In Current Affairs for 18 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 18 March 2026
Ordnance Factory Day 2026
Ordnance Factory Day is observed every year on 18 March across India to recognize the country’s long-standing contribution to defence manufacturing and its progress toward self-reliance. The day commemorates the establishment of India’s first ordnance production unit at Cossipore in Kolkata in 1802.
This occasion highlights India’s defence production capabilities by showcasing advanced military equipment and technologies. It also acknowledges the dedication of engineers, technicians, and workers who play a vital role in strengthening national security. Additionally, the day aims to raise public awareness about the importance of indigenous defence manufacturing.
Historical Background
- 1775: Establishment of the Board of Ordnance at Fort William, Kolkata
- 1787: Gunpowder factory set up at Ishapore
- 1802: Production begins at Cossipore (first ordnance factory)
- 1947: India inherits 18 ordnance factories after independence
- 1979: Formation of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB)
- 2021: OFB reorganized into seven Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)
Key Highlights
- 41 factories operating across India
- Workforce exceeding 70,000 employees
- Annual revenue of approximately ₹19,000 crore
- Export of defence products to more than 30 countries
Indian Animated Film “CHYIMI” Wins International Recognition
Indian animation reached a significant milestone when the short film CHYIMI, directed by Dr. Partha Sarathi Mahanta, received the Best Director Award at the New York Short Animation Festival (NYSAF) 2026.
This achievement marks a major step forward for Indian animation on the global stage. The festival is known for celebrating innovation, creativity, and excellence in animated storytelling, attracting filmmakers from around the world.
The recognition of CHYIMI places it among internationally acclaimed animated works and highlights the growing potential of Indian creators in the global film industry.
National Para Athletics Championship 2026
The National Para Athletics Championship 2026 will be held at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, bringing together some of the best para-athletes from across the country. Scheduled from 19 to 21 March 2026, the event reflects India’s commitment to inclusive sports.
A total of 1,460 athletes representing 28 states, along with teams from the Border Security Force (BSF) and Services Sports Control Board (SSCB), will participate. The championship will feature 145 medal events.
Key Participants
- Mariyappan Thangavelu – Paralympic medalist (Gold, Silver, Bronze)
- Sumit Antil – Double Paralympic gold medalist
Haryana, the defending champion, is expected to be a strong contender due to its consistent performance in national athletics competitions.
FIFA Partners with YouTube for World Cup 2026
FIFA has collaborated with YouTube to introduce a new digital streaming approach for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Under this initiative, fans worldwide will be able to watch the first 10 minutes of matches live on YouTube before switching to official broadcasters.
This strategy aims to engage younger audiences and adapt to evolving viewing habits by expanding digital accessibility. The move combines traditional broadcasting with modern online platforms, creating a hybrid viewing experience.
World Cup 2026 Highlights
- First edition to feature 48 teams
- Total of 104 matches
- Hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico
- Scheduled from 11 June to 19 July 2026
India Submits First Report on Nagoya Protocol
India has submitted its first national report on the Nagoya Protocol under the Convention on Biological Diversity. The report was filed on 27 February 2026 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Authority.
This submission fulfills the requirement under Article 29 of the protocol, which mandates countries to track and report their progress in implementing Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) mechanisms.
The Nagoya Protocol, adopted in 2010, focuses on ensuring fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. It safeguards the rights of countries and indigenous communities when their biological resources or traditional knowledge are used for research, agriculture, or pharmaceutical purposes.
The framework also promotes biodiversity conservation while encouraging sustainable scientific and technological advancements.
Review Questions
1. Ordnance Factory Day in India is observed on:
A. 15 March
B. 18 March
C. 20 March
D. 25 March
Answer: B. 18 March
2. Ordnance Factory Day marks the establishment of the first ordnance factory at:
A. Ishapore
B. Kanpur
C. Cossipore
D. Avadi
Answer: C. Cossipore
3. In which year was the Board of Ordnance established at Fort William?
A. 1787
B. 1802
C. 1775
D. 1947
Answer: C. 1775
4. The Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) was restructured into DPSUs in:
A. 2014
B. 2019
C. 2021
D. 2023
Answer: C. 2021
5. The animated film “CHYIMI” won Best Director Award at:
A. Cannes Film Festival
B. Berlin Film Festival
C. New York Short Animation Festival
D. Sundance Film Festival
Answer: C. New York Short Animation Festival
6. Who directed the animated film “CHYIMI”?
A. S. S. Rajamouli
B. Partha Sarathi Mahanta
C. Anurag Kashyap
D. R. Balki
Answer: B. Partha Sarathi Mahanta
7. National Para Athletics Championship 2026 will be held at:
A. Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi
B. Eden Gardens, Kolkata
C. Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
D. Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
Answer: C. Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
8. How many athletes are expected to participate in the National Para Athletics Championship 2026?
A. 1,000
B. 1,250
C. 1,460
D. 1,800
Answer: C. 1,460
9. FIFA’s partnership with YouTube allows viewers to watch:
A. Full matches live
B. Highlights after matches
C. First 10 minutes of matches live
D. Only interviews and analysis
Answer: C. First 10 minutes of matches live
10. The Nagoya Protocol is related to:
A. Climate Change
B. Nuclear Disarmament
C. Access and Benefit Sharing of genetic resources
D. Marine Pollution
Answer: C. Access and Benefit Sharing of genetic resources
