📰 Daily Briefing Monday, Mar 16

Daily Current Affairs: 16 March 2026

Analysis for 16 March 2026

Annapurna Devi Honoured with Special Cover by India Post

Key Updates:

  • India Post released a special cover to commemorate the birth centenary of the legendary Surbahar player and Indian classical musician Annapurna Devi.
  • The special cover was released on 9 March 2026 at the Kolkata General Post Office (GPO) in the presence of Sukriti Gupta, Director Postal Services, Kolkata Region.
  • Annapurna Devi was an artist of the Maihar Gharana, the daughter of Baba Alauddin Khan, and the sister of Ustad Ali Akbar Khan.
  • Her name was bestowed upon her by Maharaja Brijnath Singh of the Maihar State.
  • Her notable students included Pandit Nikhil Banerjee, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, Ashish Khan, Dakshina Mohan Tagore, Basant Kabra, Sudhir Phadke, and Nityanand Haldipur.
  • The Annapurna Devi Foundation organised a three-day classical music festival from 6 March to 8 March 2026 at G.D. Birla Sabhagar to mark the centenary celebration.

Similar Coverage

Hariharan Unveils Book and Album at 50 Glorious Years of Ghazal Singing Celebration (End of February) ▼
  • Padma Shri Hariharan marked 50 years of ghazal singing at Mavlankar Auditorium in Delhi.
  • The book Ustad-e-Ghazal Hariharan, authored by Anand Kakkar, was launched during the event.
  • Hariharan released a new ghazal album at the celebration.
  • Doordarshan announced the ghazal-based reality show Sartaj-e-Ghazal to discover new talent.
Ayesha Karim won Veergatha 5.0 Super 100 title. (Mid of February) ▼
  • Ayesha Karim, Class IV student of Sarala Birla Gyan Jyoti, Amingaon, Guwahati, secured place in Veergatha 5.0 Super 100 winners.
  • She created a sketch depicting Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, Ashok Chakra, during 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
  • She is the only student from Assam in five years to win this competition.
  • Ministry of Defence (MoD) gave her cash award, medal, certificate and invitation to 77th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path on 26 January.
  • Veergatha Project is annual flagship initiative of Government of India to inspire school students to honour bravery of armed forces through essays, poems, paintings and creative forms.
Geeta Patnaik Passes Away at 73 as Iconic Odia Singer (Mid of February) ▼
  • Renowned Odia vocalist Geeta Patnaik passed away at the age of 73 while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Cuttack, Odisha.
  • The singer had been hospitalised after suffering a brain stroke and was declared brain dead on Sunday.
  • Her musical career spanned over five decades, during which she became one of the most influential voices in the Odia music industry.
  • She was widely recognised for her frequent collaborations with the legendary Odia singer Akshaya Mohanty.
  • One of her most notable contributions to Odia cinema was lending her voice to the popular song Phur Kina Udigala Bani from the film Jajabar.
  • Condolences were expressed by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief Naveen Patnaik.
Prime Minister Modi releases commemorative postal stamp on Ashwagandha in New Delhi (End of December) ▼
  • India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a commemorative postal stamp on Ashwagandha at the closing ceremony of the Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi.
  • The five-rupee postal stamp on Ashwagandha symbolises the rise of medicinal plants and underscores the use of traditional medicine techniques and philosophies such as Ayurveda.
  • Prime Minister Modi launched the Traditional Medicine Global Library, a landmark global platform designed to preserve and provide equitable access to scientific data, policy documents and validated knowledge related to traditional medicine.

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Expands Mandatory Gold Hallmarking to 380 Districts

[Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)]

Key Updates:

  • The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has expanded mandatory gold hallmarking to seven additional districts under the sixth phase of implementation.
  • The newly added districts include Rupnagar (Punjab), Banda (Uttar Pradesh), Beed (Maharashtra), Gomati (Tripura), Katihar (Bihar), Beawar (Rajasthan), and Neemuch (Madhya Pradesh).
  • With this expansion, the total number of districts covered under the mandatory hallmarking regime in India has reached 380.
  • Mandatory hallmarking is applicable to gold jewellery and artefacts of 14, 18, 20, 22, 23, and 24 carats.
  • The BIS launched the first phase of the programme on June 23, 2021, initially covering 256 districts.
  • Subsequent roll-outs included Phase 2 (April 2022) with 32 districts, Phase 3 (September 2023) with 55 districts, Phase 4 (November 2024) with 18 districts, and Phase 5 (July 2025) with 12 districts.
  • As of March 5, a total of 60 crore gold items have been hallmarked to ensure consumer protection and certify gold purity.

Similar Coverage

Haryana District Notification and Delhi Revenue Reorganisation: Formation of Hansi and 13 New Districts (End of December) ▼
  • The Haryana government has issued a notification making Hansi a separate district, effective from December 22, 2025.
  • With this, the state now has a total of 23 districts.
  • The Governor of Haryana hereby varies the limits and alters the number of sub-division of district Hisar, so as to form a new District to be called Hansi comprising of the sub-divisions of Hansi and Narnaund.
  • Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said the land registration process in all tehsils across the state is entirely online, significantly reducing opportunities for corruption.
  • The Delhi Cabinet approved the landmark proposal to reorganise Delhi's 11 existing revenue districts into 13 new revenue districts that will be fully co-terminus with the 12 MCD zones, NDMC, and Delhi Cantonment Board.
  • The move aims to end decades-old jurisdictional confusion between revenue districts and MCD zones, increasing the number of subdivisions from 33 to 39 and the number of Sub-Registrar offices from 22 to 39.
Ponduru khadi receives Geographical Indication tag (Mid of December) ▼
  • Ponduru khadi has been granted the geographical indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Union ministry of commerce and industry.
  • The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) submitted a declaration and supporting documents about two years ago to claim the GI tag.
  • Mahatma Gandhi was gifted a Ponduru khadi stole when he visited Dusi railway station during the Swadeshi movement in 1921.
  • The Andhra Pattusali Khadi Karmik Abhivrudhi Sangam (now known as Andhra Fine Khadi Karmik Abhivrudhi Sangam) was established in 1949 and currently functions under KVIC.
  • Acharya Vinoba Bhave laid the foundation stone of AFKKS in 1955.
India hosts 7th All India Conference of Government Railway Police Chiefs at Vigyan Bhawan (End of February) ▼
  • The 7th All India Conference of Government Railway Police Chiefs was held at Vigyan Bhawan.
  • The conference was organised by the Ministry of Railways (MoR).
  • The event focused on strengthening passenger and railway infrastructure security.
  • Key discussion areas included coordinated operations, speedy FIR registration and advanced surveillance technologies.
Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) System: Strengthening Consumer Trust and India's Quality Ecosystem (Start of January) ▼
  • The Ministry of Consumer Affairs (MoCA) through the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has expanded Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID)-based gold and silver hallmarking, with more than 20 lakh silver articles already hallmarked.
  • India's standards regime has achieved significant global alignment, with about 94% of Indian Standards harmonised with ISO and IEC to help products gain wider acceptance in international markets.
  • BIS standards now cover renewable energy, electric mobility, energy storage and electric agricultural tractors, reflecting India's transition towards clean energy and sustainable growth.
  • The MoCA is focusing on modernising laboratories, expanding digital platforms, and empowering women through initiatives such as Manak Mitra.
  • The implementation of hallmarking has brought a significant change in the bullion market, protecting consumers in rural areas from the sale of substandard gold.

Government appoints Kompella Venkata Ramana Murty as Whole-Time Member of Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)

[Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)]

Key Updates:

  • The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Kompella Venkata Ramana Murty as a whole-time member of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for a period of three years.
  • Murty is a 1991-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) and previously served as the Additional Controller General of Defence Accounts.
  • The appointment increases the total number of whole-time members on the SEBI board to four, alongside Sandip Pradhan, Kamlesh Chandra Varshney, and Amarjeet Singh.
  • Tuhin Kanta Pandey is the current Chairman of SEBI, having assumed the position on March 1, 2025.
  • The SEBI board structure consists of a chairman, four whole-time members, and four part-time members representing the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), the Ministry of Finance, and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
  • Murty previously served as a part-time member on the SEBI board as a representative of the MCA.

Similar Coverage

Dr Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi reappointed as Drugs Controller (India) at Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) (Start of March) ▼
  • 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.

