Daily Current Affairs Quiz
01&2 March, 2026
International Affairs
1. Pakistan–Afghanistan War
Context:
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have reportedly escalated into a major military confrontation following Pakistan’s launch of Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, marking one of the most serious crises between the two neighbours in recent years.
What is the Conflict About?
The present escalation represents a shift from:
- Sporadic border skirmishes
- Diplomatic tensions
- Proxy accusations
to a more conventional military confrontation, involving:
- Air force strikes
- Heavy artillery
- Armoured units
The fighting is primarily between the Pakistan Armed Forces and the Afghan Taliban authorities.
Region of Tension
1. The Durand Line
The conflict centres around the Durand Line, a 2,640 km porous border between the two countries.
Afghanistan has historically refused to formally recognise it as an international boundary.
2. Key Flashpoints
- Torkham Border Crossing (major trade and transit route)
- Kandahar (Taliban stronghold)
- Paktia Province
- Reports indicate airstrikes extending towards Kabul
Core Points of Conflict
Cross-Border Terrorism
Pakistan accuses the Afghan Taliban of providing sanctuary to the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has carried out attacks inside Pakistan.
Border Fencing Dispute
Pakistan has attempted to fence the Durand Line.
The Taliban opposes this, leading to frequent armed clashes.
Operation Launched
Operation Ghazab lil-Haq
Launched by Pakistan with the stated objective of:
- Neutralising Afghan combatants
- Destroying militant infrastructure
- Securing border areas
National Affairs
1. PM Launches Micron ATMP Semiconductor Plant in Gujarat
Source: News on Air
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Micron Technology Inc.’s Assembly, Test, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) semiconductor facility in Sanand, Gujarat — a major milestone in India’s semiconductor manufacturing push.
What is the ATMP Plant?
An ATMP (Assembly, Test, Marking and Packaging) facility:
- Packages semiconductor chips after fabrication (which occurs elsewhere).
- Converts advanced DRAM and NAND wafers into finished memory and storage products.
- Prepares chips for use in electronics, data centres, AI systems, and mobile devices.
This marks one of India’s first large-scale semiconductor packaging units.
Government Support
The project has received strong public backing under the India Semiconductor Mission:
- 50% capital subsidy from the Union Government (around ₹22,516 crore support).
- 20% additional support from the Gujarat Government.
2. Government Bank Dashboard & Manual Initiative
Source: ET
The Controller General of Accounts (CGA), under the Government of India, has launched the Government Bank Dashboard and Government Bank Manual to modernise oversight of government banking operations.
What is the Initiative?
It is a dual reform measure comprising:
- Government Bank Dashboard — A real-time digital monitoring platform
- Government Bank Manual — A standardized operational rulebook for banks handling government transactions
Together, they aim to strengthen transparency, efficiency, and accountability in managing public funds.
Objective
- Reduce operational risks in government banking
- Minimise delays and reconciliation gaps
- Standardise procedures across all banks
- Ensure uniform handling of government receipts and payments
- Shift from reactive (post-facto) correction to proactive oversight
Key Features
1. Real-Time Monitoring
The Dashboard tracks critical performance indicators such as:
- Remittance timelines
- Transaction success and failure rates
- Scroll submission compliance
- Reconciliation status
This allows continuous tracking of banks’ performance in handling government funds.
2. Standardised Operational Framework
The Government Bank Manual:
- Defines clear operational procedures
- Sets reporting obligations
- Specifies strict reconciliation timelines
- Establishes accountability benchmarks
This reduces ambiguity in government banking operations.
3. Proactive Oversight
Instead of detecting irregularities after delays occur, the system enables:
- Immediate alerts
- Performance-based evaluation
- Early risk detection
4. Service-Level Tracking
Banks’ adherence to service standards in managing government transactions is continuously monitored.
5. Future-Ready Architecture
The initiative is designed to support:
- Advanced data analytics
- Cybersecurity safeguards
- Strengthened digital financial governance
3. LCH Prachand — India’s Indigenous Light Combat Helicopter
Context:
President Droupadi Murmu recently undertook a historic sortie in the LCH Prachand at an Indian Air Force base, highlighting India’s growing indigenous defence capabilities.
What is LCH Prachand?
LCH Prachand is India’s first indigenously designed and developed dedicated combat helicopter, built for offensive missions in high-altitude and battlefield environments.
It is a multi-role light attack helicopter capable of:
- Air-to-air combat
- Air-to-ground strikes
- Anti-armour operations
- Counter-insurgency missions
Developed By
Designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under the Light Combat Helicopter programme.
Strategic Objective
To provide India with a high-altitude combat platform capable of operating effectively in mountainous terrain such as:
- Siachen Glacier
- Leh–Ladakh region
These areas pose challenges for heavier helicopters due to thin air and extreme conditions.
