Current Affairs 19 March 2026

Finland Tops 2026 World Happiness Rankings Again.

• Finland ranked happiest country in World Happiness Report 2026 for the 9th consecutive year.
• Report published by Wellbeing Research Centre.
• Highlights social media’s negative impact on youth well-being.
• Nordic countries show strong overall well-being.
• Declining happiness noted in parts of Western Europe and the Americas.
• Top 10 countries and global trends detailed in the report.

Uttarakhand Strengthens Medical Facilities Ahead of Char Dham Yatra.

• Uttarakhand strengthens medical infrastructure for Char Dham Yatra.
• e-Swasthya Dham Portal enables real-time health monitoring of pilgrims.
• Experienced doctors and paramedics deployed at permanent and temporary units along all four Dhams.
• 25 medical relief posts and 33 health screening centers established for regular check-ups.
• Comprehensive emergency response network ensures pilgrim safety.

Kusunpur to Become Odisha’s 1st "Smart Village" Through CSIR Initiative.

• Kusunpur selected as Odisha’s first Smart Village under Viksit Bharat@2047 initiative.
• Advanced infrastructure for clean drinking water, renewable energy, and modern sanitation for ~130 families.
• Climate-resilient schools, Anganwadi centres, and multipurpose shelters to tackle cyclone risks.
• Introduction of scientific paddy storage and modern farming techniques to reduce losses and increase farmers’ income.

CSIR-NCL Recognizes Dimethyl Ether (DME) as a Sustainable LPG Alternative.

• Scientists at CSIR-NCL propose Dimethyl Ether (DME) as a sustainable alternative to LPG.
• Developed an indigenous catalyst to efficiently convert methanol into DME at ~10 bar pressure.
• Pilot facility operational, producing 250 kg/day.
• Plans for a demonstration plant producing 2.5 tonnes/day within 6–9 months with an engineering partner.
• Long-term goal: large-scale units producing 100–500 tonnes/day with public sector oil companies to enhance energy security.

German Athlete Sina Ruppenthal Breaks Guinness World Record.

• Sina Ruppenthal sets a Guinness World Record for fastest time to lift and throw 10 women.
• Record completed in 37.44 seconds on Die große Show der Weltrekorde in Munich.
• Record date: 29 August 2025, aired live on Sat1.
• Ruppenthal also holds the fastest strongwoman three-obstacle medley record.
• Aims to showcase women’s strength and capabilities.