1) 🇮🇳National Metro Expansion in Kerala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to launch development projects worth approximately ₹10,800 crore in Kochi, Kerala, today. Cheetah Population Growth: A female cheetah named Jwala has given birth to five cubs at Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh, taking the total number of big cats in India to 46. Naval Achievement: The Indian Navy's indigenisation efforts reached a new peak with the successful testing of the 'Sheshnaag-150', a long-range swarming attack drone. Uttarakhand Ranks First: The state has secured the top position nationally in the effective implementation of the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) 2.0, scoring 93.46 on the NCRB dashboard. 2) 🌍International Leadership Shift in Iran: Reports indicate that Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Ali Khamenei, has been selected as the new Supreme Leader of Iran, signaling a major political transition. Joint Military Exercise: The 11th edition of the joint military exercise 'LAMITIYE-2026' between India and Seychelles is currently underway in Seychelles to strengthen maritime security. Nepal’s New Leadership: Balendra Shah, a prominent youth leader, is set to become the next Prime Minister of Nepal following the recent general election results. Operation Epic Fury: The US and Israel continue their coordinated military campaign against Iranian strategic infrastructure, significantly impacting global energy security. 3) 💰Economy GDP Base Year Transition: The Ministry of Statistics (MoSPI) has officially shifted the GDP base year from 2011-12 to 2022-23, with the Indian economy projected to grow at 7.6% for FY26. Oil Price Volatility: Global crude prices surged past $100 per barrel due to the Iran conflict, although prices showed a slight cooling trend today following US diplomatic statements. EPFO Interest Rate: The Central Board of Trustees has recommended an interest rate of 8.25% on EPF deposits for the financial year 2025-26. Hurun Rich List 2026: Elon Musk remains the world's richest person ($792B), while Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan made his debut on the list with a net worth of $1.3B. 4) 🗓️Date’s importance Sheetala Ashtami (Basoda): Observed today, 11 March 2026, across India. It is a traditional festival where Goddess Sheetala is worshipped for protection against infectious diseases. World Kidney Day 2026: Observed globally today to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health. The 2026 theme is "Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet." Historical Fact: On this day in 1876, Alexander Graham Bell made the first successful telephone call to his assistant, Thomas Watson. 5) 👱♂️👩🦳Person of the day Alexander Graham Bell: Honoured today on the anniversary of the first telephone call, which revolutionised global communication. RM Nachammai: Highlighted as the first female head of a functional nuclear power plant in India. 6) 🏅Sports T20 World Cup Champions: India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs to win the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, marking their third title and first back-to-back win. All England Open: Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen finished as the runner-up after a stellar performance in the final against Lin Chun-Yi. Ranji Trophy Impact: Following J&K's recent stunning performance, discussions have begun on using cricket to industrialise the region through willow-based equipment production. 7) 🏆Awards T20 WC Player of the Tournament: Sanju Samson won the award for his consistent match-winning performances throughout the World Cup. NCAA Highest Honour: Late basketball legend Dikembe Mutombo was posthumously awarded the Theodore Roosevelt Award for his humanitarian contributions. 8) ⭐️Other important significance Year of Networking: The Indian Army has designated 2026 as the "Year of Networking & Data Centricity" to enhance its technological edge. GI Tag News: 'Nagauri Paan Methi' has been officially registered as a Community Farmers' Variety, providing a boost to local agricultural exports. 📚Word of the day ALACRITY (Noun) Meaning: Brisk and cheerful readiness; eagerness. Usage: "The Indian team approached the final chase with great alacrity, securing the world title."