Current Affairs - March 1, 2026 Current Affairs

PhonePe introduced an AI-powered natural language search feature built on Microsoft Foundry, transforming how users interact with the app. The feature enables customers to make payments, recharge FASTag, check gold prices, and track transactions using simple voice or text commands. Designed with a hybrid AI model combining on-device and cloud inferencing, it ensures strong privacy safeguards and secure data handling. The conversational interface replaces traditional menu-based navigation with intent-driven routing, making digital payments more intuitive and personalised. With millions of users and merchants across India, this innovation significantly enhances convenience and accessibility in fintech services.

Haryana has announced the launch of CM Shri Schools, modelled on the central government’s PM Shri Schools initiative to enhance the quality of state-run education. The new schools will follow the CBSE curriculum pattern, ensuring structured academic standards, skill-based learning, and improved preparation for competitive examinations. The initiative also emphasizes modern infrastructure and better learning outcomes. Additionally, the state continues to implement 25% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections under the Right to Education Act, promoting inclusive access to quality education. This combined reform approach aims to strengthen educational standards and equity across the state.

Punjab launched the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme to provide free food kits to nearly 40 lakh economically weaker families holding blue cards. The initiative, announced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann ahead of the state’s Budget Session, aims to address nutritional gaps among low-income households. Under the first phase from April to June 2026, beneficiaries will receive essential items such as chana dal, sugar, iodized salt, turmeric powder, and mustard oil. The scheme focuses on improving child health, reducing malnutrition, strengthening food security, and ensuring that vulnerable families receive balanced and nutritious food supplies regularly.

February 28 is observed annually as National Science Day in India to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C. V. Raman in 1928. This groundbreaking work explained the scattering of light through transparent materials and later earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, making him the first Asian Nobel laureate in science. The Government of India officially designated this date as National Science Day in 1986. The occasion promotes scientific awareness, innovation, and research culture, while celebrating India’s significant contributions to global scientific advancement and encouraging future generations in STEM fields.

Nidhi Chhibber has taken additional charge as the Chief Executive Officer of NITI Aayog following the completion of BVR Subrahmanyam’s three-year term in February 2026. A 1994-batch IAS officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre, she currently serves as Director General of the Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office (DMEO) under NITI Aayog. She has also previously held the position of Chairperson of the Central Board of Secondary Education. Her extensive experience in policy monitoring, evaluation, and education sector reforms positions her to strengthen data-driven governance and performance assessment within India’s premier policy think tank.

Nepal signed a new Memorandum of Understanding with India to enhance bilateral cooperation in forests, wildlife protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation. The agreement focuses on restoring transboundary wildlife corridors, protecting key species such as tigers, elephants, rhinoceroses, and snow leopards, and strengthening protected area management. It also emphasises combating wildlife crime, improving coordination between enforcement agencies, and promoting capacity building for frontline forest staff. Given the shared ecosystems and migratory wildlife habitats across borders, the partnership supports integrated conservation strategies and climate resilience efforts in the Himalayan and adjoining landscapes.

Geneva will host the AI Summit 2027, marking Switzerland’s significant role in advancing global dialogue on artificial intelligence governance. The announcement was made by Swiss President Guy Parmelin during the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. Known for being a hub of major international organisations, Geneva provides a neutral platform for multilateral discussions and cooperation. The summit is expected to focus on ethical and inclusive AI frameworks, strengthening partnerships between countries such as Switzerland and India. The hosting also reflects growing global collaboration in AI diplomacy, with the UAE set to host the summit in 2028.

DRDO successfully carried out three consecutive flight trials of the indigenous VSHORADS missile system from Chandipur, Odisha, demonstrating its operational readiness. The Very Short Range Air Defence System is a man-portable missile designed to intercept low-flying aircraft, helicopters, drones, and high-speed aerial threats. Developed under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the system was tested in its final deployment configuration with trained field operators handling target acquisition and firing. Data from telemetry, radar, and electro-optical tracking confirmed its precision and effectiveness, strengthening India’s short-range and layered air defence capabilities significantly.

Ravi Shastri will have a stand named after him at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai following approval by the Mumbai Cricket Association during its Apex Council meeting. The Level 1 Stand below the Press Box will bear his name, recognising his long and multifaceted contribution to Indian cricket as a player, captain, head coach, and commentator. A former all-rounder, he was part of India’s 1983 World Cup era and later guided the national team to significant overseas Test victories as coach. The tribute highlights Mumbai’s rich cricketing legacy and honours his enduring association with the sport.

February 27 is observed globally as World NGO Day in 2026, recognizing the vital contributions of non-governmental organisations across sectors such as education, healthcare, environmental protection, human rights, and disaster relief. The day serves as an international platform to appreciate NGOs for their grassroots efforts and to promote awareness, advocacy, and collaboration. It highlights the role of civil society in addressing social inequalities, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. The observance encourages citizens, institutions, and governments to actively participate through volunteering, donations, partnerships, and community initiatives that strengthen the global NGO ecosystem.