Current Affairs - March 3, 2026 Current Affairs

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) signed a Framework for Action with IIT Delhi to strengthen collaboration in renewable energy, particularly in human resource development, academic programmes, joint research, and knowledge exchange. This agreement builds upon five years of successful partnership, including the ISA-supported M.Tech programme in Renewable Energy Technologies & Management, which has trained over 100 mid-career professionals from regions such as Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Small Island Developing States. The expanded framework introduces new training models, trainer development initiatives, and broader capacity-building measures to accelerate solar adoption and promote clean energy transitions across ISA’s member countries.

The Government of West Bengal entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with GIZ, the German development agency, and the State Mission for Clean Ganga (SMCG) to prepare comprehensive basin-based masterplans for the Ichhamati and Jalangi river basins. These rivers are significant transboundary distributaries in the Ganga delta, flowing between India and Bangladesh. The initiative aims to ensure sustainable river basin management by addressing ecological degradation, water security challenges, and socio-economic concerns. It also aligns with the objectives of the National Mission for Clean Ganga, while incorporating German expertise in climate resilience, integrated river basin management, and environmental sustainability.

World Wildlife Day 2026 will be observed on March 3, marking the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973. The day is dedicated to celebrating wild animals and plants while promoting global biodiversity conservation efforts. The 2026 theme focuses on “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” emphasising the importance of plant species in healthcare, cultural traditions, and sustainable economies. The observance highlights the urgent need to protect ecosystems, regulate wildlife trade, and address threats such as habitat destruction and climate change.

Canada entered into a Strategic Energy Partnership with India as part of a broader roadmap to reset bilateral relations. The partnership covers cooperation in clean energy, conventional energy, civil nuclear power, and critical minerals. A major highlight was a CAD 2.6 billion uranium supply agreement between Cameco and India’s Department of Atomic Energy, strengthening India’s nuclear energy capacity. Both nations also relaunched ministerial energy dialogues and initiated negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to boost bilateral trade to CAD 70 billion by 2030, reinforcing long-term economic and strategic collaboration.

The Higher Education Department of Odisha released a Standard Operating Procedure for Heat Wave Management applicable to colleges and universities across the state as part of its summer preparedness strategy. The directive focuses on safeguarding students, faculty, and staff from extreme heat conditions. Key measures include rescheduling classes and examinations to morning hours, restricting outdoor academic and sports activities during peak afternoon heat, ensuring uninterrupted access to safe drinking water, and maintaining first aid readiness for heat-related illnesses. The initiative reflects proactive governance aimed at minimising health risks during intense summer heatwaves.

HCLTech collaborated with IIT Kanpur through a Memorandum of Understanding to promote research-led innovation in deep technology domains for Global Capability Centres (GCCs). The partnership aims to convert cutting-edge academic research into practical pilots and scalable solutions. Key focus areas include artificial intelligence, robotics, advanced engineering, and next-generation technologies. This collaboration positions HCLTech as a strategic enabler for GCCs, helping them accelerate research and development, gain access to specialised expertise, and reduce time-to-market without the need to establish dedicated in-house research facilities.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) unveiled the indigenously developed 30 kW Wide Band Gap-based Integrated Drive System for electric vehicles in Chennai. The launch took place at IIT Madras under the National Mission on Power Electronics Technology (NaMPET). The system was jointly developed by C-DAC Thiruvananthapuram, IIT Madras, and industry partner Lucas TVS. This innovation enhances India’s capabilities in advanced power electronics and supports the rapidly growing electric passenger vehicle market. It also contributes to reducing dependence on imported high-performance electric vehicle components, strengthening the country’s push toward technological self-reliance.

Assam marked a significant milestone in agricultural exports by dispatching its first-ever shipment of GI-tagged Karbi Anglong Ginger to London. The consignment was flagged off by the state’s Agriculture Minister at Krishi Bhawan in Guwahati. Karbi Anglong Ginger, which received its Geographical Indication tag in 2015, is known for its distinct aroma, flavour, and superior quality resulting from the region’s unique agro-climatic conditions. Cultivated using traditional Jhum and Tila farming systems in the Singhasan Hills, this export initiative aims to boost farmer incomes, strengthen global market access, and enhance the international recognition of the state’s agricultural produce.

B.P. Singh took over as the Director General of Naval Armament (DGONA) at Naval Headquarters in New Delhi on March 1, 2026. A senior officer from the 1994 batch of the Indian Naval Armament Service, he succeeded Divakar Jayant following his retirement. With over three decades of experience in naval armament management, procurement, logistics, and guided weapon systems, he has held key positions at multiple Naval Armament Depots and at Naval Headquarters. An alumnus of the National Defence College, he brings strategic and operational expertise to strengthen India’s naval weapon systems management and maritime defence preparedness.

The Government of India appointed Praveen M. Khanooja to hold additional charge as Chairman & Managing Director of Engineers India Limited (EIL) beginning March 1, 2026. The appointment, approved by the Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, is for three months or until a regular CMD assumes office. A 1994-batch officer of the Indian Audit & Accounts Service, he continues serving as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas while handling CMD responsibilities. His extensive experience spans defence audit, railways audit, central government finance, and leadership roles in key petroleum and economic intelligence institutions.