Current Affairs

Current Affairs is the most important part of every competitive exam in India. At gknow.in, we provide accurate, exam-focused, and easy-to-read current affairs to help aspirants prepare confidently for SSC, UPSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, State PCS, and other government exams.

This parent category covers all major current affairs topics, including:

  • National Current Affairs – Government updates, policies, bills, and major developments

  • International Affairs – Global events, agreements, and geopolitical updates

  • Awards & Honours – National and international recognitions

  • Culture & Heritage – Festivals, traditions, and notable cultural events

  • Science & Technology – ISRO, DRDO, space missions, innovations, discoveries

  • Polity & Governance – Constitutional amendments, committees, judicial updates

  • Important Days & Themes – Monthly observances and exam-relevant themes

  • Government Schemes – New initiatives, updates, launches, and budgets

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✅ Exam-oriented
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World Bank Raises India Growth Forecast from 6.3% to 6.6%

On April 8, 2026, the World Bank raised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY 2025–26 from 6.3% to 6.6%, citing strong domestic demand and trade agreements. India is expected to remain the main growth driver in South Asia.

  • GDP Growth:
    • FY 2024–25: 7.1%
    • FY 2025–26: 7.6% (estimated strong performance)
  • Forecast for current fiscal: 6.6%

🚀 Growth Drivers

  • Strong domestic consumption supported by low inflation
  • GST rationalisation boosting demand
  • Export resilience
  • Trade agreements with UK and EU enhancing economic activity

⚠️ Concerns

  • Rising global energy prices may increase inflation
  • Pressure on household disposable income
  • Global uncertainties could impact future growth

RBI Monetary Policy April 2026: Repo Rate Unchanged at 5.25%

On April 8, 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, maintaining a neutral stance. The decision was taken unanimously by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) under the leadership of Sanjay Malhotra.

⚖️ Key Policy Rates

  • Repo Rate: 5.25% (unchanged)
  • Standing Deposit Facility (SDF): 5.00%
  • Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Bank Rate: 5.50%

📊 Economic Projections

  • GDP Growth:
    • FY 2024–25: 7.6%
    • FY 2025–26: 6.9%
  • CPI Inflation (FY 2025–26): 4.6%

Saraswat Cooperative Bank and Amul Cross ₹1 Lakh Crore Turnover in FY 2025–26

In a landmark achievement for India’s cooperative sector, Saraswat Cooperative Bank and Amul (GCMMF) have both surpassed the ₹1 lakh crore annual turnover mark for the first time in the financial year 2025–26.

Saraswat Cooperative Bank’s milestone underscores the growing strength of cooperative banking in driving financial inclusion and grassroots prosperity. Meanwhile, Amul recorded an 11% growth over the previous year’s ₹90,000 crore turnover, cementing its position as the world’s largest farmer-owned dairy cooperative.

World Health Day observed on 7 April 2026

World Health Day 2026 is observed on 7 April 2026 across the globe to raise awareness about important health issues and promote well-being for all. The day is organized every year by the World Health Organization (WHO), marking its foundation anniversary in 1948.

🎯 Theme of World Health Day 2026

The theme for World Health Day 2026 focuses on “Health for All: Strengthening Universal Healthcare Systems” (theme may vary slightly as per WHO announcement).

US–Iran Ceasefire 2026: Two-Week Truce, Strait of Hormuz Reopening

On 7 April 2026, US President Donald Trump announced a proposed two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, conditional on the free movement of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

  • Trump stated that the US has largely achieved its military objectives and called for a “two-sided ceasefire.”
  • Iran, through Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, agreed to the ceasefire if attacks against Iran are stopped and confirmed safe passage in the Strait during this period.
  • Both sides signaled willingness for de-escalation and possible direct talks, with US Vice President JD Vance likely to lead negotiations.

📊 Global Impact

  • Oil prices dropped sharply (Brent crude fell below $100, down ~16%).
  • Stock markets surged, reflecting reduced geopolitical tensions.

