14 March 2026 Current Affairs (With PDF)

We bring you the most relevant and important news updates from around the world and India, specially curated for competitive exams and different entrance exams. Today's Current Affairs cover all significant national and international headlines, legal updates, economic news, and environmental highlights to boost your preparation. With our crisp, to-the-point coverage, you can confidently tackle current affairs questions in your exams.

 

GeodCon-26 Highlights India’s Geospatial Policy

At GeodCon‑26, Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasised that the National Geospatial Policy 2022 represents a major reform by democratising access to geospatial data in India, enabling wider participation in geospatial technologies.

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About GeodCon-26

1. Overview

• GeodCon‑26 is India’s first national conference dedicated to geodesy and geospatial science.
• It serves as a platform to discuss scientific advances, technological innovations, and policy developments in geospatial studies.

2. Venue

• Held at the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) in New Delhi.

3. Key Focus Areas

• Advances in geodesy and geospatial technologies.
• Applications in National development, Scientific research, Strategic and security sectors.

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Geodesy

Geodesy is the scientific study of the Earth’s shape, size, gravitational field, and precise positioning.

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Importance and Applications

• Mapping and Navigation: Provides the scientific foundation for Mapping and cartography, Satellite navigation, Geographic positioning systems.
• Infrastructure and Development: Supports urban planning, infrastructure development, and land management.
• Disaster Management and Climate Monitoring: Helps in monitoring natural hazards, environmental changes, and climate patterns.
• Strategic and Security Uses: Geospatial data plays a key role in national security, defence planning, and border management.
• Role in Satellite Navigation: Accurate geodesy is crucial for navigation systems such as NavIC and Global Positioning System.
• Foundation of Geospatial Science: It forms the core scientific basis of the geospatial ecosystem, enabling precise Earth observation and spatial data analysis.

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National Geospatial Policy 2022

1. Objective

• The National Geospatial Policy 2022 aims to strengthen India’s geospatial sector by improving data accessibility and technological innovation.

2. Key Features

• Democratisation of Geospatial Data: Liberalises access to geospatial data for Government agencies, Private companies, Researchers, Citizens.
• Encouraging Private Sector Participation: Promotes startup innovation and private sector involvement in geospatial technologies.
• Development Applications: Geospatial data under the policy supports Infrastructure planning, Urban development, Disaster management, National security operations.

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Government Initiatives for Geospatial Technologies

• National Geospatial Mission (NGM): National Geospatial Mission (2025–26) aims to build core geospatial infrastructure and high-quality national datasets.
• SVAMITVA Scheme: SVAMITVA Scheme uses drone surveys and GIS mapping to provide rural property records and village land ownership data.
• CORS Network: The Survey of India has developed a Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) Network for high-precision positioning data used in mapping and infrastructure projects.
• Bhuvan Geoportal: Bhuvan Geoportal, developed by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), provides satellite imagery and thematic geospatial data for governance and planning.
• BISAG-N: Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo‑Informatics (BISAG-N) delivers specialised GIS and geospatial solutions to support governance and development.

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Significance

• Strengthening India’s Geospatial Ecosystem: Expands access to high-quality spatial data and technologies.
• Promoting Innovation: Encourages private sector participation and startup-led geospatial solutions.
• Strategic and Developmental Impact: Enhances national security, infrastructure development, and disaster preparedness.

 

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)

Why in News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently released the 22nd instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, continuing the government’s income support initiative for farmers in India.

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About PM-KISAN Scheme

1. Launch

• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi is a Central Sector Scheme launched in 2019.

2. Nodal Ministry

• Implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW).

3. Objective

• Provide income support to farmers.
• Help farmers purchase agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilisers, and equipment.
• Assist in meeting household and farming-related expenses.