Jal Shakti Ministry launches NETRA AI platform and RBSD for Dam Safety

Key Updates:

  • Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Paatil inaugurated the new office of the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) at R.K. Puram, New Delhi.
  • The Minister launched NETRA (NDSA Engine for Tracking and Review using AI), an artificial intelligence-enabled platform developed in collaboration with the Weapons and Electronics Systems Engineering Establishment (WESEE) of the Indian Navy.
  • NETRA is integrated with DHARMA, the national repository of dam safety data covering more than 6,600 specified dams and thousands of inspection reports.
  • The Rashtriya Bandh Suraksha Darpan (RBSD) visualisation platform, developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), was launched to present Dam Break Analysis (DBA) results through digital mapping.
  • A new NDSA website was launched featuring a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based Specified Dams section to provide map-based information on dams across the country.
  • Rooftop solar power plants with capacities of less than 25 kilowatts were remotely inaugurated across seven buildings of the Central Water Commission (CWC).

Similar Coverage

India hosts International Conference on Dam Safety (ICDS 2026) in Bengaluru under DRIP Phase II & III (Mid of February) ▼
  • International Conference on Dam Safety (ICDS 2026) held at J.N. Tata Auditorium, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru on 13-14 February 2026.
  • Organised by Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD&GR), Ministry of Jal Shakti and Water Resources Department, Government of Karnataka in collaboration with Central Water Commission (CWC), IISc Bengaluru and World Bank.
  • Inaugurated by Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister of Karnataka; presided over by D.K. Shivakumar, Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka.
  • Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudary stressed timely implementation of Dam Safety Act, 2021 for India’s 6,500+ specified dams.
  • DAMCHAT AI-powered platform launched by International Center of Excellence for Dams (ICED), IIT Roorkee; Jal Shakti Data Management platform of National Water Informatics Centre (NWIC) unveiled.
  • Publications released: ACIWRM Karnataka publications and Central Water Commission’s Guidelines for Design Flood Estimation for Mini and Micro Catchment Areas.
  • 750+ delegates and representatives from 12 countries—India, Austria, Australia, Sri Lanka, Netherlands, Canada, Zambia, Zimbabwe, France, Japan, Philippines, United States of America—participated.
  • 25 exhibitors showcased technologies, monitoring systems, rehabilitation materials and digital innovations in dam safety.
Amit Shah launches CBDC-enabled PDS in Gujarat to digitise ration distribution. (Mid of February) ▼
  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)-enabled Public Distribution System (PDS) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
  • Shah stated that India now accounts for half of the world’s digital transactions.
  • The new system aims to make ration distribution more transparent and efficient.
National IED Data Management System (NIDMS) to provide integrated online platform for security agencies (Start of January) ▼
  • Union home minister Amit Shah launched the National IED Data Management System (NIDMS), which is a two-way comprehensive and integrated online platform.
  • The NIDMS will be available to National Investigation Agency (NIA), anti-terrorism squads , state police forces and central armed police forces.
  • The database available with NSG contains data related to all bomb explosions since 1999 and will now be made available to police forces and relevant agencies through the NIDMS.
  • NIDMS will become a robust platform for accurately analysing the patterns of bomb explosions that have occurred so far, the modus operandi and the explosives used.
  • The platform will strengthen the process of collecting, standardising, integrating and securely sharing IED-related data.
Delhi CM launches CM Jan Sunwai Portal and app for integrated grievance redressal (End of February) ▼
  • Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched the CM Jan Sunwai Portal and mobile app for public grievance submission.
  • Complaints can be registered via portal, app, call centre (1902), or offline through the Chief Minister’s Office.
  • A three-tier grievance redressal mechanism—Grievance Redressal Officer, Appellate Authority, and Final Appellate Authority—has been implemented.
  • Each complaint receives a unique reference ID and SMS updates at every stage.
  • Negative feedback triggers automatic escalation to a higher authority.
  • The system operates on 100% feedback-driven monitoring to ensure officer accountability.
  • A secure, cloud-based e-admission portal for EWS, DG, and CWSN categories replaced the earlier outdated software.
  • Aadhaar-based identity verification and digital birth-certificate verification are mandatory to prevent fraud.
  • Income certificates will be verified through an integrated online system.
  • Over 7,000 active Common Service Centre (CSC) centres across Delhi will deliver e-District services locally.
  • The Delhi government is already providing 75 e-District services online, including income, caste, residence, birth and death certificates, and services related to social welfare, food and civil supplies, labour, and education.
  • CM Pragati portal created the first comprehensive digital record of all Delhi government land and building assets.

Union Minister Unveils Solar, Defence, and Foundry Projects at BHEL Haridwar

[Uttarakhand, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)]

Key Updates:

  • Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries H.D. Kumaraswamy dedicated a 5-MW ground-mounted solar power plant at the Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) facility in Haridwar.
  • The solar installation comprises over 11,000 solar modules and is expected to generate approximately 90 lakh kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually to support India’s Net Zero target by 2070.
  • A 30-ton Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) was inaugurated at the Central Foundry and Forge Plant of BHEL to enhance domestic manufacturing capacity for critical components in power and strategic industries.
  • The Minister flagged off the Upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) for the Indian Navy, an indigenous weapon system capable of firing 120 rounds per minute with a range of 35 kilometres.
  • A large turbo generator manufactured at the Haridwar facility was dispatched for a major power project, highlighting BHEL’s expertise in high-capacity electricity infrastructure.
  • The projects were launched under the national visions of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India to strengthen industrial resilience and reduce import dependence.

Similar Coverage

PM Modi launches development projects worth ₹16,450 crore in Kerala and Tamil Nadu (Mid of March) ▼
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched multiple development projects worth approximately ₹16,450 crore across Kerala and Tamil Nadu on 11 March.
  • In Kerala, projects worth about ₹10,800 crore were launched, including the foundation stone for a Polypropylene Unit at the Kochi Refinery of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) costing over ₹5,500 crore.
  • The Polypropylene Unit at the BPCL Kochi Refinery will have a production capacity of 400 kilo tonnes per annum to boost domestic polymer manufacturing.
  • The Prime Minister inaugurated the six-laning of the Thalapady-Chengala section of National Highway (NH) 66 (₹2,650 crore) and the Kozhikode Bypass from Vengalam to Ramanattukara (₹2,140 crore).
  • Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), three redeveloped railway stations were inaugurated in Kerala: Shoranur Junction, Kuttippuram Railway Station, and Changanassery Railway Station.
  • The Prime Minister dedicated the Shoranur-Nilambur Road railway line electrification and flagged off a new train service between Palakkad and Pollachi.
  • A 50 MW floating solar project foundation stone was laid at West Kallada in Kollam district, Kerala, to enhance renewable energy capacity.
  • In Tamil Nadu, projects worth ₹5,650 crore were launched, including a City Gas Distribution (CGD) Network by BPCL in The Nilgiris and Erode districts with an investment of over ₹3,680 crore.
  • A Lube Blending Plant with a capacity of 672 thousand metric tonnes per annum, developed by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) at Manali for ₹1,490 crore, was dedicated to the nation.
  • Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), 23 rural roads in Kerala and 89 rural roads covering 370 kilometres in Tamil Nadu were inaugurated.
  • The Prime Minister flagged off two Amrit Bharat Express trains, two express trains, and a passenger train service to improve connectivity between Tamil Nadu and states like Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala.
  • The foundation stone was laid for a greenfield bypass near Gangaikonda Cholapuram on National Highway 81 in Tamil Nadu.
PM Gati Shakti Plan: ₹4,474 crore multitracking projects approved for West Bengal and Jharkhand (Mid of March) ▼
  • The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved two railway multitracking projects worth ₹4,474 crore.
  • The projects will add fourth lines on the Sainthia–Pakur and Santragachi–Kharagpur routes, adding about 192 km across West Bengal and Jharkhand.
  • Proposed by the Ministry of Railways (MoR), the works are scheduled for completion by 2030–31 under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
  • The expansion will benefit around 5,652 villages with a combined population of nearly 1.47 crore people.
  • Freight movement is expected to rise by about 31 million tonnes annually, saving an estimated six crore litres of oil and cutting carbon emissions by nearly 28 crore kg.
  • Tourist spots gaining better rail access include Bolpur-Shantiniketan, Nandikeshwari Temple, Tarapith, Patachitra Gram, Dhadika Forest, Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Rameshwar Kund.
Indian Army inducts tanks, artillery guns and engineering equipment into Kashmir Valley by Military Special Train (Mid of December) ▼
  • The Indian Army successfully inducted tanks, artillery guns, and engineering equipment into the Kashmir Valley using a Military Special Train.
  • The operation involved seamless transportation of heavy assets from the Jammu region to Anantnag in southern Kashmir.
  • The move was conducted as part of a validation exercise demonstrating enhanced mobility and logistical capability.
  • The milestone was achieved in close coordination with the Ministry of Railways, leveraging the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
  • The USBRL project features iconic structures like the Chenab Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, and provides all-weather connectivity.
PM Modi to launch ₹16,450 crore projects in Kerala and Tamil Nadu (Mid of March) ▼
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Kerala and Tamil Nadu on 11 March 2026 to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for projects worth ₹16,450 crore.
  • In Ernakulam, Kerala, Modi will launch projects worth about ₹10,800 crore, including a 400 kilo tonnes per annum polypropylene unit at Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) Kochi refinery with an investment exceeding ₹5,500 crore.
  • Modi will inaugurate the six-laning of the Thalapady–Chengala stretch of National Highway 66 developed at a cost of over ₹2,650 crore and the Kozhikode bypass from Vengalam to Ramanattukara built at about ₹2,140 crore.
  • He will inaugurate 23 rural roads constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in Kerala.
  • Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, Modi will inaugurate redeveloped Shoranur Junction, Kuttippuram, and Changanassery railway stations and dedicate the Shoranur–Nilambur railway line electrification project.
  • He will flag off a new train service between Palakkad and Pollachi and lay the foundation stone for a 50-MW floating solar project in West Kallada, Kollam district.
  • In Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, Modi will launch projects worth about ₹5,650 crore, including a city gas distribution network by BPCL in Nilgiris and Erode districts at over ₹3,680 crore to provide piped natural gas to more than 8.8 lakh households and establish over 201 CNG stations.
  • He will dedicate Indian Oil Corporation’s lube blending plant at Manali, Chennai, built at about ₹1,490 crore with a capacity of 6,72,000 metric tonnes per annum.
  • Modi will inaugurate 89 rural roads covering 370 km under PMGSY in Tamil Nadu and lay the foundation stone for a greenfield bypass near Gangaikonda Cholapuram on National Highway 81.
  • He will flag off two Amrit Bharat Express trains, two express trains, and a passenger service to improve rail connectivity between Tamil Nadu and other states.

