Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: February 03, 2026

Compiled from 15+ leading Indian news sources

Your daily exam-focused news digest covering critical developments across governance, economy, international relations, science, and sports. Every article verified from original newspaper sources.

Today’s Top 10 Snapshot Points

Budget 2026: Ministry of Agriculture allocated ₹1.40 lakh crore; launch of AI-platform Bharat-VISTAAR.
Railways: FM announces seven new high-speed rail corridors, including Mumbai-Pune and Delhi-Varanasi.
Customs: New Baggage Rules 2026 notified; duty-free limit for residents hiked to ₹75,000.
Defence: Yantra India Limited (YIL) granted Miniratna Category-I status by Raksha Mantri.
IR: EAM S. Jaishankar begins 3-day US visit for Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington.
Technology: MeitY and EU sign pact for interoperability of Advanced Electronic Signatures.
Military: 3rd edition of the tri-services Future Warfare Course begins in New Delhi.
Sports: India A defeats USA by 38 runs in T20 World Cup warm-up; N. Jagadeesan scores a ton.
Environment: Budget 2026 emphasizes environmentally sustainable passenger transport systems.
Economy: Fiscal push for MSMEs identified as one of the six pillars of the “Kartavya” budget.

1. STATE AFFAIRS

Odisha and Gujarat Linked via New East-West Dedicated Freight Corridor

Summary: Finance Minister announces a new freight corridor connecting Dankuni to Surat to boost industrial logistics.

On February 2, 2026, during post-budget discussions, details emerged regarding the newly announced East-West Dedicated Freight Corridor (EW-DFC). The corridor is designed to run from Dankuni in West Bengal (not Odisha) to Surat in Gujarat, effectively linking the mineral-rich eastern industrial hubs with the textile and manufacturing powerhouses of the west. This project aims to replicate the success of the Eastern and Western DFCs, which are currently 100% and nearly 100% complete, respectively. By facilitating faster movement of bulk commodities like coal, steel, and finished goods, the corridor is expected to reduce logistics costs from 14% to nearly 8% of GDP. For states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh, this provides a critical exit route for exports via Gujarat’s ports.

Exam Angle: Relevant for Geography and Economics (Infrastructure). Questions may focus on the terminal points (Dankuni to Surat) and the economic impact of Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) on Indian logistics.

Source: The Economic Times — https://m.economictimes.com/industry/transportation/railways/budget-2026-27-fm-announces-seven-new-bullet-train-corridors/articleshow/127835364.cms

High-Speed Rail Expansion: Seven New Corridors to Connect Tier-1 Cities

Summary: The Union Budget 2026-27 proposes 7 bullet train corridors to enhance inter-city connectivity.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on February 2, 2026, detailed the roadmap for seven new high-speed rail corridors. These corridors will link major economic hubs: Mumbai–Pune, Pune–Hyderabad, Hyderabad–Chennai, Chennai–Bengaluru, Bengaluru–Hyderabad, Delhi–Varanasi, and Varanasi–Siliguri. Building on the Delhi-Mumbai High-Speed Rail experience, these new routes will feature higher indigenization. The government plans to utilize E5 and E10 variants of Japanese Shinkansen technology, with the E10 expected for full commercial operations by 2030. This initiative is part of the “rejuvenation of legacy industrial sectors” pillar, aimed at supporting regional growth. The project will be executed through the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) in coordination with respective state governments for land acquisition.

Exam Angle: Significant for GS Paper III (Infrastructure: Railways). Aspirants should note the specific city pairs and the technology partner (Japan/Shinkansen).

Source: The Economic Times — https://m.economictimes.com/industry/transportation/railways/budget-2026-union-budget-2026-india-budget-railways-budget-budget-2026-fms-bets-on-seven-high-speed-rail-corridors-to-drive-growth/articleshow/127834244.cms

Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to Benefit from New Southern Tech-Corridor

Summary: The Union Budget’s rail push creates a high-speed triangle between Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

The announcement on February 2, 2026, of high-speed rail corridors specifically targeting the Southern peninsula marks a strategic shift in regional infrastructure. The proposed Hyderabad–Chennai, Chennai–Bengaluru, and Hyderabad–Bengaluru routes create a “Golden Triangle” for the IT and manufacturing sectors. This connectivity is expected to spur the development of satellite towns and industrial parks along the routes in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The Finance Minister noted that these corridors serve as “growth connectors,” reducing travel time significantly and enabling a more mobile workforce. This infrastructure push aligns with the budget’s goal of developing “City Economic Regions” to drive urban-led growth.

