Daily Current Affairs 20 March 2026: West Asia Conflict, Cuba & Key UPSC Topics

The Daily Current Affairs 20 March 2026 brings important updates from international relations, geography, economy, science, and government policies. These topics are highly relevant for UPSC preparation as they connect static concepts with real-world developments.

Key areas in focus include tensions in West Asia affecting global energy supply, the strategic importance of Cuba, India’s renewable energy initiatives, expansion of welfare schemes, and developments in defence technology.

Topics Covered in Daily Current Affairs- 20 March 2026

The major topics include:

• West Asia Conflict & Global Energy Impact
• Cuba Geography and Geopolitical Importance
• Small Hydro Power Development Scheme
• PM Poshan Scheme Expansion
• City Gas Distribution (CGD)
• Sejjil Missile of Iran

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West Asia Conflict and Global Energy Concerns

Tensions in West Asia have increased significantly, with both sides targeting energy infrastructure. This includes gas fields, refineries, and export hubs, which are critical for global energy supply.

One of the major developments is the attack on Iran’s South Pars gas field, one of the largest natural gas reserves in the world. Similarly, Qatar’s Ras Laffan hub plays a key role in global LNG exports. Any disruption in these regions can have worldwide consequences.

Key impacts of the conflict include

• Rise in global crude oil prices
• Disruption in fuel supply chains
• Increased inflation risks globally
• Pressure on energy-importing countries like India

This situation highlights how regional conflicts can influence global markets and economic stability.

Mains Angle

Analyze how geopolitical tensions in West Asia affect global energy security and India’s economy.

Cuba – Geography with Strategic Importance

Cuba has once again come into focus due to its geographical location and geopolitical relevance. It is positioned at the meeting point of the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and Atlantic Ocean, making it a key region for maritime trade.

The country is the largest island in the Greater Antilles and has Havana as its capital. Its geography includes mountains, plains, and mineral-rich regions.

Important geographical features:

• Sierra Maestra mountain range
• Tropical climate
• Rich deposits of cobalt and nickel
• Proximity to the United States

This location has historically made Cuba a sensitive region in global politics, especially during events like the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Mains Angle

Discuss the geographical and geopolitical significance of Cuba.

Small Hydro Power Development Scheme

India is promoting renewable energy through small hydro power projects. These projects generate electricity using flowing water without the need for large dams, making them environmentally friendly.

The government aims to develop around 1500 MW capacity under this scheme between 2026 and 2031, with a budget of ₹2584.6 crore.

Key features of the scheme:

• Capacity range: 1 MW to 25 MW
• Focus on North-Eastern and border regions
• Supports decentralized energy production
• Reduces environmental impact

Such initiatives are important for achieving India’s long-term climate goals and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Mains Angle

Evaluate the role of small hydro power in sustainable development.

PM Poshan Scheme Expansion

The PM Poshan Scheme is likely to be expanded to cover more students. Currently, it provides mid-day meals to children up to Class 8, but proposals suggest extending it further. There is also discussion about adding breakfast to improve nutrition levels among students.

Expected benefits of expansion:

• Better nutrition for adolescents
• Improved school attendance
• Reduction in dropout rates
• Enhanced learning outcomes

This scheme plays a key role in linking nutrition with education, especially for economically weaker sections.

Mains Angle

Explain the role of nutrition schemes in improving human capital.

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City Gas Distribution (CGD) for Clean Energy

City Gas Distribution is being expanded to promote cleaner fuel usage and reduce dependence on LPG imports. Under this system, natural gas is supplied through pipelines.

Where CGD is used:

• Homes (PNG connections)
• Vehicles (CNG fuel)
• Industries

Why CGD is important:

• Reduces import dependency
• Ensures stable energy supply
• Lowers pollution levels
• Supports clean energy transition

The system is regulated by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB).

Mains Angle

Discuss how CGD contributes to energy security and environmental sustainability.

Sejjil Missile – Defence Development

Iran’s Sejjil missile has gained attention due to rising tensions in West Asia. It is a medium-range ballistic missile with advanced capabilities.

Key features of the Sejjil missile:

• Range of around 2000 km
• Solid fuel propulsion
• Two-stage missile system
• Ability to change trajectory mid-flight
• Payload capacity of about 700 kg

These features make it difficult to intercept and increase security concerns in the region.

Mains Angle

Analyze the impact of advanced missile technology on regional security.

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UPSC Prelims Practice Questions – Daily Current Affairs- 20 March 2026

Q1. Ras Laffan is associated with:
(a) Oil refining
(b) LNG processing
(c) Nuclear energy
(d) Coal mining
Answer: (b)

Q2. Cuba belongs to:
(a) Micronesia
(b) Polynesia
(c) Greater Antilles
(d) Maldives
Answer: (c)

Q3. Small Hydro Power capacity range is:
(a) Up to 100 MW
(b) 1–25 MW
(c) 50–200 MW
(d) Above 500 MW
Answer: (b)

Q4. PM Poshan renamed in:
(a) 2018
(b) 2019
(c) 2021
(d) 2023
Answer: (c)

Q5. Sejjil missile belongs to:
(a) USA
(b) Israel
(c) Iran
(d) Russia
Answer: (c)

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