MSDE-GATI MoU to deepen coordination in India's global skills mobility ecosystem

Key Updates:

  • Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) signed an MoU with GATI Foundation on 13 March 2026 to strengthen overseas workforce mobility.
  • The MoU was signed in the presence of Smt. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary, MSDE, and Shri Niranjan Kumar Sudhansu, Additional Secretary, MSDE.
  • This is the first Central government partnership for the GATI Foundation.
  • The partnership aims to align national skilling priorities with state-level implementation for overseas employment pathways.
  • Arnab Bhattacharya, CEO, GATI Foundation, stated the goal is to accelerate India’s journey toward becoming the global skills capital by 2047.

Similar Coverage

Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) and Startup Policy Forum (SPF) sign MoU to accelerate fintech and digital innovation. (Mid of February) ▼
  • Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) and Startup Policy Forum (SPF) signed an MoU at Black Swan Summit India 2026 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
  • GFTN is a Singapore-headquartered platform established by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and spans more than 130 countries.
  • SPF represents over 65 high-growth Indian startups collectively valued at more than USD 100 billion.
  • The collaboration focuses on strengthening global-India innovation corridors, enabling structured policy dialogue, and supporting international expansion of Indian startups.
  • Priority areas include digital finance infrastructure, responsible AI, digital assets, cross-border payments, and regulatory innovation.
  • GFTN is chaired by Ravi Menon, former Managing Director of MAS.
  • SPF works closely with DPIIT, the MeitY Startup Hub, and the IndiaAI Mission.
HCLTech and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur sign MoU to advance deep tech innovation for Global Capability Centres. (Start of March) ▼
  • HCL Technologies (HCLTech) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur signed an MoU to convert research into real-world pilots and scalable solutions for Global Capability Centres (GCCs).
  • The collaboration focuses on advanced engineering and deep tech including AI, robotics and next-generation technologies.
  • The partnership enables GCCs to accelerate complex research, access niche skills without building internal labs and reduce time-to-market.
  • IIT Kanpur brings translational R&D expertise in AI, intelligent systems, robotics, cybersecurity and other next-generation technologies.
  • The MoU bridges academic research and enterprises to co-develop innovative technologies with measurable impact.
GeM–WTC Mumbai MoU to Boost MSME Inclusion in Public Procurement (End of January) ▼
  • GeM and MVIRDC World Trade Centre Mumbai signed an MoU to foster domestic and international collaboration in public procurement.
  • The MoU aims to enhance GeM’s global positioning, promote knowledge exchange, and drive inclusive participation for MSMEs, startups, women entrepreneurs, and underrepresented suppliers.
  • Joint initiatives include global procurement dialogues, capacity-building programs, supplier outreach, and research on AI in procurement, sustainability, and green practices.
  • A Joint Working Group will oversee implementation, ensuring alignment with Government of India policies on public procurement, data security, and inclusivity.
Skills Accelerator MoU to bridge workforce skill gaps (End of January) ▼
  • Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) signed an MoU with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to launch and implement a Skills Accelerator in India.
  • The Accelerator is a multistakeholder platform aimed at identifying, scaling, and accelerating innovative solutions and public–private partnerships to address critical skills gaps in the workforce.
  • It will strengthen India’s technical and vocational education and training ecosystem by aligning skilling initiatives with industry and global economy demands.

DEPwD–Coalition of the Willing MoU for life-cycle empowerment of persons with hearing impairment

Key Updates:

  • Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment signed an MoU with the ‘Coalition of the Willing’ on 12 March 2026 in New Delhi.
  • The coalition includes Yunikee (Gopalakrishnan Foundation for the Deaf), Blee Tech Innovations Pvt. Ltd., Training and Educational Centre for Hearing Impaired (TEACH), WinVinaya Foundation, Buddy4Study India Foundation, VCrop Technologies Pvt. Ltd. and Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC).
  • The partnership will design and implement interventions covering awareness, assistive technologies, early identification, education, skill development, employment, scholarships, Indian Sign Language digital content and sustainable livelihoods.
  • The initiative aims to create an integrated life-cycle empowerment model for persons with hearing impairment from early intervention to social inclusion.

Similar Coverage

World Hearing Day 2026 observed on March 3 with theme 'From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all children' (Start of March) ▼
  • World Hearing Day is observed annually on March 3.
  • The theme for World Hearing Day 2026 is 'From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all children'.
  • The date 3/3 was chosen as it represents the design of the two ears, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
  • World Hearing Day was initially called 'International Ear Care Day' and was formally established in 2012.
  • The WHO first discussed the day during the 1st International Conference on Prevention and Rehabilitation of Hearing Impairment held in Beijing, China, in 2007.
  • According to WHO, around 90 million children aged 5-19 years are living with hearing loss.
  • WHO states that about 60 per cent of hearing loss cases in children are preventable through simple and cost-effective public health measures.
Pondicherry University and Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) sign MoU to advance disability rights (Start of March) ▼
  • 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.
KSRTC Dhwani Spandana: Award for innovation aiding visually impaired (Mid of March) ▼
  • Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) received the Governance Now 12th PSU National Award in the 'Excellence in Innovation' category for its Dhwani Spandana initiative.
  • KSRTC implemented the Dhwani Spandana — Onboard Bus Identification and Navigation System on 200 Mysuru city transport buses with support from the German company GIZ.
  • KSRTC Director Personnel and Vigilance Gayithri KM received the award in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) unveils VoicERA at India AI Impact Summit 2026 (Mid of February) ▼
  • The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) officially unveiled VoicERA, an open-source, end-to-end Voice Artificial Intelligence (AI) stack, at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
  • VoicERA serves as a national execution layer for the Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD), targeting over 700 dialects to bridge the digital divide.
  • The infrastructure is designed to be pluggable and interoperable, allowing deployment on-premise or within sovereign cloud environments to ensure citizen data remains within India.
  • The stack utilizes advanced models trained on the Bharat Data Sagar, a repository containing phonetic markers, accents, and colloquialisms from across India.
  • VoicERA incorporates high-fidelity Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) and Text-to-Speech (TTS) capabilities to handle code-switching between local languages and English or Hindi.
  • Initial applications include voice-based agricultural advisories, transcription of court proceedings in the judicial sector, and voice-first government helplines for welfare schemes.
  • The project is a collaborative effort between the DIBD, EkStep Foundation, International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT Bengaluru), and AI4Bharat.