4. Financial Assistance

• Eligible beneficiaries receive ₹6,000 per year.
• The amount is transferred in three equal instalments of ₹2,000 each.
• Payments are made directly to farmers’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

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Beneficiaries

1. Coverage

• Initially targeted Small and Marginal Farmers with landholding up to 2 hectares.
• Later expanded to all landholding farmer families.

2. Definition of a Farmer Family

Under the scheme, a family includes:

• Husband
• Wife
• Minor children.

3. Excluded Categories

• Institutional landholders
• Holders of constitutional posts
• Serving or retired government employees
• Political office bearers
• Pensioners receiving ₹10,000 or more per month
• Income tax payers
• Registered professionals such as doctors, engineers, lawyers, and chartered accountants.

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Beneficiary Identification

• State and Union Territory governments are responsible for identifying eligible farmer families and verifying landholding records.

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Digital Integration

1. PM-KISAN Mobile App

• Facilitates e-KYC verification, beneficiary status checks, and registration updates.

2. Kisan e-Mitra

• An AI-based multilingual chatbot that assists farmers with Information about the scheme, Complaint registration, Grievance redressal.

3. Coverage and Impact

• The scheme has supported over 9 crore farmer families across India.
• Approximately 23% of beneficiaries are women farmers, reflecting growing inclusion in agricultural support schemes.

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Significance

1. Income Security for Farmers

• Provides direct financial support, especially for small and marginal farmers.

2. Financial Inclusion

• DBT ensures transparent and timely transfers directly into bank accounts.

4. Support for Agricultural Productivity

• Helps farmers invest in inputs, crop production, and farm management.

 

Section 301 Investigations by the United States

Why in News

The administration of Donald Trump has initiated Section 301 investigations into alleged unfair trade practices by 16 trading partners, including India and China.
The move comes after a ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States that earlier tariffs imposed by the administration were not legally valid, prompting the government to reconsider tariffs through the Section 301 mechanism.

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Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974

1. Legal Basis

• Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 is a U.S. trade law that allows the government to investigate and respond to unfair trade practices by foreign countries.

2. Purpose

• To address foreign policies that are considered Unreasonable, Discriminatory, Harmful to U.S. commerce
• If such practices are confirmed, the U.S. government can impose tariffs or other trade restrictions.

3. Authority

• The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is responsible for Initiating investigations, Assessing trade practices, Recommending retaliatory measures such as tariffs or sanctions.

4. Implications

• Section 301 investigations are often used as a negotiating and pressure tool in trade disputes.
• They can lead to retaliatory tariffs or trade barriers if negotiations fail.

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Why India is Being Targeted

1. Trade Surplus with the U.S.

• India recorded a trade surplus of around $58 billion with the United States in 2025.

2. Alleged Excess Manufacturing Capacity

• The USTR claims India has excess production capacity in sectors such as Solar modules, Petrochemicals, Steel.

3. Concerns Over Global Overproduction

• The U.S. argues that large-scale production in these sectors could distort global markets and negatively affect American manufacturing industries.

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International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)

1. Legal Framework

• The International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) was enacted in 1977.

2. Purpose

• Allows the U.S. President to regulate international economic transactions during a declared national emergency.

3. Economic Powers

• Under IEEPA, the President can Block foreign assets, Restrict trade transactions, Impose economic sanctions on countries, organisations, or individuals.

4. National Security Role

• The Act is primarily used to address extraordinary threats to U.S. national security, foreign policy, or economic interests.

5. Use in Sanctions Policy

• IEEPA has become a key legal instrument for imposing sanctions against Countries, Terrorist organisations, Individuals involved in activities threatening U.S. interests.

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Significance

1. Trade Tensions

• Section 301 investigations can intensify trade disputes between major economies.

2. Strategic Economic Tool

• The U.S. frequently uses such measures to protect domestic industries and negotiate trade concessions.

3. Impact on Global Trade

• Tariffs imposed under Section 301 may affect supply chains, export markets, and international trade relations.