Artemis II Mission 2026: NASA’s Historic Crewed Lunar Flyby

Artemis II is a historic NASA mission (April 1–10, 2026) in which four astronauts successfully traveled around the Moon and are now returning to Earth.

  • It is the first crewed lunar mission since Apollo 17.
  • The spacecraft reached a record distance of 252,756 miles from Earth, surpassing Apollo 13.
  • Astronauts performed a lunar flyby, observed the Moon’s far side, and tested critical systems.
  • The mission validates the Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System (SLS) for future deep-space missions.
  • Splashdown is planned for April 10, 2026 in the Pacific Ocean.

👉 Overall, Artemis II is a major step toward future Moon landings (Artemis III) and eventual human missions to Mars.

Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam Achieves Criticality

India has achieved a major milestone in its nuclear energy programme as the indigenously developed Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam attained criticality, meaning it has started a self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction.

  • The 500 MW reactor is operated by Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
  • It is a crucial part of India’s three-stage nuclear programme, advancing the second stage and paving the way for thorium utilization in the third stage.
  • The PFBR can produce more fuel than it consumes, showcasing advanced nuclear technology.
  • It is called a breeder reactor because it produces more fissile fuel (Plutonium-239) than it consumes by converting Uranium-238.
  • Once fully operational, India will become the second country after Russia to have a commercial fast breeder reactor.
  • The project is fully indigenous, involving over 200 Indian industries, supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Raja Ravi Varma’s “Yashoda and Krishna” Becomes Costliest Indian Painting

In April 2026, Raja Ravi Varma’s painting Yashoda and Krishna was sold for ₹167.2 crore at a Saffronart auction in Mumbai. It became the most expensive Indian artwork ever sold, setting a new record in Indian art history.

🖌️ About the Painting

  • The artwork depicts a tender moment between Yashoda and infant Lord Krishna.
  • Painted in the 1890s, it reflects deep emotion and maternal affection.
  • It showcases Ravi Varma’s signature style—fusion of European realism with Indian mythological themes.
  • The painting was purchased by Cyrus Poonawalla, Chairman of Serum Institute of India.

📚 Historical & Cultural Significance

  • Raja Ravi Varma (1848–1906) is known as the father of modern Indian art.
  • He popularized oil painting in India and made mythological subjects more relatable and humanized.
  • This painting highlights his mastery in combining emotion, realism, and divinity.

💡 Importance of the Auction

  • The sale surpassed M. F. Husain’s Untitled (Gram Yatra) record (₹118 crore, 2025).
  • It reflects growing global recognition of Indian art.
  • Reinforces the cultural and market value of Indian mythology-based artworks.

Here’s a more exam-oriented, polished MCQ (UPSC/SSC style):

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the painting Yashoda and Krishna:

  1. It was painted by Raja Ravi Varma.
  2. It was sold for ₹167.2 crore at a Saffronart auction in April 2026.
  3. It became the most expensive Indian artwork ever sold.

Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 Concludes: Karnataka Tops Medal Tally

The Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 concluded on April 3, 2026 in Raipur, with Vishnu Deo Sai (Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh) attending the closing ceremony as Chief Guest. Prominent sports personalities like Mary Kom and Bhaichung Bhutia were present.

🥇 Medal Tally (Top 3)

  1. Karnataka – 23 Gold, 8 Silver, 7 Bronze (Champion)
  2. Odisha – 21 Gold, 15 Silver, 21 Bronze
  3. Jharkhand – 16 Gold, 8 Silver, 11 Bronze
  • Host Chhattisgarh finished 9th.

🎯 Participation & Events

  • Around 3,800 athletes from 30 states/UTs participated.
  • Competitions held in 7 sports: Archery, Athletics, Football, Hockey, Swimming, Weightlifting, Wrestling.
  • Mallakhamb and Kabaddi featured as demonstration sports.

Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill 2026: Highlights

The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026 was passed by Parliament in April 2026 to establish a comprehensive framework for recruitment, service conditions, and leadership structure of officers in India’s Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). The Bill emphasizes greater deputation of IPS officers to senior positions, aiming to ensure uniformity and administrative efficiency.

🛡️ About CAPFs (Central Armed Police Forces)

CAPFs are paramilitary forces under the Ministry of Home Affairs, responsible for internal security, border guarding, and critical infrastructure protection. Major CAPFs include:

  • CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force): Internal security, counter-insurgency
  • BSF (Border Security Force): Guarding India’s borders (Pakistan & Bangladesh)
  • ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police): Border security along China border
  • CISF (Central Industrial Security Force): Security of airports & critical infrastructure
  • SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal): Guarding Nepal & Bhutan borders
  • Assam Rifles: Oldest paramilitary force, operates in Northeast (under MHA operationally with Army role)

⚖️ Key Features of the Bill

  • Deputation Policy:
    • 50% of Inspector General (IG) posts
    • Minimum 67% of Additional Director General (ADG) posts
    • 100% of Special DG and DG posts
      → To be filled through deputation (mainly from IPS)
  • Covers Group A General Duty Officers.
  • Brings uniform rules for recruitment, promotions, and service conditions across CAPFs.

🔍 SEO-Optimized Headings (choose one)

  1. CAPF Bill 2026 Explained: Key Features, IPS Deputation & Impact on Paramilitary Forces
  2. Central Armed Police Forces Bill 2026: Rules, Leadership Changes & Full Details
  3. What is CAPF Bill 2026? Deputation Policy, Objectives & Impact on CAPFs
  4. CAPF Reform 2026: IPS Role, Service Rules & Challenges Explained
  5. Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill 2026: Highlights & Analysis

Q. With reference to the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, consider the following statements:

  1. It provides a uniform framework for recruitment and service conditions of officers in CAPFs.
  2. All Director General (DG) and Special DG posts in CAPFs are to be filled through deputation.
  3. It completely abolishes deputation of officers from the Indian Police Service to CAPFs.

Select the correct answer:

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Correct Answer: A

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The Bill introduces a standardized administrative framework and mandates full deputation for top posts (DG & Special DG). Statement 3 is incorrect because the Bill actually increases reliance on IPS deputation, rather than abolishing it.

Good Friday : Crucifixion of Jesus Christ

Good Friday is a significant Christian observance commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is observed during Holy Week, two days before Easter Sunday, and is considered a day of mourning, reflection, and prayer.

Significance

  • Marks the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for humanity’s sins.
  • Symbolizes love, forgiveness, and redemption in Christianity.
  • Considered a solemn day, despite being called “Good,” as it led to the hope of resurrection on Easter.

Amaravati Declared Permanent Capital of Andhra Pradesh

Amaravati has officially been declared the permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh after Parliament passed the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026 on April 2, 2026. This historic decision ends over a decade of uncertainty since the state’s bifurcation in 2014.

Background

  • 2014: Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated, creating Telangana. Hyderabad was retained as Telangana’s capital, while Andhra Pradesh needed a new capital.
  • 2015: Amaravati was proposed as the capital by then CM N. Chandrababu Naidu, envisioned as a modern, riverfront city.
  • 2019–2024: Political shifts led to proposals for three capitals (Visakhapatnam, Amaravati, and Kurnool), sparking protests and legal battles.
  • 2024: The Amaravati project was revived after TDP returned to power.
  • 2026: Parliament passed the Amendment Bill, giving Amaravati exclusive and permanent capital status.

What Changed from April 1, 2026? Tax Rules, 2FA for Payments & PAN Card Reforms

From April 1, 2026, India introduced three major financial and compliance reforms—the Income Tax Act, 2025, mandatory two-factor authentication for digital payments, and revised PAN application rules—to simplify taxation, enhance security, and strengthen identity verification.

