Daily Current Affairs 3rd March 2026 for UPSC

Daily Current Affairs 3rd March 2026 focuses on major international and national developments relevant for UPSC preparation. Key updates include the West Asia crisis leading to an 8% oil price surge, Bihar being declared Naxal-free, and scientific research in Chile’s Atacama Desert.

The coverage also includes National Science Day 2026, the Coconut Promotion Scheme in Union Budget 2026–27, and a rice fortification review by IIT Kharagpur. These topics are highly important from both UPSC Prelims and Mains perspectives, especially for GS Paper II and III.

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Topics Discussed on Daily Current Affairs 3rd March 2026 for UPSC Exam

The Daily Current Affairs for 3rd March 2026 covers important national and international issues relevant for UPSC Prelims and Mains preparation.

• West Asia Crisis and Rising Oil Prices
• Iran–US–Israel Escalation and Nuclear Facility Tensions
• India’s Diplomatic Stand on West Asia Conflict
• Bihar Declared Naxal-Free (Left-Wing Extremism Update)
• Mars-Like Research at Salar de Peñonales, Atacama Desert (Chile)
• National Science Day 2026 (Theme: Women in Science: Catalyzing Viksit Bharat)
• Coconut Promotion Scheme in Union Budget 2026–27
• Rice Fortification Review by IIT Kharagpur

West Asia Crisis and Rising Oil Prices

The West Asia crisis intensified with oil prices surging by 8% to nearly $80 per barrel. Tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States have raised global energy security concerns.

UPSC Mains Angle:

• Impact of geopolitical conflicts on India’s energy security
• Role of diplomacy in international conflict resolution
• Effect of oil price shocks on inflation and current account deficit

Bihar Declared Naxal-Free

The Government announced that Bihar is now free from Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), marking a significant achievement in internal security management.

UPSC Mains Angle:

• Government strategies to counter LWE
• Role of development vs security-based approach
• Surrender and rehabilitation policy effectiveness

Mars-Like Research in Chile’s Atacama Desert

Scientists are studying the Salar de Peñonales region in Chile’s Atacama Desert due to its resemblance to Martian conditions.

UPSC Mains Angle:

• Significance of astrobiology research
• India’s role in space exploration missions
• Scientific temper and innovation in policy

National Science Day 2026

Observed on February 28, National Science Day commemorates Sir C.V. Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect.

UPSC Mains Angle:

• Promotion of scientific research in India
• Role of women in STEM for Viksit Bharat
• Importance of science communication

Coconut Promotion Scheme in Union Budget 2026-27

A new scheme aims to enhance coconut productivity and support farmers.

UPSC Mains Angle:

• Agricultural diversification and rural economy
• Role of allied sectors in doubling farmers’ income
• Impact of horticulture on export earnings

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Rice Fortification Review by IIT Kharagpur

A study suggested reviewing fortified rice distribution under welfare schemes due to potential nutrient degradation.

UPSC Mains Angle:

• Food security and nutrition policy
• Implementation challenges in public distribution system
• Evidence-based policymaking

UPSC Prelims Practice Quiz – 3rd March 2026

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the West Asia crisis:

1. Rising oil prices directly affect India’s current account deficit.
2. India is a net exporter of crude oil.

Which of the statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a) 1 only

Q2. Left-Wing Extremism in India is primarily associated with:
(a) Coastal regions
(b) Tribal and forested areas
(c) Desert regions
(d) Island territories

Answer: (b) Tribal and forested areas

Q3. National Science Day is celebrated to commemorate:
(a) Launch of ISRO
(b) First nuclear test of India
(c) Discovery of Raman Effect
(d) Formation of DRDO

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Answer: (c) Discovery of Raman Effect

Q4. The Atacama Desert is located in:
(a) Peru
(b) Mexico
(c) Chile
(d) Argentina

Answer: (c) Chile

Q5. Rice fortification primarily aims to address:
(a) Water scarcity
(b) Soil erosion
(c) Micronutrient deficiency
(d) Pesticide resistance

Answer: (c) Micronutrient deficiency

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