📰 Daily Briefing Saturday, Mar 07

Daily Current Affairs: 7 March 2026

Analysis for 07 March 2026

Shrishti Dharmendra Sharma Sets Guinness World Record (GWR) for Fastest 50-Metre Limbo Skating

[Guinness World Record]

Key Updates:

  • Shrishti Dharmendra Sharma achieved the fastest time to limbo skate under descending poles over a distance of 50 metres.
  • She completed the distance in 7.46 seconds on 28 February 2025 at Sai Dham City in Umbred, Maharashtra.
  • This performance broke her previous GWR mark of 9.59 seconds set in Monza, Italy, in 2023.
  • GWR officially announced the record in March 2026.
  • Limbo skating is a sport where participants on roller skates glide under low horizontal rods without making contact.

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Kaamya Karthikeyan becomes youngest Indian to ski to South Pole (Start of January) ▼
  • Kaamya Karthikeyan became the youngest Indian and second-youngest woman in the world to ski to the South Pole.
  • She completed a 115 km trek on foot to reach the South Pole.
  • The Indian Navy described her feat as a 'moment of immense pride and inspiration'.
Arun Ice creams sets Guinness World Record with 5,113 children in Hyderabad (Start of February) ▼
  • Arun Ice creams created the largest ice cream social party with 5,113 children in Hyderabad.
  • Participants continuously ate ice cream for 30 minutes to achieve the record.
  • The previous Guinness World Record was set on 30 January 2019 with 962 people in Salerno, Italy (UNILEVER Italy).
  • Mr. Richard William Stenning from the UK Guinness Team officially recognised the record.
  • The certificate was presented to Mr. C. Sathyan, Vice Chairman, Hatsun Agro Product Ltd.
Tejaswin Shankar wins heptathlon gold at Asian Indoor Athletics Championships (AIAC) 2026 (Mid of February) ▼
  • Tejaswin Shankar won the gold medal in the heptathlon at the AIAC 2026 with a championship record total of 5993 points.
  • Tejaswin Shankar broke his own national record of 5650 points, set in 2021 in the United States of America (USA), and recorded the second-best score ever by an Asian athlete.
  • Tejaswin Shankar’s victory ended a 16-year wait for an Indian heptathlon medal at the AIAC, the last being PJ Vinod’s bronze in 2010.
  • India finished sixth in the overall medal standings with five medals, comprising one gold, two silver, and two bronze.
  • Tajinderpal Singh Toor secured the silver medal in the men’s shot put with a season’s best throw of 20.05m, finishing behind Chen Chengyu of China who recorded 20.07m.
  • Pooja won the silver medal in the women’s high jump with an indoor national record of 1.87m, sharing the rank with Nadezhda Dubovitskaya of Kazakhstan.
  • Ancy Sojan, who won silver at the Asian Athletics Championships (AAC) last year, claimed the bronze medal in the women’s long jump with a 6.21m leap.
  • J Aadarsh Ram opened India’s medal account at the AIAC 2026 by winning a bronze medal in the men’s high jump event.
  • Tejaswin Shankar also holds the outdoor national records in the decathlon and men’s high jump.
Raksha Khadse announces ASMITA athletics events in 250 districts to mark International Women’s Day (Start of March) ▼
  • ASMITA (Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women) League athletics events will be held on 8 March 2026 in 250 districts.
  • Over two lakh girls will compete in 100m, 200m, and 400m races in Under-13, 13–18, and 18+ age groups.
  • Each venue will have five Technical Officials, ten Volunteers, one Competition Manager, one Past Champion Athlete, and one District Youth Officer.
  • A Women Technical Officials Development Workshop will run alongside referee and timekeeper training aligned with Athletics Federation of India standards.

Lt General Hitesh Bhalla signed MoU with Ladakh administration for wildlife conservation.

[Ladakh]

Key Updates:

  • Lt General Hitesh Bhalla is the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Fire and Fury Corps.
  • The MoU was signed between the Fire and Fury Corps and the Forest, Ecology and Environment Department of Union territory administration.
  • The agreement was signed in the presence of Lt General Hitesh Bhalla and Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra.
  • The MoU was signed on the occasion of World Wildlife Day under the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection (GSLEP) programme.

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Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection (GSLEP) MoU signed for Ladakh wildlife conservation (Start of March) ▼
  • The Indian Army's Fire and Fury Corps and the Ladakh administration signed an MoU under the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection (GSLEP) programme.
  • The MoU was signed on World Wildlife Day in the presence of Lt General Hitesh Bhalla, GOC Fire and Fury Corps, and Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra.
  • The agreement aims to conserve flagship species including the snow leopard, Himalayan wolf, ibex, marmot, black-necked crane and bharal (blue sheep).
  • A joint Snow Leopard Conservation Cell will be established to monitor conservation efforts in the region.
Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan launches Project HANUMAN to curb human-wildlife conflict (Start of March) ▼
  • Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan launched Project HANUMAN (Healing and Nurturing Units for Monitoring, Aid and Nurturing) to tackle human-wildlife conflict in Chittoor and Parvathipuram Manyam districts.
  • The project deploys 100 GPS-enabled vehicles comprising 93 Rapid Response vehicles and 7 Wildlife Ambulances.
  • Four Wildlife Rescue and Treatment Centres are being established under the initiative.
  • Ex-gratia compensation for wildlife attack victims has been raised to Rs. 10 lakhs for deaths and Rs. 2 lakhs for injuries.
  • AI-based early warning systems will be implemented in vulnerable villages.
  • The Central Government enhanced ex-gratia from Rs. 5 lakhs to Rs. 10 lakhs in December 2023 under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes 'Development of Wildlife Habitats' and 'Project Tiger and Elephant'.
  • Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh stated in Lok Sabha that elephants caused 21 human deaths in Andhra Pradesh from 2019 to 2023.
  • The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 was amended in 2022 to rationalise listings of wild animals in Schedules I and II.
  • The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change issued guidelines advising States and Union Territories to utilise provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 for managing human-wildlife conflict situations.
India and Nepal sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation in Environment and Biodiversity Conservation on 26 February 2026 (End of February) ▼
  • The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Forests and Environment of Nepal in New Delhi.
  • The agreement was signed in the presence of India’s Union Minister Bhupender Yadav and Nepal’s Cabinet Minister Madhav Prasad Chaulagain.
  • The MoU aims to promote bilateral cooperation in forests, wildlife, environment, biodiversity conservation, and climate change.
  • The partnership focuses on the restoration of wildlife corridors and interlinking areas to create transboundary conservation landscapes.
  • The cooperation includes formulating biodiversity conservation strategies for key species such as elephant, Gangetic dolphin, rhinoceros, snow leopard, tiger, and vultures.
  • The agreement provides for combating forest and wildlife crime and strengthening the capacity of frontline staff in enforcement agencies.
  • Both nations will collaborate on promoting smart green infrastructure in biodiversity hotspots and exchanging technical expertise.
Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) Republic Day 2026 animal contingent debuts Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies and raptors (End of January) ▼
  • The Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) will for the first time present Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies, Army dogs and four raptors in the 2026 Republic Day parade.
  • Captain Harshita Raghav, one of the first women inducted into the RVC in 2023, will lead the 2026 contingent.
  • Bactrian camels inducted for Ladakh’s cold deserts can carry up to 250 kg and operate above 15,000 ft along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
  • Indigenous Zanskar ponies from Ladakh carry 40-60 kg loads and patrol high-altitude areas including Siachen.
  • Army dogs inducted under the 2023-2025 indigenous breeds drive include Mudhol, Rampur, Chippipara, Kombai and Rajapalayam.
  • The RVC traces its origin to the 1779 Stud Department in Bengal and received the President’s Flag in 1989.

