Daily Current Affairs and GK Updates (25th March 2026)

National News

India Forms 7 Empowered Committees on West Asia Crisis: Full Details

• India has formed seven empowered committees in response to the escalating West Asia crisis, under the direction of Narendra Modi.
• The move aims to tackle risks related to energy supply disruptions, inflation, trade routes, and national security, especially amid tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
• Each panel focuses on key sectors like defence, economy, energy, agriculture, logistics, and communication. Senior officials such as Vikram Misri and Neeraj Mittal are leading these groups.
• Their goal is to ensure fuel availability, stabilize markets, manage supply chains, and maintain public confidence through coordinated action.

PM Internship Scheme Revamped: Higher Stipend, More Jobs & New Tech Sectors Added

• The revamped PM Internship Scheme 2026 aims to boost participation by making internships more inclusive, flexible, and industry-aligned.
• Announced by the Government of India, the updated scheme removes CSR restrictions, allowing more companies like Reliance Industries and Tata Consultancy Services to participate, while also expanding into future-ready sectors such as semiconductors and renewable energy.
• Eligibility criteria have been relaxed, with age limits widened (18–25 years) and postgraduate candidates now included.
• The monthly stipend has also increased from ₹5,000 to ₹9,000, addressing earlier concerns of low participation and high drop-out rates.
• Overall, the reforms aim to create 1 lakh internship opportunities and strengthen youth employability across India.

Indian Railways Refund Policy 2026: New Cancellation Rules Explained Simply

• The Indian Railways has introduced major reforms in its ticket cancellation and refund policy, announced by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, effective from April 1–15, 2026.
• Under the new rules, no refund will be provided if tickets are cancelled within 8 hours of departure, replacing the earlier 4-hour rule. Refunds will now follow stricter slabs: 50% deduction (24–8 hours), 25% deduction (72–24 hours), and full refund (minus charges) if cancelled more than 72 hours in advance.
• These reforms aim to prevent ticket misuse, reduce black marketing, and improve seat availability. Additional upgrades include last-minute class upgrades, boarding point changes, and strengthened Tatkal booking with Aadhaar-based verification and anti-bot measures to enhance fairness and efficiency.

Supreme Court Rules on SC Status: Conversion Ends Eligibility Under 1950 Order

• The Supreme Court of India in March 2026 ruled that Scheduled Caste (SC) status applies only to Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists, and is lost upon conversion to religions like Christianity.
• The judgment is based on the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, which limits eligibility and leaves no scope for interpretation based solely on birth.
• The Court also clarified that converted individuals cannot claim benefits under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
• This ruling reinforces the constitutional framework governing caste-based reservations and highlights the link between religion and SC classification in India.

Lok Sabha Passes Transgender Amendment Bill 2026: What It Means

• The loksabha passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill 2026 on March 24, 2026, redefining “transgender” to exclude sexual orientation and self-perceived gender identity.
• The Bill focuses on traditionally recognized communities and intersex individuals, with certification through a medical authority to ensure clarity in identification.
• It introduces stricter punishments, increasing penalties up to 14 years for crimes against transgender persons to strengthen protection and deterrence.
• The government says the reform improves targeted welfare, though it has sparked debate over identity rights, inclusivity, and legal recognition.

State News

Gujarat Becomes Second State to Introduce UCC Bill After Uttarakhand

• The Bhupendra Patel-led government introduced the Gujarat Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026 in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly on March 24, 2026, aiming to establish a common legal framework for marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships across all religions.
• If passed, Gujarat will become the second state after Uttarakhand to implement a UCC law. The bill proposes uniform rules such as a ban on bigamy, mandatory registration of live-in relationships, and standardized inheritance laws.
• However, Scheduled Tribes (STs) are exempted to protect their constitutional rights and traditional customs under the Constitution of India.
• The bill aligns with Article 44 of the Directive Principles, sparking discussions on equality, legal uniformity, and cultural diversity while marking a significant step in India’s ongoing UCC debate.

