Daily Current Affairs – 02 April 2026 | Important Updates for UPSC, SSC, Banking & Government Exams
India advances digital governance with Census 2027 and tax reforms while global tensions rise due to the Iran crisis impacting energy markets and economy.
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Introduction
Daily Current Affairs 2 April 2026 brings crucial updates for aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, and State PSC exams. Today’s highlights include the Artemis-II Moon Mission, India’s Semiconductor push with Kaynes Semicon, WTO Ministerial Conference outcomes, and Internet Shutdown Report 2025. Additionally, important developments like SEZ reforms, Nyaya Setu AI chatbot, and defence modernisation projects are covered with detailed analysis to help you build strong conceptual clarity and improve exam recall.
Today's Current Affairs One-Liners (Quick Revision) - 2 April 2026
- Science & Technology – NASA’s Artemis-II mission (2026) launched astronauts for a 10-day lunar flyby, marking the first crewed Moon mission after Apollo missions (1969–72) and advancing deep-space exploration.
- National Affairs – Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched projects worth over ₹20,000 crore in Gujarat, including the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway worth ₹5,100 crore, boosting infrastructure and connectivity.
- Economy & Energy – The Government of India extended the National PNG Drive 2.0 till 30 June 2026 to expand gas infrastructure and increase natural gas share to 15% in India’s energy mix.
- Governance & Technology – Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan launched the Nyaya Setu AI chatbot and mascot “Dishika” to improve access to justice through multilingual AI-powered legal assistance.
- International Affairs – The WTO 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) held in Yaoundé, Cameroon (March 2026) focused on fisheries subsidies, trade reforms, and global economic cooperation.
- Reports & Rankings – Singapore’s Changi Airport topped the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026, while Delhi IGI Airport ranked 28th globally among top airports.
- Economy & Banking – The CBDT signed 219 Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) in FY 2025–26, crossing the 1,000 APA milestone, enhancing tax certainty.
- Economy – The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) introduced relief for SEZ units (2026–27) allowing domestic sales at concessional duty rates.
- Science & Technology – ISRO’s Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) initiative promotes space applications in education, agriculture, disaster management, and tribal development.
- Defence – Goa Shipyard Limited launched INS Shachi (NGOPV) and delivered ICGS Achal, strengthening India’s indigenous naval capabilities.
- Defence – The Indian Navy received ‘Malwan’ ASW craft, while stealth frigate ‘Dunagiri’ (Project 17A) enhanced maritime combat capabilities with BrahMos missiles and MFSTAR radar.
- Economy & Industry – Kaynes Semicon OSAT facility in Sanand was inaugurated under the India Semiconductor Mission, boosting domestic chip manufacturing.
- Environment & Governance – The Internet Shutdown Report 2025 by Access Now recorded 313 shutdowns globally, with India reporting 65 shutdowns, raising concerns on rights and governance.
- Sports – Kimi Antonelli won the Japanese Grand Prix 2026, becoming the youngest Formula 1 championship leader in history.
- Government Schemes – The Punjab Government launched Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, providing ₹1,000–₹1,500 monthly DBT support to women beneficiaries.
- Appointments – Uchral Nyam-Osor became the Prime Minister of Mongolia, securing 82.2% parliamentary votes, marking political shifts in the country.
- Awards – Anahat Singh and Abhay Singh won ASF Player of the Year 2025 awards, highlighting India’s rising dominance in squash.
- Important Days – International Transgender Day of Visibility was observed on 31 March 2026, promoting awareness of transgender rights and challenges.
Detailed Current Affairs - April 2, 2026
Science & Technology
Artemis-II Mission: First Crewed Lunar Mission After 50 Years
Why in News
The Artemis-II mission, launched in 2026 by NASA, marks the first crewed mission to the Moon’s vicinity after over 50 years since the Apollo missions (1969–72). This mission is a critical milestone in the Artemis program, aimed at establishing a sustained human presence on the Moon and enabling future missions to Mars and deep space exploration. The mission involves astronauts undertaking a 10-day lunar flyby without landing, testing advanced systems like the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion spacecraft under real mission conditions.
This development reflects renewed global competition and collaboration in space exploration, with countries like India, China, and Japan advancing their own lunar missions. It also aligns with the Artemis Accords, signed by over 60 countries including India (2023), promoting peaceful and transparent space cooperation.
Key Highlights
- Artemis-II Mission (2026) – First crewed mission in the Artemis series, conducting a lunar flyby mission without landing, testing human survival systems.
- Artemis Program Objective – To establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon and act as a stepping stone for Mars missions.
- Artemis Accords (2020) – International agreement signed by 60+ countries including India, ensuring cooperation in space exploration.
- Future Missions – Artemis III (2027) aims for lunar landing, while Artemis IV & V (2028) focus on Moon base development.
- Strategic Importance – Enhances space dominance, scientific research, and technological leadership among major powers.
