📰 Today's Current Affairs — Read Now →
📷 Follow on Instagram

Daily Current Affairs

PM Modi Highlights Narsapuram Lace Craft as a Model of Women’s Empowerment:

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the Narsapuram Lace Craft during the 129th episode of “Mann Ki Baat”, praising its role in women’s empowerment and self-help groups (SHGs).

narsapuram lace craft

Narsapuram Lace Craft:

Narsapuram Lace Craft (also known as Narasapur Crochet Lace) is a centuries-old hand-crocheted textile tradition from the West Godavari and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema districts of Andhra Pradesh. 

  • Known for intricate floral and geometric designs.
  • Has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

About GI Tag:

A Geographical Indication (GI) Tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin

  • It is a form of collective intellectual property right.
  • Validity → 10 years (renewable)
  • Legal framework →Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Came into force in 2003
https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/andhra-pradesh/pm-modi-highlights-narsapuram-lace-craft-as-a-model-of-womens-empowerment-1926767: PM Modi Highlights Narsapuram Lace Craft as a Model of Women’s Empowerment:

PM Modi Highlights Narsapuram Lace Craft as a Model of Women’s Empowerment: Read More »

Rakhigarhi to be Developed as Global Heritage Site – ₹500 Crore Allocation | Harappan Site Facts

Central Government has allocated ₹500 crore to develop Rakhigarhi as a global heritage site, recognizing its archaeological and tourism importance.

rakhigarhi

Rakhigarhi :

  • Rakhigarhi belongs to the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 2500–1900 BCE) and is the largest Harappan (Indus Valley Civilization) site.
  • Located in Hisar district, Haryana. Part of the Ghaggar-Hakra river basin.
  • Initially excavated by Amarendra Nath of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Later excavations led by Vasanth Shinde confirmed its larger size than Mohenjodaro.  
  • Rakhigarhi is one of five “Iconic Sites” identified by the Government of India for development into a vibrant cultural destination.

Exam Tip:

  • Earlier largest site → Mohenjo-daro.
  • Now recognized → Rakhigarhi as largest site in Indian subcontinent
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/haryana/no-cheer-in-rakhigarhi-over-plan-to-develop-harappan-cultural-site/article70587485.ece: Rakhigarhi to be Developed as Global Heritage Site – ₹500 Crore Allocation | Harappan Site Facts

Rakhigarhi to be Developed as Global Heritage Site – ₹500 Crore Allocation | Harappan Site Facts Read More »

Thiruvalluvar Day 2026 – Tirukkural, Teachings & Key Facts for exams

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Thiruvalluvar on Thiruvalluvar Day, highlighting the timeless relevance of his work Tirukkural.

thiruvalluvar

Thiruvalluvar:

Thiruvalluvar, also known as Valluvar, was a legendary Tamil poet and philosopher best known as the author of the Tirukkuṟaḷ, a foundational work of Tamil literature on ethics, governance, and love.

His work Tirukkural is often called “Tamil Veda”

https://www.newsonair.gov.in/tamil-nadu-observes-birth-anniversary-of-poet-saint-thiruvalluvar/: Thiruvalluvar Day 2026 – Tirukkural, Teachings & Key Facts for exams

Thiruvalluvar Day 2026 – Tirukkural, Teachings & Key Facts for exams Read More »

Zehanpora Stupa Discovery – 2,000-Year-Old Buddhist Site in Kashmir | Exam facts

Why in News?

Archaeologists have discovered a 2,000-year-old Buddhist monastic complex at Zehanpora Stupa in Jammu & Kashmir, revealing important insights into Kashmir’s ancient Buddhist heritage.

zehanpora stupa

Key Highlights:

  • Located in Zehanpora village, Baramulla district (J&K).
  • Dates back to the Kushan period (~1st–3rd century CE).
  • Excavation revealed stupas, monastic structures, and cultural remains.
  • Situated along the ancient Silk Route, linking India with Central Asia.
  • Confirms Kashmir’s role as a major Buddhist centre.