Dr Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi reappointed as Drugs Controller (India) at Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)

[Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)]

Key Updates:

  • The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved his reappointment on a contractual basis for one year from 1 March 2026.
  • The proposal for re-employment was moved by the Department of Health and Family Welfare.
  • He heads the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) which regulates drug quality, approves new drugs and oversees clinical trials.
  • Dr Raghuvanshi earlier served as secretary-cum-scientific director of the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) from 16 February 2021.

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Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) signs three MoUs to strengthen drug safety (Mid of February) ▼
  • The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, signed memoranda of understanding (MoU) with the Goa State Pharmacy Council (GSPC), Quality Council of India (QCI), and HLL Infra Tech Services Limited.
  • The agreements aim to strengthen pharmacovigilance systems, enhance professional competencies, and promote uniform standards for medicine quality and patient safety across India.
  • The MoU with the GSPC focuses on the professional development of pharmacists, promotion of the National Formulary of India, and strengthening adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting mechanisms.
  • The collaboration with the GSPC supports the establishment of ADR Monitoring Centres and enhances systematic reporting and documentation practices across healthcare facilities.
  • The IPC and the QCI will collaborate on quality promotion, public health awareness, and capacity building through joint training and awareness programmes in pharmacovigilance.
  • Harsh Mangla, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, emphasised that the MoUs must translate into the achievement of objectives to improve primary and secondary healthcare.
Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor appointed Director General of Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) (End of January) ▼
  • Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor, former Haryana Director General of Police, was appointed as Director General of Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
  • Praveen Kumar, a 1993-batch IPS officer of West Bengal cadre and then DG of ITBP, was appointed as Director General of Border Security Force (BSF).
  • Rakesh Aggarwal, a 1994-batch IPS officer and then Special DG of National Investigation Agency (NIA), was appointed as Director General of NIA.
India and Liberia sign MoU to boost cooperation on medicine quality standards (Mid of December) ▼
  • India and Liberia signed an MoU to strengthen cooperation in the field of pharmacopoeia.
  • The agreement was signed by India's Ambassador to Liberia, Manoj Bihari Verma, and Liberia's Health Minister, Louise M. Kpoto.
  • The MoU enables Liberia to adopt the Indian Pharmacopoeia as a reference for medicine quality standards.
  • The agreement aims to promote shared quality standards and regulatory alignment between the two countries.
J P Nadda released 10th edition of Indian Pharmacopoeia (Start of January) ▼
  • J P Nadda, Union Health Minister, released the 10th edition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia at Dr Ambedkar International Centre.
  • The Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026 incorporates 121 new monographs, raising the total to 3,340 monographs.
  • The compendium is recognised in 19 countries of the Global South.
  • India improved its rank from 123rd during 2009-2014 to 8th in 2025 in contributions to WHO's pharmacovigilance database.
  • The 10th edition includes, for the first time, 20 blood component monographs for transfusion medicine.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data shows forex reserves jump $4.885 billion to record $728.494 billion

[Reserve Bank of India (RBI)]

Key Updates:

  • India’s foreign exchange reserves rose $4.885 billion to an all-time high of $728.494 billion in the week ended 27 February 2026.
  • Foreign currency assets, the largest component, increased $561 million to $573.125 billion during the same week.
  • Gold reserves surged $4.141 billion to $131.630 billion, according to RBI data.
  • Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) grew $26 million to $18.87 billion.
  • India’s reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) climbed $158 million to $4.87 billion.

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Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Records India's Forex Reserves Drop to $723.61 Billion (Start of March) ▼
  • India's Foreign Exchange (Forex) reserves decreased by $2.119 billion to stand at $723.608 billion for the week ending 20 February 2026.
  • The reserves had reached an all-time high of $725.727 billion in the preceding reporting week following an increase of $8.663 billion.
  • The Indian Steel Association (ISA) reported that India could achieve a 28% reduction in carbon emissions within the steel industry by utilizing scrap.
  • Warner Bros signed a $110 billion deal with Paramount after Netflix withdrew its competing bid.
  • Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) acquired assets from Macquarie AirFinance for a total value of $7 billion.
  • Sri Lanka's construction Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rose to a level of 75 during the month of January.
  • Pakistan's central bank recorded a $16 million increase in its foreign exchange reserves.
  • Russia's recoverable oil reserves are currently estimated at 31 billion tons.
  • China has abolished the risk reserve requirement ratio for forward foreign exchange sales.
  • Metal Park has entered into a partnership with Frindt to digitise laser cutting operations.
  • Kametstal paid approximately UAH 2 billion in taxes during the year 2025.
  • Murat Ateş was appointed as the Deputy General Manager of Operations at Acarlar Vagon.
  • The level of gas reserves at the Inchukalna underground storage facility has fallen below 20%.
  • Shanxi Gaoyi Steel successfully completed the hot commissioning test for its 1200mm full continuous wide strip rolling line.
  • The Slovak prime minister stated that Ukraine has no interest in resuming oil transit through the Druzhba pipeline.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reports India’s current account deficit moderates to $30.1 billion (Start of March) ▼
  • India’s current account deficit moderated to $30.1 billion (1% of GDP) in April-December 2025 from $36.6 billion in the same period a year ago.
  • Net foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow rose to $3 billion in April-December 2025, up from $0.6 billion a year ago.
  • Foreign portfolio investment (FPI) recorded net outflows of $4.3 billion in April-December 2025 against net inflows of $9.4 billion a year ago.
  • Foreign exchange reserves depleted by $30.8 billion on Balance of Payments basis in April-December 2025, compared with a depletion of $13.8 billion a year ago.
  • Services exports increased annually in major categories such as computer services and other business services.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) records India's forex reserves at $725.73 billion after $8.66 billion weekly rise. (End of February) ▼
  • India's foreign exchange reserves rose by $8.66 billion to a record $725.73 billion in the week ended 13 February 2026.
  • Foreign currency assets increased by $3.55 billion to $573.60 billion during the week.
  • Gold reserves surged by $4.99 billion to $128.47 billion on higher international gold prices.
  • Special Drawing Rights rose by $0.10 billion to $18.92 billion.
  • India's reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) increased by $0.02 billion to $4.73 billion.
  • The latest reserve level surpassed the previous peak of $723.77 billion recorded in January 2026.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Forex Reserves Reach Record High of $709.4 Billion (Start of February) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported that India’s foreign exchange reserves reached a record high of $709.4 billion for the week ended 23 January 2026.
  • The total reserves increased by $8.05 billion during the reporting week, comprising a $5.6 billion rise in gold reserves and a $2.37 billion increase in foreign currency assets.
  • Gold prices surged by 8.5% to reach $4,987 per ounce during the week, which significantly contributed to the growth in reserves.
  • The previous record for forex reserves was $704.89 billion, which was established in September 2024.
  • The reserves were also supported by the settlement of a matured Non-Deliverable Forward (NDF) position worth approximately $3 billion in the Over-the-Counter (OTC) market on 16 January 2026.
  • The Indian rupee closed at a record low of 91.99 against the US dollar on 30 January 2026 due to trade uncertainties and persistent capital outflows.

Pondicherry University and Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) sign MoU to advance disability rights

Key Updates:

  • Pondicherry University signed a memorandum of understanding with the office of the chief commissioner for persons with disabilities (CCPD), under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
  • The MoU aims to advance accessibility and inclusion for persons with disabilities through joint initiatives in research, internships, academic exchanges, conferences, and related scholarly activities.
  • The partnership will create structured avenues for students and scholars of Pondicherry University to engage with the CCPD through practical exposure and academic contributions.