International News

Philippines Declares Energy Emergency Amid Iran Conflict: Fuel Crisis Explained

• The Philippines has declared a national energy emergency amid rising tensions in the US–Israel–Iran conflict, highlighting the global impact of geopolitical instability on fuel supply and prices.
• President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. cited an “imminent danger” to the country’s energy security, prompting urgent government action to safeguard fuel availability.
• The decision comes as the country faces volatility in global oil markets, supply chain disruptions, and increasing pressure on imported energy resources.
• With limited domestic reserves, the Philippines is particularly vulnerable to external shocks, especially as conflicts affect key shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz.

Economy News

India Sports Industry Hits $2 Billion in 2025 – Key Drivers Explained

• India’s sports economy has crossed the $2 billion mark, reaching ₹18,864 crore in 2025, according to the WPP report “Sporting Nation: Building a Legacy.” This reflects a strong 13.4% growth driven by rising investments, media rights, and fan engagement.
• Media spending remains the biggest driver, accounting for 51% of the market, with both television and digital advertising growing rapidly. Sponsorships contribute around ₹7,943 crore, showing strong brand participation in sports.
• Cricket continues to dominate, contributing nearly 89% of the total economy, led by leagues like the Indian Premier League and Women’s Premier League.

S&P Raises FY27 GDP Forecast to 7.1% Amid Global Risks

• S&P Global Ratings raised India’s FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7.1% on March 25, 2026, citing strong consumption, investment recovery, and stable exports.
• FY26 growth was also revised upward to 7.6%, showing India’s resilience among global economies.
• Growth is supported by rising domestic demand, government capex, and strong services exports like IT.
• However, risks from Middle East tensions, oil price spikes, inflation, and fiscal pressure remain key concerns for the economy.

Appointments News

Who is Puneet Gupt? New DNPA Chairperson and His Vision for Digital Media

• Puneet Gupta has been appointed as the new chairperson of the Digital News Publishers Association on March 24, 2026, succeeding Mariam Mammen Mathew after her two-year tenure.
• Currently serving as COO of Times Internet, Gupta’s leadership comes at a crucial time as digital journalism faces rapid transformation driven by AI, evolving regulations, and changing content consumption patterns.
• The new leadership team includes Anant Goenka as vice chairperson and Dhruba Mukherjee as treasurer, aiming to address industry challenges and strengthen the association’s role.
• DNPA continues to represent digital publishers in areas like data protection, platform regulation, and revenue sharing, with Gupta expected to navigate key challenges such as AI-driven disruption, declining direct traffic, and monetization pressures in India’s media landscape.

Who is K V Ramana Murty? New SEBI Whole-Time Member Explained

• The Government of India has appointed Kompella Venkata Ramana Murty as a Whole-Time Member of Securities and Exchange Board of India on March 25, 2026, for a three-year term. The appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, filling a key vacancy and restoring SEBI’s full operational strength.
• A 1991-batch Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) officer, Murty previously served as Additional Controller General of Defence Accounts and brings strong expertise in public finance and governance. He has also been associated with SEBI earlier as a part-time board member.
• As a Whole-Time Member, he will oversee critical areas like market regulation, investor protection, compliance, and surveillance. His appointment strengthens SEBI’s leadership at a crucial time for India’s growing capital markets.

OpenAI Expands in Asia: Kiran Mani Named APAC Chief to Drive India Growth

• OpenAI has appointed Kiran Mani as Managing Director for Asia-Pacific on March 25, 2026, to lead regional expansion from Singapore.
• He is a former CEO of JioStar and has worked with major tech firms like Google, Microsoft, and IBM, bringing strong leadership experience.
• This move reflects OpenAI’s growing focus on high-potential markets like India, Indonesia, and Japan with rising AI adoption.
• The company is also expanding in India through partnerships like Tata Group, targeting sectors such as education, healthcare, and digital services.