Buddhism in Kashmir:

  • Founded by Gautama Buddha (Siddhartha).
  • Tradition says Buddhism spread to Kashmir during Ashoka’s reign.
  • However, Rajatarangini suggests Buddhism existed before Ashoka.
  • Mahavamsa mentions Kashmir scholars in Ashoka’s council.
https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/zehanpora-excavation-kashmir-buddhist-stupas-kushan-era-gandhara-links-photo-france-museum-pm-modi-2843040-2025-12-29: Zehanpora Stupa Discovery – 2,000-Year-Old Buddhist Site in Kashmir | Exam facts

Zehanpora Stupa Discovery – 2,000-Year-Old Buddhist Site in Kashmir | Exam facts Read More »

Rani Velu Nachiyar Birth Anniversary – First Queen to Resist British Rule | Key Facts

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Rani Velu Nachiyar on her birth anniversary, recognizing her as a pioneer of armed resistance against British rule.

rani velu nachiyar
Rani Velu Nachiyar:
  • Rani Velu Nachiyar was the Queen of Sivaganga (Tamil Nadu).
  • First Indian queen to launch an organized revolt against the British East India Company (EIC).
  • Udaiyaal Women’s Army: She established one of the first all-women army units in world history, named “Udaiyaal” in honor of her adopted daughter.
  • Pioneer of Suicide Tactics: In 1780, her commander Kuyili performed the first recorded suicide attack in Indian history by setting herself on fire to destroy a British ammunition depot, enabling the queen’s forces to recapture Sivaganga.
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2210996&reg=3&lang=1: Rani Velu Nachiyar Birth Anniversary – First Queen to Resist British Rule | Key Facts

Rani Velu Nachiyar Birth Anniversary – First Queen to Resist British Rule | Key Facts Read More »

Savitribai Phule Birth Anniversary – First Female Teacher, Reforms & Key Facts for Exams

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Savitribai Phule on her 195th birth anniversary, recognizing her contributions to women’s education and social reform.

savitribai phule

Savitribai Phule:

Savitribai Phule was a pioneering Indian social reformer, educator, and poet from Maharashtra. she is often hailed as the “Mother of Indian Feminism” for her tireless work in advancing women’s rights and education.

  • Savitribai Phule is regarded as India’s first female teacher.
  • Along with her husband, Jyotirao Phule, she founded India’s first school for girls at Bhide Wada in Pune in 1848.
  • She played a vital role in the Satyashodhak Samaj (“Society of Truth Seekers”) to promote social equality and challenge the caste hierarchy.
  • She founded Mahila Seva Mandal  to raise awareness about women’s rights, the dignity of life, and human rights.
https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/gk-current-affairs/story/savitribai-phule-10-facts-first-female-teacher-india-pioneered-womens-education-social-reform-2879679-2026-03-10: Savitribai Phule Birth Anniversary – First Female Teacher, Reforms & Key Facts for Exams

Savitribai Phule Birth Anniversary – First Female Teacher, Reforms & Key Facts for Exams Read More »

World Hindi Day 2026 – Date, Article 343, Official Language Explained

Why in News?

World Hindi Day 2026 is observed on January 10 to promote the global significance of the Hindi language and strengthen its international presence.

world hindi day

World Hindi Day was first celebrated in 2006. It commemorates the first World Hindi Conference (1975, Nagpur).

  • World Hindi Day: January 10 (Global promotion)
  • National Hindi Day: September 14 (Adoption of Hindi as official language in 1949)
Article 343:

Article 343 states:

  • Official language of the Union → Hindi in Devanagari script
  • English allowed for 15 years (1950–1965) for official purposes

After 1965, English continued through

  • Official Languages Act, 1963

Ensures bilingual functioning (Hindi + English) in Union administration

https://indianexpress.com/article/when-is/vishwa-hindi-divas-2025-date-history-significance-theme-9770905/: World Hindi Day 2026 – Date, Article 343, Official Language Explained

World Hindi Day 2026 – Date, Article 343, Official Language Explained Read More »

Somnath Temple 1000 Years Since 1026 Attack – History, Mahmud of Ghazni & Key Facts

Why in News?

