Daily Current Affairs Quiz19 March, 2026 National Affairs 1. Appropriation Bill 2026 Passed Source: TH Context: The Parliament of India has passed the Appropriation Bill 2026, enabling the government to legally withdraw funds from the Consolidated Fund of India for the financial year 2026–27. What is an Appropriation Bill? Constitutional Provisions Article 114 Article 115 Article 116 Key Features of Appropriation Bill 1. Covers Two Types of Expenditure 2. No Amendment Allowed 3. Money Bill Status 2. Economic Stabilisation Fund 2026 Source: TH Context: The Government of India has announced a ₹57,381 crore allocation for the Economic Stabilisation Fund to tackle global uncertainties such as the West Asia conflict, oil price volatility, and supply chain disruptions. What is the Economic Stabilisation Fund? Objective How the Fund Works Key Features 1. Fiscal Headroom 2. Targeted Intervention 3. Deficit Neutrality 4. Macroeconomic Stability 5. Large Allocation 3. Transgender Rights Amendment Bill 2026 Source: IE Context: The Union Government has introduced the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha to amend the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. The move comes over a decade after the landmark NALSA v. Union of India (2014) judgment, which recognized self-determination of gender identity as a fundamental right. What is the “Right to Self-Perceived Gender Identity”? Key Changes Proposed in the Bill 1. Removal of Self-Identification Right 2. Redefinition of “Transgender Person” 3. Introduction of Medical Authority 4. Changes in Gender Certification Process 5. Mandatory SRS-Based Certification 6. Documentation Rights 4. BHAVYA Scheme 2026 Source: TH Context: The Union Cabinet has approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojna (BHAVYA) with an outlay of ₹33,660 crore to boost manufacturing through the development of 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across India. Key Highlights: Key Features of BHAVYA 1. Plug-and-Play Infrastructure 2. Land Requirements 3. Financial Support 4. Multi-Stakeholder Model Focus Areas Banking/Finance 1. RBI Reassures on HDFC Bank: Understanding Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) in India Source: BS Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reassured markets regarding HDFC Bank after the resignation of its chairman, stating that the bank remains a Domestic Systemically Important Bank (D-SIB) with strong governance and financial stability. What are Systemically Important Banks? Key Features of D-SIBs 1. Systemic Importance 2. RBI Framework (2014) 3. Bucket Classification 4. Additional Capital Requirement D-SIBs in India (Current List) Why are D-SIBs Important? 1. Financial Stability 2. Risk Containment 3. Enhanced Regulation Classification of Banks in India 1. Ownership-Based 2. Functional 3. Regulatory Agriculture 1. Budget 2026 Carbon Credit Programme Source: TH Context: A ₹20,000 crore allocation in Union Budget 2026 for a “carbon credit programme” has triggered confusion over its actual intent—whether it targets industrial decarbonisation through CCUS or aims to create carbon income opportunities for farmers. Core Issue: What is CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage)? Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a technology-based climate solution that involves: What Does CCUS Target? Hard-to-Abate Industries CCUS focuses on sectors where emissions are: Key Target Sectors These sectors are responsible for a large share of industrial CO₂ emissions and cannot fully decarbonize through renewable energy alone. Why Agriculture is NOT Included in CCUS 1. Diffuse Emission Sources 2. Biological Nature of Emissions 3. Technological Mismatch Agriculture’s Role: Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) Instead of CCUS, agriculture contributes through: These methods absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere, rather than capturing emissions at source. 2. Coconut Promotion Scheme 2026 Source: PIB Context: The Government of India has announced the Coconut Promotion Scheme in the Union Budget 2026–27 to strengthen the coconut sector, where India is the world’s largest producer (30.37% share). About the Scheme Budget Allocation Status Objectives Key Features 1. Replantation and Rejuvenation 2. Improved Varieties 3. Productivity Enhancement 4. Value Addition and Processing 5. Farmer Livelihood Support India’s Position in Coconut Production Parameter Data Global Rank 1st Share in Global Production 30.37% Annual Production 21,373.62 million nuts Facts To Remember 1. Jharkhand Assembly Opposes VB-G RAM G Act, Seeks Continuation of MGNREGA Framework The Jharkhand Legislative Assembly passed a resolution opposing the proposed Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) and urged the Centre to retain the existing Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) framework. 2. India’s Unemployment Rate Declines to 4.9% in February 2026 The National Statistical Office reported a marginal drop in unemployment under the PLFS February 2026 bulletin.Urban unemployment declined to 6.6%, while rural unemployment remained stable at 4.2%.Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) stood at 55.9%, showing steady workforce engagement.The data reflects gradual improvement in urban job markets and stability in rural employment. 3. Government Approves 23 Quantum Labs under National Quantum Mission The Government approved quantum labs in 23 institutions under the National Quantum Mission.The initiative focuses on quantum computing, communication, and sensing technologies.The decision was reviewed under the leadership of Jitendra Singh.It aims to strengthen India’s research ecosystem and build a skilled quantum workforce. 4. Horticulture Production Records Growth in 2024-25 and 2025-26 The Ministry of Agriculture released FE 2024-25 and FAE 2025-26 estimates showing growth in horticulture output.Production reached 3707.38 lakh tonnes in 2024-25 with further increase projected for 2025-26.The total area under cultivation expanded to over 301 lakh hectares.This reflects rising importance of high-value crops in India’s agricultural sector. 5. ALMM Framework Expanded to Include Solar Ingots and Wafers The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy extended ALMM to cover solar ingots and wafers from June 2028.The move aims to boost domestic solar manufacturing and reduce import dependence.It introduces upstream integration requirements for manufacturers.This step strengthens India’s renewable energy supply chain and self-reliance. 6. Gyan Bharatam Survey Launched to Map India’s Manuscript Heritage The Ministry of Culture launched the Gyan Bharatam National Manuscript Survey across India.It aims to identify, document, and digitise manuscripts using modern technology.The survey follows a four-stage process including verification and cataloguing.It will help preserve India’s rich cultural and intellectual heritage. 7. British Council Supports SPARK 100K Initiative for Women Entrepreneurs The British Council signed an MoU to support SPARK 100K Collective.The initiative aims to empower 1