Science & Technology News

India to Build Third Spaceport in Gujarat Near Gir Somnath: Key Details

• India is set to expand its space infrastructure with a proposed third spaceport in Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district, announced in March 2026. The site, located between Diu and Kodinar along the Arabian Sea coast, has been identified with support from IN-SPACe, marking a major step in boosting launch capabilities.
• Currently, India operates the Satish Dhawan Space Centre and is developing another at Kulasekarapattinam Spaceport. The addition of a third site will reduce congestion and support growing satellite launch demand.
• Aligned with the Indian Space Policy 2023, the project also strengthens Gujarat’s ambition to become a space-tech hub, supported by initiatives like the planned Space Park and rising private sector participation.

Akasha300 3D Printer Explained: How It Will Transform ISRO’s Space Missions

• Kerala-based startup Spacetime 4D has delivered the Akasha300 3D printer to ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, boosting India’s space manufacturing capabilities.
• The Akasha300 is a high-temperature, multi-material 3D printer designed for producing complex aerospace components using advanced materials like PEEK and composites.
• It enables rapid prototyping, reduces production time and cost, and supports development of rocket and satellite parts.
• This innovation strengthens India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat mission by promoting indigenous, cost-efficient, and advanced space technology.

Sports News

$1.63 Billion IPL Deal! Kal Somani Buys Rajasthan Royals – What It Means?

• Rajasthan Royals has been acquired by Kal Somani for $1.63 billion, marking one of the biggest deals in Indian Premier League history.
• He will take full control after the 2026 season, replacing Manoj Badale.
• The deal, backed by Walmart, highlights IPL’s soaring franchise valuations.
• Originally bought for $67 million in 2008, the team—famous for winning the first IPL under Shane Warne has seen exponential growth.
• This acquisition reflects rising global investor interest, strong media revenues, and IPL’s position as a billion-dollar sports ecosystem.

RCB Sold for $1.78 Billion: Aditya Birla-Times Consortium Seals Historic IPL Deal

• The Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been sold for $1.78 billion (₹16,660 crore) in a landmark deal announced on March 25, 2026, marking a major shift in IPL history.
• The franchise moves from United Spirits Limited to a consortium including Aditya Birla Group, Times of India Group, Blackstone, and Bolt Ventures.
• This all-cash deal highlights the massive rise in IPL franchise valuations driven by media rights, global fan base, and strong brand value.
• The new ownership will manage both men’s and women’s teams, ushering in a new era for RCB as a global sports brand.

Important Days News

International Day of the Unborn Child: Meaning, History & Importance

• The International Day of the Unborn Child is observed on March 25, 2026, to highlight the dignity and value of life before birth and to raise awareness about the protection of unborn children. The observance was inspired by Pope John Paul II, who described it as a “positive option in favor of life.”
• The date coincides with the Feast of the Annunciation, symbolizing the conception of Jesus Christ, and is recognized in several countries such as Argentina, Chile, and Peru.
• The day encourages reflection on ethical, moral, and human rights issues related to life, while promoting respect for human dignity and family values through awareness campaigns and global discussions.

March 25: International Day of Solidarity with UN Staff Explained

• The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members is observed on March 25 each year to honor United Nations personnel who risk their lives in humanitarian and peacekeeping missions. The day also raises awareness about staff safety and calls for global action to protect them.
• It is linked to the tragic case of Alec Collett, whose remains were found in 2009, symbolizing the risks faced by UN workers in conflict zones.
• The observance encourages accountability, stronger security measures, and justice for detained and missing personnel. It also highlights legal protections such as the 1994 UN Convention on the Safety of UN and Associated Personnel, emphasizing global responsibility toward safeguarding those serving humanity.

Current Affairs Today | 25 March 2026 Current Affairs | Daily Current Affairs By Ashish Gautam