Similar Coverage

Maharashtra launches Divyang Sahayak Portal for paperless disability scheme access (Start of March) ▼
  • Maharashtra government launched the country’s first integrated Divyang Sahayak Portal to streamline welfare schemes for persons with disabilities.
  • The portal enables online applications, real-time tracking and automatic approvals without physical documents.
  • It integrates with Unique Disability ID, Aadhaar through Meri Pehchan and Direct Benefit Transfer platform; integration with PAN, TAN, GST, bank details, e-Sign, UDISE and RBSK is underway.
  • Artificial intelligence tools scan uploaded documents for clarity and allocate grievances to the appropriate desk.
  • The portal is structured into 11 modules; the first four—unified scheme delivery, institution information management, citizen grievance redressal and department dashboard—are ready to go live.
  • A mobile application has been created and submitted to the Government of India for listing on its app store.
Thanya Nathan C. set to become first visually challenged woman judge in Kerala. (Mid of February) ▼
  • Thanya Nathan C. ranked first on the merit list of persons with benchmark disabilities in the Kerala Judicial Service examination for Civil Judges (Junior Division).
  • Joyson Sajan, who has cerebral palsy, secured the second rank in the same list.
  • A 2025 Supreme Court Bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan ruled that visually impaired candidates are eligible for judicial service posts.
  • The Kerala High Court has completed selection and forwarded the list to the State government for appointment letter issuance.
  • Ms. Nathan, 24, had earlier secured first rank in her LLB examination from Kannur University.
  • She began legal practice as a junior to K.G. Sunilkumar at Taliparamba in Kannur district.
Union Budget 2026: Centre Announces Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana and Divyang Sahara Yojana (Start of February) ▼
  • Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed supporting the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) to scale up the production of assistive devices.
  • The Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana aims to promote artificial limb manufacturing through Artificial Intelligence (AI) interventions.
  • Under the Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana, differently-abled individuals will receive industry-relevant training and access to customised assistive products.
  • The Divyang Sahara Yojana will support ALIMCO in increasing production and investing in AI integration and Research and Development (R&D).
  • The government plans to strengthen PM Divyasha Kendras and establish Assistive Technology Marts to provide easy access to assistive devices.
MoES-Puducherry MoU to boost Blue Economy and marine research (Mid of February) ▼
  • The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Government of Puducherry, signed an MoU to strengthen marine research, coastal resilience and Blue Economy initiatives in the Union Territory.
  • The MoU outlines cooperation across six strategic pillars: sustainable marine fisheries, offshore wind energy, desalination technologies, ocean climate advisory and real-time monitoring, permanent coastal management, and marine spatial planning.
  • The agreement will remain in effect for five years and includes designated Nodal Officers, Joint Working Groups, and annual progress reviews.

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) removes 1.2 lakh misleading finfluencer posts using AI tool Sudarshan

[Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)]

Key Updates:

  • Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has removed more than 1.2 lakh misleading social media posts by unregistered financial influencers.
  • SEBI’s in-house AI tool 'Sudarshan' tracks multilingual audio, video, and other content to detect violations.
  • SEBI norms mandate that only entities registered with SEBI can give investment advice.
  • SEBI introduced a pop-up warning that 9 out of 10 investors lose money in options trading.
  • Union Budget raised Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on futures to 0.05% from 0.02% and on options premium to 0.15% from 0.1%.

Similar Coverage

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) launches PaRRVA to validate intermediary return claims. (Start of December) ▼
  • SEBI introduces PaRRVA, an independent verification mechanism for historical performance claims of Investment Advisors and Research Analysts.
  • PaRRVA is launched in partnership with the National Stock Exchange of India and CAREEdge Ratings.
  • Current regulations prohibit SEBI-registered intermediaries from showcasing past performance, even when legitimate.
  • SEBI’s investor survey shows only 36 per cent of investors possess adequate market knowledge.
  • PaRRVA positions India as the first country to establish an independent agency for validating return claims, setting a global benchmark.
Sarvam AI launches Sarvam Startup Program to support AI builders in India (Start of March) ▼
  • Sarvam AI announced the Sarvam Startup Program on 5 March 2026 to help early-stage companies build AI-powered products using its models and infrastructure.
  • Selected startups receive six to twelve months of API credits scaled to their usage requirements.
  • Participants gain access to Sarvam’s Speech-to-Text, Text-to-Speech, Translation, Chat Completion, and Document Intelligence APIs.
  • The platform supports more than 22 Indian languages alongside English.
  • Startups receive direct engineering support, co-branded case study opportunities, and launch amplification.
  • Applications are open through Sarvam’s website.
  • Sarvam AI was founded by Vivek Raghavan and Pratyush Kumar.
Sarvam partners with SBI Life Insurance to deploy Artificial Intelligence tools (Start of March) ▼
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) startup Sarvam partnered with SBI Life Insurance (SBI Life) to build applications for customer engagement and sales.
  • The AI deployment is expected to reach more than 8 crore customers and support over 3,50,000 distributors nationwide.
  • The system is built on Sarvam’s conversational AI platform Samvaad and its multi-agent orchestration platform Arya.
  • Sarvam launched two flagship language models, Sarvam-30B and Sarvam-105B, during the India AI Impact Summit.
  • AI startup Gnani.ai partnered with Razorpay to launch an agentic AI platform for payment collections during live customer calls.
  • Gnani.ai introduced a voice model that supports 12 Indian languages and is designed to operate under low-bandwidth conditions.
SAHI and BODH initiatives launched to integrate ethical AI into India’s health system (Mid of February) ▼
  • Union Health Minister JP Nadda launched the Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare for India (SAHI) and the Benchmarking Open Data Platform for Health AI (BODH) at Bharat Mandapam during the India AI Impact Summit 2026 Day 2.
  • SAHI serves as a national guideline for responsible AI adoption in healthcare, covering governance, data management, validation and monitoring of AI tools.
  • BODH was developed by IIT Kanpur in collaboration with the National Health Authority (NHA) and operates under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission to evaluate and benchmark AI models using privacy-preserving techniques.
  • The summit features over 20 Heads of State, 60 ministers and hundreds of global AI experts, with an AI Expo hosting 300+ exhibition pavilions and 600+ startups across 70,000 square metres at Bharat Mandapam.
  • Organisers expect more than 2.5 lakh visitors during the five-day event.

Motilal Oswal Home Finance signs USD 100 million debt deal with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for women-focused, affordable, green housing.

[Motilal Oswal Home Finance, Asian Development Bank (ADB)]

Key Updates:

  • Motilal Oswal Home Finance will raise USD 100 million in rupee-equivalent non-convertible debentures from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
  • Part of the funds will provide affordable housing loans to women borrowers.
  • Ten per cent of the proceeds will finance residential units that meet recognised green building certification standards.
  • Women currently account for only 13 per cent of homeowners according to ADB.
  • During the first nine months of FY26 Motilal Oswal Home Finance disbursed Rs 1,303 crore.
  • Gross NPA stood at 1.43 per cent as of December 2025.

