Daily Current Affairs 2025  

CA-04/03/2026


Contents
1. Agnikarma and Rakta-Mokshana
2. ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) helicopters for the Indian Coast Guard and VL-Shtil surface-to-air missiles
3. Persian Gulf
4. Attukal Pongala
5. World Wildlife Day 2026
6. Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU)
 
 
Agnikarma and Rakta-Mokshana
 
Why in news?
In late February 2026, Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth (RAV) conducted a national-level hands-on training on Agnikarma and Rakta-Mokshana in New Delhi.
 

About Agnikarma and Rakta-Mokshana
Agnikarma and Rakta-Mokshana are specialized para-surgical therapies in Ayurveda: Agnikarma uses controlled heat for pain relief and tissue healing, while Rakta-Mokshana involves therapeutic bloodletting to remove toxins and balance doshas. Both are gaining renewed attention through national-level training programs in India.
 

Agnikarma (Thermal Therapy)
  • A para-surgical Ayurvedic procedure using heated metallic instruments (like shalaka) to apply controlled heat to affected areas.
  • Purpose:
    • Relieves chronic pain (arthritis, sciatica, heel pain).
    • Treats musculoskeletal disorders and localized swelling.
    • Promotes tissue healing by stimulating circulation.
  • Method:
    • Heat is applied at specific points on the skin.
    • Considered safe when performed by trained practitioners.
  • Modern Relevance: Increasingly used as a non-invasive alternative to surgery for pain management.
Rakta-Mokshana (Bloodletting Therapy)
  • A detoxification therapy in Ayurveda involving controlled removal of blood.
  • Purpose:
    • Eliminates accumulated toxins from the bloodstream.
    • Balances aggravated doshas, especially Pitta.
    • Used for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, hypertension, and varicose veins.
  • Methods:
    • Shring (horn method) or Jalaukavacharana (leech therapy).
    • Venesection in selected cases.
  • Modern Relevance: Leech therapy is still practiced in integrative medicine for wound healing and vascular issues.
Risks & Considerations
  • Agnikarma: Risk of burns if improperly performed.
  • Rakta-Mokshana: Risk of infection or excessive blood loss if not carefully managed.
  • General Note: Both therapies should only be performed by qualified Ayurvedic practitioners under clinical supervision.
 
 
 
ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) helicopters for the Indian Coast Guard and VL-Shtil surface-to-air missiles
 
Why in news?
India’s Ministry of Defence has signed β‚Ή5,083 crore worth of contracts for six ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) helicopters for the Indian Coast Guard and VL-Shtil surface-to-air missiles for the Indian Navy, strengthening maritime surveillance and naval air defence.
 

ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) Helicopters
  • Supplier: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bengaluru
  • Category: Indian – Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured
  • Key Features:
    • Twin-engine, advanced avionics, and superior maritime surveillance capability
    • Equipped with operational role equipment, engineering support package, and performance-based logistics support
    • Missions include search and rescue (SAR), maritime reconnaissance, anti-piracy patrols, and medical evacuation
  • Deployment: Indian Coast Guard
VL-Shtil Surface-to-Air Missile System
  • Supplier: JSC Rosoboronexport, Russian Federation
  • Key Features:
    • Vertical Launch System (VLS) for rapid response
    • Capable of engaging multiple aerial threats including aircraft, UAVs, and anti-ship missiles
    • Enhances naval air defence for frontline warships
  • Deployment: Indian Navy
Strategic Significance
  • Maritime Security: ALH Mk-III boosts India’s ability to monitor its vast coastline and respond to emergencies.
  • Air Defence: VL-Shtil strengthens naval ships against aerial threats, crucial in contested waters.
  • Indigenisation vs Imports: Helicopters are indigenously built, while missiles are imported, showing India’s balanced approach to self-reliance and global partnerships.
Risks & Challenges
  • Operational Integration: Seamless integration of Russian VL-Shtil systems with Indian naval platforms requires careful coordination.
  • Maintenance & Logistics: Long-term support for imported missile systems may depend on geopolitical relations with Russia.
  • Cost Efficiency: At over β‚Ή5,000 crore, ensuring optimal deployment and avoiding redundancy is critical.
 
 
 
Persian Gulf
 
Why in news?
A major military confrontation between the US, Israel, and Iran dominates Persian Gulf news in March 2026, starting late February.

About Persian Gulf
The Persian Gulf is a shallow sea in West Asia, bordered by eight countries including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, and Oman. Today, it is not only a vital hub for global oil and gas trade but also a flashpoint of escalating military tensions, with Iran recently claiming missile strikes on U.S. oil tankers in the northern Gulf.
 

