Daily Current Affairs Digest for UPSC & Competitive Exams | 9th March 2026

Daily Current Affairs Digest for UPSC & Competitive Exams | 9th March 2026

India Clinches Third T20 World Cup Title

In a historic sporting achievement, India secured its third ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup title by defeating New Zealand by 96 runs in Ahmedabad. India successfully defended a massive total of 256 runs, demonstrating a dominant performance with both bat and ball. This victory makes India the only nation to win three T20 World Cups, including consecutive titles and a championship win on home soil, marking a landmark moment in Indian cricket history.

Leadership Change in Iran Amid Conflict

Geopolitical tensions escalated in West Asia as Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed the new Supreme Leader of Iran, succeeding his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed during the early strikes on Tehran amid Operation Epic Fury led by the United States and Israel. The ongoing conflict has severely affected global trade routes, with shipping through the Strait of Hormuz reportedly dropping by nearly 80 percent, raising concerns about global energy security and regional stability.

Motion to Remove Lok Sabha Speaker

Indian parliamentary politics witnessed a rare development as the Lok Sabha is set to debate a resolution seeking the removal of Speaker Om Birla. The motion, supported by 118 opposition members, alleges partisan conduct during parliamentary proceedings. According to parliamentary rules, the Speaker cannot preside over discussions concerning his own removal, making the debate politically significant in the ongoing Budget Session.

Historic Election Outcome in Nepal

Nepal has experienced a dramatic political shift as Balendra Shah, a rapper-turned-politician, is poised to become the country’s next Prime Minister. His party, the Rastriya Swatantra Party, secured 122 out of 165 directly elected seats, marking the largest democratic majority in Nepal’s history. Shah defeated former Prime Minister Sharma Oli, signaling a major change in Nepal’s political landscape and growing support for alternative political leadership.

First Woman to Head an Indian Nuclear Power Plant

In a landmark moment for gender representation in the energy sector, RM Nachammai has been appointed as the Chief Superintendent of the Kaiga Nuclear Generating Station Units 3 and 4 in Karnataka. With 35 years of experience, she becomes the first woman to lead an operational nuclear power plant in India, reflecting increasing gender inclusion in strategic sectors. She will officially assume charge on March 15, 2026.

Government Campaign Against “Sarpanch Pati” Practice

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has launched a nationwide campaign to eliminate the practice known as “Sarpanch Pati,” where male relatives unofficially exercise authority in place of elected women representatives. The campaign, running until March 18, aims to empower women leaders in local governance and proposes stricter penalties for those who undermine women’s political authority. The initiative coincides with the spirit of International Women’s Day, reinforcing gender equality in grassroots democracy.

Delhi’s First Ring Metro Corridor Inaugurated

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Delhi’s first operational Ring Metro corridor, significantly strengthening the capital’s urban transport network. The 12.3 km Majlis Park–Maujpur corridor extends the Pink Line, taking its total length to 71.56 km. This infrastructure development is expected to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, and enhance public transportation efficiency in the National Capital Region.

Breakthrough: Plastic Waste Converted Into Vinegar

 

Scientists at the University of Waterloo have developed an innovative technology capable of converting plastic waste into acetic acid (vinegar) using sunlight-driven photocatalysis. The process breaks down common plastics like polyethylene and PVC at room temperature without toxic chemicals, offering a sustainable and energy-efficient solution to global plastic pollution challenges.

Conclusion

The last 24 hours demonstrate the dynamic nature of global events—from India’s sporting glory and infrastructure development to political shifts in neighbouring countries and groundbreaking scientific innovations. These developments not only shape current affairs but also influence the future trajectory of governance, technology, and international relations.