1. 🧾 New Income Tax System

  • Replaces the old Income Tax Act, 1961.
  • Features simplified tax slabs, higher deductions, and streamlined capital gains rules.
  • Revised TDS/TCS norms and ITR deadlines for better compliance.
  • Objective: Make taxation simpler and modern.

2. 🔐 Secure Digital Payments

  • Mandated by the Reserve Bank of India.
  • Two-factor authentication (2FA) required for all transactions (UPI, cards, net banking).
  • Enhances protection against fraud and boosts trust in digital systems.

3. 🆔 New PAN Card Rules

  • Aadhaar linkage mandatory for new PAN applications.
  • Fully digital application and e-verification process.
  • Stricter KYC norms to prevent misuse.
  • Faster PAN issuance.

Jan Vishwas (Amendment) Bill 2026: 717 Provisions Decriminalized

The Jan Vishwas Bill, 2026 is a major legal reform passed by the Lok Sabha on April 1, 2026, aimed at decriminalizing minor offences and replacing them with civil penalties. Introduced by Jitin Prasada, the bill amends 79 central laws across 23 ministries.

Out of 784 provisions amended, 717 provisions have been decriminalized, removing jail terms for minor, technical, and procedural violations.

  • Minor offences will now attract fines, penalties, or warnings instead of imprisonment.
  • Outdated and irrelevant provisions (e.g., under the Cattle Trespass Act, 1871) have been rationalized.
  • Focus on trust-based governance and reducing unnecessary legal burden.

Census 2027: India’s First Digital Census from 1 April 2026

India will begin its first fully digital population census with Phase I starting on April 1, 2026. Announced by Mritunjay Kumar Narayan, this will be India’s 16th Census and the largest enumeration exercise globally, involving over 3 million officials.

Key Highlights:

  • Digital Census: Data will be collected through mobile apps for the first time.
  • Self-Enumeration: Citizens can fill their details online via a secure portal (in 16 languages) and generate a Self-Enumeration ID (SE ID) for verification.
  • Legal Framework: Conducted under the Census Act, 1948 and Census Rules, 1990.

Timeline:

  • Reference Date: March 1, 2027
    (October 1, 2026 for snow-bound regions like Ladakh, J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand)

Two Phases:

  1. Phase I (April–September 2026):
    House listing, housing conditions, amenities, and assets
  2. Phase II (February 2027):
    Population data including demographic, socio-economic, education, and caste enumeration

Scale & Infrastructure:

  • Budget: ₹11,718 crore
  • Coverage: 36 States/UTs, ~6.4 lakh villages, 5,000+ towns
  • Digital tools: Mobile apps, self-enumeration portal, real-time monitoring dashboards
  • Extensive training system for 31 lakh enumerators and supervisors

30 March – International Day of Zero Waste

The International Day of Zero Waste is observed annually on 30 March to promote sustainable consumption and reduce waste generation. Established by the United Nations in 2022, the day highlights the importance of the 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and encourages a shift towards a circular economy.

It aims to raise awareness about the environmental, economic, and health impacts of waste while motivating individuals and communities to adopt eco-friendly practices such as minimizing plastic use, recycling, and composting. Overall, the day emphasizes that responsible waste management is essential for environmental protection and sustainable development.

Tejaswin Shankar Wins 2026 David Noble Relays

Tejaswin Shankar began his 2026 decathlon season on a strong note by winning the David Noble Relays in San Angelo, Texas, USA, with an impressive 7947 points.

📊 Key Highlights

  • His score of 7947 points exceeded his previous national record of 7826 points (set in Poland).
  • However, the mark will not be recognised as a national record due to excessive tailwinds, as per World Athletics rules followed by the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

🏃‍♂️ Performance Highlights

Tejaswin delivered multiple personal bests during the event:

  • 100m: 10.59 seconds
  • Long Jump: 7.66 meters
  • Shot Put: 13.98 meters
  • Pole Vault: 4.35 meters

Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) : Opening Match, Groups, Format

The 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) began on 28 March 2026, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) facing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The tournament will continue until 31 May 2026.

