Current Affairs For Examinations (CAFE) 2026

April 2, 2026

Explore the latest current affairs of 2026 with daily updates covering important developments from India and across the world. This section provides concise and reliable news on national events, international relations, economy, environment, science and technology, security, and government schemes. Carefully curated for UPSC, SSC, Banking, State PCS, and other competitive exam aspirants, these updates highlight key facts, policy changes, reports, and global developments that are frequently asked in exams. Each topic is explained in a clear and easy-to-understand format, helping readers quickly grasp the significance and exam relevance. From major government initiatives and economic reforms to environmental issues and international agreements, our current affairs coverage ensures you stay informed and exam-ready with accurate, timely, and structured information every day.

International Affairs

1. Algiera

Summary

• Status: Largest country in Africa by area.
• Regional Grouping: Part of the “Maghreb” (North Africa).
• Climate Barrier: Saharan Atlas mountains separate the coast from the desert.
• Economic Driver: Hydrocarbons (Oil & Gas).
• Border Challenge: Shares a long, sensitive border with Mali and Niger in the Sahel.

Context:

The 7th round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between India and Algeria, held in Algiera, marks a significant step in India’s “Focus Africa” strategy. Both nations have committed to a “Strategic Partnership” with a specific focus on parliamentary cooperation and a unified front against global terrorism.

Geography and Strategic Location

Algeria holds the distinction of being the largest country in Africa and the Arab world by total land area, following the secession of South Sudan from Sudan in 2011.

• The Maghreb Region: Algeria is a central pillar of the Maghreb (Northwest Africa), characterized by its long northern coastline along the Mediterranean Sea.
• The Capital: Algiers, often called “Algiers the White” due to its glistening white buildings, serves as the administrative and economic heart.
• Bordering Entities (7):
  • Northeast: Tunisia.
  • East: Libya.
  • Southeast: Niger.
  • Southwest: Mali and Mauritania.
  • West: Western Sahara.
  • Northwest: Morocco.

Distinct Geological Zones

Algeria’s landscape is defined by a sharp contrast between the fertile north and the hyper-arid south.

• The Tell Region: This is the narrow, fertile coastal strip along the Mediterranean. It receives the most rainfall and is home to over 90% of the population.
• The Atlas Mountains: Two parallel mountain ranges run from east to west:
  • Tell Atlas: Closer to the sea.
  • Saharan Atlas: Further south, acting as a physical barrier between the coast and the desert.
• The Sahara Desert: This defines the “Great South,” covering more than 80% of the national territory. It is one of the harshest environments on Earth but contains Algeria’s vast oil and gas reserves.
• Ahaggar (Hoggar) Mountains: Located in the central Sahara, this highland region features dramatic volcanic peaks and is the ancestral home of the Tuareg people.

Strategic Importance for India

• Energy Security: Algeria is a major producer of Natural Gas and crude oil. India is looking to diversify its energy basket by increasing imports from the Maghreb.
• Counter-Terrorism: Both nations have a shared history of battling domestic insurgencies and have agreed to share intelligence to combat trans-boundary terrorism in the Sahel region.
• Fertilizer Industry: Algeria has massive phosphate reserves. Given India’s high demand for agricultural fertilizers, Algeria is a key partner for long-term supply agreements.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. Algeria is bordered by how many sovereign entities/territories?

A) 5

B) 6

C) 7

D) 8

Q2. Which mountain range acts as the primary geographic barrier between the fertile Mediterranean coast and the Sahara Desert in Algeria?

A) Drakensberg Mountains

B) Saharan Atlas

C) Ethiopian Highlands

D) Rwenzori Mountains

Q3. Consider the following statements regarding Algeria:

1. It is currently the largest country in Africa by land area.
2. The majority of its population resides in the southern Sahara region due to mineral wealth.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q4. The “Ahaggar (Hoggar) Mountains,” known for their volcanic peaks, are located in which part of Algeria?

A) The Northern Coastal strip

B) The Northeast border with Tunisia

C) The Central Sahara

D) The Northwest border with Morocco

Q5. India recently held the 7th Foreign Office Consultations with Algeria. Apart from counter-terrorism, which area was specifically highlighted for cooperation?

A) Space exploration to Mars

B) Parliamentary cooperation

C) Joint manufacturing of semiconductors

D) Establishment of a common currency

4. Artemis II Mission

Summary

• Mission Type: Crewed Lunar Flyby (No Landing).
• Launch Vehicle: Space Launch System (SLS).
• Spacecraft: Orion.
• Duration: 10 Days.
• Historical Context: First crewed lunar mission since Apollo 17 (1972).
• Primary Objective: Validate life-support systems for future Mars and Moon landings.

Context:

The Artemis II mission, scheduled for launch on April 1, 2026, represents NASA’s return to human deep-space exploration after more than five decades. While Artemis I proved that the SLS rocket and Orion capsule could survive the journey to the Moon and back, Artemis II is the ultimate “test drive” to ensure these systems can keep a human crew alive in the harsh environment of deep space.

What is the Artemis II Mission?

Artemis II is the first crewed mission of NASA’s Artemis program. Unlike the upcoming Artemis III, which aims to land humans on the lunar surface, Artemis II is a Lunar Flyby mission.

• The Crew: Four astronauts will be on board, marking the first time humans have left Earth’s orbit since Apollo 17 in 1972.
• The Hardware: It utilizes the Space Launch System (SLS), the most powerful rocket ever built by NASA, and the Orion Spacecraft, designed specifically for deep-space transit.

Mission Trajectory: How It Works

The mission is a high-stakes, 10-day journey that prioritizes speed and system validation:

• Earth Orbit Phase: After launch, Orion will complete two orbits around Earth. This allows the crew to test the life-support, communication, and navigation systems while still close enough to Earth to abort if a problem arises.
• Trans-Lunar Injection: Once cleared, the rocket’s upper stage will fire, propelling Orion toward the Moon. Thanks to the massive thrust of the SLS, this journey takes only 3 to 4 days, unlike the weeks-long trajectories used by uncrewed missions like Chandrayaan-3.
• The Far Side Flyby: Orion will swing around the far side of the Moon, reaching an altitude of approximately 10,300 km above the lunar surface. At its furthest point, the crew will be further from Earth than any human in history.
• Return and Splashdown: Using the Moon’s gravity as a “slingshot,” Orion will head back to Earth, concluding with a high-speed atmospheric re-entry and a Pacific Ocean splashdown.