Similar Coverage

Asian Development Bank (ADB) approves $300 million loan to IIFL Home Finance for women-focused affordable housing. (Start of March) ▼
  • IIFL Home Finance Limited signed a $300 million loan agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB).
  • The loan targets women in low-income communities in peri-urban and urban areas and lagging states of India.
  • Over 25% of the loan proceeds are earmarked for green-certified affordable homes.
  • The financing package includes $150 million from ADB and $150 million in parallel loans from MUFG, Emirates Bank, Sampath Bank, and Hatton National Bank.
  • This marks IIFL Home Finance’s first syndicated external commercial borrowing.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) signs USD 108 million debt financing with Aavas Financiers (End of February) ▼
  • The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a senior secured debt financing package of up to USD 108 million (approximately ₹983 crore) with Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) Aavas Financiers.
  • The package includes USD 8 million in concessional debt financing through the Canadian Climate and Nature Fund for the Private Sector in Asia (CANPA).
  • The financing aims to expand access to affordable housing loans for lower-income households and business loans for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in underserved Indian states.
  • Under the agreement, at least 70 per cent of the ADB debt financing is earmarked for housing loans for lower-income borrowers.
  • A minimum of 50 per cent of the housing loans will be allocated to women property owners as sole or joint owners.
  • The remaining 30 per cent of the total financing will be onlent to MSMEs to support entrepreneurship and job creation.
  • The transaction includes up to USD 1,50,000 in technical assistance to build institutional capacity and boost market awareness of green housing solutions.
  • CANPA is a trust fund managed by ADB, established in 2024 with a commitment of 360 million Canadian dollars from the Canadian government.
Urban Challenge Fund approved with Rs 1 lakh crore Central assistance (Mid of February) ▼
  • Union Cabinet approved Rs 1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund to support urban infrastructure projects over five years.
  • Cities must raise at least 50% of project cost from market through municipal bonds, bank loans, and public-private partnerships.
  • Fund provides 25% Central assistance for projects where 50% cost is market-raised, covering projects worth Rs 4 lakh crore.
  • Operational period is 2025-26 to 2030-31, extendable up to 2033-34.
  • Projects identified via challenge-based framework covering urban mobility, water supply, sewerage, and legacy infrastructure retrofitting.
  • Credit repayment guarantee scheme of Rs 5,000 crore approved for north-east/hilly states and cities below 1 lakh population, offering Central guarantee up to Rs 7 crore or 70% of loan amount for first-time borrowers.
  • Administrative control of projects remains with state governments and urban local bodies.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) approves USD 448 million for Chennai Metro, Mizoram Healthcare, and Women-led MSME Finance. (Mid of December) ▼
  • ADB approved USD 240 million as the second tranche under the USD 780 million facility sanctioned in 2022 for Chennai Metro Expansion Phase 2.
  • Chennai Metro Phase 2 spans 118.9 km across Lines 3 (45.8 km), 4 (26.1 km), and 5 (47 km).
  • ADB sanctioned USD 108 million results-based loan to strengthen Mizoram’s public healthcare through the Mizoram Universal Health Care Scheme (MUHCS) offering Rs 5 lakh per family annually.
  • ADB provided USD 100 million to Five-Star Business Finance Limited for MSME credit access to over 400,000 women borrowers via 700+ branches.

Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH (DEG) and Citi provide USD 76-million co-financing package to Shriram Finance Ltd.

[Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH (DEG), Citi, Shriram Finance Ltd.]

Key Updates:

  • DEG (Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH) and Citi jointly announced a USD 76 million co-financing package to Shriram Finance Ltd on 4 March 2026.
  • DEG extended a 40 million euro loan, equivalent to around USD 46 million, to Shriram Finance Ltd.
  • Citi provided a Rs 260 crore loan and acted as lead arranger and coordinator for the financing.
  • The funding targets MSMEs, electric vehicle financing, women borrowers, underserved customers, and smallholder farmers across India.
  • This marks the second collaboration between DEG and Citi after their 2024 co-financing support to CreditAccess Grameen.

Similar Coverage

India and Germany to unveil defence and security roadmap during Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s first bilateral visit to India (Mid of January) ▼
  • India and Germany will unveil a defence and security roadmap that will strengthen the defence manufacturing network base in India.
  • German technology for India’s defence preparedness will be part of the bilateral conversation.
  • Chancellor Merz is accompanied by a 25-member delegation of CEOs, including top executives of a leading submarine manufacturer, signalling strong defence ties on the agenda.
Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) guarantees $197.67 million to Citibank N.A. for SBI rooftop solar refinancing. (End of February) ▼
  • Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) issued a five-year guarantee of $197.67 million to Citibank N.A. for its loan to State Bank of India (SBI).
  • The guarantee supports refinancing of a $500 million World Bank facility for grid-connected rooftop solar photovoltaic systems for commercial and industrial users across India.
  • SBI launched the programme in 2016 with World Bank financing and technical assistance and has achieved 1,004 MW of rooftop solar installations.
  • Citibank acted as sole lender and coordinator, building on a 2024 collaboration.
  • The refinancing is expected to reduce borrowing costs and diversify funding sources while shifting loan exposure to commercial lenders.
  • SBI must allocate 7.5% of domestic advances to green financing as India requires $160 billion to $300 billion annually to reach net zero by 2070.
State Bank of India (SBI) signs €150-million credit line with KfW for green energy projects (Mid of December) ▼
  • State Bank of India (SBI) will sign a €150 million credit line with KfW, the German development bank, for financing climate-friendly energy generation projects.
  • The agreement is scheduled to be signed on December 16, 2025, at the KfW headquarters in Frankfurt.
  • SBI reported a 3% year-on-year increase in Net Interest Income (NII) to ₹42,985 crore for the quarter ended September.
  • The net profit of SBI for the September quarter increased by 10% year-on-year to ₹20,160 crore.
  • The shares of SBI have gained 21.91% in the past six months and 21.8% in the year so far.
Shriram Finance board approves ₹39,617 Cr preferential issue to MUFG Bank for 20% stake (End of December) ▼
  • Shriram Finance will issue 47.11 crore equity shares at ₹840.93 apiece to Japan’s MUFG Bank.
  • MUFG Bank will hold a 20% minority stake in Shriram Finance on a fully diluted basis.
  • The deal requires approvals from shareholders and regulators including the Reserve Bank of India and the Competition Commission of India.
  • An extraordinary general meeting is scheduled on January 14, 2026, to seek shareholder approval for the preferential issue.
  • MUFG will be classified as a public shareholder upon completion of the transaction.
  • MUFG will pay a one-time non-compete and non-solicitation fee of $200 million to Shriram Ownership Trust.
  • Shriram Finance shares rose 2.62% to ₹892.70 apiece on the BSE after the announcement.

Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves Central Bank of India’s acquisition of additional stake in GCICL and GCLICL

[Competition Commission of India (CCI), Central Bank of India]

Key Updates:

  • Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved Central Bank of India’s acquisition of 1.09% additional equity in Generali Central Insurance Company (GCICL) and 0.82% additional equity in Generali Central Life Insurance Company (GCLICL) on 03 March 2026.
  • Post-acquisition, Central Bank of India’s shareholding in GCICL will rise from 24.91% to 26%.
  • Post-acquisition, Central Bank of India’s shareholding in GCLICL will rise from 25.18% to 26%.