Exam Angle: Useful for questions on urban planning and regional development. Note the integration of “City Economic Regions” as a policy tool.

2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Government Notifies Baggage Rules 2026: Duty-Free Limit Hiked to ₹75,000

Summary: The Ministry of Finance revises decade-old baggage rules to facilitate smoother international travel.

On February 2, 2026, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) formally notified the Baggage Rules, 2026, along with new Declaration and Processing Regulations. The headline change is the increase in the duty-free general allowance for returning Indian residents and tourists of Indian origin from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000. Foreign tourists will now enjoy a limit of ₹25,000, up from ₹15,000. Additionally, the rules for jewellery have been rationalized, allowing 40 grams for female passengers and 20 grams for others (within specific value caps). A significant facilitation measure includes the duty-free import of one laptop for passengers over 18 and new provisions for the temporary import of pets. These rules aim to modernize customs processes and reduce clearance times at major airports like Delhi and Mumbai.

Exam Angle: High relevance for Banking and SSC exams. Key numbers (₹75,000, 40g/20g jewellery) and the name of the regulating body (CBIC) are crucial.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2222384&reg=3&lang=1

Raksha Mantri Grants ‘Miniratna’ Category-I Status to Yantra India Limited

Summary: DPSU Yantra India Limited achieves financial autonomy following a stellar turnaround in four years.

Union Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, on February 2, 2026, approved the grant of ‘Miniratna’ Category-I status to Yantra India Limited (YIL). This move follows the company’s transformation from a government entity to a profit-making corporate unit since the corporatization of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) in 2021. YIL’s sales grew from ₹956.32 crore in 2021-22 to ₹3,108.79 crore in FY 2024-25, with exports reaching ₹321.77 crore. The status empowers the YIL Board to sanction capital expenditure up to ₹500 crore without prior government approval. YIL specializes in critical components like Carbon Fibre Composites and assembly products for Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) and artillery guns. This decision underscores the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” vision by strengthening domestic defence production capabilities.

Exam Angle: Important for UPSC/SSC. Understand the criteria for “Miniratna” status and the history of OFB corporatization into seven DPSUs.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2222169

Third Edition of Tri-Services Future Warfare Course Commences in New Delhi

Summary: A 24-day course aimed at preparing military leadership for tech-driven conflicts begins at Manekshaw Centre.

The third edition of the tri-services Future Warfare Course was launched in New Delhi on February 2, 2026. Conducted under the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) in partnership with the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS), the course will run until February 25. The curriculum covers cyber warfare, space operations, AI-driven systems, and supply chain vulnerabilities, specifically focusing on rare earth dependencies. Participants include officers ranging from Majors to Major Generals, alongside representatives from defence startups and MSMEs. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan envisions this program to align operational doctrines with indigenous technological advancements. The course emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, involving diplomats and academic experts to analyze global geopolitical shifts.

Exam Angle: Relevant for Security and Defence updates. Note the role of HQ IDS and the focus on “non-kinetic” domains like AI and supply chains.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2221952

3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

EAM S. Jaishankar Embarks on US Visit for Critical Minerals Ministerial

Summary: External Affairs Minister to discuss supply chain resilience with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar arrived in the United States on February 2, 2026, for a three-day official visit. The primary objective is his participation in the Critical Minerals Ministerial, convened by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The discussions will focus on securing supply chains for minerals essential for the green energy transition, such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. This visit is pivotal as India seeks to reduce its dependence on dominant global suppliers and integrate more deeply into the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP). Besides the ministerial, Jaishankar is expected to hold bilateral talks on strategic cooperation, regional security in the Indo-Pacific, and defense technology transfers under the iCET framework.

Exam Angle: Highly relevant for IR. Focus on “Critical Minerals,” the role of the US Secretary of State, and the strategic importance of supply chain resilience.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/s-jaishankar-us-visit-critical-minerals-ministerial/article70581812.ece

India and EU Sign Pact on Interoperability of Electronic Signatures

Summary: MeitY and EU DG CONNECT sign an administrative arrangement to facilitate cross-border digital trade.