 

VOC Port Launches India’s First ‘Digital Twin’ Initiative

Why in News

The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority in Tamil Nadu has become India’s first major port to introduce a Digital Twin initiative, aimed at improving operational efficiency and real-time monitoring of port activities.

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What is a Digital Twin?

• A Digital Twin is a dynamic, real-time virtual replica of a physical object, system, or infrastructure.
• It integrates multiple technologies to simulate and monitor physical operations digitally.

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Key Features of the Digital Twin System

1. The system integrates multiple advanced technologies, including:

• Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, GPS tracking, LiDAR mapping, Drone-based imaging, CCTV surveillance networks
• These inputs collectively create a live digital model of the port ecosystem.

2. Live Operational Monitoring

• The platform enables real-time visualisation and monitoring of port activities such as: Berth occupancy, Vessel movements, Crane utilisation, Cargo yard capacity.

3. Predictive Maintenance

• An AI-powered monitoring system analyses operational data to predict potential equipment failures.
• This helps in Reducing downtime of cargo-handling equipment, Decreasing vessel turnaround time, Improving port efficiency.

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About V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port

1. Overview

• V. O. Chidambaranar Port, formerly known as Tuticorin Port, is a major artificial all-weather deep-sea port located in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.

2. Location

• Situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Gulf of Mannar.
• The port lies close to major East–West international shipping routes, enhancing its strategic maritime importance.

3. Namesake

• The port is named after V. O. Chidambaram Pillai, a freedom fighter and entrepreneur.
• He founded the Swadeshi Steam Navigation Company in 1906, India’s first indigenous shipping enterprise.

4. Natural Shelter

• The geographical position of Sri Lanka to the southeast acts as a natural shield against cyclonic winds, enabling continuous 24×7 port operations.

5. Green Hydrogen Hub

• The port is being developed as a Green Hydrogen Hub under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, promoting clean energy production and export infrastructure.

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Significance

1. Smart Port Development

• The Digital Twin initiative marks a major step towards smart port infrastructure and digital transformation.

2. Operational Efficiency

• Real-time monitoring and predictive analytics can reduce congestion, improve logistics management, and enhance cargo handling efficiency.

3. Strategic Maritime Infrastructure

• Strengthens India’s port modernisation and maritime competitiveness in global trade.

 

Deep-Sea Fishing in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)

Why in News

• The Government of India has notified the Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Rules, 2025 to regulate fishing activities and promote the sustainable utilisation of marine resources.
• The rules have been issued under the Territorial Waters, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and Other Maritime Zones Act, 1976.

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Key Provisions of the EEZ Fisheries Rules, 2025

1. Mandatory Access Pass

• Mechanised fishing vessels and motorised boats of 24 metres or more must obtain an access pass to operate within India’s EEZ.

2. Special Provision for Tuna Fishing

• Motorised vessels engaged in tuna and tuna-like species fishing are permitted to operate in the EEZ under specific regulations.

3. Digital Licensing Platform

• Access passes are issued through the ReALCraft Portal.

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ReALCraft Portal

1. Overview

• ReALCraft Portal stands for Registration and Licensing of Fishing Craft.

2. Implementing Authority

• Developed by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

3. Key Functions

• Registration of fishing vessels
• Licensing services for fishing operations
• Digital access for marine fishers, coastal states, and Union Territories.

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Deep-Sea Fisheries Potential in India

1. Estimated Potential

• India’s EEZ has an estimated fisheries potential of about 53.1 lakh tonnes annually.

2. Underexploited Resource

• A significant share of this potential lies in deep-sea resources, which remain less exploited compared to coastal fisheries.

3. High-Value Species

• Deep-sea fisheries include valuable species such as Tuna and Tuna-like fishes, which have high export demand in global markets.

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Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)

1. Definition

• The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is a maritime zone defined under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), 1982.

2. Extent

• Extends up to 200 nautical miles from a country’s coastline.

