1. India–Seychelles Joint Military Exercise LAMITIYE 2026
India participated in the Exercise Lamitiye with the island nation Seychelles.
Key Details
- Edition: 11th edition
- Duration: 9–20 March 2026
- Location: Seychelles Defence Academy
- Participants:
- Indian Army – Assam Regiment
- Indian Air Force – C-130 aircraft
- Indian Navy – INS Trikand
Meaning of the Name
“Lamitiye” means “Friendship” in the Creole language.
Purpose
- Strengthen defence cooperation between India and Seychelles
- Improve interoperability between armed forces
- Enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region
Importance
Seychelles lies in a strategically important region of the Indian Ocean, where India is increasing cooperation to counter piracy and strengthen maritime security.
2. Global Crude Oil Prices Cross $100 per Barrel
Global crude oil prices rose sharply due to tensions in Middle East.
Main Cause
The ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States disrupted oil supply routes.
Key Facts
- Oil prices crossed $100 per barrel.
- Some estimates show prices approaching $120 per barrel.
- Tanker movement through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed.
Impact on India
India imports about 88% of its crude oil, so rising oil prices can cause:
- Higher fuel prices
- Increased inflation
- Pressure on foreign exchange reserves
- Higher current account deficit
India’s priority now is energy supply security rather than price control.
3. Iran Leadership Change
Reports indicate that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of former leader Ali Khamenei, has been chosen as Iran’s new Supreme Leader.
Importance
The Supreme Leader is the most powerful authority in Iran and controls:
- Military forces
- Foreign policy
- Security agencies
Global Impact
This leadership change has intensified geopolitical tensions and contributed to rising oil prices.
4. Air India Operates Special Flights Due to Gulf Crisis
Because of airspace disruptions in West Asia, many passengers were stranded.
Response
The airline Air India announced:
- Additional international flights from March 10
- Special services to help stranded passengers from Gulf countries.
Cause
Airspace closures occurred due to conflict in the Gulf region, affecting flights across Europe, the Middle East, and India.
5. SIPRI Report on Global Arms Trade
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute released its latest arms trade analysis.
Key Findings
- Ukraine became the largest arms importer in the world.
- India ranked among the top arms importers globally.
- Major arms suppliers:
- United States
- Russia
India’s Defence Exports
India has exported:
- Akash missile to Armenia
- BrahMos missile technology to Vietnam and the Philippines.
Importance
The report highlights India’s transition from a major arms importer to an emerging defence exporter.
6. Guinness World Record Lezim Dance in Maharashtra
A massive traditional dance event created a world record.
Details
- Location: Dombivli
- Participants: 9,111 women and girls
- Dance: Lezim
Venue
Savalaram Maharaj Sports Complex.
Achievement
- Broke the previous record of 7,338 participants.
Importance
The event was organized during International Women’s Day celebrations and promoted:
- Women empowerment
- Cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
7. Kerala Launches “Nirbhaya Nisha” Safety Initiative
The Kerala Police launched the Nirbhaya Nisha Project.
Objective
To ensure safe night travel for women.
Features
- Increased police patrols at night
- Quick emergency response
- Monitoring of public transport and major roads
Importance
The initiative encourages women’s freedom and safety during night hours, especially in urban areas.
8. CISF Raising Day
Every year 10 March marks the Central Industrial Security Force Raising Day.
Key Facts
- Founded: 10 March 1969
- Headquarters: New Delhi
Role of CISF
CISF protects:
- Airports
- Metro networks
- Nuclear plants
- Government buildings
- Major industries
Importance
It is one of India’s key Central Armed Police Forces responsible for infrastructure security.