Key Technical Distinctions

• Propulsion vs. Efficiency: While missions like Chandrayaan-3 used “low-energy” orbits to save fuel (taking nearly a month to reach the Moon), Artemis II uses the SLS rocket’s raw power to reach the Moon in a few days. This is a “High-Power Trajectory.”
• Life Support Systems: This is the first time the Orion’s Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) will be tested with humans. It must regulate oxygen, remove CO2, and maintain temperature for 10 days.
• Deep Space Radiation: The mission will provide critical data on how the Orion’s shielding protects the crew from solar radiation outside the protection of Earth’s magnetic field.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. The Artemis II mission is primarily designed to perform which of the following tasks?

A) Landing the first woman and person of color on the lunar south pole.

B) Establishing a permanent base camp on the Moon’s surface.

C) Conducting a crewed flyby of the Moon to test life-support systems.

D) Launching a new space telescope from the far side of the Moon.

Q2. Which rocket is being used by NASA for the Artemis II mission, currently cited as the most powerful launch vehicle available to the agency?

A) Falcon Heavy

B) Saturn V

C) Space Launch System (SLS)

D) Delta IV Heavy

Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Artemis II mission:

1. It is a 10-day mission that includes a lunar flyby but no landing on the surface.
2. It uses a fuel-efficient, low-power trajectory similar to India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q4. At its furthest point, the Orion spacecraft in Artemis II will reach approximately what distance from the far side of the lunar surface?

A) 110 km

B) 2,500 km

C) 6,500 km

D) 100,000 km

Q5. The Artemis II mission is the first crewed mission to the Moon’s neighborhood since which historical mission?

A) Apollo 11

B) Apollo 13

C) Apollo 17

D) Gemini 8

National Affairs

1. Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWC)

Source: PIB

Context:

The delivery of ‘Malwan’, the second of eight indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWC), represents a pivotal upgrade for the Indian Navy. As a specialized “littoral warrior,” it is designed to hunt submarines in the tricky, shallow waters of India’s coastline where larger destroyers and frigates face operational constraints.

What is the ASW SWC ‘Malwan’?

‘Malwan’ is a high-tech, waterjet-propelled warship. It belongs to a new class of vessels commissioned to replace the aging Abhay-class ASW ships.

• The Manufacturer: Designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi.
• The Standards: Built to the specific requirements of the Indian Navy and adheres to the global classification rules of DNV (Det Norske Veritas).
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat: The vessel boasts over 80% indigenous content, involving a massive ecosystem of Indian MSMEs.

Historical and Naval Legacy

The name ‘Malwan’ carries deep strategic and cultural weight:

• Maritime Heritage: Named after the coastal town of Malwan in Maharashtra, famous for the Sindhudurg Fort and the naval legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
• Continuing the Lineage: It inherits the name from the erstwhile INS Malwan, a coastal minesweeper that served the Indian Navy until 2003.

Multi-Role Versatility

While its primary job is hunting submarines, the ‘Malwan’ is a “Swiss Army Knife” for the Navy:

1. Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW): Detecting and neutralizing enemy submarines in shallow waters.
2. Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO): Handling coastal security, anti-piracy, and patrolling duties.
3. Mine Warfare: Capable of laying mines or assisting in mine-clearing operations.
4. Search and Rescue (SAR): Deployable for emergency response near the coast.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. The Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) ‘Malwan’ was indigenously constructed by which shipyard?

A) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)

B) Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE)

C) Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)

D) Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL)

Q2. What is the primary advantage of using “Waterjet Propulsion” in vessels like ‘Malwan’?

A) It allows the ship to carry heavier nuclear missiles.

B) It enables high maneuverability and operation in shallow coastal waters.

C) It makes the ship invisible to all types of satellite radar.

D) It reduces the fuel consumption by 90% compared to traditional engines.

Q3. The name ‘Malwan’ is associated with the maritime heritage of which historical figure?

A) Kanhoji Angre

B) Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

C) Hyder Ali

D) Marthanda Varma

Q4. Consider the following statements regarding ‘Malwan’:

1. It has a displacement of approximately 5,000 tons, making it a heavy destroyer.
2. It is capable of performing Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO).
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q5. Vessels of the ASW SWC class are intended to replace which aging class of ships in the Indian Navy?

A) Rajput-class

B) Abhay-class

C) Shivalik-class

D) Brahmaputra-class

3. Nyaya Setu AI Chatbot

Source: TNIE

Summary

• Platform: Nyaya Setu AI Chatbot.
• Mascot: Dishika.
• Developed by: Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD).
• Key Tech: BHASHINI ASR, Multilingual NLP, BNS-trained models.
• Languages: 36 Text / 23 Voice (including tribal dialects).
• Context: Part of the DISHA programme for legal literacy and access.

Context:

The unveiling of the Nyaya Setu AI Chatbot and its mascot, Dishika, marks a major milestone in India’s journey toward Digital Legal Inclusion. Launched under the DISHA programme by the Vice-President and the Minister of Law and Justice, this platform aims to ensure that “justice delayed is not justice denied” due to language or literacy barriers.

What is Nyaya Setu?

Nyaya Setu (meaning “Bridge to Justice”) is a voice-first, multimodal AI assistant designed to simplify the complex Indian legal system for the common citizen. It acts as a digital intermediary between complicated statutes and the layperson.

• Developer: Built as a turnkey solution by the Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD).
• The “Voice-First” Philosophy: Unlike traditional chatbots that require typing, Nyaya Setu prioritizes spoken interaction. This is critical for rural India, where literacy levels or comfort with digital typing may be low.
• Scale: It is a massive piece of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), capable of handling millions of real-time queries daily.

