributions and global impact.
- Legendary actor and martial artist Chuck Norris passed away on March 19, 2026, at the age of 86 in Kaua‘i, Hawaii. His family confirmed the news the following day, noting he was surrounded by loved ones and at peace.
Questions:
Q.1 The Stockholm Water Prize 2026 was awarded to:a) Rajendra Singh
b) Kaveh Madani
c) Sunita Narain
d) Johan Rockström
Answer: b) Kaveh Madani, Director of UNU-INWEH (United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health), won the Stockholm Water Prize 2026 at age 44, becoming the youngest-ever recipient.
Q.2 Which project became India’s first to receive LEED Platinum Pre-Certification under “LEED for Cities: Plan and Design” in March 2026?
a) Metropolis by Reliance MET City
b) Amaravati Smart City
c) GIFT City, Gujarat
d) Dholera SIR
Answer: a) Metropolis by Reliance MET City in Haryana became India’s first project to secure LEED Platinum Pre-Certification under the “LEED for Cities: Plan and Design” rating system.