Geography & Physical Features
  • Location: Between the Arabian Peninsula and Iran, connected to the Gulf of Oman via the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Length: ~989 km (615 miles).
  • Width: 55–340 km.
  • Depth: Average ~50 m, maximum ~90 m.
  • Countries bordering: Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman.
Strategic Importance
  • Oil & Gas: The Gulf holds some of the world’s largest reserves.
  • Shipping: The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical maritime chokepoints—about 20% of global oil trade passes through it daily.
  • Ports & Cities: Major hubs include Dubai, Kuwait City, Doha, and Bandar Abbas.
  • Fishing & Trade: Besides hydrocarbons, the Gulf supports regional fishing and shipping industries.
Risks & Challenges
  • Geopolitical Instability: Frequent clashes between Iran, U.S., and Gulf states.
  • Energy Security: Any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz impacts global oil prices.
  • Environmental Stress: Oil spills, desalination plants, and warming waters threaten marine ecosystems.
  • Naming Dispute: While historically called the Persian Gulf, some Arab states prefer Arabian Gulf, reflecting political sensitivities.
 
 
 
Attukal Pongala
 
Why in news?
Attukal Pongala, a major women's festival at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, took place on March 3, 2026.
 

About
Attukal Pongala is a world-famous women-led festival celebrated annually at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. On March 3, 2026, over 2.5 million women gathered to prepare and offer Pongala (sweet rice porridge) to Goddess Attukal Bhagavathy, making it one of the largest religious gatherings of women globally.
 

Key Highlights of Attukal Pongala
  • Location: Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
  • Date (2026): March 3, aligned with Pooram Nakshatra.
  • Participants: Over 2.5 million women this year; past records have seen up to 4 million attendees, recognized by Guinness World Records.
  • Offering: Women prepare Pongala (rice, jaggery, coconut, and ghee cooked in earthen pots) and offer it to the goddess.
  • Deity: Attukal Amma, considered an incarnation of Bhadrakali, symbolizing feminine power and protection.
  • Unique Aspect: Exclusively women-led; men are not involved in the ritual on this day.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
  • Empowerment of Women: The festival is often called the “Women’s Sabarimala” because of its scale and devotion.
  • Community Bonding: Women from diverse backgrounds—irrespective of caste, religion, or social status—cook together, reinforcing unity.
  • Spiritual Merit: Performing Pongala during Pooram Nakshatra is believed to bring blessings, prosperity, and protection from evil.
  • Global Recognition: Attukal Pongala has been acknowledged by Guinness World Records as the largest annual gathering of women for a religious purpose.
Challenges & Considerations
  • Crowd Management: With millions attending, traffic and safety are major concerns.
  • Environmental Impact: Large-scale cooking with firewood raises concerns about smoke and waste.
  • Modern Adaptations: Authorities now encourage eco-friendly practices and better waste management.
 
 
 
World Wildlife Day 2026
 
Why in news?
World Wildlife Day 2026 was observed globally on March 3, with the official United Nations theme: “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.” The focus this year was on the ecological, cultural, and economic importance of plant biodiversity, especially in healthcare and traditional knowledge systems.
 

Key Highlights of World Wildlife Day 2026
  • Date: March 3, 2026 (Tuesday)
  • Theme: Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods
  • Purpose: Raise awareness about the role of wildlife and plants in sustaining ecosystems, human health, and livelihoods.
Why Medicinal & Aromatic Plants?
  • Healthcare: Many modern medicines are derived from plant compounds; Ayurveda and other traditional systems rely heavily on them.
  • Livelihoods: Rural communities depend on sustainable harvesting of medicinal plants for income.
  • Cultural Heritage: These plants are deeply tied to indigenous knowledge and traditions.
  • Conservation Need: Overharvesting and habitat loss threaten biodiversity and future medical discoveries.
Importance for India
  • India hosts 7% of global biodiversity, with 45,000 plant species, including 15,000 medicinal plants.
  • Around 8,000 species are used in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and folk medicine.
  • Protecting these plants safeguards both healthcare systems and cultural traditions.
Challenges & Risks
  • Illegal Wildlife Trade: Still a major threat to biodiversity.
  • Unsustainable Harvesting: Overexploitation of medicinal plants risks extinction.
  • Climate Change: Alters habitats, reducing plant populations.
  • Loss of Indigenous Knowledge: Modernization risks eroding traditional conservation practices.
 
 
 
Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU)
 
Why in news?
By early March 2026, UIDAI covered over 103,000 schools nationwide, aiding millions of students via free school camps; the drive started in September 2025 with waived fees for ages 7-15 until October 2026.
 

Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU)
Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) is a requirement under Aadhaar where children must update their biometrics at ages 5 and 15. UIDAI recently completed a large-scale MBU drive across India, covering over 1.2 crore students in 1 lakh schools, free of cost until October 2026.
 