How the AI Stack Works

The platform is not just a simple search engine; it uses a sophisticated “End-to-End Voice Stack” to process information:

1. Speech Recognition (ASR): Using BHASHINI ASR, it converts spoken queries in various Indian languages into text.
2. Multilingual NLP: It uses Natural Language Processing to understand the context of a legal problem across different languages.
3. Legal Guardrails: To prevent “AI Hallucinations” (wrong information), the bot is strictly trained on the BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita) and other formal legal frameworks. This ensures the advice is safe and legally sound.

Key Features of the Chatbot

• Massive Language Support: It supports 36 text languages and 23 voice languages, including several complex tribal dialects.
• Multimodal: Users can interact via voice, text, or even touch-based navigation.
• Democratizing Justice: By removing the “English-only” or “Legalese” barrier, it empowers citizens to understand their rights (like filing an FIR or understanding bail) without immediate expensive legal counsel.

Mascot DISHIKA: The Human Face of Law

Dishika is the official mascot and the “friendly digital interface” of the Nyaya Setu bot.

• Objective: The legal system can be intimidating. Dishika is designed to be a “supportive guide” that builds trust and engagement.
• Role: She leads first-time users through the app, explains legal jargon in simple terms, and directs them to the next steps in their legal journey.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. The Nyaya Setu AI Chatbot was developed as a turnkey implementation by which organization?

A) National Informatics Centre (NIC)

B) Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD)

C) NITI Aayog

D) Bar Council of India

Q2. What is the primary function of ‘Dishika’ in the context of the Nyaya Setu platform?

A) It is the high-speed server that hosts the data.

B) It is the official mascot and friendly digital interface for users.

C) It is a specific legal code for cybercrimes.

D) It is the name of the satellite used for rural connectivity.

Q3. Consider the following statements regarding Nyaya Setu:

1. It is a voice-first platform supporting over 20 voice languages and complex tribal dialects.
2. The AI is trained on the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) to ensure legal accuracy.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q4. The ‘BHASHINI ASR’ integrated into Nyaya Setu primarily performs which of the following tasks?

A) Encrypting legal documents for privacy.

B) Converting spoken queries in Indian languages into machine-readable text.

C) Automatically filing cases in the High Court.

D) Predicting the outcome of ongoing court trials.

Q5. Nyaya Setu provides support across how many text and voice languages respectively?

A) 10 Text / 10 Voice

B) 36 Text / 23 Voice

C) 100 Text / 50 Voice

D) 22 Text / 22 Voice (Schedule 8 languages only)

4. Bhavasagara Referral Centre

Source: BS

Summary

• Location: Kochi, Kerala (CMLRE).
• Statutory Act: Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
• Designated Date: March 30, 2026.
• Focus: Deep-sea fauna (vertebrates & invertebrates).
• Strategic Goal: Support for India’s Deep Ocean Mission and the Blue Economy.

Context:

The designation of the Bhavasagara Referral Centre as a National Repository for Deep-Sea Fauna marks a historic step in India’s marine conservation and scientific research. By granting it statutory status under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, the government has centralized the custody of India’s hidden underwater heritage.

What is the Bhavasagara Referral Centre?

Located in Kochi, this center is India’s premier scientific hub dedicated to the “Deep-Sea”—the vast, least-explored regions of the ocean. It serves as a high-tech library where physical biological specimens and their genetic blueprints are preserved for eternity.

• Parent Organization: Centre for Marine Living Resources & Ecology (CMLRE), Kochi.
• Administrative Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
• Statutory Authority: Designated by the MoEFCC on March 30, 2026.
• Global Context: Aligned with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).

The Collection: A Biological Goldmine

The center isn’t just a museum; it is a functional research repository that houses over 3,500 taxonomically identified specimens.

• Voucher Specimens: Every specimen is “geo-referenced,” meaning scientists know exactly where, at what depth, and under what conditions it was found.
• Biological Diversity:
  • Invertebrates: Cnidarians (corals/jellyfish), Annelids (worms), Molluscs, Arthropods (crabs/shrimp), and Echinoderms (starfish).
  • Vertebrates: Elasmobranchs (sharks/rays) and Teleostean (bony) fishes.
• Genetic Vault: It maintains DNA sequences, allowing future generations of scientists to study the evolution and resilience of deep-sea life.

Key Functions as a National Repository

Under the Biological Diversity Act, being a “National Repository” comes with specific legal and scientific duties:

1. Legal Custodian of Type Specimens: Whenever a scientist discovers a new species in Indian waters, the “Type Specimen” (the original individual used to describe the species) must be deposited here.
2. Taxonomic Training: It serves as a training ground for Taxonomists—specialists who identify and classify living things—a skill that is becoming rare but is vital for biodiversity mapping.
3. Blue Economy Support: By documenting deep-sea life, the center helps India sustainably manage its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and explore resources like poly-metallic nodules without destroying fragile ecosystems.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. The Bhavasagara Referral Centre, recently designated as a National Repository, functions under the administrative control of which Ministry?

A) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

B) Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)

C) Ministry of Science and Technology

D) Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

Q2. Under which specific legislation has the Bhavasagara Referral Centre been designated as a National Repository?

A) The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

B) The Environment Protection Act, 1986

C) The Biological Diversity Act, 2002

D) The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010

Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Bhavasagara Referral Centre:

1. It is located at the Centre for Marine Living Resources & Ecology (CMLRE) in Chennai.
2. It serves as a repository for “Type Specimens” of new deep-sea species discovered in Indian waters.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q4. The mission of the Bhavasagara Referral Centre is aligned with which international initiative running from 2021 to 2030?

A) UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

B) UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development

C) International Decade for Action on Water for Sustainable Development

D) UNESCO World Heritage Marine Programme

Q5. What is the significance of a “Geo-referenced Voucher Specimen” kept at the centre?

A) It refers to the market value of the fish in the international market.

B) It provides the exact geographical coordinates and depth from where the specimen was collected.