📊 Tournament Overview

  • Edition: 19th
  • Duration: 28 March – 31 May 2026
  • Teams: 10 franchises
  • Matches: 70 league matches followed by playoffs
  • Venues: Matches scheduled across 12–13 cities in India

📋 Format & Groups

The tournament follows a two-group format with a round-robin league stage and playoffs.

  • Group A: Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, Lucknow Super Giants
  • Group B: Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans

🔑 Key Highlights

  • Opening match featured RCB vs SRH in Bengaluru.
  • RCB entered the season as the defending champions.
  • The playoffs will include Qualifier 1, Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the Final.

Noida International Airport Inaugurated

Narendra Modi inaugurated Phase I of the Noida International Airport at Jewar, Gautam Buddha Nagar on 28 March 2026. Built at an estimated cost of ₹11,200 crore under the PPP model, the airport is set to emerge as a major international gateway for the NCR, with an initial capacity of 12 million passengers annually and future expansion up to 70 million.

📊 Key Highlights

  • The inauguration ceremony took place around 11:30 AM at Jewar, Uttar Pradesh.
  • The Prime Minister conducted a walkthrough of the terminal and addressed a public gathering.
  • The airport has been developed as a modern aviation hub with advanced infrastructure.

🏗️ Project Features

  • Phase I capacity: 12 million passengers per annum, scalable to 70 million.
  • Cargo handling: Initially 2.5 lakh metric tonnes, expandable to 18 lakh metric tonnes.
  • Developed as a multi-modal transport hub integrating road, rail, metro, and regional transit.

Balendra Shah Sworn in as Nepal Prime Minister

Balendra Shah was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Nepal on 27 March 2026 at the President’s Office, Sheetal Niwas, Kathmandu. He is the leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and was elected as the party’s parliamentary leader before assuming office. At 35 years, he became Nepal’s youngest elected Prime Minister and the first from the Madhes region to hold the post.

His party, RSP, achieved a landslide victory in the March 5, 2026 parliamentary elections, winning 182 out of 275 seats in the House of Representatives. The elections marked a major political shift, with voters favoring new leadership after Gen Z-led protests demanding change and anti-corruption reforms.

Balendra Shah, a rapper-turned-politician and former Kathmandu mayor, defeated former PM K. P. Sharma Oli in Jhapa-5 constituency, a traditional stronghold of the Communist Party of Nepal (UML).

OECD Report: India World’s Fastest-Growing Major Economy

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) released its Interim Economic Outlook on 26 March 2026. India remains the fastest-growing major economy globally.

🇮🇳 India Growth Projections

  • FY 2025–26: 7.6%
  • FY 2026–27: 6.1%
  • FY 2027–28: 6.4%

👉 India continues to lead global growth despite global uncertainties.

🌍 Global Economic Outlook

  • Global GDP Growth:
    • 2026: 2.9%
    • 2027: 3.0%
  • Growth supported by:
    • Technology investments
    • Lower tariff rates

⚠️ Key Global Challenges

  • Middle East conflict impacting global economy
  • Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz affecting energy supply
  • Rising energy prices and inflation
  • Supply chain disruptions (including fertilisers)

Finance Bill 2026 Passed in Lok Sabha: Meaning, Features, Constitutional Provisions

  • On 25 March 2026, the Finance Bill, 2026 was passed in the Lok Sabha with 32 amendments.
  • It is a Money Bill that gives legal effect to the Union Budget 2026–27.
  • The Bill will now go to the Rajya Sabha, which can only recommend changes, after which it becomes the Finance Act.

📖 What is the Finance Bill?

  • Annual Money Bill presented with the Union Budget.
  • Provides legal backing to taxation and expenditure proposals.
  • Covers direct & indirect taxes and amendments to tax laws.

