India's No.1 PU & Degree With Integrated IAS & IPS(UPSC/PSC) Training College.
Daily Current Affairs Digest for UPSC & Competitive Exams | 6th March 2026
Daily Current Affairs Digest for UPSC & Competitive Exams | 6th March 2026
1. IAF Sukhoi-30MKI Crash in Assam: A Reminder of Aging Fighter Jet Challenges
A Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed near Inglong Ekopi Hill in Karbi Anglong, Assam, during a routine training mission. The fourth-generation twin-engine multirole fighter jet was on a scheduled operation when the incident occurred. Fortunately, both the pilots ejected safely and were rescued, but the incident has once again raised concerns about the declining strength of India’s fighter jet inventory. The country faces challenges related to aging aircraft and the slow pace of modernization in its air force fleet. As the IAF continues to rely on its aging fleet, this incident emphasizes the urgent need for timely upgrades and acquisitions to maintain air superiority.
2. US Treasury Waiver on Russian Oil – A Strategic Move for India’s Energy Security
In a significant development, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a 30-day waiver allowing India to purchase stranded Russian oil. This waiver is a strategic decision aimed at ensuring the continuity of oil supplies to India, stabilizing global energy markets, and maintaining India’s energy security. With ongoing geopolitical tensions, especially in Eastern Europe, this decision offers relief to India’s energy infrastructure, allowing smoother logistics for oil imports from Russia. It is expected that this waiver will further bolster India’s economic stability during a time of increasing global energy volatility.
3. Chile Declares Victory Over Leprosy; India Still Faces Challenges
Chile has become the first country in the Americas to officially eliminate leprosy as a public health problem, marking a significant achievement in global health. The country has not seen any locally transmitted cases of leprosy since 1993. While India has made substantial progress in reducing leprosy cases, it remains a persistent challenge, with about 1.7 lakh new cases reported globally in 2024. The Indian government continues to prioritize eradication efforts, but leprosy still affects several regions, requiring continued vigilance and treatment initiatives.
4. Vinai Kumar Saxena Appointed as the New Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh
Vinai Kumar Saxena has been appointed as the new Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, a strategically significant Union Territory bordered by China and Pakistan. Since its formation in 2019, Ladakh has faced demands for greater autonomy, including statehood and protections under the Sixth Schedule. The region also lacks a legislative assembly, leaving local residents with few mechanisms for political representation. As Saxena takes office, his role will be crucial in addressing the local community’s demands while also pushing forward development in the region, especially in the areas of infrastructure, employment, and security.
5. Community Efforts to Protect Ruddy Shelducks in Ladakh
In an inspiring conservation effort, the community-led Cha Tsogspa group in Mudh Valley, Ladakh, has been protecting ruddy shelducks for over 20 years. These birds, classified as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, are the only species to breed in Ladakh, and the village monitors their migration to the Indus River each year to ensure their survival. The initiative is driven by the teachings of the Dalai Lama, who has long advocated for environmental stewardship. The community’s work represents a unique partnership between the people of Ladakh and their natural surroundings, offering a model for grassroots conservation efforts.
6. Oleum Gas Leak in Palghar Triggers Mass Evacuation
An oleum gas leak in Palghar, Maharashtra, has prompted a mass evacuation of residents from surrounding areas. Oleum, a highly corrosive and fuming sulfuric acid used in manufacturing detergents and petrochemicals, spread rapidly after the leak. Exposure to oleum can cause severe respiratory and eye damage, making the incident a public health emergency. Emergency response teams acted swiftly to contain the leak and prevent further harm. Thankfully, no fatalities have been reported, though several individuals required medical attention. The incident highlights the importance of strict safety protocols in industries handling hazardous materials.
7. Andhra Pradesh Launches Project HANUMAN to Address Human-Wildlife Conflict
To mitigate the rising issue of human-wildlife conflict, the Andhra Pradesh government has launched “Project HANUMAN.” This initiative aims to set up rapid response units, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and AI-based monitoring systems to better manage conflicts between humans and animals, particularly elephants. Similarly, Uttar Pradesh’s “Elephant Conservation Project” is addressing elephant depredation with rescue teams and habitat restoration. Both projects underline the growing importance of preserving biodiversity while protecting human livelihoods in wildlife-rich areas.
8. India’s Childhood Obesity Crisis: Urgent Action Needed
India has now ranked second globally in childhood obesity, with an alarming 41 million children affected by this health issue. According to the World Obesity Atlas 2026, factors like insufficient physical activity, poor diet, and inadequate breastfeeding contribute significantly to the rise in obesity rates. The government must urgently implement policies that encourage healthier lifestyles among children, promote physical activity, and improve nutritional standards in schools to tackle this growing public health crisis.