C) It is a digital-only record with no physical specimen.

D) It refers to the speed at which the marine animal travels.

5. Launch of First Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (Yard 1280, Shachi)

Summary

• Lead Ship: Shachi (Yard 1280).
• Project Size: 11 Vessels.
• Primary Builders: Goa Shipyard (GSL) and GRSE.
• Mission Profile: Surveillance, Asset Protection, Anti-piracy, and HADR.
• Symbolism: Ursa Major and Lighthouse (Guidance and Vigilance).

Context:

The launch of Shachi (Yard 1280) marks the beginning of a new era in India’s maritime surveillance. As the lead ship of the Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) class, Shachi is designed to be a versatile “workhorse” for the Indian Navy, capable of transitioning from high-intensity patrolling to humanitarian relief missions.

What is the NGOPV ‘Shachi’?

Shachi is the first of eleven next-generation vessels being built to augment the Navy’s existing fleet of Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).

• Etymology: The name Shachi is derived from Indian mythology, meaning “one who renders assistance,” reflecting the ship’s dual role in combat and rescue.
• The Builders: The project is a collaborative indigenous effort between two major shipyards:
  • Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL): Builder of the lead ship, Shachi.
  • Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata: Constructing subsequent vessels in the class.

Strategic Identity and Symbolism

The identity of the NGOPV class is rooted in the concept of “The Eternal Guide.”

• The Crest: The official design features the Ursa Major constellation (the Great Bear) and a red and white lighthouse.
• Symbolism: These elements represent the Navy’s commitment to guidance, vigilance, and safety across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Multi-Domain Capabilities

Unlike older patrol vessels, the NGOPV class is designed with a modular approach, allowing it to perform a wide array of “Multi-Domain” operations:

• Maritime Surveillance: Monitoring India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and territorial waters to prevent illegal fishing or smuggling.
• Protection of Offshore Assets: Guarding high-value targets like oil rigs, subsea pipelines, and the Mumbai High fields.
• Anti-Piracy & Escort: Securing critical Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) against piracy, especially in the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea.
• HADR and SAR: Acting as a primary responder during cyclones or maritime accidents, providing medical aid and search-and-rescue support.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. ‘Shachi’, the lead ship of the Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) project, was recently launched at which shipyard?

A) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)

B) Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE)

C) Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL)

D) Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL)

Q2. What is the primary significance of the “Ursa Major” constellation appearing on the crest of the NGOPV class?

A) It represents the ship’s ability to travel at the speed of light.

B) It symbolizes the Navy’s role in space exploration.

C) It represents guidance and vigilance in maritime operations.

D) It indicates that the ship is powered by nuclear fusion.

Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the NGOPV project:

1. A total of 11 ships are being built under this project concurrently at GSL and GRSE.
2. These vessels are exclusively designed for underwater submarine warfare.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q4. Which of the following is NOT typically a primary mission for an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV)?

A) Protection of offshore oil rigs

B) Deep-sea heavy-lift cargo transport

C) Anti-piracy patrolling

D) Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)

Q5. The construction of the NGOPV class is aimed at augmenting the Indian Navy’s existing fleet of how many Offshore Patrol Vessels?

A) 5

B) 10

C) 25

D) 50

6. Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026

Source: TH

Summary:

• Statutory Status: Formally designates Amaravati as the sole and permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh.
• Legislative Mechanism: Amends Section 5 of the Central Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014.
• Timeline: Retroactively effective from June 2, 2024, marking the end of the 10-year common capital status of Hyderabad.
• Policy Finality: Effectively nullifies the “Three-Capital” model to ensure administrative and legal stability.
• Economic Goal: Aims to attract global investment and develop Amaravati into a Tier-1 urban center.

Context:

The Lok Sabha has officially passed the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026. This landmark legislation recognizes Amaravati as the “sole and permanent” capital of Andhra Pradesh, providing it with the statutory (legal) backing it previously lacked

Key Provisions of the 2026 Amendment

1. Statutory Recognition of Amaravati

• Amendment to Section 5: The Bill specifically amends Section 5 of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. It replaces the vague term “a new capital” with the explicit mandate: “Amaravati shall be the new capital.”
• Retrospective Effect: To ensure administrative and legal continuity, the decision is effective from June 2, 2024 (the date Hyderabad officially ceased to be the joint capital).

2. Defined Geographic Scope

• The Bill clarifies that “Amaravati” refers to the areas notified under the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA) Act, 2014.
• This covers a core area of approximately 217 sq. km, ensuring the capital is a legally defined metropolitan region rather than just a symbolic name.

3. Foreclosing the “Three-Capital” Model

• By embedding the capital’s name into a Central Parliamentary Act, the Bill overrides the previous state-level proposal for three capitals (Visakhapatnam, Amaravati, and Kurnool).
• Legal Finality: Because the Reorganisation Act is a Central Act (enacted under Articles 3 and 4 of the Constitution), this amendment makes it nearly impossible for future state governments to alter the capital through mere executive orders.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. Under which Articles of the Indian Constitution does Parliament have the power to amend the Reorganisation Act?

A) Articles 1 and 2

B) Articles 3 and 4

C) Articles 370 and 371

D) Articles 245 and 246

Q2. What is the “retrospective date” set in the 2026 Amendment Bill for Amaravati’s status?

A) June 2, 2014

B) April 1, 2026

C) June 2, 2024

D) March 28, 2026

Q3. The geographic boundaries of Amaravati as per the new Bill are aligned with which specific legislation?

A) The AP Land Acquisition Act, 2013

B) The APCRDA Act, 2014

C) The Hyderabad Metropolitan Act

D) The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution

Q4. Which of the following was NOT a proposed capital under the previous “Three-Capital” model?

A) Visakhapatnam

B) Kurnool

C) Amaravati

D) Tirupati

Q5. Why is a Parliamentary Amendment required to fix the state capital in this specific case?

A) Capitals are always a Union Subject.

B) To amend the primary Central Act (AP Reorganisation Act, 2014) that created the state.