Key points
  • Age 5: First biometric capture (photo, fingerprints, iris). This is treated like a new enrolment but linked to the same Aadhaar number.
  • Age 15: Second biometric update (photo, fingerprints, iris) to ensure accuracy as the child’s features mature.
  • Free of Cost: Both updates are free when done within the specified age window.
Significance of MBU
  • Government Schemes: Aadhaar-linked benefits (scholarships, subsidies, welfare programs) require updated biometrics.
  • Examinations: Many boards and competitive exams mandate Aadhaar verification.
  • Identity Accuracy: Prevents duplication and ensures smooth authentication for future services.
Risks & Considerations
  • Missed Updates: If not done within the free window, later updates may incur charges.
  • Data Accuracy: Children’s biometrics change as they grow; without updates, Aadhaar authentication may fail.
  • Awareness Gap: Some parents may not know about the free update period, risking delays and costs.
 
 
 
 

Question & Answer
 
Question 1. Consider the following statements regarding the recent defense acquisitions by the Ministry of Defence in early 2026:
1. The ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) helicopters are indigenously designed and manufactured by HAL for the Indian Coast Guard.
2. The VL-Shtil is an indigenous surface-to-air missile system developed by DRDO for frontline warships.

Select your answer:
A) 1 only
B) 2 only
C) Both 1 and 2
D) Neither 1 nor 2
 
Explanation: (A)
Statement 1 is correct: The ALH Mk-III is an indigenous helicopter manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Statement 2 is incorrect: The VL-Shtil surface-to-air missile system is supplied by JSC Rosoboronexport, Russian Federation, and is not an indigenous DRDO product, though it is integrated into Indian naval platforms.
 
 
Question 2. In the context of traditional Indian medicine and para-surgical procedures recently highlighted by the Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth, which of the following statements accurately describes 'Agnikarma'?
 
Select your answer:
A) It is a detoxification therapy involving the controlled removal of blood to balance Pitta dosha.
B) It involves the use of heated metallic instruments like 'Shalaka' to apply controlled heat for pain management.
C) It is a specialized form of leech therapy (Jalaukavacharana) used for treating skin conditions like eczema.
D) It refers to the process of medicated steam inhalation to clear respiratory blockages.
 
Explanation: (B)
Agnikarma is a para-surgical Ayurvedic procedure where controlled heat is applied to specific points on the skin using heated metallic instruments (Shalaka) or other materials. It is primarily used to treat chronic pain and musculoskeletal disorders. Rakta-Mokshana, on the other hand, involves bloodletting (Option A and C).
 
 
Question 3. Under the guidelines issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) regarding Mandatory Biometric Updates (MBU), at what ages must a child's biometrics be updated to ensure the continued accuracy of their Aadhaar data?
 
Select your answer:
A) At the completion of 3 years and 10 years
B) At the completion of 5 years and 15 years
C) At the completion of 6 years and 18 years
D) Every five years until the age of 25
 
Explanation: (B)
UIDAI mandates that children must update their biometrics (photo, fingerprints, and iris) twice: once at the age of 5 and again at the age of 15. This ensures that the Aadhaar database remains accurate as the child's physical features change during growth.
 
 
Question 4. The theme for World Wildlife Day 2026, 'Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods', emphasizes the link between biodiversity and traditional medicine. In this context, which of the following is true regarding India's plant biodiversity?
 
Select your answer:
A) India hosts nearly 25% of the world's total plant species.
B) Ayurveda and Siddha systems rely on only about 500 indigenous plant species for their formulations.
C) India is home to approximately 15,000 medicinal plant species, many of which are used in traditional healthcare systems.
D) Medicinal plants in India are exempt from the threats of the illegal wildlife trade.
 
Explanation: (C)
India hosts about 7% of global biodiversity and has around 45,000 plant species, including approximately 15,000 medicinal plants. Around 8,000 species are specifically used in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and folk medicine.
 
 
Question 5. With reference to the 'Attukal Pongala' festival, which was recently in the news, consider the following statements:
1. It is a major religious gathering held at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Tamil Nadu.
2. It is recognized by Guinness World Records as one of the largest annual gatherings of women for a religious purpose.

Select your answer:
A) 1 only
B) 2 only
C) Both 1 and 2
D) Neither 1 nor 2
 
Explanation: (B)
Statement 1 is incorrect: Attukal Pongala is celebrated in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, not Tamil Nadu. Statement 2 is correct: It is a world-famous women-led festival and holds the Guinness World Record for the largest religious gathering of women.
 
 
Question 6. The Persian Gulf, a critical maritime region for global energy security, is bordered by several countries. Which of the following sets of countries all share a coastline with the Persian Gulf?
 
Select your answer:
A) Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan
B) Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates
C) Oman, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait
D) Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Qatar
 
Explanation: (B)
The eight countries bordering the Persian Gulf are Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman (Musandam Peninsula). Jordan (Option A), Yemen (Option C), and Syria (Option D) do not border the Persian Gulf.
 

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