In Current Affairs for 20 March 2026, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial for your upcoming NDA, CDS, CDS OTA, AFCAT, TA, Agniveer Army, Agniveer Navy, Agniveer Air Force, Women Military Police, INET, MNS, ACC exams, SCO, PCSL, CAPF, and SSB interviews, and direct entries for Army, Navy, and Air Force like SSC Tech, TGC, JAG, NCC, TES, 10+2 Cadet. Download a PDF file about current events at the end of this article. Let us now see the Current Affairs.
Current Affairs 20 March 2026
International Day of Happiness 2026
The United Nations observes the International Day of Happiness every year on March 20 to emphasize the importance of happiness and well-being as universal human aspirations. This global observance encourages governments and individuals to prioritize mental and emotional well-being alongside economic growth.
The day was officially proclaimed in 2012 by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 66/281.
A significant inspiration behind this initiative comes from Bhutan, which has long promoted the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) over traditional economic indicators like GDP. Since the 1970s, Bhutan has advocated a holistic approach to development, focusing on well-being, sustainability, and cultural values.
World Happiness Report 2026: Key Highlights
The World Happiness Report 2026, released by the Wellbeing Research Centre, once again ranks Finland as the happiest country in the world. Nordic nations continue to dominate the rankings due to strong social systems, trust, and high quality of life.
Top 10 Happiest Countries (2026)
- Finland
- Iceland
- Denmark
- Costa Rica
- Sweden
- Norway
- Netherlands
- Israel
- Luxembourg
- Switzerland
The report also draws attention to a growing concern: the negative impact of social media on young people, especially in Western countries.
Major Findings
- Increased screen time is linked to lower well-being
- Teenagers and young adults are the most affected
- Teenage girls face higher psychological pressure
- Social comparison and online expectations contribute to stress
Countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand show noticeable declines in youth happiness levels.
India’s Ranking
India is placed at 116th position, with a life evaluation score of around 4.536. The ranking reflects challenges in areas such as income levels, social support, freedom of choice, and perceived corruption.
Neighbouring Countries Ranking
- China – 65
- Nepal – 99
- Pakistan – 104
- Bangladesh – 127
- Sri Lanka – 134
Key Factors in Ranking
- GDP per capita
- Healthy life expectancy
- Social support
- Freedom to make life choices
- Generosity and trust
- Perception of corruption
Nepal’s First Transgender Woman Member of Parliament
In a historic development, Bhumika Shrestha, a 37-year-old LGBTQ+ rights activist, became the first transgender woman elected to parliament in Nepal on March 16, 2026.
Her achievement marks a major step forward for inclusivity and representation in South Asia. Known for her long-standing advocacy for sexual minority rights, her election symbolizes years of struggle and progress toward equality.
RELIEF Scheme 2026
Amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, India introduced the RELIEF Scheme 2026 on March 19.
This initiative, launched under the Export Promotion Mission, aims to support exporters facing increased freight charges, insurance risks, and supply chain disruptions.
Key Features
- Protection against rising logistics and insurance costs
- Support for exporters affected by global disruptions
- Time-bound intervention to stabilize trade
The Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India Ltd. (ECGC) serves as the nodal agency responsible for implementing the scheme, including verification and claim processing.
Kalinjar Fort Declared Geo-Heritage Site
The Geological Survey of India has designated the historic Kalinjar Fort in Uttar Pradesh as a National Geo-Heritage Site.
Located in Banda district, this site is not only historically significant but also geologically unique. It features the rare Eparchaean Unconformity, representing a vast gap in Earth’s geological history.
This recognition is expected to boost scientific research, tourism, and local economic development.
Ugadi 2026
The festival of Ugadi was celebrated on March 19, 2026, marking the Telugu New Year in states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
It symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and spiritual renewal. The festival falls on the first day of the Chaitra month in the Hindu calendar and is associated with the start of the Shaka Samvat.
The term “Ugadi” is derived from Sanskrit words meaning “beginning of a new age,” and it is traditionally believed to be the day when Lord Brahma created the universe.
Gudi Padwa 2026
Gudi Padwa, celebrated on March 19, 2026, marks the Marathi New Year and is widely observed in Maharashtra and Goa.
This festival falls on the Pratipada Tithi of the Chaitra month and represents prosperity, renewal, and the victory of good over evil. Homes are decorated with “Gudi” (a symbolic flag), signifying success and happiness for the coming year.
Conclusion
The events and developments surrounding March 2026 highlight a blend of global awareness, social progress, economic response, and cultural celebration. From promoting happiness and well-being worldwide to recognizing inclusivity and preserving heritage, these updates reflect a world striving for balance between growth and human values.
Review Questions
1. International Day of Happiness is celebrated on which date?
A. March 15
B. March 18
C. March 20
D. April 1
Answer: C. March 20
2. Which organization declared International Day of Happiness in 2012?
A. World Bank
B. United Nations General Assembly
C. UNESCO
D. IMF
Answer: B. United Nations General Assembly
3. Which country introduced the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH)?
A. India
B. Nepal
C. Bhutan
D. Sri Lanka
Answer: C. Bhutan
4. Which country topped the World Happiness Report 2026?
A. Denmark
B. Iceland
C. Norway
D. Finland
Answer: D. Finland
5. Which factor is highlighted as negatively impacting youth happiness?
A. Education
B. Sports
C. Social media usage
D. Travel
Answer: C. Social media usage
6. What is India’s rank in the World Happiness Report 2026?
A. 95
B. 102
C. 110
D. 116
Answer: D. 116
7. Who became Nepal’s first transgender woman Member of Parliament in 2026?
A. Sunita Rana
B. Anjali Lama
C. Bhumika Shrestha
D. Ritu Singh
Answer: C. Bhumika Shrestha
8. The RELIEF Scheme 2026 was launched due to tensions near which location?
A. Red Sea
B. South China Sea
C. Strait of Hormuz
D. Mediterranean Sea
Answer: C. Strait of Hormuz
9. Which organization declared Kalinjar Fort as a Geo-Heritage Site?
A. Archaeological Survey of India
B. UNESCO
C. Ministry of Tourism
D. Geological Survey of India
Answer: D. Geological Survey of India
10. Ugadi festival marks the New Year of which region?
A. Punjab
B. Maharashtra
C. Gujarat
D. Southern states (Telugu region)
Answer: D. Southern states (Telugu region)