C) Because Andhra Pradesh is currently under President’s Rule.

D) To grant Special Category Status (SCS) automatically.

7. Nagoya Protocol

Source: PIB

Summary

• Adopted: October 2010 (Nagoya, Japan).
• Objective: Fair and equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources.
• India’s Lead: 3,561 IRCCs (56% of global total).
• Statutory Body in India: National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), Chennai.
• Domestic Law: Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
• Key Document: IRCC (Proof of PIC and MAT).

Context:

The news of India leading the world in Nagoya Protocol compliance highlights the country’s robust legal framework for protecting its biological wealth. By issuing over 56% of the world’s Internationally Recognized Certificates of Compliance (IRCCs), India has set a global benchmark for how a “mega-diverse” nation can balance scientific research with the rights of its local communities.

What is the Nagoya Protocol?

The Nagoya Protocol is a landmark “Access and Benefit-Sharing” (ABS) agreement. It is a supplementary treaty to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

• The Core Philosophy: If a company or researcher uses a plant, animal, or traditional knowledge from a specific region to create a commercial product (like a medicine or cosmetic), they must share the profits or benefits with the original “providers” of that resource.
• Three Pillars of the Protocol:
  1. Access: Rules for how researchers can legally obtain biological samples.
  2. Benefit-Sharing: Rules for sharing money, technology, or knowledge back with the provider.
  3. Compliance: Rules to ensure that everyone follows the laws of the country providing the resource.

India’s Leadership in Compliance

India’s success is rooted in its three-tier institutional structure established under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002:

• National Level: National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), Chennai.
• State Level: State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs).
• Local Level: Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) in every village/municipality.

This structure ensures that even a small village community has a say in who accesses their local medicinal plants and how they are compensated.

Understanding the IRCC (The “Digital Permit”)

An Internationally Recognized Certificate of Compliance (IRCC) is the gold standard of legal proof in the world of biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

• The Purpose: It proves to the global community that a resource was not “stolen” (Biopiracy) but was accessed legally.
• The Two Keys to an IRCC:
  • Prior Informed Consent (PIC): Permission granted by the authority before the resource is taken.
  • Mutually Agreed Terms (MAT): A contract that spells out exactly how benefits (like royalties) will be shared.

How the “ABS Clearing-House” Works

The ABS Clearing-House is the international IT platform managed by the CBD.

1. A researcher applies to the NBA in India.
2. The NBA checks the PIC and MAT.
3. The NBA issues a National Permit.
4. The NBA uploads this permit to the Global Clearing-House.
5. The Clearing-House generates the IRCC, making the transaction transparent to customs, patent offices, and researchers worldwide.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. The Nagoya Protocol is a supplementary agreement to which of the following international treaties?

A) United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

B) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

C) CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species)

D) Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

Q2. In India, which authority is responsible for issuing the national permits that are eventually converted into IRCCs?

A) Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

B) National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)

C) NITI Aayog

D) Botanical Survey of India (BSI)

Q3. What do the terms “PIC” and “MAT” stand for in the context of the Nagoya Protocol?

A) Private Internal Code and Main Agreement Terms

B) Prior Informed Consent and Mutually Agreed Terms

C) Public Information Centre and Monitoring Action Task

D) Primary Interest Category and Mandatory Access Treaty

Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the Nagoya Protocol:

1. It was adopted in 2010 and entered into force in 2014.
2. India is not a signatory to this protocol.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q5. The “ABS Clearing-House” is primarily used for which of the following purposes?

A) Trading carbon credits between developing nations.

B) Exchanging information and monitoring the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol.

C) Auctioning endangered species to international zoos.

D) Clearing forest land for industrial development.

6. Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026

Source: TH

Summary:

• Decriminalisation: Converts minor offences from criminal acts (imprisonment) into civil wrongs (monetary penalties).
• Legislative Scope: Targets 717 provisions for decriminalisation and amends 67 others to simplify regulations.
• Core Objective: Enhances “Ease of Doing Business” and “Ease of Living” by reducing the compliance burden.
• Key Beneficiaries: Primarily benefits MSMEs and the general public by removing the threat of jail for procedural lapses.
• Judicial Impact: Aims to reduce the massive backlog in criminal courts by shifting cases to administrative mechanisms.

Context:

The Lok Sabha passed the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, by voice vote. The primary goal is to decriminalise minor offences, reduce the compliance burden on individuals and MSMEs, and promote the “Ease of Doing Business” and “Ease of Living.”

Background Concepts

• Decriminalisation: The process of changing a law so that an act is no longer a criminal offence (carrying jail time) but is instead treated as a civil wrong (carrying a monetary penalty or fine).
• Compliance Burden: The time and money businesses spend to follow government rules. High burdens often stifle startups and small businesses.
• Jan Vishwas (Trust the Citizen): A legislative philosophy that shifts the relationship between the state and the citizen from one of suspicion (criminal penalties) to one of trust (administrative penalties).
• MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises): Small-scale businesses that are the backbone of the Indian economy but often lack the legal resources to fight criminal cases for minor technical errors.

Key Takeaways

1. Massive Legislative Clean-up: The Bill targets 717 provisions for decriminalisation and amends 67 others to simplify the regulatory environment.
2. Rationalisation of Offences: It streamlines over 1,000 offences, removing laws that have become outdated or redundant in the modern economy.
3. Target Beneficiaries: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized that the biggest winners will be the general public and MSMEs, who will no longer face the threat of imprisonment for minor procedural lapses.
4. Shift to Civil Penalties: While jail time is being removed for these minor acts, they are not being “legalized”—they will now attract financial penalties, which are easier to administer and settle.
5. Institutional Efficiency: By moving these cases out of criminal courts, the Bill aims to reduce the massive backlog in the Indian judiciary.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. What is the primary objective of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026?

A) To increase the number of criminal offences in India.

B) To decriminalise minor offences and reduce compliance burdens.

C) To privatize all MSMEs in the country.

D) To increase the duration of imprisonment for procedural lapses.