India is commemorating 1,000 years since the first recorded attack (1026 CE) on the Somnath Temple by Mahmud of Ghazni through events titled Somnath Swabhiman Parv (2026).

somnath temple

Somnath Temple:

The Somnath Temple, located in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, is revered as the first of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. Often called the “Eternal Shrine,” it is famous for its resilience, having been destroyed and rebuilt many times throughout history.

1026 attack:
  • Led by Mahmud of Ghazni, ruler of the Ghaznavid Dynasty.
  • One of his 17 invasions into India (1000–1025 CE).
  • Targeted wealthy temples for plunder and religious motives

About Mahmud of Ghazni:

  • Ruler of Ghazni (present-day Afghanistan)
  • Conducted 17 raids into the Indian subcontinent
  • Focused on rich temple cities like Somnath
  • Al-Biruni accompanied Mahmud of Ghazni. Authored “Kitab-ul-Hind”, a detailed account of Indian society and culture
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2213128&reg=3&lang=2#:~:text=A%20Thousand%20Years%20of%20Deep%2Drooted%20Faith%20and%20Civilisational%20Pride&text=Somnath%20Swabhiman%20Parv%20(8%E2%80%9311,rich%20cultural%20and%20spiritual%20heritage.: Somnath Temple 1000 Years Since 1026 Attack – History, Mahmud of Ghazni & Key Facts

Somnath Temple 1000 Years Since 1026 Attack – History, Mahmud of Ghazni & Key Facts Read More »

Veer Bal Diwas – History, Significance & Key Facts for exams

Why in News?

India observed Veer Bal Diwas to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of the sons of Guru Gobind Singh, highlighting their unwavering commitment to faith and courage.

veer bal diwas

Veer Bal Diwas honors the martyrdom of

  • Sahibzada Zorawar Singh (aged 9)
  • Sahibzada Fateh Singh (aged 7)
  • They were the youngest sons of Guru Gobind Singh.
  • The day highlights extraordinary courage and sacrifice at a young age.
  • Observed annually on December 26.

 In 1704, the two young boys were captured by the Mughal Governor of Sirhind, Wazir Khan. Despite facing extreme pressure and the threat of death, they refused to renounce their faith and were eventually executed by being bricked alive into a wall.

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=156743&ModuleId=3&reg=3&lang=2: Veer Bal Diwas – History, Significance & Key Facts for exams

Veer Bal Diwas – History, Significance & Key Facts for exams Read More »

RBI Proposes BRICS Digital Currency Link – CBDC, e-Rupee & Cross-Border Payments Explained

Why in News?

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recommended the government to include a proposal on linking Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) of BRICS nations in the 2026 BRICS Summit agenda to enhance cross-border payments

cbdc
  • RBI suggested integration of CBDCs among BRICS countries.
  • Aim: Enable faster, cheaper, and more efficient cross-border payments.
  • Could reduce dependence on the US dollar in global trade.

CBDC:

Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) is the digital form of a country’s fiat currency, issued and regulated by its central bank. It serves as a legal tender, equivalent to physical cash, and is a direct liability of the central bank rather than a commercial bank

  • In India, CBDC is known as the e-Rupee (e₹).
  • It is a legal tender and a direct liability of RBI, unlike cryptocurrencies.
Types of CBDC in India:
  1. Retail CBDC (e₹-R):
    • Used by general public (individuals & businesses)
    • For daily transactions
    • Stored in digital wallets via banks
  2. Wholesale CBDC (e₹-W):
    • Used by financial institutions
    • For interbank settlements
    • Useful in government securities market
https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/building-bridges/article70534042.ece: RBI Proposes BRICS Digital Currency Link – CBDC, e-Rupee & Cross-Border Payments Explained

RBI Proposes BRICS Digital Currency Link – CBDC, e-Rupee & Cross-Border Payments Explained Read More »