Oil India and NSTFDC MoU: ₹86.27 Lakh Sanctioned for Tribal Healthcare Infrastructure in Madhya Pradesh

[Oil India Limited, National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC), Madhya Pradesh]

Key Updates:

  • Oil India Limited (OIL) signed an MoU with the National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) on 12 March 2026 at OIL’s corporate office in Noida.
  • The MoU sanctions ₹86.27 lakh for upgrading healthcare facilities in Rajgarh district, Madhya Pradesh, an Aspirational District under the Government of India’s programme.
  • Funds will strengthen Community Health Centres (CHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) by providing ambulances, life-care and diagnostic equipment, ventilators, CPAP machines, BiPAP machines, and USG machines.

Similar Coverage

Oil India Limited (OIL) bags FIPI Award 2025 as Oil & Gas Production Company of the Year (Mid of February) ▼
  • Oil India Limited (OIL) received the FIPI Award 2025 in the ‘Oil & Gas Production Company of the Year’ (More than 1 MTOE) category.
  • The award was presented by Petroleum & Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Petroleum and Natural Gas Secretary Dr Neeraj Mittal.
  • The ceremony was organised by the Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI) at India Energy Week in Goa.
  • OIL Chairman and Managing Director Dr Ranjit Rath accepted the award on behalf of the company.
India and Namibia hold Foreign Office Consultations and agree to deepen collaboration in defence and critical minerals (End of January) ▼
  • Both sides agreed to further deepen bilateral ties in key areas such as health, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), agriculture, defence and critical minerals.
  • Discussions were also held on regional and international issues of mutual interest, including cooperation at the UN.
  • The FOC was co-chaired by Janesh Kain, Joint Secretary (East & Southern Africa), Ministry of External Affairs and Ambassador Charles Josob, Acting Head of Department for Bilateral Relations and Cooperation, Ministry of International Relations and Trade, Namibia.
Odisha–Meghalaya MoU on Early Childhood Care and Development (End of January) ▼
  • Odisha and Meghalaya signed an MoU to strengthen Early Childhood Care, Education and Development through mutual learning and capacity building.
  • The MoU covers nutrition, health, early learning, responsive caregiving, community engagement, and institutional capacity building.
  • It provides for knowledge exchange, joint research, exposure visits, documentation of best practices, and capacity development of functionaries.
West Bengal Health System Reform Program Operation approved with USD 286 million loan (Mid of January) ▼
  • The World Bank (WB) approved the 'West Bengal Health System Reform Program Operation' with a USD 286 million loan to improve quality of life and life expectancy through equitable healthcare access.
  • The program will 'support the delivery of personalised healthcare services across the state for people aged 30 and above through digital tracking of non-communicable diseases ( NCDs ) such as hypertension and diabetes.'
  • The 'USD 286 million loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) has a final maturity of 16.5 years, including a three-year grace period.'
  • Target beneficiaries include 'boys, married adolescents, and healthcare providers' through the strengthening of gender-based violence (GBV) services.
  • In the five districts of 'Purulia, Birbhum, Murshidabad, Maldah and Uttar Dinajpur, the Program will improve access to quality healthcare services and reduce inequities in maternal and adolescent health.'
  • The initiative aims to 'bring a patient-centric care approach to the state's health systems, improve health outcome measurement, and enhance healthcare facilities' resilience to extreme weather events.'

IIT Guwahati and Gifu University sign LoI to create North East Region–Japan International Academic and Research Consortium

[Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati), Gifu University]

Key Updates:

  • IIT Guwahati (IIT-G) and Gifu University, Japan, jointly organised the two-day Japan-NER Academia-Industry Cooperation Symposium 2026 (JNTCS 2026).
  • 22 institutions from Northeast India signed the Letter of Intent (LoI) to join the North East Region–Japan International Academic and Research Consortium.
  • IIT-G will be the nodal institution on the Indian side and Gifu University the coordinating institution on the Japanese side.
  • Japan designated Northeast India a strategic priority under the MEXT Inter-University Exchange Project in 2022.
  • The consortium targets 5,000 students from Northeast Indian institutions visiting Japanese universities and an equal number coming to India within the next five years.

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IIT-Guwahati (IIT-G) partners with Coventry University Group (CUG) for AI in healthcare (Start of March) ▼
  • The Indian Institute of Technology-Guwahati (IIT-G) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Coventry University Group (CUG), UK, to strengthen global research in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and healthcare.
  • The strategic partnership aims to expand research collaboration, support academic mobility, and enable joint degree initiatives between the two institutions.
  • The collaboration is structured around academic and research mobility, including short-term faculty and student exchanges.
  • The agreement includes the establishment of joint doctoral programmes featuring a dual-award PhD under a joint supervision framework.
  • The partnership focuses on AI for One Health, which aligns with the National AI Mission of India.
  • The MoU was formalised during a visit to IIT-G by a delegation from CUG led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Richard Dashwood.
Japan, South Korea and Malaysia to invest ₹1,600 crore in Gujarat’s semiconductor ecosystem (Start of March) ▼
  • Gujarat Semiconnect conference in Gandhinagar saw investment proposals worth over ₹1,600 crore to strengthen the state’s semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem covering manufacturing units, chemicals, equipment, R&D centres and advanced technology startups.
  • Japan’s Horiba Group, through Horiba India Pvt Ltd, signed an MoU with the Gujarat government to establish an R&D centre in Ahmedabad focused on semiconductor-grade mass-flow controllers and advanced instrumentation.
  • Malaysia-based Hotayi Electronic signed an agreement with the Gujarat government to set up a ₹250 crore electronics manufacturing facility at Sanand GIDC, expected to employ 1,000 persons and supply high-precision components for semiconductor and allied industries.
  • Hi-Spec Ltd will set up a ₹750 crore facility to manufacture semiconductor-grade hydrofluoric acid, a critical chemical for wafer processing.
  • Kiansh International Technologies, in collaboration with a South Korean firm, will invest ₹25 crore to produce gas abatement systems and scrubbers for semiconductor and solar industries.
  • Japanese chipmaker Rohm Semiconductor partnered with Gujarat-based Suchi Semicon to provide IC packaging and test solutions to the local value chain.
  • Kaynes Semicon, a subsidiary of Kaynes Technology India Ltd, committed ₹500 crore to Ahmedabad-based startup SpectraGaze Systems to advance India’s capabilities in outer-space imaging and semiconductor technologies.
HCLTech and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur sign MoU to advance deep tech innovation for Global Capability Centres. (Start of March) ▼
  • HCL Technologies (HCLTech) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur signed an MoU to convert research into real-world pilots and scalable solutions for Global Capability Centres (GCCs).
  • The collaboration focuses on advanced engineering and deep tech including AI, robotics and next-generation technologies.
  • The partnership enables GCCs to accelerate complex research, access niche skills without building internal labs and reduce time-to-market.
  • IIT Kanpur brings translational R&D expertise in AI, intelligent systems, robotics, cybersecurity and other next-generation technologies.
  • The MoU bridges academic research and enterprises to co-develop innovative technologies with measurable impact.
Japan and India hold 18th Japan–India Foreign Ministerial Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi (End of January) ▼
  • The 18th Japan–India Foreign Ministerial Strategic Dialogue was held in New Delhi, marking the substantive core of Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu’s official visit to India.
  • Both sides decided to initiate a Private Sector–led Business-to-Business Dialogue on Economic Security in early 2026.
  • A Japan–India AI Strategic Dialogue was formally established to cooperate on artificial intelligence governance, innovation, and competitiveness.
  • Japan will contribute to India’s upcoming AI Impact Summit in February 2026.
  • The next round of Senior Officials’ Talks on Economic Security and the Joint Working Group on Critical Minerals will be convened.
  • The Japan–India Startup Support Initiative (JISSI) was reviewed to promote collaboration between Japanese and Indian startups.
  • The Japan–India Intellectual Conclave (Kizuna Dialogue) is scheduled in Shillong in February 2026.
  • Foreign Minister Motegi called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reaffirming the Japan–India partnership as a 'natural partnership' anchored in shared democratic values and strategic interests.