Q2. How many provisions does the Jan Vishwas Bill, 2026, target for decriminalisation?

A) 100

B) 717

C) 50

D) 1,500

Q3. Under the “Jan Vishwas” philosophy, a criminal penalty (jail time) is typically replaced with which of the following?

A) Life imprisonment

B) Capital punishment

C) Administrative/Financial penalties

D) Community service only

Q4. Which Ministry is primarily associated with the introduction and promotion of this Bill?

A) Ministry of External Affairs

B) Ministry of Commerce and Industry

C) Ministry of Culture

D) Ministry of Education

Q5. The Jan Vishwas Bill aims to improve which of the following indices for India?

A) Global Hunger Index

B) Ease of Doing Business Index

C) World Press Freedom Index

D) Environmental Performance Index

7. Purvanchal Mahotsav ‘Maati-9’

Source: TOI

Summary

• Festival Name: Maati-9 (Part of Purvanchal Mahotsav).
• Core Theme: Maati (Soil/Roots).
• Focus Region: Eastern UP and Western Bihar (Purvanchal).
• Objective: Cultural preservation, youth connectivity, and diaspora engagement.
• Key Highlights: Folk music (Birha, Kajari), local crafts, and spiritual tourism.

Context:

The Purvanchal Mahotsav ‘Maati-9’ Festival is a high-profile cultural event that serves as a bridge between the traditional heritage of the Purvanchal region and its modern global diaspora. Addressed by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the festival emphasizes “Maati” (Soil) as the central symbol of ancestral identity, resilience, and spiritual depth.

What is the Purvanchal Mahotsav ‘Maati-9’?

The festival is a premier celebration of the Purvanchal region, which primarily encompasses eastern Uttar Pradesh, western Bihar, and parts of neighboring states. It is designed to be more than just a fair; it is a movement to reclaim and document the region’s historical and cultural contributions to India.

• The Theme (Maati): Represents the “Soil of the Motherland,” emphasizing the deep-rooted connection between the people of Purvanchal and their native land, regardless of where they have migrated.
• Target Audience: While it celebrates local artisans, a major focus is on youth engagement and the Purvanchali diaspora (the “Girmitiya” descendants and modern migrants) to ensure traditions are passed down through generations.

Core Pillars of the Festival

The ‘Maati-9’ festival operates across several domains to provide a holistic view of the region:

• Folk Arts & Music: Showcasing traditional forms like Birha, Kajari, and Sohar, alongside local dialects (Bhojpuri, Maithili, Magahi) that are often central to the region’s identity.
• Cuisine & Craft: Highlighting the GI-tagged products and traditional foods (like Litti Chokha) that define the Purvanchali palate and rural economy.
• Spiritual Heritage: Purvanchal is the land of many spiritual luminaries and sacred sites (Varanasi, Kushinagar, Gorakhpur). The festival highlights this “Spiritual Circuit” to boost regional tourism.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. The ‘Maati-9’ festival, recently in the news, is a premier cultural event associated with which specific geographical region of India?

A) Malwa Region

B) Purvanchal Region

C) Saurashtra Region

D) Deccan Plateau

Q2. What is the primary symbolic meaning of the theme “Maati” in the context of the Purvanchal Mahotsav?

A) The promotion of organic fertilizers in agriculture.

B) The deep-rooted connection of the people to their ancestral soil and heritage.

C) A government scheme for soil health cards.

D) The study of geological formations in the Indo-Gangetic plain.

Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Purvanchal Mahotsav ‘Maati-9’:

1. It aims to strengthen the connection of the youth with their regional identity and traditions.
2. It explicitly recognizes the contributions of the Purvanchali diaspora in preserving cultural values globally.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q4. Folk art forms like ‘Birha’ and ‘Kajari’ are typically showcased during the Purvanchal Mahotsav. These forms are primarily associated with which language/dialect group?

A) Marathi

B) Bhojpuri/Local Purvanchali dialects

C) Kannada

D) Punjabi

Q5. The term “Girmitiya diaspora,” often discussed in the context of Purvanchal’s heritage, refers to:

1. High-tech professionals working in Silicon Valley.
2. Descendants of indentured laborers taken to colonial plantations in the 19th century.Select the correct option:A) 1 onlyB) 2 onlyC) Both 1 and 2D) Neither 1 nor 2

Banking and Finance News

1. NSE to Launch Natural Gas Derivatives (GIXI-Based)

Source: TH

Summary:

• Collaboration: The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has partnered with the Indian Gas Exchange (IGX) to launch exchange-traded natural gas derivatives.
• Benchmark Index: The contracts are based on the GIXI (Gas IndeX of India), the first nationwide price index reflecting domestic spot prices based on actual deliveries.
• Objective: To provide a robust risk management tool for stakeholders (producers, power generators, and MSMEs) to hedge against price volatility.
• Regulatory Approval: The SEBI has granted approval for these Indian Natural Gas Futures; the launch date will be announced shortly.
• Strategic Shift: This marks the first time an Indian exchange is launching energy derivatives benchmarked against a domestic physical gas market rather than international prices.

Context:

On April 1, 2026, the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) announced a strategic collaboration with the Indian Gas Exchange (IGX). This partnership aims to introduce derivative contracts specifically designed for the Indian natural gas market, providing domestic benchmarks for the first time.

Background Concepts

• Derivative Contracts: Financial instruments (like Futures) whose value is derived from an underlying asset—in this case, natural gas. They are used primarily for hedging (protecting against price changes) and speculation.
• IGX (Indian Gas Exchange): India’s first automated national-level gas exchange for physical delivery of natural gas. It operates under the regulatory framework of the PNGRB.
• GIXI (Gas IndeX of India): A benchmark index developed by IGX. It calculates the volume-weighted average price of gas across various regional hubs in India (excluding certain price-capped categories).
• Price Discovery: The process by which the market determines the price of a commodity based on actual supply and demand within the country, rather than relying on international benchmarks like Henry Hub (USA) or JKM (Japan).