3. Rights of Coastal State

• Explore and exploit marine resources, Conserve and manage fisheries, Conduct marine scientific research, Generate energy from ocean resources, Extract seabed minerals.

4. Rights of Other States

• Navigation, Overflight, Laying submarine cables and pipelines.

5. India’s EEZ

• Covers approximately 2.4 million square kilometres of maritime area.

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Government Support for Deep-Sea Fishing

1. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana provides Training programmes in deep-sea fishing techniques and Guidance on onboard fish handling and processing.

2. Capacity Building

• The National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) offers technology training and skill development to fishermen.

3. Financial Assistance

• Government initiatives such as Blue Revolution Scheme and PMMSY provide support for: Acquisition of deep-sea fishing vessels and Conversion of traditional trawlers into deep-sea fishing vessels.

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Significance

1. Sustainable Fisheries Management

• The rules aim to regulate fishing in the EEZ and prevent overexploitation of marine resources.

2. Economic Opportunities

• Deep-sea fisheries can boost exports and income for fishing communities.

3. Maritime Governance

• Strengthens India’s regulatory framework for managing marine resources in its EEZ.

 

India Develops Indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

Why in News

The Government of India has announced the development of three indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) under the Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat, aimed at strengthening the country’s clean and reliable nuclear energy capacity.

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Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

1. Definition

• Small Modular Reactor (SMR) is a compact nuclear fission reactor designed with modular construction, enabling easier manufacturing and deployment.

2. Capacity

• Typically produces up to 300 MWe (megawatts electric), which is roughly one-third the capacity of conventional nuclear reactors.

3. Key Characteristics

• Modular Design: Components are factory-manufactured and assembled on site.
• Flexible Deployment: Suitable for remote areas or regions with smaller electricity grids.
• Enhanced Safety: Designed with advanced passive safety features.
• Lower Capital Cost: Smaller size reduces initial investment requirements.

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Indian Institutions Developing SMRs

• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
• Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL)

These organisations are jointly leading the design, research, and development of indigenous SMR technologies.

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Indigenous SMR Designs Under Development

1. Bharat SMR (BSMR-200)

• Capacity: 220 MWe
• Core Technology: Based on Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) technology.
• Primary Purpose: Provides stable baseload electricity. And designed to replace aging coal-based power plants.
• Construction Site: Tarapur Atomic Power Station, Maharashtra.

2. SMR-55

• Capacity: 55 MWe
• Core Technology: Based on Pressurised Water Reactor design with modular block configuration.
• Primary Purpose: Intended to supply electricity to Remote locations, Off-grid regions, Isolated industrial zones
• Proposed Site: Likely to be built at Tarapur or another Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) facility.

3. High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor (HTGCR)

• Capacity: 5 MWth (thermal)
• Core Technology: Based on High‑Temperature Gas‑Cooled Reactor (HTGR) technology.
• Primary Purpose: Produces very high-temperature industrial heat and Supports clean hydrogen production and advanced industrial processes.
• Construction Site: Bhabha Atomic Research Centre facility in Visakhapatnam.

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Global Status of SMR Deployment

• As of early 2026, only two countries operate commercial SMRs: Russia and China
• These countries have already deployed small modular reactors for power generation and remote energy supply.

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India’s Recent Nuclear Power Reforms

1. Expansion Target

• India plans to increase its nuclear power capacity from 8.18 GW to about 100 GW by 2047.

2. Nuclear Energy Mission

• The Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat aims to develop at least five indigenous SMRs by 2033.

3. Private Sector Participation

• The SHANTI Act, 2025 permits private companies to participate in the nuclear power sector.

4. Regulatory Strengthening

• The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has been granted statutory status, enabling more independent and robust nuclear safety oversight.

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Significance of SMR Development

1. Clean Energy Transition

• Supports low-carbon electricity generation, helping India meet its climate goals.

2. Energy Security

• Reduces dependence on fossil fuels and diversifies the energy mix.