4. Inland Waterway Projects on National Waterway-2
Context:
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated three major inland waterway infrastructure projects on National Waterway 2 (River Brahmaputra) in Dibrugarh, Assam to strengthen logistics, trade, and river tourism in the North Eastern Region.
Key Projects
1. Bogibeel Customs & Immigration Complex (CIC)
- Modern tourist-cum-cargo terminal
- Integrates customs, immigration, and Inland Waterways Authority of India operations
- Includes arrival/departure halls, cargo storage, security systems, and staff facilities
2. Dhubri Gateway CIC
- Enhances export-import regulation and cargo movement
- Strengthens cross-border trade connectivity with Bangladesh and Bhutan
- Positions Dhubri as a strategic inland water transport hub
3. Renovated IWAI Heritage Building, Dibrugarh
- Restored administrative facility of Inland Waterways Authority of India
- Supports NW-2 management
- Promotes riverine tourism along the Brahmaputra
5. Tamil Nadu Launches First Dark Sky Park in Kolli Hills
Source: TH
Context:
Tamil Nadu’s first Dark Sky Park has been inaugurated at the Ariyur Shola Reserve Forest in Kolli Hills, Namakkal district by Forest Minister R S Rajakannappan, promoting astro-tourism and scientific awareness.
About the Dark Sky Park
- Established at a cost of ₹1 crore
- Equipped with advanced telescopes and solar-powered infrastructure
- Enables observation of stars, planets, the Milky Way, and the moon
- Minimal artificial light within a 1.5 km radius ensures ideal dark-sky conditions
- Operational from January 15 to June 15 (closed during monsoon)
India’s First Official Dark Sky Park
India’s first internationally recognised Dark Sky Park is Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, designated in 2024 under the International Dark-Sky Places programme.
Banking/Finance
1. Small, Steady Steps Toward Rupee Internationalisation
Source: BS
India has begun a gradual, long-term process to make the rupee more widely used in global trade and finance. While progress is modest so far, policymakers view it as the beginning of a multi-decade transformation.
Current Status
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) now tracks how much of India’s trade is invoiced and settled in rupees.
- About 5% of India’s international trade is now conducted in rupees.
- FY26 (Apr–Dec):
- Exports invoiced in rupees: 6.08%
- Imports invoiced in rupees: 4.82%
- Settlements in rupees remain lower but are gradually rising.
These numbers are small but signal early movement away from exclusive reliance on hard currencies like the US dollar.
Why India Wants Rupee Internationalisation
- Reduce dependence on the dollar-based global system
- The Russia-Ukraine war and sanctions showed risks of being cut off from dollar payment systems like SWIFT.
- Lower exchange-rate risk for exporters
- Trading in local currency avoids volatility linked to dollar fluctuations.
- Enhance economic sovereignty
- Greater global use of the rupee strengthens India’s financial autonomy.
Key Policy Steps Taken
1. Local Currency Trade Arrangements
India has signed agreements with countries such as the UAE, Indonesia, Maldives, and Mauritius to settle trade in local currencies.
- Uses Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVAs) for settlements.
- 83 banks from 35 countries have opened such accounts in India.
2. Incentives for Rupee Invoicing
Exporters receive equal benefits whether they invoice trade in rupees or dollars.
3. Expanding Offshore Rupee Use
- Non-resident Indians can hold rupee accounts abroad.
- NRIs in Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka can take rupee loans from overseas branches of Indian banks.
4. Integration into Global Financial Markets
Indian government bonds are being added to major global emerging-market indices — a key step toward wider rupee acceptance.
Risks and Concerns
Some fear wider rupee use could cause:
- Exchange-rate volatility
- Pressure on foreign exchange reserves
- Reduced monetary policy control
2. Govt Launches eSushrut@Clinic — A “BHIM UPI Moment” for Healthcare Digitisation
Source: Mint
India’s National Health Authority (NHA) has introduced eSushrut@Clinic, a free digital platform aimed at small and mid-sized clinics, seeking to replicate the transformational impact of BHIM UPI in digital payments within the healthcare sector.
The platform has been developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) and is integrated with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).
What is eSushrut@Clinic?
It is a SaaS-based (Software-as-a-Service) lightweight digital system, designed as a simpler alternative to expensive and complex Hospital Information Management Systems (HIMS).
It enables clinics to:
- Digitise patient records
- Manage appointments and OPD workflows
- Streamline consultations
- Access dashboards and administrative tools
- Integrate with the national digital health ecosystem
Clinics can use it via a simple web browser, without investing in heavy IT infrastructure.