Key Takeaways of the Collaboration

1. First Domestic Benchmark: Unlike existing energy derivatives that often track international prices, these new contracts are tied to actual trades occurring on the IGX platform.
2. Risk Management: Stakeholders across the gas value chain—including fertilizer manufacturers, city gas distribution (CGD) companies, and power generators—can use these futures to lock in prices and protect themselves from market swings.
3. Market Efficiency: By linking the financial derivative market with the physical gas market, the NSE aims to deepen liquidity and enhance transparency in India’s energy ecosystem.
4. SEBI Approval: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has already cleared the proposal. NSE will offer 12 monthly contracts available for trading at any given time.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. The new natural gas derivative contracts to be launched by NSE are based on which benchmark index?

A) Henry Hub Index

B) GIXI (Gas IndeX of India)

C) Nifty Gas 50

D) JKM (Japan Korea Marker)

Q2. Which organization is the primary collaborator with NSE for providing the price benchmarks for these contracts?

A) Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX)

B) Indian Gas Exchange (IGX)

C) Reliance Industries Limited (RIL)

D) GAIL (India) Limited

Q3. Consider the following statements regarding GIXI:

1. It is a nationwide price index reflecting natural gas spot prices based on actual physical deliveries.
2. It is calculated as a volume-weighted average price across regional hubs in India.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2

Q4. Who among the following are the primary intended beneficiaries of these derivative contracts for hedging purposes?

A) Retail vegetable vendors

B) City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies and Fertilizer manufacturers

C) Software development firms

D) Gold ornaments exporters

Q5. The “Jan Vishwas Bill” and the “NSE-IGX Collaboration” both share a common broad economic goal of:

A) Increasing criminal penalties for businesses.

B) Promoting “Ease of Doing Business” in India.

C) Nationalizing all private stock exchanges.

D) Decreasing the production of natural gas.

2. RBI’s Proposed Bank Account Portability (PaSS)

Source: BS

Summary:

• Account Portability: The RBI is exploring a framework allowing customers to switch banks without changing their account numbers, similar to Mobile Number Portability (MNP).
• PaSS Framework: The proposed Payments Switching Service (PaSS) aims to centralize the migration of mandates (Salary, EMI, SIPs) to eliminate “sticky” banking.
• Payments Vision 2028: This initiative is part of a broader document focused on user empowerment, decreasing friction, and increasing competition among banks.
• Key Benefit: Reduces the risk of missed payments and penalties associated with manually updating standing instructions during a bank switch.
• Status: Currently in the feasibility and design stage; implementation will require massive integration and standardization across the banking ecosystem.

Context:

As part of its Payments Vision 2028 document, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has outlined a plan to introduce Bank Account Portability. This would allow customers to migrate from one bank to another while retaining their original account number, addressing the “inertia” that keeps customers tied to underperforming banks.

Background Concepts

• “Sticky” Banking: A term describing how customers stay with a bank despite poor service or high fees because the operational hassle of moving (updating EMIs, SIPs, and Salary links) is too high.
• Mandate Migration: The process of moving “standing instructions” (automated payments) from one bank’s platform to another.
• Payments Switching Service (PaSS): A proposed centralized layer that would act as a clearinghouse for all payment instructions, allowing them to be rerouted to a new destination bank seamlessly.
• Interoperability: The ability of different banking systems to communicate and exchange information effectively, which is the technical foundation for portability.

Key Features of the Proposal

1. Centralized Dashboard: Customers will be able to view all active incoming and outgoing mandates in one unified place.
2. Full or Partial Switch: Users can choose to move all financial flows to a new bank or only specific ones (e.g., just migrating SIPs but keeping loan EMIs at the original bank).
3. Competition for Quality: By lowering the “exit barrier,” banks will be forced to compete more aggressively on interest rates, service quality, and digital features to retain their customer base.
4. Security Measures: The framework will include robust authorization safeguards and consent architecture to prevent unauthorized account migrations.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. The proposed framework for bank account portability is part of which RBI document?

A) Annual Report 2025

B) Payments Vision 2028

C) Report on Currency and Finance

D) Financial Stability Report

Q2. What is the name of the proposed centralized layer intended to facilitate the migration of payment instructions?

A) Unified Payments Interface (UPI)

B) Payments Switching Service (PaSS)

C) National Automated Clearing House (NACH)

D) Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS)

Q3. Which of the following is the primary “friction” the RBI aims to eliminate through account portability?

A) High interest rates on savings accounts.

B) The difficulty of manually updating EMI and SIP mandates when changing banks.

C) The lack of physical bank branches in rural areas.

D) The requirement of Aadhaar for opening accounts.

Q4. The “Payments Vision 2028” document emphasizes which of the following themes?

A) Increasing the use of physical cash.

B) User empowerment, trust, and efficiency.

C) Reducing the number of private banks.

D) Restricting cross-border digital payments.

Q5. In the context of the new framework, if a customer switches banks, what stays the same?

A) The Bank Branch Address

B) The Account Number

C) The Bank Manager

D) The Physical ATM Card

3. RBI’s Forex “War”: Curbing Currency Speculation

Source: ET

Summary:

• Crisis-Era Crackdown: The RBI has launched a massive regulatory offensive to halt a $149 billion-a-day speculative “war” against the Indian rupee, which hit an all-time low of 95 per USD in late March 2026.
• Closing the Arbitrage Loophole: The central bank barred banks from offering Non-Deliverable Forwards (NDFs) to any clients and banned the rebooking of cancelled forward contracts, effectively ending a popular corporate arbitrage trade.
• Position Limits: The RBI slashed banks’ net open rupee positions to a flat $100 million, a significant drop from previous limits of up to 25% of their capital.
• Immediate Market Impact: Following these “toughest measures in a decade,” the rupee recorded its sharpest single-day gain in over 12 years, jumping back toward 93.50 per USD on April 2, 2026.
• Cost to Banking Sector: Analysts estimate that forcing banks to suddenly unwind these speculative positions could result in a one-time “shock” loss of ₹4,000–₹5,000 crore for the Indian banking system.

