Current Affairs - March 8, 2026 Current Affairs

Operation Sankalp is a major maritime security mission launched by the Indian Navy on June 19, 2019, to safeguard Indian merchant vessels and ensure the security of vital sea routes in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz. The operation was initiated after several attacks on commercial ships raised global concerns about maritime safety in the region. Under this mission, Indian Navy warships such as frigates and destroyers maintain continuous deployment in strategic waters. The initiative also includes maritime surveillance and rapid response units like MARCOS commandos. Operation Sankalp plays a vital role in protecting India’s trade routes and securing energy supplies, as a large portion of India’s oil imports passes through these sensitive maritime corridors.

Maharashtra launched the Divyang Sahayak Portal as India’s first fully integrated digital platform designed to simplify access to welfare schemes for persons with disabilities. Introduced in February 2026, the portal allows users to apply for schemes online, track application status in real time, and receive benefits through a transparent and streamlined process. The platform eliminates the need for physical paperwork and visits to government offices. It integrates with systems such as Aadhaar, the Unique Disability ID (UDID), and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to ensure efficient service delivery. The portal also uses AI-based tools for grievance redressal and document verification, supporting the effective implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Finn Allen, the explosive New Zealand opener, made history by scoring the fastest century in T20 World Cup history with a remarkable 33-ball hundred during the semi-final against South Africa in Kolkata. This extraordinary innings broke the previous men’s record of a 47-ball century set by Chris Gayle in the 2016 T20 World Cup. Allen also became the first player ever to score a century in a T20 World Cup knockout match. His innings featured a strike rate above 300 and included 18 boundaries, equaling the record for the most boundaries in a men’s T20 World Cup innings. The powerful performance helped New Zealand dominate the match and secure a place in the tournament final.

The first bust of Mahatma Gandhi in the U.S. state of Montana was unveiled at the Mike Mansfield Centre at the University of Montana in Missoula on March 4, 2026. The statue was presented as a gift by the Government of India and symbolises Gandhi’s philosophy of peace, non-violence, and moral leadership. The unveiling ceremony was attended by Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, India’s Consul General in Seattle Prakash Gupta, and several other dignitaries. The installation highlights the growing cultural and diplomatic ties between India and the United States, particularly at the state level, and emphasises the role of educational institutions in promoting international understanding and cooperation.

Pondicherry University signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The collaboration aims to strengthen accessibility, promote inclusion, and support the rights of persons with disabilities through academic and policy engagement. The agreement focuses on conducting joint research on disability rights, accessibility standards, inclusive education, employment opportunities, and social integration. It also encourages academic exchanges, conferences, workshops, and awareness programs to promote understanding of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and to build capacity for creating a more inclusive society.

Dan Bailey, a veteran in the telecommunications industry with more than 35 years of experience, was appointed as the President of Jio Platforms to lead its global expansion initiatives. Based in London, he reports directly to Akash Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, and is responsible for driving the company’s international business strategies. Bailey has previously held senior positions at major financial institutions such as Schroders/Citi, Morgan Stanley, HSBC, and Deutsche Bank, where he chaired the Technology, Media, and Telecom practice. His appointment reflects Jio’s commitment to expanding its digital platforms and telecom services beyond India as part of its long-term global growth strategy.

Deepak Gupta assumed charge as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of GAIL (India) Limited on March 1, 2026, succeeding Sandeep Kumar Gupta, who retired on February 28, 2026. His tenure is scheduled to continue until February 28, 2029. Prior to this role, he served as Director (Projects) at GAIL from February 2022. A mechanical engineer from Delhi College of Engineering, he has extensive experience in natural gas transmission, LNG infrastructure, and large-scale energy projects. Before joining GAIL, he worked for over three decades at Engineers India Limited. His leadership is expected to support the expansion of India’s natural gas infrastructure and strengthen the country’s long-term energy strategy.

Karnataka proposed a policy in its Budget 2026–27 to ban social media usage for children under the age of 16. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as part of efforts to address growing concerns about digital addiction and exposure to harmful online content among children. The proposal aims to create a safer digital environment by limiting unrestricted access to social media platforms. Policymakers and experts believe that excessive screen time and exposure to inappropriate content can negatively affect children’s mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. If implemented, the measure would make Karnataka the first Indian state to introduce such a restriction, while other governments are also considering similar regulations.

India will host the Bharat Steel 2026 summit in New Delhi beginning on April 16, 2026. The two-day international event will bring together leaders from the global steel, mining, technology, and trading sectors to discuss the development of the next-generation steel ecosystem. The summit aims to strengthen collaboration between policymakers and industry leaders while promoting sustainable and green steel production. It will also highlight technological innovation and encourage global investment in the steel sector. As one of the world’s largest steel producers, India aims to use this summit as a platform to enhance its position in the global steel market and promote environmentally responsible industrial growth.

International Women’s Day is celebrated globally on March 8 each year to recognize the achievements and contributions of women in various fields such as education, politics, science, sports, and business. The day also promotes gender equality and women’s empowerment across societies. The 2026 celebration highlights themes like “Give To Gain” and “Rights. Justice. Action.” which emphasize cooperation, fairness, and equal opportunities for women and girls. International Women’s Day also draws attention to ongoing challenges, including equal pay, access to education, healthcare, safety, and representation in leadership roles. By raising awareness and encouraging collective action, the day supports progress toward a more inclusive and equitable world for women.