Illegal earth cutting near Deepor Beel wetland persists despite Gauhati High Court and Assam Forest Department bans

[Assam]

Key Updates:

  • Residents of the Seventh Mile area allege that a group of middlemen and miscreants have been illegally excavating soil for over a month from the Kalshila wetland connected to Deepor Beel.
  • The illegal excavation occurs mostly at night from around 8 pm, with dumpers transporting soil excavated using JCB machines to various locations for commercial gain.
  • The Gauhati High Court and the Assam Forest Department have imposed prohibitory orders, yet the activity continues unabated on government land and wetlands.
  • The wetland lies near the training school of the Assam Police Radio Organisation and the Assam Engineering College under the jurisdiction of Jalukbari Police Outpost.
  • Locals warned that repeated excavation since 2021 during the dry season threatens the biodiversity of the Kalshila wetland and the sensitive ecological zone of Deepor Beel.
  • The citizens have urged the Kamrup (Metro) district administration, city police, and forest authorities to conduct an immediate spot inquiry and take strict legal action against those involved.

Similar Coverage

United Nations (UN) releases State of Finance for Nature 2026 report (End of January) ▼
  • The United Nations (UN) released the State of Finance for Nature 2026 report on 22 January 2026.
  • The report finds that for every $1 invested in protecting nature, $30 is spent on activities that destroy it.
  • Global nature-negative finance flows are estimated at $7 trillion, while nature-positive finance flows amount to $200 billion.
  • Environmentally harmful subsidies are concentrated in sectors including fossil fuels, agriculture, water, transport, and construction.
  • The data identifies utilities, industrials, energy, and basic materials as sectors where environmental damage is particularly significant.
  • The report advocates for scaling up nature-positive investments such as regenerative agriculture, sustainable forestry, and nature-based infrastructure.
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.
World Wetlands Day 2026 observed on February 2 (Start of February) ▼
  • World Wetlands Day is observed every year on February 2.
  • The first World Wetlands Day was celebrated in 1997.
  • It has been a United Nations (UN) International Day since 2022.
  • The Convention on Wetlands was signed on 2 February 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.
  • The official theme for World Wetlands Day 2026 is 'Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage'.
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.

National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB) partners with TraceXero Technologies to advance carbon capture and utilisation in cement sector.

[National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB)]

Key Updates:

  • The National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB) has partnered with TraceXero Technologies to develop and technically validate carbon capture and utilisation technologies for the cement sector.
  • TraceXero Technologies is a start-up focused on industrial decarbonization and carbon capture solutions.
  • The cement sector contributes about 7 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions and is considered a difficult-to-abate sector due to its process-related emissions.
  • Carbon Capture and Utilization has been identified as one of the critical levers to support the goal of Net Zero in the cement industry.
  • TraceXero has been developing a technology that captures carbon dioxide using a proprietary solvent process and converts it into graphitic carbon and eventually graphene.
  • The European Union is imposing a carbon tax (carbon border adjustment mechanism) on certain sectors.

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NMDC Limited and Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) partner for indigenous mining technologies (Start of March) ▼
  • NMDC Limited (NMDC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) to strengthen research and academic collaboration in the mineral and metals sector.
  • The partnership focuses on joint research in iron ore beneficiation and agglomeration, green steelmaking technologies, and alternate ironmaking using indigenous raw materials.
  • Both institutions will collaborate on advanced modelling and simulation of mining and metallurgical processes.
  • The initiative includes the extraction of critical and rare earth minerals from primary and secondary sources to enhance India’s mineral security.
  • The collaboration covers digital transformation domains such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicle operations, Mining 4.0 frameworks, and drone-based surveying.
  • The MoU was signed in the presence of IITH Director B. S. Murty and NMDC Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Amitava Mukherjee.
TEXMiN and Russia's GIREDMET sign MoU for rare earth and critical mineral technologies (End of February) ▼
  • TEXMiN Foundation (TEXMiN), the Technology Translation Research Park under the Department of Science & Technology (DST) at Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad (IIT (ISM) Dhanbad), signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Russia's GIREDMET.
  • GIREDMET, formally the State Research and Design Institute of Rare Metal Industry, is a research institute under the Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation.
  • The agreement was signed during the Industry-Institute Interaction 2026 (III-2026) conclave and exhibition held at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
  • The partnership aims to establish a framework for cooperation across the mining value chain, including exploration, mineral beneficiation, extraction, separation, refining, and advanced materials development.
  • A key focus area is the development of high-coercivity permanent magnet blocks based on neodymium-iron-boron (Nd-Fe-B), supported by a complete rare earth metallurgical cycle.
  • The collaboration will explore hydrometallurgical recycling technologies for lithium-ion batteries to recover lithium, nickel, and cobalt.
  • The institutions will develop recovery solutions for critical minerals from legacy mine dumps, tailings, and low-grade or complex ores.
  • The planned work includes digital twin-enabled smart processing plants integrating artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and sensor systems.
  • The initiative aligns with India's National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) and Russia's Federal Project for the Development of Rare Metal Industry.
  • Representatives from TEXMiN and IIT (ISM) Dhanbad will participate in the International Congress on Rare Metals, Materials and Related Technologies (RAREMET-2026) in Moscow from 20 to 22 May 2026.
Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for telecom and cybersecurity collaboration (Mid of February) ▼
  • The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), Gandhinagar, signed the MoU on February 13, 2026, for collaboration in the telecom and cybersecurity domains.
  • The Ministry of Communication informed that C-DOT will establish an Innovation-cum-Experience Centre at the RRU campus to spearhead research and technology development.
  • The collaboration focuses on critical domains including Cybersecurity, Quantum Technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), Machine-to-Machine (M2M) solutions, 5G networks, and Mission Critical Services.
  • The initiative includes training, capacity-building, and skilling programmes to create an industry-ready workforce.
  • Dr Rajkumar Upadhyay, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of C-DOT, highlighted that the MoU aims for self-reliant innovation in telecom and cybersecurity.
HCLTech and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur sign MoU to advance deep tech innovation for Global Capability Centres. (Start of March) ▼
  • HCL Technologies (HCLTech) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur signed an MoU to convert research into real-world pilots and scalable solutions for Global Capability Centres (GCCs).
  • The collaboration focuses on advanced engineering and deep tech including AI, robotics and next-generation technologies.
  • The partnership enables GCCs to accelerate complex research, access niche skills without building internal labs and reduce time-to-market.
  • IIT Kanpur brings translational R&D expertise in AI, intelligent systems, robotics, cybersecurity and other next-generation technologies.
  • The MoU bridges academic research and enterprises to co-develop innovative technologies with measurable impact.

T-Hub and Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) partner to boost India–Japan deep-tech startup exchange.

[T-Hub, Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO)]

Key Updates:

  • T-Hub and the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) signed a partnership on Thursday to strengthen India–Japan startup collaboration.
  • The collaboration targets sectors including pharma and medical equipment, space and aerospace, defence, mobility, smart infrastructure, deeptech, AI, emerging technologies, and Industry 4.0.
  • Initiatives include startup exchange programmes, corporate open-innovation partnerships, market access support, regulatory guidance, and investor connect platforms.
  • T-Hub will assist Japanese startups, corporates, and investors entering India and help Indian startups expand into Japan.
  • T-Hub’s prior Japanese partners include NEC, Suzuki, Denso, Panasonic, Toyota, and Nitto Denko.
  • T-Hub CEO Kavikrut stated the partnership will create global pathways for startups building from India.
  • JETRO Bengaluru Director General Toshihiro Mizutani said the move will further strengthen Japan–India startup collaboration and innovation partnerships.