Similar Coverage

Central Bank of India (CBI) partners with HSBC Asset Management India (HSBC AMC) to distribute mutual fund products (Start of February) ▼
  • Central Bank of India (CBI) has entered into a distributorship agreement with HSBC Asset Management India Pvt Ltd (HSBC AMC) to offer mutual fund products to its customers.
  • HSBC AMC, which acquired the L&T Investment Management business in November 2022, recorded a daily average Assets Under Management (AUM) of ₹1.39 lakh crore in December 2025.
  • CBI reported a 31.6% year-on-year increase in net profit to ₹1,262 crore for the December quarter.
  • The net interest income of CBI for the December quarter stood at ₹3,503 crore, reflecting a 1% decline compared to the previous year.
  • The asset quality of CBI improved during the quarter, with Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) declining to 2.7% and Net NPAs easing to 0.45%.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) permits ICICI Bank to acquire up to 9.95% stake in eight lenders (Mid of February) ▼
  • The RBI has approved the application for ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company Limited (ICICI Prudential AMC), along with group entities of ICICI Bank, to acquire an aggregate holding of up to 9.95% in eight banks.
  • The lenders covered under the approval are Bandhan Bank Limited, City Union Bank Limited, Equitas Small Finance Bank Limited, Federal Bank Limited, IDFC First Bank Limited, HDFC Bank Limited, The Karur Vysya Bank Limited, and RBL Bank Limited.
  • ICICI Bank, the second-largest private sector lender in India, must complete the acquisition of paid-up equity capital or voting rights within one year from the date of the RBI letter.
  • The permissions were granted under the consolidated Master Direction on acquisition and holding of shares or voting rights in banking companies.
Union Cabinet Clears Bill Allowing 100 Per Cent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Insurance Sector (Mid of December) ▼
  • The Union Cabinet approved a bill to raise Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the insurance sector to 100 per cent.
  • The proposed legislation is the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
  • Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the proposal in the Union Budget this year.
  • The insurance sector has attracted around Rs 82,000 crore in foreign investment.
  • The bill proposes amendments to the Insurance Act, 1938, allowing up to 100 per cent FDI.
  • It permits mergers between insurance and non-insurance companies.
  • The bill creates a dedicated policyholders’ fund.
  • A requirement mandates that at least one key management position, such as chairman, managing director or CEO, must be held by an Indian citizen.
  • Existing net worth requirements for insurers will remain unchanged.
  • Amendments are also proposed to the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) Act, 1956.
  • Changes to the LIC Act would empower its board to take operational decisions such as branch expansion and recruitment.
  • Amendments are also proposed to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) Act, 1999.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approves HDFC Bank group entities to acquire up to 9.5% stake in IndusInd Bank. (Mid of December) ▼
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted approval through a letter dated December 15 for HDFC Bank and its group entities to hold up to 9.50% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights of IndusInd Bank.
  • The approval remains valid for one year until December 14, 2026.
  • Aggregate holding covers HDFC Bank and group entities including HDFC Mutual Fund, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Pension Fund Management Limited, and HDFC Securities Limited.
  • HDFC Bank stated it does not intend to invest directly in IndusInd Bank.
  • The application for raising the investment limit was submitted on October 24, 2025, after combined holdings of group entities were expected to exceed the previous 5% threshold.

Karnataka HC directs inclusion of left-out Kappatagudda Reserve Forest in Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary

[Karnataka High Court]

Key Updates:

  • Karnataka High Court Division Bench of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C M Poonacha dismissed petitions by Shivaganga Stone Crushing Industries and others.
  • Court ordered state government to notify inclusion of remaining Kappatagudda Reserve Forest areas into Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary as per 9 January 2019 resolution of Karnataka State Board for Wildlife.
  • 11th meeting of Karnataka State Board for Wildlife on 9 January 2019 had resolved to declare entire 300 sq km of reserve forest as sanctuary.
  • State’s 16 May 2019 notification declared only 244.15 sq km (24,415.73 hectares) in Gadag, Mundaragi and Shirahatti taluks as sanctuary, leaving out about 55 sq km.
  • Petitioners’ stone crushing units fall within Eco-Sensitive Zone notified on 4 June 2025 and cannot operate.
  • Court clarified state may later alter sanctuary boundaries to exclude any part of the left-out reserve forest, provided it follows due legal process.

Similar Coverage

India adds Patna Bird Sanctuary and Chhari-Dhand as new Ramsar sites, tally reaches 98 (Start of February) ▼
  • Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah district, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch district, Gujarat, were designated as Ramsar wetlands of international importance on 1 February 2026.
  • India became a signatory to the Ramsar Convention in 1982 and now has 98 Ramsar sites.
  • Chhari-Dhand is a seasonal saline wetland between the Banni grasslands and Kutch salt flats that supports about 30,000 common cranes and critically endangered sociable lapwings each winter.
  • Patna Bird Sanctuary comprises freshwater marshes, woodlands and grasslands, records 178 bird species and 252 plant species, and is recognised as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area by BirdLife International.
  • Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav stated the sites are also home to chinkara, wolves, caracal, desert cats and desert foxes besides endangered birds.
National Green Tribunal (NGT) Directs Reconsideration of Quarry Project Near Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary (Start of March) ▼
  • The National Green Tribunal (NGT) set aside the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA), Tamil Nadu's order rejecting a stone and gravel quarry proposal near the Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary.
  • The proposed quarry project is spread over 6.02.5 hectares in Padmanabamangalam village, Srivaikundam taluk, Thoothukudi district.
  • The Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of the blackbuck (Indian antelope), which is a protected species under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.
  • The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has notified the blackbuck as a scheduled species that requires open grasslands with intermittent bushes for its habitat.
  • According to the District Forest Officer (DFO), Thoothukudi, the proposed quarry site is located 1.92 km from the sanctuary and 1.44 km from its Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ).
  • The NGT bench, comprising Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana and Dr Prashant Gargava, directed the SEIAA to reconsider the proposal within six weeks and impose appropriate protective conditions for wildlife.
  • Research papers cited by the State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) indicate that blackbucks are timid animals that can move up to 5 km from the sanctuary for grazing.
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary Eco-Sensitive Zone Notification (End of January) ▼
  • The Centre has declared the biodiversity-rich area, ranging from zero to one kilometre around Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary, located in one of the most fragile ecosystems of the Aravali range in Rajasthan, as an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ).
  • The move will prohibit environmentally hazardous human activities within the earmarked zone of 243 sq km.
  • Prohibited activities within the ESZ include commercial mining, stone quarrying and crushing units; setting up of industries causing water, air, soil and noise pollution; setting up of brick kilns; and erection of new wind mills among others.
  • New construction of hotels and resorts shall not be allowed within one km from the boundary of the protected area or up to the extent of the eco-sensitive zone, whichever is nearer.
  • Forests, horticulture areas, agricultural areas, parks and open spaces earmarked for recreational purposes in the zone will not be used or converted into areas for major commercial or residential or industrial activities.
Government declares Parvati-Arga Bird Sanctuary as Eco-Sensitive Zone (End of December) ▼
  • The Government has declared the Parvati-Arga Bird Sanctuary of Uttar Pradesh as an Eco sensitive zone.
  • Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, said that through this initiative, the government is working to develop it as a responsible ecotourism destination and strengthen its biodiversity.
  • The sanctuary, spread across one thousand 84 hectares, welcomes migratory birds from Central Asia and Tibet.

Janaushadhi Saptah 2026: Nationwide Health Check-Ups Launched

Key Updates:

  • Janaushadhi Saptah 2026 began today with health check-up camps across the country to raise awareness about affordable and quality generic medicines.
  • The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers (MoCF) stated that the week-long celebrations will culminate in the 8th Janaushadhi Diwas.
  • The Department of Pharmaceuticals is organising health check-up camps at over 250 locations nationwide until the 5th of this month.
  • On the first day, health camps were held at approximately 50 locations offering general health check-ups, free blood tests, blood pressure, and thyroid tests.
  • Free distribution of Janaushadhi medicines, physiotherapy consultations, eye check-ups, and child health initiatives were also organised at several centers.
  • Special attention was given to women and senior citizens at the camps.
  • Over 18,000 Janaushadhi Kendras are operating across the country under the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
  • The government targets expanding the network to 25,000 Kendras by 2027.

Similar Coverage

Ramakrishna Paramahansa Jayanti celebrated on 19 February 2026 (Mid of February) ▼
  • Ramakrishna Paramahansa Jayanti falls on 19 February 2026.
  • Dwitiya Tithi begins at 04:57 PM on 18 February 2026 and ends at 03:58 PM on 19 February 2026.
  • The day marks the 190th birth anniversary of Ramakrishna Paramahansa.
  • Ramakrishna was born on dwitiya tithi of shukla paksha in the month of Phalguna, Vikram Samvat 1892.
  • He was a 19th-century spiritual leader who practised Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam.
  • His guru was Bhairavi Brahmani, a tantric teacher.
  • He guided Swami Vivekananda and established the Ramakrishna Mission.
World Hindi Day 2026 observed on January 10 (Start of January) ▼
  • World Hindi Day 2026 will be observed on January 10.
  • The date marks the anniversary of the first World Hindi Conference, held in Nagpur in 1975.
  • World Hindi Day is officially observed by the Government of India, mainly through Indian embassies and missions overseas.
  • Hindi Diwas is observed on September 14 and marks the adoption of Hindi in the Devanagari script as an official language of India in 1949.
Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) organises month-long tribal cultural heritage events from 2 to 24 March 2026 (Start of March) ▼
  • Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) will host Tribal Art Fest, Tribal Music Fest, Bharat Tribes Fest, and Tribal Business Conclave between 2 and 24 March 2026.
  • Nearly 1,000 participants from all States are expected to join the Tribal Art Fest.
  • Minister Jual Oram launched official logos for Tribal Art Fest, Living Roots: Soundscapes of Tribal India, and Bharat Tribes Fest 2026.