Key Feature: Smart Assistant (CDSS)
The platform includes a Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) that:
- Provides evidence-based treatment guidance
- Helps manage chronic diseases
- Supports diagnosis and treatment planning
- Assists doctors without replacing clinical judgment
Agriculture
1. Suspension of Fortified Rice Rollout
Source: TOI
Context:
The Central Government has temporarily halted the distribution of fortified rice under major welfare schemes due to concerns over nutrient stability during long storage periods.
What is Fortified Rice?
Fortified rice is regular rice enriched with essential micronutrients to improve nutritional intake, especially among vulnerable populations.
It typically contains:
- Iron
- Folic Acid
- Vitamin B12
The objective is to address hidden hunger and micronutrient deficiencies such as anaemia.
Where Was It Used?
Fortified rice was supplied through major government nutrition and food security programmes:
- Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY)
- Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) under the NFSA
- PM-POSHAN (Mid-Day Meal Scheme)
- Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
Aim of the Programme
- Reduce malnutrition and anaemia nationwide
- Improve nutrition among women and children
- Provide a cost-effective, scalable public health intervention
- Achieve nationwide coverage of fortified rice distribution by 2024
How Rice is Fortified
- Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK) Production
Rice flour is mixed with vitamins and minerals and shaped into grain-like kernels. - Blending
FRKs are mixed with regular rice, usually in a 1:100 ratio.
Key Features of the Initiative
- Entirely funded by the Government of India (food subsidy system)
- Phased rollout began in 2021
- Technical support from the World Food Programme
- Intended for nationwide coverage through welfare schemes
2. Global Agricultural Subsidies Linked to Deforestation
Source: Mint
Context:
Governments worldwide are spending vast sums on agricultural subsidies — especially fertilizers — but a significant share of this support is environmentally harmful and economically inefficient, according to World Bank environment director Valerie Hickey.
Scale of the Issue
- Global agricultural subsidies total about $2 billion per day.
- Around 14% of these subsidies are directly linked to deforestation.
- Many subsidies are “nature-negative”, contributing to environmental degradation rather than sustainable productivity.
Fertilizer Overuse and Productivity Concerns
- In several developing and emerging economies, including India, agricultural support has traditionally focused on input subsidies like fertilizers.
- Excess fertilizer use can degrade soil health and even reduce crop yields when soils become oversaturated.
- Estimated impact:
- 10% rise in fertilizer use → only 2% productivity gain
- But also → 3% increase in respiratory illness
This suggests diminishing returns and growing environmental and health costs.
Policy Shift Recommended
The World Bank argues the key issue is not the amount of spending but how subsidies are designed. It recommends shifting from:
- Input-based support (fertilizers, chemicals)
➡ to - Investment in research, innovation, and sustainable farming practices
India’s Position
- India has allocated ₹1.71 trillion for fertilizer subsidies (FY27) to cushion farmers from global price shocks.
- At the same time, the government is promoting sustainable alternatives such as fertilizer-free natural farming.
India launched the National Mission on Natural Farming in 2024, supported by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to encourage eco-friendly agriculture.
Facts To Remember
1. PM’s Tamil Nadu Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate and launch development projects worth over ₹4,000–₹4,400 crore during his two-day visit to Tamil Nadu, covering Chennai and Madurai, along with a stop in Puducherry.
2. J&K wins maiden Ranji Trophy title
Jammu & Kashmir etched its name in the history books by clinching its maiden Ranji Trophy cricket title on the basis of afirst-innings lead, after the final against Karnataka ended in a draw on Saturday in Hubbali.
3. PM unveils Microns plant in Gujarat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated Micron Technologys semiconductor plant at Sanand in Gujarat, and said that after being known for its strength in software, the country is firmly establishing its identity in the hardware sector too.
4. Nine Botswana Cheetahs Released in Kuno National Park
India’s cheetah reintroduction programme received a major boost with the release of nine cheetahs from Botswana into Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. The release was carried out by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav.
5. Upgraded RAJMARG PRAVESH 2.0 Portal Launched by Nitin Gadkari
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari launched RAJMARG PRAVESH Version 2.0 to streamline online NOC approvals for facilities along National Highways.
The portal enables applications for fuel stations, utilities, private access roads, and infrastructure services.
It supports laying pipelines, optical fibre, and power lines along or across highways.
The upgrade promotes transparency, faster approvals, and ease of doing business.
6. JP Nadda to Head Reconstituted Hindi Advisory Committee
Union Minister J. P. Nadda was appointed Chairman of the Hindi Advisory Committee of the Chemicals & Fertilizers Ministry.
The committee will review and promote progressive use of Hindi in official work.
It comprises nominated and official members with a three-year tenure.
The move strengthens implementation of the Official Language policy.
7. IAF Conducts Joint Maritime Exercise ‘Kalari Leap’
The Indian Air Force Southern Air Command conducted ‘Kalari Leap’ in the Arabian Sea region.