Similar Coverage

Tripura Government launches T-NEST Innovation Hub in Agartala (Start of March) ▼
  • The Government of Tripura launched T-NEST, the state’s flagship incubation and innovation hub, at the International Trade Centre in Agartala.
  • The hub was inaugurated by Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh, Tripura Chief Minister (CM) Dr. Manik Saha, and Information Technology (IT) Minister Pranajit Singha Roy.
  • T-NEST will serve as the operational backbone for Startup Tripura and the State Innovation Mission, acting as a single-window platform for entrepreneurs.
  • The initiative focuses on priority sectors including agri-technology, bamboo and forest-based enterprises, tourism innovation, health technology, digital public services, and rural enterprise solutions.
  • The hub introduces a Government-as-First-Customer model, allowing startups to pilot and validate solutions by addressing real-world challenges presented by government departments.
  • A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with T-Hub to facilitate knowledge exchange, mentorship, and market access for the state's entrepreneurial framework.
  • Future developments include the establishment of a Modern Incubation and Innovation Park at Chandmari and the Tripura IT & Data Economic Zone (TIDEZ).
Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) and Startup Policy Forum (SPF) sign MoU to accelerate fintech and digital innovation. (Mid of February) ▼
  • Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) and Startup Policy Forum (SPF) signed an MoU at Black Swan Summit India 2026 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
  • GFTN is a Singapore-headquartered platform established by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and spans more than 130 countries.
  • SPF represents over 65 high-growth Indian startups collectively valued at more than USD 100 billion.
  • The collaboration focuses on strengthening global-India innovation corridors, enabling structured policy dialogue, and supporting international expansion of Indian startups.
  • Priority areas include digital finance infrastructure, responsible AI, digital assets, cross-border payments, and regulatory innovation.
  • GFTN is chaired by Ravi Menon, former Managing Director of MAS.
  • SPF works closely with DPIIT, the MeitY Startup Hub, and the IndiaAI Mission.
Japan, South Korea and Malaysia to invest ₹1,600 crore in Gujarat’s semiconductor ecosystem (Start of March) ▼
  • Gujarat Semiconnect conference in Gandhinagar saw investment proposals worth over ₹1,600 crore to strengthen the state’s semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem covering manufacturing units, chemicals, equipment, R&D centres and advanced technology startups.
  • Japan’s Horiba Group, through Horiba India Pvt Ltd, signed an MoU with the Gujarat government to establish an R&D centre in Ahmedabad focused on semiconductor-grade mass-flow controllers and advanced instrumentation.
  • Malaysia-based Hotayi Electronic signed an agreement with the Gujarat government to set up a ₹250 crore electronics manufacturing facility at Sanand GIDC, expected to employ 1,000 persons and supply high-precision components for semiconductor and allied industries.
  • Hi-Spec Ltd will set up a ₹750 crore facility to manufacture semiconductor-grade hydrofluoric acid, a critical chemical for wafer processing.
  • Kiansh International Technologies, in collaboration with a South Korean firm, will invest ₹25 crore to produce gas abatement systems and scrubbers for semiconductor and solar industries.
  • Japanese chipmaker Rohm Semiconductor partnered with Gujarat-based Suchi Semicon to provide IC packaging and test solutions to the local value chain.
  • Kaynes Semicon, a subsidiary of Kaynes Technology India Ltd, committed ₹500 crore to Ahmedabad-based startup SpectraGaze Systems to advance India’s capabilities in outer-space imaging and semiconductor technologies.
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) records USD 51 billion FDI inflow in six months (Mid of January) ▼
  • India has received foreign direct investment (FDI) worth USD 51 billion in the last six months.
  • DPIIT will organise National Startup Day on January 16, during which 75 Grand Challenges will be launched to foster innovation and problem-solving across sectors.
  • More than 3,000 requests have been received to participate in National Startup Day.
  • 20 National Startup Awards will be presented on National Startup Day to recognise excellence in entrepreneurship.

Kpop Demon Hunters wins Oscars for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song

Key Updates:

  • Kpop Demon Hunters secured two Oscars: Best Animated Feature Film and Best Original Song.
  • Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans and producer Michelle LM Wong accepted the Best Animated Feature award.
  • Ejae accepted the Best Original Song award for Golden, the film’s breakout ballad.
  • Golden became the first K-pop song to win a Grammy last month.

Similar Coverage

98th Academy Awards (Oscars) ceremony on March 15, 2026 (Mid of March) ▼
  • The 98th Academy Awards will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
  • Conan O'Brien will host the Oscars ceremony for the second consecutive year.
  • Nominations for the 2026 Oscars were announced live in Los Angeles by actress Danielle Brooks and actor Lewis Pullman.
  • Ten films are nominated for Best Picture: Bugonia, F1, Frankenstein, Hamnet, Marty Supreme, One Battle After Another, The Secret Agent, Sentimental Value, Sinners, and Train Dreams.
Kendrick Lamar and Bad Bunny Win Top Honours at 68th Grammy Awards (Start of February) ▼
  • The 68th Grammy Awards took place in Los Angeles, where Kendrick Lamar emerged as the biggest winner with five awards, including Record of the Year for Luther and Best Rap Album for GNX.
  • Bad Bunny won the Album of the Year award for Debí Tirar Más Fotos, making history as the first Puerto Rican star to win the category, and also secured Best Música Urbana Album.
  • Billie Eilish won Song of the Year for Wildflower, while Olivia Dean was named Best New Artist.
  • Lady Gaga secured Best Pop Vocal Album for Mayhem and Best Dance/Pop Recording for Abracadabra, while Lola Young won Best Pop Solo Performance for Messy.
  • Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande won Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for Defying Gravity, and Tame Impala won Best Dance/Electronic Recording for End Of Summer.
  • FKA Twigs won Best Dance/Electronic Album for Eusexua, and Laufey won Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for A Matter Of Time.
  • Natalia Lafourcade won Best Latin Pop Album for Cancionera, and Yungblud won Best Rock Performance for Changes (Live From Villa Park).
  • Nine Inch Nails won Best Rock Song for As Alive As You Need Me To Be, and Turnstile won Best Rock Album for Never Enough and Best Metal Performance for Birds.
  • The Cure won Best Alternative Music Album for Songs Of A Lost World and Best Alternative Music Performance for Alone.
  • Clipse, Pusha T, and Malice won Best Rap Performance for Chains & Whips, while Kendrick Lamar also won Best Melodic Rap Performance and Best Rap Song for TV Off.
  • Chris Stapleton won Best Country Solo Performance for Bad As I Used To Be, and Tyler Childers won Best Country Song for Bitin' List.
  • Kehlani won Best Rhythm and Blues (R&B) Performance and Best R&B Song for Folded, and Leon Thomas won Best R&B Album for Mutt.
  • Tyla won Best African Music Performance for Push 2 Start, and music legend Fela Kuti became the first African to receive the Grammys Lifetime Achievement Award.
  • The Dalai Lama won the Best Audiobook Narration award for Meditations: The Reflections Of His Holiness The Dalai Lama.
  • Ludwig Göransson won Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media for Sinners, and Austin Wintory won Best Video Game Score for Sword of the Sea.
  • Huntr/x won Best Song Written for Visual Media for Golden (From Korean Pop (K-Pop) Demon Hunters), and Doechii won Best Music Video for Anxiety.
  • John Williams won Best Music Film for Music by John Williams, and Samara Joy won Best Jazz Vocal Album for Portrait.
  • Sullivan Fortner won Best Jazz Instrumental Album, Nate Smith won Best Alternative Jazz Album, and Chick Corea won Best Jazz Performance for Windows (Live).
  • Kwamé Ryan and the Houston Grand Opera won Best Opera Recording for Heggie: Intelligence, and Andris Nelsons and the Boston Symphony Orchestra won Best Orchestral Performance.
  • Cirkut was named Producer of the Year (Non-Classical), and Amy Allen was named Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical).
  • The various artists compilation for Sinners won Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media, and Nate Bargatze won Best Comedy Album.
79th British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards held on 22 February 2026 (End of February) ▼
  • The 79th British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards ceremony took place on 22 February 2026 at the Royal Festival Hall within London's Southbank Centre.
  • Paul Thomas Anderson's film 'One Battle After Another' won six BAFTA awards: Best Film, Director, Cinematography, Editing, Supporting Actor (Sean Penn), and Adapted Screenplay.
  • British actor Robert Aramayo won the Leading Actor award for 'I Swear', beating Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothée Chalamet, Ethan Hawke, and Michael B. Jordan.
  • Jessie Buckley became the first Irish performer to win the BAFTA Best Actress award for her role as Agnes Hathaway in 'Hamnet'.
  • Ryan Coogler became the first Black winner of the BAFTA Original Screenplay award for 'Sinners'.
  • Farhan Akhtar-backed Manipuri film 'Boong' won the BAFTA Award for Best Children's & Family Film.
  • Donna Langley, UK-born chairwoman of NBCUniversal Entertainment, received the BAFTA Fellowship, presented by Prince William.
The Oscars to stream on YouTube starting in 2029 (Mid of December) ▼
  • The Academy Awards will begin streaming exclusively on YouTube in 2029, the latest big change in Hollywood.
  • The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences made the announcement, saying that it signed a multi-year deal that will give YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars until 2033.
  • The Oscars, which is planned for 15 March, has aired for a half a century on ABC.
  • ABC, which has streamed the awards since 1976, said that it was looking forward 'to the next three telecasts' it will still host.
  • Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor said in a statement that the partnership will expand access to the work of the Academy to a worldwide audience.
  • YouTube CEO Neal Mohan called the Oscars 'one of our essential cultural institutions' and stated the partnership would inspire a new generation of film lovers.
  • Over decades, viewership of the awards show has declined, though there was a slight uptick in 2025, with a significant number of younger viewers tuning in from cell phones and computers.
  • Warner Bros Discovery on Wednesday recommended its shareholders reject a hostile takeover bid from Paramount Skydance for a rival bid from streaming giant Netflix.