Context:

In early April 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) intensified its battle to stabilize the rupee after the currency suffered its worst monthly drop in six years (declining 4.24% in March). The move targets a massive $149 billion-a-day market where speculators were betting against the rupee amid geopolitical tensions and high oil prices.

Background Concepts

• Forex Intervention: When a central bank buys or sells its own currency in the foreign exchange market to influence its value or reduce volatility.
• NDF (Non-Deliverable Forward): A derivative used to hedge or speculate on a currency that is not internationally tradable. These trades are settled in cash (usually USD) rather than the physical delivery of the currency.
• Currency Arbitrage: The practice of profiting from the price difference of a currency in two different markets (e.g., buying dollars cheaper in the onshore Indian market and selling them at a higher rate in the offshore NDF market).
• Net Open Position (NOP): The difference between a bank’s total foreign currency assets and liabilities. A “long” position bets on the currency rising; a “short” position bets on it falling.

The RBI’s Two-Stage Crackdown

Stage	Measure Taken	Intended Result
Stage 1 (Late March)	Capped banks’ net open rupee positions at $100 million.	Force banks to stop holding large speculative wagers against the rupee.
Stage 2 (April 1)	Banned banks from offering NDFs and prohibited rebooking of cancelled forward contracts.	Close the “escape route” where corporates were exploiting the arbitrage that banks had left behind.

Why the Initial Intervention “Backfired”

When the RBI first restricted banks, those banks sold their positions to corporate clients. These corporates then used an arbitrage strategy: they would buy dollars in India and sell them in the offshore (NDF) market to profit from the price gap. This created a massive surge in dollar demand, actually accelerating the rupee’s fall past the 95-mark.

Key Takeaways for the Economy

1. Restoring Credibility: The aggressive stance signals that the RBI will use tools beyond traditional dollar sales (forex reserves) to protect the currency.
2. Hedging vs. Speculation: The new rules mean that companies can only book forward contracts if they have genuine underlying needs (like paying for imports), making it much harder to “gamble” on currency movements.
3. Pressure on Bank Margins: Large lenders may face significant losses as they are forced to close their open contracts in a volatile market.
4. Short-term Volatility vs. Long-term Stability: While these “crisis-era” measures have caused a sharp rally in the rupee, analysts warn they might reduce the overall “depth” or liquidity of the Indian forex market in the long run.

Examination Focused MCQs

Q1. In the context of the recent RBI crackdown, what does the term “NDF” stand for?

A) National Deposit Fund

B) Non-Deliverable Forward

C) Net Domestic Finance

D) New Derivative Framework

Q2. What is the new flat limit imposed by the RBI on the net open rupee positions of banks?

A) $1 billion

B) $100 million

C) 25% of capital

D) $500 million

Q3. Why did the RBI ban the “rebooking” of cancelled forward contracts for corporates?

A) To encourage more people to buy gold.

B) To stop companies from repeatedly cancelling and entering contracts to profit from minor price swings (arbitrage).

C) Because banks ran out of paper to print contracts.

D) To make the USD the official currency of India.

Q4. The rupee’s sharp decline in March 2026 was largely attributed to which external factor?

A) A sudden surplus of foreign investment.

B) Geopolitical tensions (Iran-Israel-US conflict) and rising oil prices.

C) A global decrease in the value of the US Dollar.

D) The launch of a new digital currency by the RBI.

Q5. Which of the following is a direct consequence of the RBI’s aggressive forex intervention on April 2, 2026?

A) The rupee hit a new all-time low of 100.

B) The rupee recorded its sharpest single-day gain in over 12 years.

C) Banks were allowed to increase their speculative wagers.

D) All international trade in India was suspended.

One Liner Current Affairs

April 2, 2026

S. No.	Topic	Key Highlights
1	WTO MC14 Conference	World Trade Organization held 14th Ministerial Conference in Yaoundé focusing on trade reforms, fisheries subsidies, and support for small economies.
2	RoDTEP Scheme Extension	Government of India extended Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme till September 30, 2026 to support exporters amid global trade disruptions.
3	Gujarat Development Projects	Narendra Modi launched projects worth ₹20,000 crore including Samrat Samprati Museum and Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway.
4	IndiGo CEO Appointment	IndiGo appointed William Walsh as CEO effective August 2026.
5	ASF Squash Awards 2025	Anahat Singh and Abhay Singh won Player of the Year awards.
6	Nyaya Setu AI Chatbot	C. P. Radhakrishnan launched multilingual AI chatbot ‘Nyaya Setu’ for legal assistance under Digital India initiative.
7	India-Australia ECTA	India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) completed four years since signing on April 2, 2022.
8	DGCA Appointment	Vir Vikram Yadav appointed Director General of Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
9	Transgender Day of Visibility	International Transgender Day of Visibility observed on March 31 to promote awareness and rights of transgender community.
10	India-Mozambique Defence Meet	India and Mozambique held 5th Joint Defence Working Group meeting in Maputo.
11	Changi Airport Ranking	Singapore Changi Airport ranked world’s best airport in Skytrax Awards 2026; Delhi IGI among top 30.
12	PNG Drive 2.0 Extension	Government extended National PNG Drive 2.0 till June 2026 to expand gas connectivity and promote gas-based economy.
13	Mongolia PM Election	Uchral Nyam-Osor elected as new Prime Minister amid political changes.
14	Goa Shipyard Milestone	Goa Shipyard Limited launched INS Shachi and delivered ICGS Achal to strengthen maritime security.
15	Andhra Pradesh Weaver Scheme	N. Chandrababu Naidu launched free electricity scheme for weavers.
16	Air India Codeshare Deal	Air India signed codeshare pact with Uzbekistan Airways to boost connectivity.
17	INS Sunayna Flag-off	Sanjay Seth flagged off INS Sunayna, an Offshore Patrol Vessel of Indian Navy from Mumbai.
18	Panchayat Awards 2025	Tripura panchayats won National Panchayat Awards for governance, women empowerment, and rural development.