In Current Affairs for 08 April 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 08 April 2026
India’s Most Polluted Cities
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Air pollution remains a major environmental and health concern in India. A recent report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air revealed that Gurgaon recorded the highest pollution level in March, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 116 µg/m³—far exceeding safe limits.
The report highlights that Haryana is among the worst-affected states, with cities like Bahadurgarh, Faridabad, Gurgaon, and Manesar featuring in the top 10 polluted cities. Other cities on the list include Singrauli, Mandideep, Ghaziabad, Bhiwadi, Noida, and Nandesari.
Additionally, states such as Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh have reported rising PM10 levels, indicating worsening air quality trends. This situation calls for urgent policy action and public awareness to reduce pollution and protect public health.
Russia and China Veto UN Resolution
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A resolution aimed at ensuring safe maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz was presented at the United Nations Security Council by Bahrain. The proposal gained support from 11 member nations.
However, Russia and China exercised their veto powers, preventing the resolution from being adopted, while Pakistan and Colombia abstained from voting.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial global oil route, carrying nearly one-fifth of the world’s petroleum supply. Any disruption in this region can significantly affect global energy prices and economic stability. Russia and China argued that resolving the broader conflict should take priority over focusing solely on securing shipping lanes.
11 Years of Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana
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The Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana has completed 11 years, emerging as a key driver of financial inclusion and entrepreneurship in India. Since its launch on 8 April 2015, the scheme has sanctioned over 57 crore loans worth more than ₹40 lakh crore.
PMMY provides collateral-free loans under four categories—Shishu, Kishor, Tarun, and Tarun Plus—covering sectors like manufacturing, trading, services, and allied agriculture. Loans up to ₹20 lakh are available, making credit accessible to small and micro enterprises.
The scheme has significantly empowered women, who account for nearly 60% of beneficiaries, while around 21% of loans in FY 2024–25 were given to new entrepreneurs. Over time, PMMY has evolved into a technology-driven and sustainable lending framework, strengthening grassroots economic growth.
National Launch of 8th Poshan Pakhwada 2026
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The Ministry of Women and Child Development will observe the 8th edition of Poshan Pakhwada 2026 from 9th to 23rd April 2026. The initiative aims to improve nutrition and promote healthy practices across the country.
Key focus areas include maternal and child nutrition, early brain development (0–3 years), play-based education for young children (3–6 years), and reducing screen time through parental involvement.
The campaign also emphasizes strengthening Anganwadi centres with community participation and corporate support. Overall, the initiative promotes a collective effort to build a healthier, better-nourished, and more educated society.
National Quantum Mission Achieves 1,000-km Secure Communication
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India has achieved a significant milestone under the National Quantum Mission by successfully demonstrating a 1,000-km quantum communication network. This is one of the longest such networks globally and marks rapid progress toward the mission’s 2,000-km target.
The achievement was made using indigenous technology developed by QNu Labs, focusing on secure communication through quantum key distribution.
To further strengthen the ecosystem, the government has extended support to nine additional startups, bringing the total to 17. These startups are working on advanced technologies such as quantum sensors, atomic memory, and precision systems, boosting India’s capabilities in next-generation technologies.
NHAI to Develop ‘Arogya Van’
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The National Highways Authority of India has launched an initiative to develop ‘Arogya Van’—medicinal plant zones along national highways. This step aims to promote biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
The project will involve planting medicinal tree species on unused land along highways, supporting birds, pollinators, and other small organisms. Traditionally, roadside plantations focused on general greenery, but this initiative adds ecological and health value.
‘Arogya Van’ reflects NHAI’s commitment to integrating infrastructure development with environmental conservation, ensuring long-term ecological balance.
Review Questions
1. Which city was reported as the most polluted in India in March 2026?
A. Delhi
B. Ghaziabad
C. Gurgaon
D. Noida
Answer: C. Gurgaon
2. The report on air pollution was released by which organization?
A. WHO
B. CPCB
C. CREA
D. UNEP
Answer: C. CREA
3. Which state had four cities among the top 10 most polluted cities?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Haryana
C. Rajasthan
D. Gujarat
Answer: B. Haryana
4. The Strait of Hormuz is important because it is:
A. A major fishing zone
B. A key global oil shipping route
C. A military base region
D. A tourist destination
Answer: B. A key global oil shipping route
5. Which countries vetoed the UN Security Council resolution on maritime safety?
A. USA and UK
B. Russia and China
C. France and Germany
D. India and Japan
Answer: B. Russia and China
6. Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana was launched in which year?
A. 2012
B. 2014
C. 2015
D. 2016
Answer: C. 2015
7. What is the maximum loan amount under MUDRA Yojana (latest update)?
A. ₹10 lakh
B. ₹15 lakh
C. ₹20 lakh
D. ₹25 lakh
Answer: C. ₹20 lakh
8. Poshan Pakhwada 2026 is observed between:
A. 1–15 April
B. 5–20 April
C. 9–23 April
D. 10–25 April
Answer: C. 9–23 April
9. Under the National Quantum Mission, India achieved a communication network of:
A. 500 km
B. 800 km
C. 1000 km
D. 2000 km
Answer: C. 1000 km
10. The ‘Arogya Van’ initiative is launched by which organization?
A. Ministry of Environment
B. NITI Aayog
C. NHAI
D. DRDO
Answer: C. NHAI
