Current Affairs 19/03/2026
1. Who has been appointed as the new Chief Secretary of West Bengal?
Answer : Dushyant Nariala
Appointment of Dushyant Nariala as Chief Secretary of West Bengal
In a notable administrative development, Dushyant Nariala has been appointed as the new Chief Secretary of West Bengal. The appointment was made by the Election Commission of India as part of measures to ensure transparent and impartial governance during the election period.
Dushyant Nariala is a senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1993 batch belonging to the West Bengal cadre. He brings with him extensive administrative experience, having previously held several key positions within the state government, including roles in important departments that deal with governance and public administration.
He succeeds Nandini Chakravorty, who was replaced as part of a broader bureaucratic reshuffle initiated to maintain neutrality in the administrative machinery ahead of elections. Such changes are a standard practice by the Election Commission to uphold the principles of free and fair elections.
The Chief Secretary is the highest-ranking civil servant in a state and plays a crucial role in coordinating government policies, overseeing administrative functions, and ensuring effective implementation of decisions across departments. With Nariala’s appointment, the state administration is expected to function with enhanced efficiency and adherence to electoral guidelines.
Overall, this move underscores the commitment of the Election Commission to maintaining integrity, accountability, and smooth governance during a critical electoral phase in West Bengal.
2. Who has become the new Director General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal?
Answer : Siddh Nath Gupta
Appointment of Siddh Nath Gupta as Director General of Police of West Bengal
In a key administrative development, Siddh Nath Gupta has been appointed as the new Director General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal. The appointment was made by the Election Commission of India as part of a broader effort to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in the state.
Siddh Nath Gupta is a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 1992 batch, known for his extensive experience in policing, law enforcement, and administrative leadership. Over the course of his career, he has held several important positions, contributing significantly to maintaining law and order and strengthening the policing system.
He replaces Peeyush Pandey, who was relieved of his duties as part of a comprehensive reshuffle of top officials. Such changes are typically undertaken by the Election Commission during election periods to ensure neutrality in governance and to prevent any potential bias in the administrative machinery.
As the head of the state police force, the DGP plays a crucial role in overseeing internal security, managing law and order, coordinating with various agencies, and ensuring the peaceful conduct of elections. Gupta’s appointment is expected to reinforce disciplined policing and enhance public confidence in the system.
This move highlights the proactive approach of the Election Commission in safeguarding democratic processes by ensuring that key administrative and law enforcement positions are held by impartial and competent officers during critical times.
3. Who will head the expert committee to define the 100-meter boundary of the Aravalli?
Answer : Kanchan Devi
Expert Committee to Define Aravalli Boundary
In an important environmental governance initiative, Kanchan Devi has been appointed to head the expert committee responsible for defining the 100-meter boundary of the Aravalli Range.
The formation of this committee aims to bring clarity and precision in demarcating protected zones around the Aravalli hills, which are among the oldest mountain ranges in the world. The delineation of a 100-meter boundary is crucial for regulating construction activities, preventing illegal encroachments, and safeguarding the fragile ecosystem of the region.
Under the leadership of Kanchan Devi, the committee will undertake scientific assessments, use geospatial mapping techniques, and consult environmental experts to establish an accurate and enforceable boundary. This initiative is expected to strengthen conservation efforts and support sustainable development in areas surrounding the Aravalli range.
The move reflects growing concerns over environmental degradation, deforestation, and unregulated urban expansion affecting the Aravalli ecosystem. By clearly defining the boundary, authorities aim to ensure better compliance with environmental laws and protect biodiversity in the region.
Overall, the appointment of Kanchan Devi underscores the government’s commitment to environmental protection and the preservation of ecologically sensitive landscapes.
4. Who has been awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award 2025 for the Hindi language?
Answer : Mamta Kalia
Mamta Kalia Awarded Sahitya Akademi Award 2025 for Hindi
In a significant achievement in the field of Indian literature, renowned writer Mamta Kalia has been awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award for the year 2025 in the Hindi language category. She received this prestigious honour for her acclaimed memoir “Jeete Jee Allahabad”, which captures the cultural, social, and literary essence of Allahabad.
The Sahitya Akademi Award is one of the highest literary recognitions in India, presented annually by the Sahitya Akademi to outstanding writers across 24 Indian languages. The award recognizes exceptional literary works that contribute significantly to the enrichment of Indian literature.
