Current Affairs Quiz - March 2026

Notes:
A Mumbai-headquartered defence company, Sagar Defence Engineering, held the stone-breaking ceremony for the world’s first Autonomous Maritime Shipbuilding and Systems Centre at Juvvaladinne fishing harbour, Andhra Pradesh. The project is a major step in strengthening India’s indigenous defence manufacturing and advancing the nation’s maritime technological capabilities. The Andhra Pradesh government allocated 29.58 acres of land at the fishing harbour in Nellore district, providing direct sea access for vessel construction, launch, testing, and deployment. The initiative aligns with the state government’s vision to enhance India’s marine technology ecosystem and build advanced manufacturing capabilities along the coastline.

Notes:
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence busted a clandestine drug manufacturing unit under “Operation White Hammer” in Kondapalli Industrial Development Area of NTR district, Andhra Pradesh. The facility was secretly producing Alprazolam, a psychotropic substance regulated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act 1985. The intelligence-based operation was conducted on 11–12 March 2026, exposing a large-scale illegal manufacturing unit operating under the cover of a chemical factory.

Notes:
Bull sharks have recently been reported in the Karun River near the city of Ahvaz, drawing attention because these sharks can survive in both saltwater and freshwater environments. The Karun River is the largest and only navigable river in Iran. The river originates in the Zagros Mountains and flows through south-western Iran. It eventually joins the Shatt al-Arab, which is created by the confluence of the Tigris River and the Euphrates River.

Notes:
India recently exported 25 metric tonnes of Joha Rice to the United Kingdom and Italy. Joha Rice is an indigenous aromatic rice variety of Assam known for its distinct fragrance, fine grain, and rich taste. It is mainly cultivated during the Sali or Kharif season in Assam. Major varieties include Kola Joha, Keteki Joha, Bokul Joha, and Kunkuni Joha. The rice is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, giving nutritional benefits. It received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2017.

Notes:
International Day of Action for Rivers is observed every year on 14 March to promote protection and sustainable management of rivers. Rivers provide fresh water, regulate climate, support biodiversity, and sustain livelihoods and cultures. Many rivers today face threats from pollution, fragmentation, climate change, and unsustainable development projects. The 2026 theme is “Protect Rivers, Protect People.” The day encourages public awareness and collective action to conserve river ecosystems.

Notes:
National Immunization Day, also called National Vaccination Day, is observed in India every year on 16 March. The day recognises the efforts of policymakers, healthcare workers, and stakeholders involved in vaccination programmes. It aims to promote awareness about the importance of immunisation in preventing diseases. The observance highlights India’s achievements in large-scale vaccination drives despite its huge population and high population density.

Notes:
Scientists in West Bengal have discovered a new estuarine fish species named Butis bargabhimae in the Rupnarayan River, a tributary of the Hooghly River near Tamluk, West Bengal. Butis bargabhimae belongs to the butid family, commonly known as gudgeon goby, which usually live in brackish water where rivers meet the sea. The species is unique because it has interorbital scales (scales between the eyes), unlike most related fish which have smooth areas there. It also has additional auxiliary scales across its body, making it structurally distinct. The fish shows clear light and dark bands on its pectoral fins, which are absent in similar species.

Notes:
Uttarakhand government has made special health arrangements for this year’s Char Dham Yatra through real-time monitoring on the ‘e-Swasthya Dham’ portal for immediate medical assistance. e-Swasthya Dham portal was launched by Uttarakhand government. Experienced doctors and paramedical staff will be deployed at permanent and temporary medical units along pilgrimage routes, major halting points, and all four Dhams. A total of 177 ambulances, including 108 emergency, advanced life support, and cardiac ambulances, will be stationed along the routes.

Notes:
World Social Work Day 2026 is observed on 17 March and is celebrated every year on the third Tuesday of March. The 2026 theme is “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.” The day recognises the important role and dedication of social workers in society. It is promoted by global social work organisations to support social justice, human rights, and social development.

Notes:
India finished with 5 medals at the World Boxing Futures Cup 2026 held in Bangkok, Thailand from 8–15 March 2026. The medal tally included 1 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze, showcasing strong performance by young boxers. Chandrika Pujari was the star performer, winning gold in the women’s 51 kg category. She defeated Mardonova Nazokat of Uzbekistan in the final. The victory came through a unanimous decision, reflecting her dominance in the bout. Her performance highlighted excellent technical skills and control throughout the match. The event featured top emerging boxing talents from across the world.