The exercise validated rapid force projection and joint maritime operations.
It involved AFSOD and the Indian Coast Guard with air-landed and amphibious drills.
Aircraft like Su-30MKI, AN-32, and Mi-17V5 participated in the operation.
8. IAF Holds ‘Vayushakti-26’ at Pokhran Range
The Indian Air Force conducted Exercise ‘Vayushakti-26’ at Pokhran, Rajasthan.
It showcased integrated air combat operations in a simulated live theatre scenario.
Over 130 aircraft including Rafale, Su-30MKI, and Mirage-2000 took part.
President Droupadi Murmu attended the demonstration as Chief Guest.
9. PM Narendra Modi Visits Israel in February 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Israel and addressed the Knesset during his two-day state visit.
He was conferred the ‘Medal of the Knesset’, becoming the first Indian PM to receive the honour.
India and Israel announced a Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity.
Several agreements were signed covering defence, AI, cybersecurity, and trade cooperation.
10. IIFL Home Finance Secures USD 300 Million ADB Loan
IIFL Home Finance secured a USD 300 million loan from the Asian Development Bank to expand affordable housing.
At least 25% of funds will support green-certified homes.
The loan includes parallel funding from global financial institutions.
The initiative mainly targets women borrowers and low-income households.
11. West Bengal Approves ₹4,648 Crore ADB-Backed Projects
The West Bengal Cabinet approved ₹4,648 crore projects with ADB support.
The projects focus on strengthening secondary education and child nutrition infrastructure.
Funding follows a 70:30 model between ADB and the state government.
The move aims to improve human capital development in the state.
12. Jio Finance Launches AI-Powered ‘Finsider’ App
Jio Financial Services Limited launched the AI-backed ‘Finsider’ feature on its JioFinance app.
The app uses agentic AI and neural networks for hyper-personalized financial services.
It offers loans, insurance, UPI, mutual funds, and investment products.
Users can earn JioPoints rewards during the early access programme.
13. Central Bank of India Partners with Canara Robeco AMC
Central Bank of India signed a distribution agreement with Canara Robeco Asset Management Company Limited.
The partnership enables distribution of mutual fund products to customers.
It enhances wealth creation opportunities via branch and digital channels.
The agreement complies with SEBI disclosure norms.
14. Sri Lanka’s First Blue Bond Listed on NSE IX
Sri Lanka’s first Blue Bond was dually listed on NSE International Exchange at GIFT City.
The issuance aims to fund marine conservation and sustainable ocean projects.
It strengthens cross-border capital market collaboration.
The listing was facilitated under an MoU with the Colombo Stock Exchange.
15. DRDO Conducts VSHORADS Missile Trials in Odisha
The Defence Research and Development Organisation conducted successful VSHORADS missile trials at Chandipur.
The system is designed to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats.
Missiles intercepted high-speed targets in all three consecutive tests.
The trials support India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat defence vision.
16. Indian Navy Commissions INS Anjadip
The Indian Navy commissioned INS Anjadip, an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft.
The vessel enhances coastal defence and submarine detection capabilities.
Built by GRSE, it has over 80% indigenous content.
It is named after Anjadip Island off Karnataka’s coast.
17. Padma Shri Awardee Utsav Charan Das Passed Away
Padma Shri awardee Utsav Charan Das passed away at the age of 80 in Odisha.
He was renowned for promoting the traditional Ghoda Nacha folk dance.
He established an institution to train young artists in the art form.
He received the Padma Shri in 2020 for contributions to art.
18. National Science Day 2026 Observed on 28 February
National Science Day is observed on 28 February to mark the discovery of the Raman Effect by C.V. Raman.
The 2026 theme is “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat”.
It promotes scientific awareness and innovation across India.
The national event was hosted by the Department of Science and Technology in New Delhi.
19. India and Canada Sign Three Agreements on Critical Minerals, Renewable Energy, and Culture
India and Canada today exchanged three agreements in different areas including critical mineral cooperation, promoting the use of renewable energy and cultural cooperation.
20. President Droupadi Murmu Dedicates Four Schemes for Women in Delhi
President Droupadi Murmu today dedicated four schemes to the women of Delhi. The schemes include the Lakhpati Bitiya Scheme, Saheli Pink Smart Card, Meri Poonji Mera Adhikaar, and the Free LPG Cylinder Scheme.
21. Services of UTS Mobile App to be discontinued from tomorrow: Ministry of Railways
The Ministry of Railways today informed that the services of the Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) Mobile App will be discontinued.
22. PM Modi launches nationwide HPV Vaccination Programme for girls aged 14 years
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a nationwide campaign for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for girls aged 14 years in Ajmer, Rajasthan.