🔑 Key Highlights

  • Budget Size: ₹53.47 lakh crore
  • Capital Expenditure: ₹12.2 lakh crore
  • Fiscal Deficit Target: 4.3% of GDP
  • Focus on:
    • MSMEs, farmers, cooperatives
    • Digital infrastructure & manufacturing sectors
    • Job creation & inclusive growth
  • No major new taxes; promotes trust-based tax system

⚖️ Constitutional Features

  • Defined as a Money Bill under Article 110.
  • Introduced only in Lok Sabha.
  • Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject, only recommend.
  • Must be passed within 75 days.
  • Essential for legal tax collection and government spending.

Gujarat Passes Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill 2026

On 24 March 2026, the Gujarat Assembly passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill through a majority voice vote after an extensive debate lasting over seven hours. The bill was introduced by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, following the submission of a report by a state-appointed panel.

With this, Gujarat became the second state in India after Uttarakhand (2024) to adopt a Uniform Civil Code.

Key Provisions of the Bill

  • Establishes a common legal framework for marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships, irrespective of religion
  • Makes registration of live-in relationships mandatory, along with provisions for their termination
  • Prohibits bigamy, allowing marriage only if neither party has a living spouse
  • Applies to residents of Gujarat, including those living outside the state
  • The law will not apply to Scheduled Tribes (STs) and certain groups whose customary rights are constitutionally protected

PM Modi Announces 7 Empowered Groups to Address West Asia Conflict Impact

On 24 March 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the formation of seven empowered groups to tackle the potential long-term impacts of the West Asia conflict on India. The move aims to address challenges related to fuel, fertilisers, gas supply, supply chains, and inflation.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, the Prime Minister emphasized a “Team India” approach, urging both the Centre and states to work together to manage the crisis effectively. He highlighted the serious side effects of the conflict, particularly on the availability of essential commodities such as crude oil, gas, and fertilisers.

Key Focus Areas

  • Ensuring stable supply of energy resources like crude oil and gas
  • Managing fertiliser availability for agriculture
  • Strengthening supply chains
  • Controlling inflation and price rise

Government’s Strategy

PM Modi reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy are the only solutions for restoring peace in West Asia. He stated that India is in constant contact with major global players, including Iran, Israel, and the United States, to promote de-escalation.

The government is also working to diversify energy sources and ensure uninterrupted supply to protect citizens from the crisis. At the same time, states have been directed to prevent black marketing and hoarding of essential goods.

Women’s Reservation Act: Implementation Likely by 2029

The Women’s Reservation Act (106th Constitutional Amendment, 2023) is being fast-tracked for implementation by 2029, aiming to ensure greater representation of women in Indian legislatures. The government is considering using 2011 Census data for delimitation, instead of waiting for the next Census, to avoid delays.

Key Provisions

  • Provides 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies
  • Does not apply to Rajya Sabha and State Legislative Councils
  • Popularly known as Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam

Proposed Changes

  • Lok Sabha strength may increase from 543 to 816 seats
  • Around 273 seats could be reserved for women
  • Target implementation by the 2029 Lok Sabha elections

Reason for Fast-Tracking

Originally, the Act’s implementation was linked to the first Census after 2026, which could delay it until around 2034. To avoid this, the government plans to:

  • Use 2011 Census data
  • Amend provisions related to delimitation
  • Enable earlier rollout of reservation

World Tuberculosis Day – 24 March

World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is observed every year on 24 March to raise awareness about the global burden of tuberculosis and efforts to eliminate the disease. The day is marked by the World Health Organization (WHO) and commemorates the discovery of the TB-causing bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis by Dr. Robert Koch in 1882.

Key Facts about Tuberculosis

  • TB mainly affects the lungs (pulmonary TB) but can also affect other parts of the body.
  • It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
  • TB is curable and preventable, yet millions are affected globally every year.

