Current Affairs - March 21, 2026 Current Affairs

Tata Steel is the company that partnered with the University of Science and Technology Beijing to advance research in low-carbon steelmaking technologies. The collaboration focuses on areas such as scrap-based steel production, waste valorisation, carbon capture, and improving end-product performance. By leveraging advanced research facilities, the partnership aims to scale innovative solutions for industrial use. This initiative aligns with broader sustainability goals, helping reduce carbon emissions in the steel sector and promoting environmentally responsible manufacturing practices through global cooperation and technological advancement.

The Dentists Act served as the foundational legal framework regulating dental education and practice in India for several decades. Enacted in 1948, it governed the functioning of the Dental Council of India until recent reforms replaced it with the National Dental Commission. The repeal of this Act represents a major step toward modernizing the regulatory structure. By moving away from an older system, the government aims to improve transparency, ensure better standards in dental education, and align India's healthcare framework with global best practices.

Manappuram Finance Ltd is the company whose subsidiaries are undergoing an indirect change in control following RBI approval. A significant development in India’s financial sector involves a major investment by Bain Capital into key subsidiaries dealing with microfinance and housing finance. This investment required regulatory approval due to changes in ownership and management structure. The Reserve Bank of India granted this approval, allowing the transaction to proceed. The deal includes a capital infusion and an open offer under SEBI regulations, expected to alter shareholding patterns and strengthen the company’s growth potential.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited is the company that entered into a landmark agreement with the Shipping Corporation of India for building India’s first indigenously developed methanol dual-fuel vessel. This project represents a major advancement in green maritime technology, incorporating a diesel-electric propulsion system capable of using methanol as an alternative fuel. The initiative supports environmental sustainability by reducing harmful emissions such as greenhouse gases and sulfur oxides. It also strengthens domestic shipbuilding under national initiatives like “Make in India” while contributing to long-term goals of a cleaner and technologically advanced maritime sector.

IIT Bombay is hosting the ‘Bharat Innovates Deep-Tech Pre-Summit’ organised by the Ministry of Education as part of a broader initiative to promote deep-tech innovation in India. The event is held at the IIT Bombay Research Park and serves as a platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies developed by startups and academic institutions. It also acts as a selection stage for India’s participation in global innovation events. By bringing together startups, investors, and industry leaders, the summit aims to accelerate the commercialisation of research and strengthen India’s position in emerging technology sectors.

The 5G Innovation Hackathon 2026 is a major initiative aimed at fostering innovation in next-generation technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things. It is part of a broader effort to create practical and scalable use cases through collaboration between students, startups, and industry participants. The Department of Telecommunications is the key body responsible for organising this event under the Ministry of Communications. By providing funding, infrastructure, and intellectual property support, the initiative seeks to accelerate technological advancements and strengthen India’s position in the global digital ecosystem.

India has been focusing on improving regional connectivity and cooperation with its neighbouring countries through strategic agreements. One such initiative involves collaboration in the postal and logistics sectors, aiming to modernise systems and improve service efficiency. The agreement includes areas like technology sharing, capacity building, digital remittance services, and institutional training. Bhutan is a key partner in this initiative, benefiting from India’s experience in digital infrastructure such as UPI and the Digital Address Code. This collaboration is expected to boost financial inclusion, strengthen bilateral ties, and enhance connectivity, especially in remote and underserved regions.

23 academic institutions have been approved under the National Quantum Mission to establish quantum teaching facilities and laboratories. This initiative aims to strengthen India’s capabilities in quantum science and technology by building a strong foundation in education and research. The approved institutions will focus on developing skilled manpower and advancing innovation in quantum computing, communication, and related fields. Additionally, more institutions are under review for future inclusion, reflecting the government’s commitment to expanding the quantum ecosystem and positioning India as a global leader in emerging technologies.

Haryana is the state where the Metropolis project by Reliance MET City is located, marking a significant milestone in sustainable urban development. The project has achieved India’s first LEED Platinum Pre-Certification under the global LEED for Cities framework, reflecting high standards in energy efficiency, water management, and climate resilience. Located in the Jhajjar district near Delhi, the development benefits from strategic connectivity and infrastructure. It is part of a larger industrial and residential ecosystem, supporting economic growth while promoting environmentally responsible urban planning aligned with international sustainability benchmarks.

Edelweiss Asset Management is the entity that introduced India’s first passive hybrid index fund, marking an important innovation in the mutual fund industry. The fund combines equity exposure through the Nifty LargeMidcap250 Index with debt investment in government securities via the Nifty 8–13 year G-Sec Index. This structure allows investors to benefit from both market growth and relative stability. The initiative follows regulatory approvals for debt indices and aims to provide a diversified investment option that balances risk and returns, making it suitable for investors seeking long-term financial stability.