- Economic Potential – Moon exploration may unlock resources like Helium-3 and water ice, supporting future energy needs.
Quick Facts Table
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation | NASA |
| Mission | Artemis-II (2026) |
| Type | Crewed Lunar Flyby |
| Duration | 10 Days |
| Previous Mission | Artemis-I (2022, uncrewed) |
| Future Missions | Artemis III, IV, V |
Knowledge Booster
- Chandrayaan Missions (India) – Discovered water molecules on Moon and achieved south pole landing.
- Chang’e Missions (China) – Focus on lunar sample return.
- SLIM (Japan) – Achieved precision lunar landing.
- Helium-3 – Potential future nuclear fusion fuel.
Exam Relevance
- Prelims: Artemis mission phases, Artemis Accords, lunar exploration countries
- Mains: Role of Moon exploration in geopolitics, economy, and science
- Exam Tags: UPSC, SSC, Banking, Defence
ISRO’s Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) Initiative
Why in News
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is expanding its Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) initiatives by leveraging space-based applications for education, agriculture, disaster management, and social welfare. SSR reflects the ethical responsibility of scientific institutions to benefit society.
Key Highlights
- SSR Concept – Similar to CSR, focusing on science outreach and public welfare.
- Education Initiatives – 75 Space Labs in EMRS schools across 19 states.
- Farmer Support – Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories and crop monitoring.
- Citizen Services – Telemedicine, disaster warnings, geospatial planning.
- Women Empowerment – Vyommitra humanoid robot in Gaganyaan mission.
- Open Data Access – Data from AstroSat and Chandrayaan-2 shared globally.
Quick Facts Table
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation | ISRO |
| Initiative | Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) |
| Key Areas | Education, Agriculture, Disaster Management |
Knowledge Booster
- YUVIKA Programme – Space training for school students.
- ISSDC – Indian Space Science Data Centre provides open data.
- Gaganyaan Mission – India’s human spaceflight programme.
Exam Relevance
- Prelims: ISRO programmes, PFZ
- Mains: Role of space tech in inclusive development
- Exam Tags: UPSC, SSC
Economy & Industry
India’s Semiconductor Push: Kaynes Semicon OSAT Facility in Sanand
Why in News
India has taken a major step toward semiconductor self-reliance with the inauguration of the Kaynes Semicon OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility in Sanand, Gujarat, under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). This facility will handle the testing and packaging of semiconductor chips, which is a crucial stage before chips reach the market.
The move comes amid global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions, highlighting the importance of domestic chip manufacturing. India currently imports a significant portion of semiconductor requirements, making this initiative vital for strategic autonomy, electronics manufacturing, and digital economy growth.
Key Highlights
- Kaynes Semicon OSAT Facility – Focuses on chip testing, assembly, and packaging, essential for semiconductor supply chains.
- India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) – Aims to develop a complete semiconductor ecosystem including fabrication, design, and packaging.
- Market Growth – India’s semiconductor market is projected to grow from $38 billion (2023) to $100–110 billion by 2030.
- Government Support – Up to 50% fiscal support under the Semicon India Programme.
- Design Linked Incentive (DLI) – Encourages startups and MSMEs in chip design innovation.
- Challenges – High capital requirements, skill gaps, and dependency on imports for critical minerals.
Quick Facts Table
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Initiative | India Semiconductor Mission |
| Facility Type | OSAT (Assembly & Testing) |
| Location | Sanand, Gujarat |
| Market Size | $38 billion (2023) |
| Target | $100–110 billion by 2030 |
Knowledge Booster
- Semiconductors are essential for electronics, AI, defence systems, and telecom infrastructure.
- Taiwan & South Korea dominate global chip manufacturing.
- Rare Earth Elements are crucial for semiconductor production.
- ATMP/OSAT units are less capital-intensive than fabs.
Exam Relevance
- Prelims: ISM, OSAT, DLI scheme
- Mains: Semiconductor self-reliance and supply chain resilience
- Exam Tags: UPSC, Banking, SSC
Economy & Governance
Strengthening Special Economic Zones (SEZs) for Global Competitiveness
Why in News
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) introduced a one-time relief measure (April 2026–March 2027) allowing SEZ manufacturing units to sell goods in Domestic Tariff Areas (DTA) at concessional customs duty. This aims to support exporters facing global trade disruptions.
SEZs play a critical role in India’s export growth, industrialization, and employment generation, and this reform is expected to enhance their competitiveness.
Key Highlights
- SEZ Relief Measure (2026–27) – Allows domestic sales at concessional duty rates.
- Legal Framework – Governed by SEZ Act 2005 and SEZ Rules 2006.
- Export Contribution – Generated ₹11.70 lakh crore exports (Dec 2025).
- Investment Attraction – Over ₹7.86 lakh crore investments.
- Employment Generation – Created 31.73 lakh jobs.
