NATIONAL CURRENT AFFAIRS
MoPSW Approves ₹117.54 Crore Renovation of Historic Bascule Bridge, Kolkata
The Ministry of Ports Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has approved ₹117.54 crore for the renovation of the historic Bascule Bridge in the Kolkata Dock System, located on the Hooghly River. Built in 1966, this double-leaf rolling bridge is an engineering marvel and the only one of its kind in Kolkata.
- The bridge plays a vital role in port operations by lifting its steel leaves to allow ships to pass, supporting maritime trade.
- The project follows the philosophy of “Virasat bhi, Vikas bhi”, aiming to preserve heritage while modernising infrastructure, ensuring operational efficiency and longevity of this iconic structure.
GOVERNMENT SCHEMES CURRENT AFFAIRS
Krishi Sakhi Initiative
The Agriculture Insurance Company of India Limited (AIC) has launched the Krishi Sakhi Initiative to empower women farmers and promote inclusive agricultural growth. The initiative aligns with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recognition of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Key Features:
- It is a nationwide programme focused on awareness, capacity building, and participation of women in agriculture and crop insurance.
- The initiative aims to enhance women’s access to agricultural resources, financial protection, and decision-making roles, while promoting gender-sensitive development.
- It also recognises the critical contribution of women in strengthening India’s agricultural productivity and rural economy.
Cabinet approves MSP funding for cotton seasons 2023-24
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved ₹1,718.56 crore as MSP funding to the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) for the cotton season 2023–24. The funding aims to provide direct price support to cotton farmers, ensuring they receive remunerative prices amid market fluctuations.
- Cotton is a crucial cash crop in India, supporting nearly 60 lakh farmers and providing livelihoods to 400–500 lakh people in allied sectors like textiles and trade.
- The move strengthens farmer income security, price stability, and the cotton value chain, reinforcing government support for the agricultural sector.
Schemes for the Welfare of Women and Children
The Ministry of Women and Child Development is implementing key Centrally Sponsored Schemes for the welfare of women and children through three major verticals. Mission Shakti focuses on safety, protection, and empowerment of women, including support services and institutional mechanisms.
- Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 aims to improve nutrition and health outcomes for women and children by strengthening Anganwadi services and tackling malnutrition.
- Mission Vatsalya is dedicated to the protection, care, and rehabilitation of children in difficult circumstances.
Together, these schemes promote gender equality, child welfare, and human development, forming the backbone of India’s social protection framework.
DEFENCE CURRENT AFFAIRS
Keel Laying of Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs)
The keel laying of Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs)- Yard 16402 and 16403- was conducted at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) facility in Ratnagiri, marking progress in a six-ship project for the Indian Coast Guard.
- NGOPVs are indigenously designed and developed maritime patrol ships aimed at enhancing coastal security, surveillance, and maritime operations.
- The contract for six vessels was signed in 2023 under the Buy (Indian–IDDM) category, promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
- These vessels will strengthen India’s ability to monitor its vast coastline, combat maritime threats, and ensure secure sea lanes.
Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR: Second Edition
The second edition of Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR commenced on 16 March 2026, led by the Indian Navy, to strengthen maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The initiative aligns with India’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and coincides with India assuming chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) in 2026.
- IOS SAGAR is an operational engagement programme where naval personnel from friendly foreign countries train and sail together onboard Indian naval ships.
- It promotes interoperability, practical cooperation, and shared understanding of maritime operations, enhancing regional security and collaboration.
REPORTS AND INDICES CURRENT AFFAIRS
SDG Bulletin Reports on “Planet” and “Prosperity”
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released two thematic SDG Bulletins- “Planet in Focus” and “Delivering Prosperity at Scale”- during a workshop in Patna. These reports are part of a new data-driven SDG bulletin series aligned with the five pillars of the 2030 Agenda- People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership.
- The “Planet” report focuses on environmental sustainability, while the “Prosperity” report highlights India’s economic transformation under SDGs.
- These bulletins support evidence-based monitoring, policy planning, and progress assessment, strengthening India’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
AWARDS & EVENTS CURRENT AFFAIRS
UN French Language Day: 20 March
UN French Language Day is observed annually on March 20 to promote multilingualism, cultural diversity, and equal use of official UN languages. It was established in 2010 by the United Nations Department of Public Information as part of a broader initiative to celebrate the UN’s six official languages.
- The date marks the anniversary of the International Organization of La Francophonie, which unites countries sharing the French language and common cultural values.
- The observance highlights the importance of linguistic diversity in diplomacy and global communication, while recognising the historical and cultural contributions of the French language.
World Oral Health Day: 20 March
World Oral Health Day is observed annually on March 20 to highlight the importance of oral hygiene and dental health.Globally, around 3.5 billion people suffer from oral diseases, with untreated tooth decay being the most common condition. Poor oral hygiene can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
- The 2026 theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” emphasises the strong link between oral health and overall well-being, confidence, and quality of life.
- The day encourages people to adopt simple daily habits like brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, promoting preventive healthcare and awareness worldwide.
World Sparrow Day 2026: 20 March
World Sparrow Day is observed annually on March 20 to raise awareness about the declining population of house sparrows and the importance of conserving urban biodiversity. It is an international initiative led by the Nature Forever Society, in collaboration with the Eco-Sys Action Foundation and other global organisations.
- The 2026 Theme: “I LOVE SPARROWS,” promotes emotional connection and encourages active participation in conservation efforts such as installing birdhouses and water sources.
- History: The movement was pioneered by Indian conservationist Mohammed Dilawar, who worked to protect sparrows and received global recognition. The day highlights the need to protect urban ecosystems and common bird species.