Daily Current Affairs Quiz18 March, 2026 National Affairs 1. Government Withdraws Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025 Source: ET The Government of India has withdrawn the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025 from the Lok Sabha to make further changes. The withdrawal motion was moved by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and was approved through a voice vote in the Lok Sabha. Purpose of the Bill The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025 aimed to: The broader goal was to improve the ease of doing business in India by replacing certain criminal penalties with civil penalties or administrative actions. Why the Bill Was Withdrawn The government withdrew the bill in order to: 2. State of Working India Report 2026 Source: BS A report by Azim Premji University titled State of Working India 2026 highlights a significant trend in India’s labour market: about 67% of unemployed youth aged 20–29 were graduates in 2023. Key Findings 1. Sharp rise in graduate unemployment This indicates that the share of graduates among unemployed youth has more than doubled in two decades. 2. Rapid expansion of higher education India has significantly expanded access to higher education, producing many more graduates. 3. Job creation lagging behind graduate supply Between 2004 and 2023: The report notes that graduate employment has not kept pace with the growing supply of graduates. Reasons for High Graduate Unemployment The report identifies several factors: 3. UNEP Report: Safe Disposal of Unused Medicines (2026) Context: The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) released the 2026 report “Safe Disposal of Unused Medicines”, highlighting the serious environmental and public health risks caused by improper disposal of pharmaceuticals. The report proposes a global framework for safer management of unused medicines using a One Health approach, which links human health, animal health, and environmental protection. What the Report Focuses On The report recommends strengthening national systems through: These measures should cover medicines from: Key Findings 1. Environmental Risks Improper disposal of medicines (e.g., flushing down toilets or dumping in landfills) releases pharmaceutical chemicals into soil and water. This can cause: 2. High Global Wastage 3. Rising Economic Impact The unused medicine management market is projected to reach about $2.54 billion by 2032, driven by: 4. Wastewater Treatment Limitations Most wastewater treatment plants are not designed to remove pharmaceutical compounds completely. As a result: 5. Public Health Threat – Antimicrobial Resistance According to global estimates: Improper medicine disposal contributes to AMR by exposing bacteria in the environment to low levels of antibiotics, enabling resistance development. 6. Prevention Potential The report highlights prevention as the most effective solution. Example: Key Recommendations of the Report The report calls on governments to: 4. Exercise Sea Dragon Source: TH Context: Exercise Sea Dragon is a multinational anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercise led by the United States Navy in the Western Pacific Ocean near Guam. Recently, the Indian Navy deployed its Boeing P‑8I Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to participate in this exercise. Overview Aim of the Exercise The exercise seeks to: Participating Countries Key Indo-Pacific partners typically participating include: 5. 24 Speed Post Source: TH Context: The Department of Posts under the Ministry of Communications launched “24 Speed Post” on 17 March 2026 to provide guaranteed next-day delivery services for urgent consignments. This initiative strengthens the premium express delivery services of India Post. What is 24 Speed Post? 24 Speed Post is a premium express postal service designed for time-sensitive shipments. It ensures D+1 delivery, meaning the parcel is delivered the next day after booking, with enhanced tracking and security features. Objectives The service aims to: Cities Covered in the First Phase The service will initially operate across all PIN codes in six major metro cities: 6. India’s First National Report on Implementation of the Nagoya Protocol Source: PIB Context: India has submitted its First National Report (NR1) on the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol to the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The report highlights India’s progress in implementing Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) mechanisms related to the use of genetic resources. It was prepared by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA). About the First National Report (NR1) India’s First National Report (NR1) is an official submission describing the legal, institutional, and implementation measures taken by India to fulfil its obligations under the Nagoya Protocol. Reporting Period The report covers the period from 1 November 2017 to 31 December 2025. Key Findings from the Report 1. Community Participation A large number of local biodiversity institutions have been established. These committees function at the local body level to document biodiversity and manage local resources. 2. Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Approvals Total approvals issued (2017–2025): 3. Benefit Sharing The Access and Benefit Sharing mechanism generated significant funds: About the Nagoya Protocol The Nagoya Protocol is a supplementary agreement to the Convention on Biological Diversity that establishes a legal framework for access to genetic resources and fair sharing of benefits arising from their use. Objectives of the Protocol 7. Dual-Sex Crab (Vela carli) Source: TH Context: Researchers have discovered a rare dual-sex freshwater crab in Silent Valley National Park in Kerala, located in the Western Ghats. The crab belongs to the species Vela carli and shows gynandromorphy, a rare biological condition where an organism has both male and female physical traits. This is the first recorded case of gynandromorphy in the crab family Gecarcinucidae. What is the Dual-Sex Crab? Scientific Classification Habitat and Distribution This region is known for high biodiversity and endemic species. What is Gynandromorphy? Gynandromorphy is a rare biological phenomenon where an organism shows both male and female physical characteristics simultaneously. Banking/Finance 1. IRDAI Proposes Public Insurance Registry (PIR) Source: TH Context: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has proposed creating a Public Insurance Registry (PIR) to modernise the information infrastructure of India’s insurance sector. The proposal was discussed at a stakeholder meeting addressed by IRDAI Chairman Ajay Seth in New Delhi. What