Indonesia to ban social media and other online platforms for under 16s from 28 March

[Indonesia]

Key Updates:

  • Indonesia will deactivate accounts for under 16s on high-risk platforms starting 28 March.
  • Initial platforms covered include YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox.
  • Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid said Indonesia will be the first non-Western country to delay children's access to digital spaces by age.
  • Unicef reported in 2023 that roughly half of 510 Indonesian children surveyed had been exposed to sexual images on social media.
  • Australia began enforcing a social media ban for under 16s in December, with Spain and the UK considering similar measures.

Similar Coverage

Karnataka Social Media Ban Policy and ₹4,48,004 Crore State Budget Outlay (Start of March) ▼
  • The Karnataka government proposed a ban on social media usage for children under the age of 16 in the tech-state to address digital addiction and online safety concerns.
  • Chief Minister (CM) Siddaramaiah announced the proposal during the presentation of his 17th state budget in Bengaluru.
  • The Karnataka government proposed a total budget outlay of ₹4,48,004 crore for the state's growth and development.
  • The budget highlights include a focus on flood relief and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
  • The ban aims to prevent the adverse effects of increasing mobile phone usage and negative impacts on minors.
  • Karnataka Information Technology (IT) Minister Priyanka Kharge indicated that the state is exploring restrictions on social media access for children.
  • The Andhra Pradesh government is considering a ban on mobile phone usage in schools, while Goa is examining restrictions for children below 16 years.
Russia blocks WhatsApp, promotes state-backed MAX messenger amid wider digital clampdown (Mid of February) ▼
  • Russia has blocked WhatsApp for alleged legal breaches, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.
  • Peskov attributed the ban to WhatsApp’s reluctance to comply with Russian law.
  • Users are urged to switch to MAX, a state-backed platform offering messaging, e-government services and payments.
  • MAX openly declares it will share user data with authorities and lacks end-to-end encryption, unlike WhatsApp.
  • Since December, many Russians access WhatsApp only via VPN, Reuters reported.
  • Russia had already limited WhatsApp and Telegram calls last year, accusing them of withholding information from fraud and terrorism probes.
  • State regulator Roskomnadzor announced fresh restrictions on Telegram this week for similar legal non-compliance.
  • Russia has also blocked Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and imposed curbs on Apple’s FaceTime and YouTube services.
Karnataka government mulls social media and mobile phone ban for children under 16 (End of February) ▼
  • Chief Minister Siddaramaiah sought views from vice chancellors on banning social media and mobile phones for children below 16 years during an interaction at the Karnataka State Higher Education Council.
  • The proposal cites Australia and other Western countries that have implemented similar bans to curb gadget overuse affecting learning, behaviour, and mental health.
  • Some vice chancellors noted that elite private schools assign homework via mobile phones, while the CM emphasised protecting government school students from being misled.
  • IT Minister Priyanka Kharge had earlier stated in the Assembly that the government is considering a ban on social media for minors.
Spain announces social media ban for children under 16 at World Government Summit (Start of February) ▼
  • Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced a ban on social media platforms for children under the age of 16 at the World Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai.
  • The Spanish government will require platforms to implement age verification systems and introduce a bill to hold social media executives accountable for illegal and hateful content.
  • Australia implemented a world-first social media ban for children under 16 on 10 December, leading to the removal of approximately 4.7 million accounts.
  • French lawmakers approved a bill banning social media for children under 15, which is scheduled for discussion in the Senate.
  • The United Kingdom (UK) and Denmark are also considering legislative measures to restrict social media access for children.

AI Robot ‘G-SPIDER’ Deployed in Thiruvananthapuram for Canal Cleaning

[Thiruvananthapuram]

Key Updates:

  • The Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation has deployed G-SPIDER, an AI-powered robotic canal-cleaning system, under the Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban 2.0.
  • G-SPIDER was developed by Genrobotic Innovations, a Technopark-based startup.
  • The robot operates on Cable-Driven Parallel Robotics (CDPR) architecture and integrates AI-enabled vision systems and sensor intelligence.
  • It uses a five-degrees-of-freedom robotic mechanism with a biomimetic claw-type grabber to extract mixed debris.
  • The system enables fully automated waste detection, collection, and transfer into designated collection vehicles without human entry.
  • The deployment site is the Amayizhanchan canal near Thampanoor Railway Station, identified as a high-risk drainage stretch.
  • Kerala’s Minister for Local Self-Governments, Shri M. B. Rajesh, commissioned the robotic system to overcome operational challenges in the canal.
  • The initiative aims to eliminate manual scavenging and reduce sanitation workers’ exposure to toxic gases, contaminated water, and hazardous waste.
  • Regular robotic cleaning is expected to improve drainage efficiency and strengthen urban flood prevention measures.

Similar Coverage

Addverb unveils Made-in-India wheeled humanoid Elixis-W at LogiMAT India 2026 (Start of February) ▼
  • Addverb launched Elixis-W, a Made-in-India wheeled humanoid for industrial use, at LogiMAT India 2026 held at BEC, Mumbai.
  • Elixis-W integrates cognition, mobility, and dexterity to operate autonomously in unstructured environments and collaborate safely with humans.
  • The company also showcased Cruiser 360, a 4-Way Pallet Shuttle for high-density multi-directional pallet movement, and FlowT, an Autonomous Forklift for flexible material handling.
  • Quadruped robot Trakr was demonstrated, highlighting its navigation intelligence and safe human-robot interaction.
Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt. Ltd to build world’s first autonomous maritime shipyard in Andhra Pradesh (Mid of December) ▼
  • Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt. Ltd has been allotted 29.58 acres of land at the Juvvaladinne Fishing Harbour in Bogolu Mandal, SPSR Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh, for setting up the world’s first autonomous maritime shipyard and systems centre.
  • The facility is envisioned as a pioneering hub that will accelerate innovation, reshape industrial practices, and set new international benchmarks in autonomous maritime technology.
  • The integrated R&D and testing ecosystem is poised to benefit sectors such as logistics, fisheries, disaster response, and port operations.
  • A dedicated Maritime Test Centre within the project will support end-to-end autonomous system research, development, prototyping, and validation.
Tamil Nadu and Sarvam AI sign Rs 10,000 crore pact to build India’s first Sovereign AI Park (Mid of January) ▼
  • The Tamil Nadu government has signed an agreement with Sarvam AI to establish a full-stack Sovereign AI Park with an initial investment of Rs 10,000 crore.
  • The park will generate 1,000 high-skilled, deep-tech jobs and integrate AI compute infrastructure, secure data frameworks, model research labs and AI innovation clusters.
  • Data, models and compute will remain within the state’s trust boundary, ensuring a sovereign, ethical and inclusive ecosystem for deployment of AI systems.
  • The initiative will develop foundational Tamil-first AI models linking classical vocabulary with modern use-cases, ensuring inclusive, accurate and locally rooted AI systems.
Bharat Forge (BF) Inks MoU with Agile Robots (AR) for AI-Led Industrial Automation (Mid of January) ▼
  • Pune-based Bharat Forge (BF) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Germany-headquartered Agile Robots (AR) to explore a strategic collaboration in artificial intelligence-driven robotics and industrial automation.
  • The partnership will focus on co-developing intelligent automation and robotic solutions for civilian manufacturing applications, including automotive, consumer electronics, healthcare, industrial goods and logistics.
  • The two companies plan to jointly develop and deploy vision- and AI-based robotic systems, including solutions that support highly autonomous manufacturing environments, often referred to as “dark factories”.
  • The collaboration is aimed at India and Southeast Asia markets and will not extend to defence-related applications.
  • BF will contribute its manufacturing and sectoral expertise, while AR will bring its capabilities in AI-enabled robotics and automation.

