National Current Affairs

1. Raisina Dialogue 2026 Held in New Delhi

• The 11th edition of the Raisina Dialogue was organized in New Delhi in March 2026.

• It is India’s premier global conference on geopolitics and geo-economics.

• The dialogue is jointly organized by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).

• Theme focused on global strategic cooperation and reshaping international order.

• Participants included foreign ministers, security experts, strategic analysts, and policymakers from more than 100 countries.

• The forum discusses issues such as:

  • Global security

  • Technology governance

  • Climate change

  • Indo-Pacific geopolitics

  • Multilateral cooperation.

2. ASMITA Athletics League Launched Across India

• The ASMITA Athletics League was launched on 8 March 2026 (International Women’s Day).

• Launched by Raksha Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports.

• The programme is part of the ASMITA initiative – Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women Through Action.

• The league will be organized at around 250 locations across India.

• Key objectives:

  • Increase women participation in sports.

  • Identify young athletic talent from rural and tribal areas.

  • Strengthen grassroots sports under the Khelo India programme.

3. India Submits Seventh National Report on Biodiversity

• India submitted its 7th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

• The report evaluates India’s progress toward global biodiversity targets.

• Key findings:

  • Only 2 biodiversity targets are currently on track.

  • Several targets related to ecosystem restoration and species protection require accelerated efforts.

• The report highlights initiatives including:

  • National Biodiversity Action Plan

  • Forest conservation programs

  • Expansion of protected areas.

4. Jan Aushadhi Diwas Celebrated Nationwide

• Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) celebrated Jan Aushadhi Diwas in March 2026.

• The initiative aims to provide affordable generic medicines to citizens.

• Over 9,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras are operational across India.

• Generic medicines under the scheme are 50%–90% cheaper than branded medicines.

5. India’s First Riverine Lighthouse on Brahmaputra

• India inaugurated its first riverine lighthouse on the Brahmaputra River in Assam.

• Purpose:

  • Improve navigation safety on inland waterways.

  • Enhance river transport infrastructure in Northeast India.

• The project is part of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) modernization program.

International Current Affairs

6. Nepal Forms New Government

• Nepal witnessed a change in political leadership with the formation of a new coalition government in 2026.

• The Prime Minister assumed office following political realignment in parliament.

• Key priorities of the new government include:

  • Economic recovery

  • Infrastructure development

  • Strengthening diplomatic relations with India and China.

7. Chile Achieves Zero Leprosy Cases

• Chile announced that it has eliminated leprosy cases nationwide.

• The country has achieved zero reported cases through strong public health programs.

• The achievement strengthens global efforts toward the World Health Organization’s target of eliminating neglected tropical diseases.

8. Global Focus on Kurdish Issue in West Asia

• The Kurdish issue in West Asia remains a major geopolitical concern.

• Kurdish populations are mainly spread across:

  • Turkey

  • Iraq

  • Iran

  • Syria

• Discussions at international forums highlighted:

  • Regional autonomy

  • Security challenges

  • Human rights concerns.

Economy and Infrastructure

9. Expansion of Freight and Logistics Connectivity in Northeast India

• India is expanding freight infrastructure to improve connectivity with the Northeast region.

• New logistics initiatives aim to:

  • Enhance cross-border trade with Southeast Asia.

  • Reduce transportation costs.

  • Boost regional economic growth.

10. India Strengthens Inland Waterways Transport

• The government continues expanding National Waterways development projects.

• Focus areas:

  • Brahmaputra River (NW-2)

  • Ganga River (NW-1).

• Inland waterways are expected to reduce logistics costs and carbon emissions.

Defence and Appointments

11. Lt. General Dheeraj Seth Appointed Vice Chief of Army Staff

• Lt. General Dheeraj Seth has been appointed Vice Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army.

• He previously served as a senior commander with extensive experience in strategic operations and defence management.

• The Vice Chief of Army Staff assists the Chief of Army Staff in operational and administrative responsibilities.

Sports Current Affairs

12. India Wins ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026

• India won the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on 8 March 2026.

• Final match details:

  • India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs.

  • Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.

• Tournament details:

  • 10th edition of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

  • Hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March 2026.

  • Featured 20 teams.

• Leadership:

  • Suryakumar Yadav served as captain of the Indian team.

• Historical significance:

  • India’s third T20 World Cup title.

  • Previous wins: 2007 and 2024.

13. India Begins Women’s Hockey World Cup Qualifiers with Victory

• India defeated Uruguay 4-0 in the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 qualifiers.

• The match demonstrated India’s strong preparation for the upcoming global tournament.

• The victory improves India’s chances of qualification for the main World Cup event.

14. Lakshya Sen Reaches All England Open Semifinal

• Indian badminton star Lakshya Sen advanced to the semifinal of the All England Open 2026.

• He defeated Canada’s Victor Lai in a three-game match.

• Match duration: 1 hour 37 minutes.

• The All England Open is one of the most prestigious badminton tournaments in the BWF World Tour calendar.

Important Upcoming Global Events

15. World Athletics Indoor Championships 2026

• The 21st World Athletics Indoor Championships will be held from 20–22 March 2026.

• Host city: Toruń, Poland.

• Venue: Kujawsko-Pomorska Arena.

• The event will feature 27 indoor athletics events.

Important Exam-Oriented Key Facts

• ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Final Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

• India’s Margin of Victory: 96 runs

• ASMITA League Launch Date: 8 March 2026

• Locations for ASMITA League: Around 250 across India

• Vice Chief of Army Staff: Lt. Gen. Dheeraj Seth

• FIH Women’s Hockey Qualifier Result: India defeated Uruguay 4-0

• Upcoming Athletics Championship: 20–22 March 2026, Toruń (Poland)