Preeti Pal wins 200m gold as India finishes with 208 medals at World Para Athletics Grand Prix

Key Updates:

  • Preeti Pal claimed the women’s 200m (T35-T37) gold with a time of 30.26 seconds at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix.
  • India topped the medal table with 208 medals: 75 gold, 69 silver and 64 bronze.
  • Russia finished second with 35 medals (15 gold, 14 silver, 6 bronze).
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina placed third with three medals (one gold, two silver).
  • Shubham Juyal won the men’s shot put F57 gold with a throw of 14.45 metres.
  • Vinay secured the men’s 200m T35 gold in 28.18 seconds.
  • Rakeshbhai Bhatt won the men’s 200m T37-T44 gold in 25.20 seconds.
  • Manojkumar Sabapathi took the men’s 800m T53-T54 gold in 1:57.41.

Similar Coverage

Shailesh Kumar wins gold at World Para Athletics Grand Prix New Delhi (Mid of March) ▼
  • Shailesh Kumar claimed gold in men’s high jump T63 with a best jump of 1.84 m at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in New Delhi.
  • The event marked his 2026 season opener after being reigning world champion.
  • More than 200 Indian athletes are competing in the Grand Prix which serves as a key classification event.
  • Asian Para Games is the season’s priority target for Indian para-athletes including Shailesh Kumar.
New Delhi to host 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix from 11–13 March (Mid of March) ▼
  • The second edition of the New Delhi World Para Athletics Grand Prix will be held from 11 to 13 March 2026.
  • Around 257 athletes from eight nations—India, Russia, Nepal, Bhutan, Hong Kong, Serbia, Bosnia, and Egypt—will compete.
  • Team India will field the largest contingent with approximately 219 athletes.
  • Top Indian para-athletes including Mariyappan Thangavelu, Sumit Antil, Praveen Kumar, Ajeet Singh, Devendra Singh Gurjar, Ankur Dhama, Simran, and Preeti Pal are expected to compete.
  • A total of 74 international classification slots will be available: 39 for athletes with physical impairments, 29 for vision impairments, and 6 for intellectual impairments.
  • The previous 2025 edition saw India top the medal tally with 134 medals (45 gold, 40 silver, 49 bronze).
Aakriti Dahiya wins silver medal at Asian Championship (Mid of February) ▼
  • The Asian Championship for rifle and pistol events was held in New Delhi.
  • Aakriti Dahiya won the silver medal in the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions event.
  • Olympian Anjum Moudgil secured the bronze medal in the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions event.
  • Sofiya Shulzhenko of Kazakhstan won the gold medal in the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions with a new world record score of 358.2.
  • The Indian women’s team, comprising Aakriti Dahiya, Anjum Moudgil, and Aashi Chouksey, won the silver medal with a total score of 1756-86x.
  • Prachi Gaikwad won the gold medal in the junior women’s 3P final with a score of 353.3.
  • Tomiris Amanova of Kazakhstan won the silver medal in the junior women’s 3P final with a score of 351.4.
  • Anushka Thokur won the bronze medal in the junior women’s 3P final with a score of 341.1.
  • Vidarsa Kochalumkal Vinod, a Ranking Points Only (RPO) athlete, topped the qualification chart with 590 points.
Esha Singh claims India’s maiden gold at Asian rifle and pistol championship (Mid of February) ▼
  • Esha Singh won the 10m air pistol women’s final at the Asian rifle and pistol championship held in New Delhi.
  • India secured gold in the women’s 10m air pistol team event.
  • Samrat Rana won individual bronze in the men’s 10m air pistol event.
  • Indian men’s air pistol team of Samrat Rana, Sharvan Kumar and Varun Tomar secured team silver.
  • Vladimir Svechnikov of Uzbekistan won the men’s individual gold and Valeriy Rakimzhan took silver.
  • Uzbekistan won the men’s team gold in 10m air pistol.
  • Vietnam took silver and Chinese Taipei bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol team event.

BCCI Naman Awards 2026 honour Shubman Gill, Smriti Mandhana and domestic stars

[Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)]

Key Updates:

  • Shubman Gill won the Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer (Men) 2024-25.
  • Smriti Mandhana won the Best International Cricketer (Women) 2024-25 for the fifth time.
  • Roger Binny, Rahul Dravid and Mithali Raj received the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.
  • Harshit Rana won Best International Debut (Men) 2024-25.
  • N Sree Charani won Best International Debut (Women) 2024-25.
  • Deepti Sharma took the most wickets for India Women in ODIs during 2024-25.
  • Ayush Mhatre (Mumbai) won the Lala Amarnath Award for Best All-rounder in Domestic Limited-Overs Competitions 2024-25.
  • Harsh Dubey (Vidarbha) won the Lala Amarnath Award for Best All-rounder in Ranji Trophy 2024-25.
  • Ira Jadhav (Mumbai) won Jagmohan Dalmiya Trophy for Best Woman Cricketer (Jr Domestic) 2024-25.
  • Shafali Verma (Haryana) won Jagmohan Dalmiya Trophy for Best Woman Cricketer (Sr Domestic) 2024-25.
  • Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan (Madhya Pradesh) topped wicket-takers in U16 Vijay Merchant Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group.
  • Kishan Sarkar (Tripura) topped wicket-takers in U16 Vijay Merchant Trophy 2024-25 Plate Group.
  • Shanthanu Singh (Uttar Pradesh) topped run-scorers in U16 Vijay Merchant Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group.
  • Pritam Raj (Bihar) topped run-scorers in U16 Vijay Merchant Trophy 2024-25 Plate Group.
  • Hemchudeshan J (Tamil Nadu) topped wicket-takers in U19 Cooch Behar Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group.
  • Arkajit Roy (Tripura) topped wicket-takers in U19 Cooch Behar Trophy 2024-25 Plate Group.
  • Nitya J Pandya (Baroda) topped run-scorers in U19 Cooch Behar Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group.
  • Ragavan Ramamoorthy (Puducherry) topped run-scorers in U19 Cooch Behar Trophy 2024-25 Plate Group.
  • Vicky Ostwal (Maharashtra) topped wicket-takers in U23 Col. C K Nayudu Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group.
  • Dipjyoti Saikia (Assam) topped wicket-takers in U23 Col. C K Nayudu Trophy 2024-25 Plate Group.
  • Macneil H N (Karnataka) topped run-scorers in U23 Col. C K Nayudu Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group.
  • R Jashwanth Shreeram (Puducherry) topped run-scorers in U23 Col. C K Nayudu Trophy 2024-25 Plate Group.
  • Harsh Dubey (Vidarbha) topped wicket-takers in Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group.
  • Suchith J (Nagaland) topped wicket-takers in Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Plate Group.
  • Y V Rathod (Vidarbha) topped run-scorers in Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group.
  • Snehal Kauthankar (Goa) topped run-scorers in Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Plate Group.
  • Mumbai Cricket Association won Best Performance in BCCI Domestic Tournaments 2024-25.
  • Ulhas Gandhe (Vidarbha C A) won Best Umpire in Domestic Cricket 2024-25.