Global & India Initiatives

  • WHO’s End TB Strategy aims to eliminate TB by 2030.
  • India has set an ambitious target to eliminate TB by 2025 under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP).
  • Campaigns focus on free diagnosis, treatment, and awareness.

Parsi New Year Navroz 2026 Celebrated: Festival of Renewal and Prosperity

Parsi New Year, or Navroz, was celebrated on Saturday, 21 March 2026, marking the spring equinox and symbolizing renewal, prosperity, and new beginnings. In India, especially in Mumbai and Gujarat, the Parsi community celebrated the festival with prayers, festive meals, and cultural gatherings.

Significance of Navroz

Navroz, meaning “new day” (from Persian nav – new, roz – day), is rooted in Zoroastrian tradition and has been celebrated for over 3,000 years. It marks the beginning of the Iranian calendar year and is recognized globally, including by the United Nations as International Nowruz Day.

PM Narendra Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Head of Elected Government in India

On 22 March 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi achieved a historic milestone by becoming the longest-serving head of an elected government in India. He completed 8,931 days in office, surpassing Pawan Kumar Chamling, the former Chief Minister of Sikkim, who held the record with 8,930 days.

This achievement combines PM Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat (2001–2014) and as Prime Minister of India (since 2014), marking his entry into the 25th year of continuous leadership. The milestone reflects his long-standing political career and sustained public mandate.

PM Modi was sworn in as the 14th Prime Minister of India on 26 May 2014, becoming the first non-Congress leader to secure a full majority. He later became the first non-Congress PM to complete two full terms and return for a third consecutive term.

Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 : Marks End of Ramadan

Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 was celebrated in India on 21 March 2026, following the sighting of the crescent moon on 20 March in Mumbai. In Saudi Arabia and several Gulf countries, the festival was observed earlier on 20 March 2026. The occasion marked the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal (1447 AH).

Eid-ul-Fitr marked the completion of a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. Known as the festival of breaking the fast, it symbolized spiritual renewal, gratitude, and joy. A key aspect of the celebration was Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity given to the needy before the Eid prayers, ensuring inclusivity in the festivities.

The day began with special Eid prayers (Salat al-Eid) performed in mosques and open grounds. People wore new clothes, exchanged greetings of “Eid Mubarak”, and visited relatives and friends. Traditional dishes like Sheer Khurma and other sweets were prepared, adding to the festive spirit.

Income Tax Rules 2026 Notified: Major Changes from April 1

The Government of India has notified the Income Tax Rules, 2026, which will come into effect from 1 April 2026. These rules introduce a major overhaul in procedural and compliance systems under direct taxation and implement provisions of the Income-tax Act, 2025.

Key Highlights

  • Stronger Compliance Framework: Updated definitions, reporting systems, and compliance structures to improve transparency.
  • Dividend Regulations Tightened: Companies must maintain proper share registers, hold general meetings, and distribute dividends only within India.
  • Stock Market Reforms: Stock exchanges must maintain audit trails for 7 years, prevent record deletion, and submit monthly reports on transaction modifications.

Capital Gains & Investment Reforms

  • Clear rules introduced for complex capital gains cases like debenture conversions and cross-border restructuring.
  • A new zero coupon bond framework requires prior approvals, investment-grade ratings, and defined fund usage timelines.
  • Standardized fair market value (FMV) rules for listed/unlisted shares, foreign entities, and partnerships.

Cross-Border & Digital Taxation

  • Tax authorities get enhanced powers to estimate non-resident income using global profit ratios or reasonable methods.
  • Significant Economic Presence (SEP) threshold fixed at ₹2 crore transactions or 3 lakh users for digital businesses.
  • A formula-based system introduced to calculate income linked to Indian assets in offshore deals.

Other Changes

  • Simplified and capped expense exemptions (including 1% of investment value).
  • Revised rules for employer-provided accommodation, based on salary, city population, and property status.

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