Daily Current Affairs: 01-03-2026 | Prelims Focus

Correct answer: A
Notes: India’s ambitious ‘Samudrayaan-360’ deep-sea exploration mission, operated by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), marked a significant milestone on February 28, 2026, by successfully mapping and studying a series of previously unknown hydrothermal vents in the Central Indian Ocean Basin. These vents are unique for supporting an incredibly diverse and novel chemosynthetic ecosystem, independent of sunlight. Scientists aboard the ‘Matsya 6000’ submersible collected samples revealing new species of extremophiles adapted to high temperatures and pressures, offering crucial insights into the origins of life on Earth and potential astrobiological implications. This discovery further solidifies India’s position in advanced oceanographic research and its commitment to exploring the vast biodiversity of the deep-sea environment.

Correct answer: A
Notes: The 15th edition of the joint bilateral air exercise, “Desert Eagle XV,” between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the United Arab Emirates Air Force (UAEAF), successfully concluded in Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE, on February 29, 2026. This exercise is a cornerstone of strategic cooperation between the two nations, aiming to enhance interoperability, share best practices, and improve combat readiness in a complex air warfare scenario. The focus of “Desert Eagle XV” was particularly on refining integrated air defense strategies, offensive counter-air missions, and air-to-air refueling protocols, involving a diverse fleet of fighter aircraft and support platforms from both sides. The successful completion underscores the growing defense ties and mutual commitment to regional security and stability.

Correct answer: B
Notes: On February 27, 2026, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and several international conservation organizations jointly launched the “Global Mangrove Restoration Initiative 2026.” This ambitious initiative, backed by pledges from over thirty coastal nations, sets a concrete target to restore 1 million hectares of degraded mangrove ecosystems worldwide by the year 2030. Mangroves are critical coastal defenders, protecting against storm surges, preventing erosion, and serving as vital nurseries for marine life. The initiative will focus on community-led restoration projects, scientific monitoring, and sustainable management practices, highlighting the urgent need to rejuvenate these invaluable ecosystems to combat climate change impacts and biodiversity loss, while also supporting local livelihoods.

Correct answer: B
Notes: The Indian government recently announced the ambitious “PM GatiShakti Green Hydrogen Corridor” project, a significant step towards achieving India’s net-zero targets and bolstering its energy security. The primary objective of this project is to develop comprehensive, dedicated infrastructure for the production, storage, and distribution of green hydrogen across key industrial and consumption hubs in the country. Leveraging the existing PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, the initiative will integrate various ministries to fast-track permits and facilitate seamless development of renewable energy parks, electrolyzer manufacturing units, and hydrogen pipelines. This corridor aims to accelerate India’s transition to a hydrogen economy, attracting investments, creating jobs, and establishing India as a global leader in green hydrogen production and export.

Correct answer: C
Notes: The prestigious “Bharat Kala Gaurav Samman 2026,” a national award recognizing exemplary contributions to Indian arts and culture, was recently conferred upon Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam. A revered doyen of Bharatanatyam, Dr. Subrahmanyam was honored for her unparalleled dedication to the classical dance form, her innovative choreographies, and her significant efforts in cultural education and research over several decades. Her pioneering work in ‘nritta’ and ‘abhinaya’ has enriched the Bharatanatyam repertoire, while her academic contributions have solidified its theoretical foundations. The award acknowledges her profound impact on training new generations of dancers and her role in promoting Indian classical arts on the global stage, making her a beacon of cultural excellence and scholarly pursuit.