- Infrastructure Role – Includes hubs like GIFT City, Mundra Port, Sri City.
Quick Facts Table
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Law | SEZ Act 2005 |
| Number of SEZs | 368 (Feb 2026) |
| Export Value | ₹11.70 lakh crore |
| Employment | 31.73 lakh jobs |
Knowledge Booster
- SEZs are treated as foreign territory for trade and customs purposes.
- Provide tax exemptions, duty-free imports, and simplified procedures.
- Major SEZ sectors include IT/ITeS, pharmaceuticals, electronics.
Exam Relevance
- Prelims: SEZ Act, number of SEZs
- Mains: Role of SEZs in economic growth and exports
- Exam Tags: UPSC, SSC
Governance & Reports
Internet Shutdowns Report 2025 by Access Now
Why in News
The Access Now NGO released the Internet Shutdowns Report 2025 under the KeepItOn Coalition, highlighting global trends in internet restrictions and their socio-economic implications.
Key Highlights
- Global Shutdowns (2025) – 313 shutdowns across 52 countries.
- India’s Position – Recorded 65 shutdowns, highest among democracies.
- Economic Loss – India lost approximately $323 million (2024) due to shutdowns.
- Human Rights Impact – Linked to freedom of speech, education, and trade.
- Legal Framework (India) – Governed by Telecommunications Act 2023 and related rules.
Quick Facts Table
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Report | Internet Shutdowns 2025 |
| Organisation | Access Now |
| India Shutdowns | 65 |
| Global Shutdowns | 313 |
Knowledge Booster
- Article 21 – Right to life includes right to internet (Faheema Shirin case).
- Article 19 – Freedom of trade via internet.
- Anuradha Bhasin Case (2020) – Supreme Court on internet restrictions.
Exam Relevance
- Prelims: Report data
- Mains: Internet shutdown vs fundamental rights debate
- Exam Tags: UPSC, State PSC
Defence & Security
Indigenous Naval Strengthening: INS Shachi, Malwan, Dunagiri
Why in News
India continues its defence modernisation with launch of INS Shachi, delivery of ICGS Achal, ASW craft Malwan, and stealth frigate Dunagiri, showcasing strong progress in Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
Key Highlights
- INS Shachi (NGOPV) – Multi-role patrol vessel for surveillance, SAR, anti-piracy operations.
- Malwan (ASW Craft) – Designed for anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters.
- INS Dunagiri (Project 17A) – Equipped with BrahMos missiles, MFSTAR radar, stealth technology.
- Indigenisation – Up to 75–80% indigenous content, boosting MSMEs.
- Strategic Role – Enhances maritime security and coastal defence.
Quick Facts Table
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Project | Project 17A |
| Key Ships | Dunagiri, Shachi, Malwan |
| Capability | Stealth, ASW, Multi-role |
Knowledge Booster
- BrahMos Missile – Supersonic cruise missile (India-Russia joint venture).
- MFSTAR Radar – Advanced naval radar system.
- Make in India (Defence) – Focus on indigenous production.
Exam Relevance
- Prelims: Ship names, projects
- Mains: Defence indigenisation and maritime strategy
- Exam Tags: UPSC, Defence
Important Things to Remember Today
● Artemis-II (2026) is the first crewed lunar mission after 50 years since Apollo missions.
● Kaynes Semicon OSAT facility boosts India’s semiconductor ecosystem under ISM.
● SEZ relief (2026–27) allows concessional domestic sales for exporters.
● India recorded 65 internet shutdowns in 2025, highest among democracies.
● CBDT signed 219 APAs, crossing the 1,000 agreements milestone.
● INS Dunagiri (Project 17A) features BrahMos missiles and advanced stealth systems.
● Nyaya Setu AI chatbot enhances access to justice via multilingual AI support.
● WTO MC14 held in Cameroon (March 2026) focused on trade reforms.
● Punjab scheme provides ₹1,000–₹1,500 DBT to women beneficiaries.
● Kimi Antonelli became youngest F1 championship leader (2026).
Exam Tips for Today’s Current Affairs
- Link Artemis Mission with India’s Gaganyaan Mission for UPSC Mains comparison.
- Remember SEZ = Foreign Territory concept — frequently asked in prelims.
- Use mnemonic for APA → “Advance Pricing = Avoid Tax Disputes”.
- Combine Internet Shutdown + Fundamental Rights for essay topics.
- Defence questions often ask Project names + features (e.g., Project 17A).
Quick Revision One-Liners (End Summary)
● Artemis-II (2026) is NASA’s first crewed Moon mission since Apollo era.
● India’s semiconductor market expected to reach $100 billion by 2030.
● SEZ exports reached ₹11.70 lakh crore by December 2025.
● India had 65 internet shutdowns in 2025, highest among democracies.
● INS Dunagiri is part of Project 17A stealth frigates.
● Nyaya Setu chatbot uses AI for legal assistance in multiple languages.
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