Indian illustrator Anand RK and investigative journalist Suparna Sharma won the 2026 Pulitzer Prize in Illustrated Reporting and Commentary for “trAPPed,” a Bloomberg investigation exposing India’s digital arrest scam, cyber fraud networks, and surveillance threats. Best Book for Current Affairs & General Knowledge Preparation
The Pulitzer Prize Board announced the award. Bloomberg journalist Natalie Obiko Pearson jointly received the honour for combining investigative reporting with illustrated storytelling.
“trAPPed” narrates the case of an Indian neurologist psychologically trapped through fake law-enforcement intimidation over phone calls and digital surveillance. The project highlighted the growing global menace of cyber-enabled extortion.
The Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category recognises journalism using visual narratives, editorial illustrations, and public-interest storytelling. The Pulitzer Prizes are administered annually by Columbia University, New York.
The Pulitzer Prize was established in 1917 through the legacy of Joseph Pulitzer, a Hungarian-American newspaper publisher. It remains among the world’s most prestigious honours in journalism and literature.
Anand RK previously won the 2021 Eisner Award for Best Painter/Multimedia Artist for the graphic novel “Blue in Green.” He graduated from Mumbai’s Sir J.J. School of Art in 2011.
Suparna Sharma is known for investigative reporting on corruption, disasters, organised crime, and governance failures. Her journalism career spans nearly three decades across Indian media organisations.
The award renewed focus on “digital arrest” scams, where cybercriminals impersonate police or investigative agencies to extort money through intimidation, surveillance threats, and fake legal proceedings.
Expected Current Affairs Questions for UPSC CDS NDA and AFCAT 2 2026 Written Exam
Q1. Anand RK and Suparna Sharma won the 2026 Pulitzer Prize for which project?
A. Firewall
B. trAPPed
C. Cyber Grid
D. Silent Surveillance
Answer: B. trAPPed
Explanation: “trAPPed” investigated India’s digital arrest scams and cyber fraud networks through illustrated reporting.
Q2. The Pulitzer Prize is administered by which institution?
A. Harvard University
B. Columbia University
C. Reuters Foundation
D. New York Times Institute
Answer: B. Columbia University
Explanation: Columbia University administers the Pulitzer Prize annually in journalism, literature, and music.
Q3. The Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category primarily recognises:
A. Scientific Discoveries
B. Sports Journalism
C. Visual and Narrative Journalism
D. Documentary Films
Answer: C. Visual and Narrative Journalism
Explanation: The category honours reporting using illustrations, graphics, and visual storytelling techniques.
Also Check: Best Book for Current Affairs & General Knowledge Preparation
Also Read: Important NCERT Notes for UPSC CDS NDA CAPF AC and AFCAT Written Exam
This Current Affairs topic is important for the upcoming AFCAT 2 2026 and UPSC CDS & NDA 2 2026 Written Exam, as Current Affairs Questions are expected to be asked from this CA Topic. We have also provided three probable Current Affairs Questions for AFCAT CDS and NDA exam, which aspirants can practice to ensure high marks in GK/GS section of the Exam.