3. Industrial Applications

• High-temperature reactors can support hydrogen production, petrochemicals, other heavy industries.

4. Grid Flexibility

• SMRs are ideal for smaller grids, remote regions, and island systems.

 

Surge in India’s Russian Oil Imports

Why in News

India’s crude oil imports from Russia have increased to around 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in the first eleven days of March, amid disruptions linked to the reported closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy transit route.

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India’s Oil Import Situation

1. Rising Russian Supplies

• Imports of Russian crude have surged to approximately 1.5 million bpd, reflecting India’s efforts to diversify supply during regional disruptions.
• Russia continues to remain India’s largest crude oil supplier.

2. Dependence on the Strait of Hormuz

• Nearly 2.5–2.7 million barrels per day of India’s crude oil imports normally pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
• This accounts for around half of India’s total oil imports, highlighting the strategic importance of this maritime chokepoint.

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United States Waiver

1. Temporary Import Permission

• The United States granted a 30-day waiver allowing India to continue purchasing Russian crude already loaded on tankers.

2. Objective

• The measure aims to ensure supply stability and prevent disruptions in India’s energy supply chain during the crisis.

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India’s Oil Consumption Profile

1. Global Ranking

• India is the third-largest oil consumer in the world, after United States and China.

2. Import Dependence

• The country imports over 88% of its crude oil requirements, making it highly dependent on global energy markets.

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India’s Strategic Oil Preparedness

1. Existing Reserves

• India currently maintains about 6–8 weeks of crude oil and fuel reserves.

2. Alternative Sourcing

• To address supply disruptions, India is exploring additional procurement from global suppliers and international traders.

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Major Crude Oil Suppliers to India (February 2026)

• Russia – Largest supplier
• Iraq – Second-largest supplier
• Saudi Arabia – Third-largest supplier

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Strategic Significance

• Energy Security: Diversifying crude oil suppliers helps reduce supply risks during geopolitical tensions.
• Impact of Maritime Chokepoints: Events affecting the Strait of Hormuz can significantly influence global oil prices and India’s energy security.
• Geopolitical Balancing: India must carefully manage its energy ties with Russia, the United States, and West Asian suppliers while ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies.

 

Air Droppable Container ‘ADC-150’

Why in News

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully tested the Air Droppable Container (ADC-150), an indigenous system designed to deliver critical supplies directly to naval vessels operating at sea.

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Air Droppable Container (ADC-150)

Overview

• ADC-150 is India’s first fully indigenous precision aerial delivery container designed for maritime logistics support.
• It enables rapid delivery of essential supplies to naval ships without requiring them to return to port.

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Development and Coordination

1. Developing Agencies

• Developed jointly by Defence Research and Development Organisation and Indian Navy

2. Coordinating Laboratory

• The project was coordinated by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) located in Visakhapatnam.

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Key Features of ADC-150

1. Payload Capacity

• Capable of carrying up to 150 kg of supplies.

2. Types of Cargo Delivered

• Engineering spare parts
• Specialised maintenance tools
• Emergency medical kits

3. Precision Delivery

• Designed to accurately deliver supplies to ships at sea, ensuring operational continuity during long deployments.

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Delivery Mechanism

1. Multi-Stage Parachute System

• Equipped with a multi-stage parachute system that gradually slows the container during descent.
• This ensures Safe landing and Protection of sensitive equipment and supplies.

2. Deployment Platform

• The container has been tested for deployment from the Boeing P‑8I Poseidon, a long-range maritime patrol aircraft used by the Indian Navy.

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Strategic Significance

1. Naval Logistics Enhancement

• Enables mid-sea resupply of ships, improving operational endurance during extended deployments.

2. Blue-Water Operational Capability

• Strengthens the Indian Navy’s capability to conduct sustained operations across distant oceanic regions.

3. Indigenous Defence Technology

• Supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative by promoting domestic defence innovation and manufacturing.

 

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