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India defeats New Zealand to win ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (Mid of March) ▼
  • The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a cash reward of ₹131 crore for the senior men’s Indian team following their victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
  • India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs in the final held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
  • India became the first team in the history of the tournament to retain the title and the first to win the championship three times.
  • The Indian team posted a record finals score of 253 for five, featuring Sanju Samson’s 89 runs.
  • Jasprit Bumrah was named Player of the Match in the final for his bowling figures of four for 14.
  • Sanju Samson was adjudged Player of the Series for scoring a total of 321 runs in five innings.
  • The International Cricket Council (ICC) awarded the winners USD 2.34 million (₹21.5 crore) and the runners-up USD 1.17 million (₹10.75 crore).
  • BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the reward, which is an increase from the ₹125 crore reward announced in 2024.
India defeats New Zealand to defend T20 World Cup title (Start of March) ▼
  • India defended their T20 World Cup title by beating New Zealand by 96 runs in the final at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
  • India posted 255 for 5 in 20 overs; Sanju Samson top-scored with 89 off 46 balls.
  • New Zealand were bowled out for 159 in 19 overs; Tim Seifert made 52 off 26 balls.
  • Jasprit Bumrah took 4 wickets for 15 runs in 4 overs for India.
Pankaj Advani defeats Kamal Chawla to win inaugural Liber Win Champions Cup 2026 (End of February) ▼
  • Pankaj Advani clinched the inaugural Liber Win Champions Cup 2026 by defeating Kamal Chawla 6-3 in the best-of-11 final at Karnataka State Billiards Association (KSBA), Bengaluru.
  • Kamal Chawla compiled the highest break of the championship with a 140.
  • Advani trailed 4-1 in the semi-final against Laxman Rawat before winning 5-4.
  • Kamal Chawla beat Sourav Kothari 5-4 in the other semi-final after trailing 4-1.
  • Liber Win appointed Pankaj Advani as its Indian Brand Ambassador at the end of the tournament.
India defeats England to win 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup (Start of February) ▼
  • The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a cash reward of ₹7.5 crore for the Indian Under-19 cricket team following their 2026 Under-19 World Cup victory.
  • India defeated England by 100 runs in the final at Harare Sports Club, Zimbabwe, to secure their sixth International Cricket Council (ICC) Under-19 World Cup title.
  • India posted a total of 411/9 in the final, featuring an innings of 175 runs off 80 balls by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
  • Captains Ayush Mhatre and Abhigyan Kundu contributed to the total before the bowlers dismissed England for 311 in 40.2 overs.
  • Caleb Falconer scored 115 runs off 67 balls for England in the final match.
  • BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the reward includes the players, coaching staff, support staff, and the Junior Cricket Committee.
  • BCCI President Mithun Manhas noted that India currently holds both the men’s and women’s Under-19 World Cup titles.

Chandrika Pujari wins gold at World Boxing Futures Cup

Key Updates:

  • India concluded the World Boxing Futures Cup in Bangkok with a total of five medals, including one gold, three silver, and one bronze.
  • Chandrika Pujari won the gold medal in the women’s 51 kg category by defeating Uzbekistan’s Mardonova Nazokat with a unanimous decision.
  • Gunjan (48 kg) and Joyshree Devi (54 kg) secured silver medals after losing their respective final matches to boxers from England and the United States.
  • L. Ambekar Meetei earned a silver medal in the men’s 50 kg category after losing the final bout to an opponent from Ukraine.
  • Radhamani Longjam secured a bronze medal for India in the 57 kg weight category.

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Shailesh Kumar wins gold at World Para Athletics Grand Prix New Delhi (Mid of March) ▼
  • Shailesh Kumar claimed gold in men’s high jump T63 with a best jump of 1.84 m at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in New Delhi.
  • The event marked his 2026 season opener after being reigning world champion.
  • More than 200 Indian athletes are competing in the Grand Prix which serves as a key classification event.
  • Asian Para Games is the season’s priority target for Indian para-athletes including Shailesh Kumar.
Vijender Singh appointed to Asian Boxing Council (Mid of January) ▼
  • Vijender Singh has been appointed as a member of the Asian Boxing Council.
  • He thanked the Boxing Federation of India for entrusting him with this responsibility.
  • Vijender remains one of India’s most recognisable sporting figures, having won a historic bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
S G Roshini wins gold at 29th All India National Martial Arts’ Championship 2026 (End of January) ▼
  • S G Roshini, a Class IX student from Vedavalli Vidyalaya, NPS Senior Secondary School in Ranipet (TN), won the gold medal at the 29th All India National Martial Arts’ Championship 2026.
  • The championship was held in Goa on January 25.
  • The event selected promising talent in traditional Indian martial arts including silambam.
India’s Unnati Hooda and Kiran George clinch singles titles at Odisha Masters (Mid of December) ▼
  • The Odisha Masters 2025, a Super 100 event, was held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Cuttack.
  • Unnati Hooda (India) claimed the women’s singles title, defeating compatriot Isharani Baruah 21-17, 21-10.
  • Hooda is set to enter the top 25 in BWF World Rankings, reaching a career best 23.
  • She reached the semifinals at the Hylo Open and the Syed Modi International, and the Taipei Open semifinal earlier in the year.
  • Hooda also secured a win against PV Sindhu at the China Open Super 1000 in the round of 16.
  • Kiran George (India) clinched the men’s singles title, prevailing over Indonesia’s Muhamad Yusuf in a three-game battle, with scores of 21-14, [Yusuf leveled], 21-16.
  • This was George’s first title on the circuit since 2023.
  • Marwan Faza and Aisyah Pranata (Indonesia) won the mixed doubles title, defeating compatriots Dejan Ferdinansyah and Bernadine Wardana 21-15, 21-10.
  • Ali Faathir Rayhan and Devin Artha Wahyudi (Indonesia) secured the men’s doubles crown, rallying past Malaysia’s Khang Khai Xing and Aaron Tai 15-21, 21-12, 21-16.
  • Top seeds Gabriela and Stefani Stoeva (Bulgaria) won the women’s doubles title, overcoming Malaysia’s Ong Xin Yee and Carmen Ting 21-19, 21-14.

Rotaract Festival scheduled for March 14 in Uganda

[Uganda]

Key Updates:

  • The Rotaract Festival is scheduled to take place on March 14 at the Legends Rugby Grounds to mobilise resources for community development projects.
  • The event marks the conclusion of the annual Rotaract Week, which is observed from March 9 to March 14.
  • Geoffrey Martin Kitakule serves as the District Governor of Rotary District 9213.
  • Rotaract is a global youth leadership programme operating under the aegis of Rotary International.
  • The organisation adheres to the official motto Service Above Self.
  • Rotaract clubs in Uganda support community initiatives in sectors including health, education, environmental conservation, and youth empowerment.

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Dr Haripriya Aravind and Dr R Venkatesh Selected for Chang-Crandall Humanitarian Award 2026 (Mid of February) ▼
  • Dr Haripriya Aravind and Dr R Venkatesh from the Aravind Eye Hospital in Puducherry have been selected for the Chang-Crandall Humanitarian Award for 2026.
  • The award is presented by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Foundation to recognise service and compassion in the field of cataract blindness and disability.
  • The presentation ceremony will be held during the ASCRS Foundation’s conference in Washington DC on 11 April 2026.
  • The award includes a prize of $100,000, which is donated to the non-profit organisation of the awardee's choice.
  • The doctors have earmarked the $100,000 cash prize for the Aravind Eye Care System.
  • The Chang-Crandall Humanitarian Award was instituted in 2017 and is endowed by a gift from David and Victoria Chang.
  • Dr Haripriya Aravind serves as the chief of cataract and intraocular lens services, and Dr R Venkatesh is the chief medical officer at the hospital.
World Kidney Day 2026 observed on March 12 with theme 'Kidney Health for All — Caring for People, Protecting the Planet' (Mid of March) ▼
  • World Kidney Day 2026 is observed globally on March 12.
  • The 2026 theme is 'Kidney Health for All — Caring for People, Protecting the Planet'.
  • World Kidney Day is organised annually by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Society of Nephrology.
World Hearing Day 2026 observed on March 3 with theme 'From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all children' (Start of March) ▼
  • World Hearing Day is observed annually on March 3.
  • The theme for World Hearing Day 2026 is 'From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all children'.
  • The date 3/3 was chosen as it represents the design of the two ears, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
  • World Hearing Day was initially called 'International Ear Care Day' and was formally established in 2012.
  • The WHO first discussed the day during the 1st International Conference on Prevention and Rehabilitation of Hearing Impairment held in Beijing, China, in 2007.
  • According to WHO, around 90 million children aged 5-19 years are living with hearing loss.
  • WHO states that about 60 per cent of hearing loss cases in children are preventable through simple and cost-effective public health measures.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day observed on February 2 (Start of February) ▼
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day is observed every year on February 2.
  • It was established in 2013 by the Rheumatoid Patient Foundation (RPF), the first nonprofit created specifically to represent people living with RA.
  • The date marks the birthday of RPF founder Kelly Young, widely known as RA Warrior.