Mamta Kalia is a prominent figure in contemporary Hindi literature, known for her insightful and thought-provoking writings. Her works often explore themes such as middle-class life, gender dynamics, and societal transformations. Through her unique narrative style and realistic portrayal of everyday experiences, she has earned widespread recognition and respect in literary circles.
The award includes a cash prize, a copper plaque, and a ceremonial shawl, and is typically presented at a formal ceremony held in New Delhi. Her selection for this honour reflects the continued relevance and impact of her literary contributions.
This recognition not only celebrates Mamta Kalia’s individual achievement but also highlights the richness and diversity of Hindi literature in the modern era.
5. For which novel has Navtej Sarna received the Sahitya Akademi Award 2025 for English?
Answer : Crimson Spring
Navtej Sarna Honoured with Sahitya Akademi Award 2025 (English)
Renowned author and diplomat Navtej Sarna has been awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award for the year 2025 in the English language category for his novel Crimson Spring.
The Sahitya Akademi Award is one of India’s most prestigious literary honours, conferred annually by the Sahitya Akademi to recognize outstanding works in 24 Indian languages, including English. Navtej Sarna’s Crimson Spring was selected by an expert panel for its literary merit, narrative depth, and compelling storytelling.
Crimson Spring is a historical novel that vividly portrays the complexities of 19th-century Punjab, blending personal narratives with broader socio-political contexts. The work has been widely appreciated for its rich characterization, evocative language, and nuanced exploration of history and identity.
Navtej Sarna, a former Indian Foreign Service officer, is known for his contributions to literature as well as diplomacy. His previous works include novels, short stories, and translations, many of which draw upon historical themes and cultural heritage.
This recognition underscores Sarna’s significant contribution to Indian English literature and highlights the continued excellence of literary works being produced in the country.
6. What is the name of the poetry collection of Pritpal Singh Betab, the Urdu Sahitya Akademi 2025 winner?
Answer : The Journey Continues
Pritpal Singh Betab’s Poetry Collection Honoured with Sahitya Akademi Award 2025 (Urdu)
The Urdu Sahitya Akademi Award for the year 2025 has been awarded to noted poet Pritpal Singh Betab for his acclaimed poetry collection The Journey Continues.
The Sahitya Akademi Award is one of India’s most prestigious literary honours, presented annually by the Sahitya Akademi to recognize outstanding literary works in 24 Indian languages, including Urdu. Betab’s work was selected for its poetic excellence, thematic richness, and contribution to contemporary Urdu literature.
The Journey Continues reflects deep emotional insight and explores themes such as life, identity, human resilience, and the passage of time. His poetry is known for its expressive language, philosophical depth, and ability to connect with readers across diverse backgrounds.
This recognition highlights Pritpal Singh Betab’s significant contribution to Urdu poetry and reinforces the continued vitality of Urdu literature in India’s multilingual literary landscape.
7. Which movie won the Best Picture award at the 98th Academy Awards?
Answer : One Battle After Another
Best Picture Winner at the 98th Academy Awards
The film One Battle After Another won the Best Picture award at the 98th Academy Awards.
The Academy Awards, presented annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, are among the most prestigious recognitions in the global film industry. The Best Picture category is considered the highest honour, awarded to the producers of the film that demonstrates outstanding overall excellence in cinematic achievement.
One Battle After Another earned critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling, strong performances, and technical brilliance. Its win at the 98th Academy Awards highlights its impact and excellence in filmmaking, standing out among a competitive field of nominees.
This achievement further cements the film’s place as one of the most significant cinematic works of the year.
8. Who won the Best Actor award at the 98th Oscars?
Answer : Michael B. Jordan
Best Actor Winner at the 98th Academy Awards
The Best Actor award at the 98th Academy Awards was won by Michael B. Jordan.
The Academy Awards, presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, recognize outstanding achievements in the film industry. The Best Actor category honours an actor who has delivered an exceptional performance in a leading role.
Michael B. Jordan received widespread acclaim for his powerful and compelling performance, which stood out among a competitive list of nominees. His win marks a significant milestone in his career and further establishes him as one of the leading actors in contemporary cinema.
This recognition reflects both his artistic excellence and his growing influence in the global film industry.