Two new freshwater fish species discovered in Nagaland's Mokokchung district.

[Nagaland]

Key Updates:

  • Glyptothorax sentimereni and Oreichthys elianae were identified during ichthyological surveys in Mokokchung district.
  • The discoveries were described in the international scientific journal Zootaxa.
  • The study was led by J. Praveenraj of ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI) and independent researcher Balaji Vijayakrishnan.
  • Glyptothorax sentimereni was found in the rocky stretches of the Dikhu River and belongs to torrent-dwelling catfishes adapted to fast-flowing mountain streams.
  • Oreichthys elianae, measuring just over 2.5 cm, was discovered in a tributary of the Tsurang River and features bright red fins with a prominent black blotch at the tail base.
  • The species were named after the son and daughter of the late Lt. Limaakum, an assistant professor at Fazl Ali College, to honour his final wish.

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International team discovers new blind aquifer-dwelling fish species Gitchak nakana in Assam well (Start of March) ▼
  • An international team of fish taxonomists from Germany, India and Switzerland described the new genus and species Gitchak nakana from a dug-out well in an Assam village.
  • Gitchak nakana is the first aquifer-dwelling fish species recorded from Northeast India and the eastern Himalayan landscape.
  • The species name combines the Garo word 'Gitchak' meaning red, with 'na-tok' and 'kana' meaning blind fish, reflecting its red colour and absence of eyes.
  • The fish belongs to a new genus within the family Cobitidae.
  • The discovery was published in Scientific Reports, a Nature portfolio journal.
  • The single well locality is undisclosed due to the species being found only there and in very low numbers.
  • Rajeev Raghavan, assistant professor at Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) and South Asia chair of IUCN SSC Freshwater Fish Specialist Group, was part of the team.
Indian Scientists Discover Two New Slender-Armed Frog Species in Arunachal Pradesh (Mid of January) ▼
  • Indian scientists discovered two new slender-armed frogs from their secretive habitats in Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Delhi University (DU) frog hunter S D Biju and his PhD student Akalabya spotted the new species north of the Brahmaputra river.
  • Soman’s Slender Arm Frog Leptobrachium somani was discovered at Tiwari Gaon and named after late E Somanath, a noted journalist from Kerala.
  • The Mechuka Slender Arm Frog Leptobrachium mechuka is named after Mechuka, a small Arunachal Pradesh town close to the China border.
  • The Brahmaputra river acted as the biogeographical barrier for these frogs, aiding species diversification.
  • The slender-armed frogs Leptobrachium belong to the family Megophryidae, which is one of the most diverse frog families globally with 366 recognised species.
  • The study was published in the US based scientific journal Peer J.
Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovers new Diplura hexapod species Lepidocampa sikkimensis in eastern Himalayas (Mid of February) ▼
  • The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) identified the new Diplura species Lepidocampa sikkimensis near Ravangla in Sikkim.
  • Additional specimens of Lepidocampa sikkimensis were later found in Kurseong in Bengal.
  • The findings were published on 7 January 2026 in the international taxonomic journal Zootaxa.
  • The study provides the first DNA barcode data for an Indian Lepidodcampa species.
  • The research team rediscovered the rare sub-species Lepidocampa juradii bengalensis after nearly five decades.

Elusive dusky eagle owl sighted near Corbett Tiger Reserve after 15 years

[Corbett Tiger Reserve]

Key Updates:

  • A pair of dusky eagle owls was documented in the Phato tourism zone of Terai West forest division adjacent to Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand.
  • The species was last officially recorded in the region in 2010.
  • Naturalist Himanshu Tiruva photographed the rare pair, and the images have gone viral among ornithologists and wildlife enthusiasts.
  • Dr. Saket Badola, Chief Conservator of Forests (Kumaon), stated that the reappearance of the species reflects reduced human interference and successful habitat management.
  • Birding expert Pradeep Saxena noted that the presence of apex avian predators like the dusky eagle owl indicates a healthy prey base and undisturbed nesting sites.
  • The dusky eagle owl, 48–58 cm long and partly diurnal, favours old-growth forest near water, matching Phato’s dense canopy and streams.

Similar Coverage

Forest Owlet unseen for 113 years rediscovered in Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park (Start of March) ▼
  • The Forest Owlet, endemic to central India, was first found in 1872 and vanished after 1884, presumed extinct for 113 years.
  • Local tourism operator Labh Yadav first spotted the owl in Kuno National Park's Parond Beat and alerted forest officials.
  • Vivek Patel from Pune's Wildlife Research and Conservation Society confirmed the sighting on-site, marking Kuno's inaugural record.
  • The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the Forest Owlet as endangered, with 250-999 adults worldwide.
  • Unlike nocturnal relatives, the Forest Owlet hunts mornings from 6-10 a.m., perching in harsh sun on tall branches.
  • Previous sightings in Madhya Pradesh were limited to eastern Khandwa, Burhanpur, and Betul districts.
Annual survey records 17 active White-bellied Sea Eagle nests in Kannur and Kasaragod districts (Mid of February) ▼
  • The 2026 annual nest monitoring survey recorded 17 active White-bellied Sea Eagle nesting sites in Kannur and Kasaragod districts.
  • The survey was conducted jointly by the Malabar Awareness and Rescue Centre for Wildlife (MARC) and the Social Forestry Divisions of Kannur and Kasaragod.
  • Of the 17 nests, 10 are located in Kasaragod district and 7 in Kannur district.
  • In Kasaragod, all nests were categorised as old, while in Kannur, 4 nests were newly recorded and 3 were old.
  • Around 70% of the nests in Kasaragod were found within temple compounds.
  • For the first time, a nest was found on a telephone tower at Kattampally.
  • The eagles preferred large, mature trees for nesting, including Ficus religiosa (4 nests), Mangifera indica (6), Alstonia scholaris (2), and Casuarina species (3).
  • The White-bellied Sea Eagle breeds between January and March and reuses the same nest each year after renovation.
  • In Kerala, the species is known to nest only in Kannur and Kasaragod districts.
Zapotec tomb discovery in Oaxaca: 1,400-year-old archaeological find (Start of February) ▼
  • A 1,400-year-old Zapotec tomb has been discovered in the Central Valleys region of southern Mexico.
  • The discovery was made by a team of researchers from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH).
  • The tomb complex features an antechamber and a funerary chamber with a depiction of an owl representing night and death in Zapotec iconography.
  • Calendrical information was found on a frieze at the entrance to the funerary chamber.
  • A mural within the funerary chamber, painted on stucco with pigments, shows a funerary procession carrying offerings of copal incense.
  • Researchers from INAH are working to stabilize the microclimate and document the mural and relief sculptures.
Rare Smew duck sighted for the first time in Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (KTR) during 7th Waterbird Count (Start of March) ▼
  • The Smew (Mergellus albellus), a rare diving duck, was recorded for the first time in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (KTR) during the 7th Waterbird Count.
  • The sighting occurred at the Rowmari-Donduwa beels within the Laokhowa buffer zone of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Assam.
  • A total of 105,540 waterbirds were recorded during the census, which was conducted in phases from 4 January to 11 January.
  • The Smew is a winter migrant to India from the Eurasian taiga breeding grounds and is known to favour fish-rich, sheltered waters.
  • The survey was a collaborative effort between the Kaziranga Park Authority and the Assam Bird Monitoring Network (ABMN).
  • Kaziranga encompasses two Important Bird Areas (IBAs) recognised for their significance to waterbirds: Kaziranga National Park and the Laokhowa and Burhachapori wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Previous sightings of the Smew in India have been recorded in Haiderpur, Uttar Pradesh (UP), in 2021 and earlier around Corbett.
  • The Smew is globally abundant with a population of approximately 1.3 lakh mature individuals but is currently declining due to habitat loss.

Smriti Mandhana joins Barbie Dream Team in landmark Mattel celebration

[Mattel, United States]

Key Updates:

  • Mattel announced its first Barbie Dream Team ahead of International Women's Day to honour women whose work reaches beyond their original fields.
  • Serena Williams joins Mexican driver Regina Sirvent Alvarado and Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana in the select international class.
  • Each honouree receives a custom doll inspired by their personal journeys; Serena’s doll features a sharp black and white blazer and signature curls.
  • Serena Ventures, launched in 2014, has backed more than 60 companies including Propel, CoinTracker, Daily Harvest and MasterClass.
  • More than half of Serena Ventures’ investments are tied to women-led companies and nearly half to Black founders.
  • Mattel will extend the campaign through Barbie Dream Days retail activations and the debut of Barbie Dream Fest.

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Indian women's cricket team nominated for 2026 Laureus World Team of the Year Award after maiden World Cup triumph. (Start of March) ▼
  • Indian women's cricket team nominated for 2026 Laureus World Team of the Year Award after winning their first ICC Women's World Cup title.
  • Laureus Sport confirmed the nomination on Tuesday.
  • Team recorded highest successful run chase in women's ODI history during semi-final win against Australia.
  • BCCI announced Rs 51 crore cash prize for the squad after the victory.
  • Award winners to be announced at Cibeles Palace in Madrid on April 20, 2026.
  • Other nominees include England Women's Football Team, European Ryder Cup Team, McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Paris Saint-Germain.
East Bengal defeats APF FC to win inaugural SAFF Women's Club Championship (End of December) ▼
  • East Bengal FC clinched the title of the inaugural edition of the SAFF Women’s Club Championship with a dominant 3-0 win over hosts APF FC in the final at the Dasrath Stadium.
  • Ugandan star striker Fazila Ikwaput scored a brace while India international Shilky Devi Hemam netted once to complete the flawless campaign for the Moshal girls.
  • Fazila also won the golden boot with nine goals in five games.
  • Anthony Andrews’ side scored 14 goals and conceded none in their five matches during the tournament.
  • East Bengal thus became the first Indian women’s club to win an international tournament.
India announces squads for 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships (Start of February) ▼
  • The 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) will be held in Qingdao, China, from 4 February to 8 February 2026.
  • Lakshya Sen, the World number 13, will lead the Indian men's team which includes HS Prannoy, Kidambi Srikanth, Ayush Shetty, and Tharun Mannepalli.
  • The Indian men's doubles contingent features Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty, Pruthvi Krishnamurthy Roy, Sai Pratheek K, and Hariharan Amsakarunan.
  • The Indian women's team will defend their title without PV Sindhu, who withdrew due to medical concerns as confirmed by the Badminton Association of India (BAI).
  • The women's singles squad consists of Unnati Hooda, Tanvi Sharma, Rakshitha Sree Santhosh Ramraj, Malvika Bansod, and Surya Charisma Tamiri.
  • The women's doubles team includes Treesa Jolly, Gayatri Gopichand, Priya Konjengbam, Shruti Mishra, and Tanisha Crasto.
  • The Indian men's team is placed in Group C alongside Singapore and Japan, while the women's team is in Group Y with Myanmar and Thailand.
  • The tournament format allows the top two teams from each group to progress to the quarterfinals of the biennial continental event.
  • The event will be live-streamed on the Sony Sports Network and the official YouTube channel of Badminton Asia.
Smriti Mandhana wins BBC Indian Sportswoman of Year 2025 (Mid of February) ▼
  • Smriti Mandhana was named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 for her key role in India’s 2025 Women’s World Cup victory.
  • Chess player Divya Deshmukh (20) received the Emerging Player award after her FIDE Women’s World Cup win.
  • Preethi Pal won Para-Sportswoman award for two bronze medals at 2024 Paris Paralympics in track and field.
  • Anjali Bhagwat received Lifetime Achievement Award as India’s first woman shooter to reach an Olympic final.
  • Award winners were chosen by jury of Leander Paes, Deepa Malik and Anju Bobby George.
  • BBC Star Performers 2025: Indian Women’s Cricket Team, Ekta Bhyan, Deepthi Jeevanji, Preethi Pal, Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind, Indian Women’s Kabaddi Team.
  • BBC Changemakers 2025: Indian Women’s Ice Hockey Team, Rajbir Kaur, Savita Punia, Paani Devi.

World Day of Fight Against Sexual Exploitation observed on March 4

Key Updates:

  • World Day of Fight Against Sexual Exploitation has been observed every March 4 since 2009.
  • It was created to raise awareness of a global issue that disproportionately affects women and children.
  • Sexual exploitation is classified as a form of modern slavery and a crime against humanity.
  • According to a 2016 report by the International Labor Organization (ILO), 5 million people worldwide were victims of forced sexual exploitation.
  • UNICEF reports that over 3 million children globally are affected by prostitution.

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Zero Discrimination Day 2026 observed on 1 March to end HIV stigma (Start of March) ▼
  • Zero Discrimination Day is observed globally on 1 March every year.
  • The 2026 observance by UNAIDS highlights persistent discrimination faced by people living with and at risk of HIV.
  • The campaign theme for 2026 is 'Put People First'.
  • Data from over 30,000 people living with HIV across 25 countries confirms stigma remains a widespread barrier to healthcare access.
  • According to the People Living with HIV Stigma Index 2.0 Global Report, nearly one in four people reported experiencing stigma and discrimination from others.
  • 85 percent of people living with HIV report experiencing internalized stigma.
  • 24 percent of people living with HIV experienced discrimination within their communities in the past year.
  • 38 percent feel ashamed of being HIV-positive.
  • Discrimination prevents access to HIV testing, prevention services, and life-saving treatment.
  • UNAIDS urges removal of discriminatory laws criminalizing sex work, drug use, same-sex relationships, and HIV non-disclosure.
  • UNAIDS calls for protecting the right to healthcare by guaranteeing confidentiality, training healthcare workers, ending mandatory HIV testing, and providing compassionate care.
  • UNAIDS advocates for community-led responses, increased funding for organizations led by people living with HIV, and meaningful participation in policymaking.
International Women's Day 2026 observed on March 8 with theme 'Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls' (Start of March) ▼
  • International Women's Day 2026 is observed globally on March 8.
  • The United Nations (UN) announced the 2026 theme as 'Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls'.
  • The UN officially recognised International Women's Day in 1975.
International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers observed on December 17 (Mid of December) ▼
  • International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers is observed annually on December 17.
  • The observance began in 2003 as a direct response to a tragedy in the United States.
  • It was inaugurated by Dr. Annie Sprinkle and the Sex Workers Outreach Project USA (SWOP-USA).
  • The first memorial vigil took place outside San Francisco City Hall, attended by fewer than 100 people.
  • The day focuses on the 'Red Umbrella,' which has become the international symbol for sex worker rights.
International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026 on February 6 (Start of February) ▼
  • International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is observed annually on February 6.
  • The 2026 observance falls on Friday, February 6.
  • The day was first introduced in 2003.
  • United Nations (UN) sponsors the day as part of its efforts to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
  • Over 230 million girls and women alive today have been subjected to FGM according to UN data.