On February 2, 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) announced the signing of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Commission’s DG CONNECT. The agreement, finalized on January 27 and publicized today, focuses on the interoperability of Advanced Electronic Signatures and Seals. It establishes a framework for linking the “trusted lists” of recognized service providers in both regions. This allows Indian exporters and EU buyers to sign contracts and invoices digitally, eliminating paper delays and reducing costs. The Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) will oversee implementation in India under the IT Act, 2000. This move is a major step toward a seamless digital trade corridor between India and the European Union, particularly benefiting MSMEs.

Exam Angle: Significant for Digital India and International Trade. Note the organizations (MeitY and DG CONNECT) and the concept of “Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)” interoperability.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2222180&reg=1&lang=1

India AI Impact Summit 2026: Global South’s First Major AI Meet Announced

Summary: PIB releases details of the upcoming summit at Bharat Mandapam, focusing on ‘People, Planet, Progress’.

Details for the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled for February 16-20, were highlighted on February 2, 2026. This will be the first global AI summit hosted in the Global South, taking place at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The summit is built on three pillars, or “Sutras”: People, Planet, and Progress. It aims to showcase AI solutions in healthcare (telemedicine), agriculture (AI-advisories), and governance (translation of court judgments). The summit will feature an “AI Impact Expo” with over 300 exhibitors from 30 countries. India intends to use this platform to advocate for “People-Centric AI” and democratize AI resources for developing nations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission.

Exam Angle: Crucial for Science & Tech/IR. Questions may ask about the “Sutras,” the venue, and India’s leadership role in the Global South regarding AI.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2216805

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

Budget 2026-27: Agriculture Sector Receives ₹1.40 Lakh Crore Allocation

Summary: Finance Minister focuses on high-value agriculture and digital advisory systems in the new budget.

Presented on February 2, 2026, the Union Budget 2026-27 allocated ₹1.40 lakh crore to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, a slight increase from ₹1.37 lakh crore last year. The policy shift emphasizes diversification into high-value crops like coconut, cashew, cocoa, and sandalwood. A standout feature is the launch of Bharat-VISTAAR, an AI-based, multilingual advisory platform. This platform integrates “AgriStack” with ICAR research to provide real-time, risk-reducing data to farmers. Additionally, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying saw a massive 27% budget hike, reaching ₹6,150 crore. The budget also maintains a strong focus on the North-East and small farmers through technology-led productivity boosts.

Exam Angle: Core Economy topic. Remember the total allocation (₹1.40 L Cr), the name of the AI platform (Bharat-VISTAAR), and the priority crops mentioned.

Source: Global Agriculture — https://www.global-agriculture.com/india-region/budget-2026-27-india-agriculture-industry-welcomes-farmer-centric-push-flags-need-for-stronger-rd-and-innovation-support/

Six Focus Areas Identified to Accelerate India’s Economic Growth

Summary: FM Sitharaman outlines the “Kartavya” framework for long-term economic expansion.

During the Budget 2026 speech on February 2, 2026, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman identified six strategic interventions to sustain growth. These include: (1) Scaling manufacturing in seven frontier sectors, (2) Rejuvenating legacy industrial sectors, (3) Creating champion MSMEs, (4) Infrastructure push (including rail and energy), (5) Long-term security and stability, and (6) Development of city economic regions. These pillars form the basis of the government’s “Kartavya” (Duty) towards achieving a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. The budget also slashed the Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on overseas tour packages to a flat 2%, providing relief to the tourism sector. This structured approach aims to balance short-term activity with long-term productivity.

Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper III (Growth and Development). Understanding these “Six Focus Areas” is essential for mains-level analysis.

Fertilizer Subsidy Pegged at ₹1.70 Lakh Crore in FY27 Budget

Summary: Department of Fertilizers receives an 8.9% hike to ensure soil health and nutrient availability.

In the budget figures released on February 2, 2026, the Department of Fertilizers was allocated ₹1.70 lakh crore, up from ₹1.56 lakh crore in the previous fiscal year. This 8.9% increase is aimed at stabilizing input costs for farmers amidst global price volatility. The budget also marked 10 years of the Soil Health Card scheme, highlighting its role in reducing chemical fertilizer use by 10% in some regions. While the industry welcomed the support, there were calls for the rationalization of GST on crop-protection products. The government continues to push for “Nano-fertilizers” and organic alternatives to reduce the subsidy burden over the long term while maintaining food security.

Exam Angle: Relevant for Agriculture and Fiscal Policy. Note the subsidy amount (₹1.70 L Cr) and the milestone of the Soil Health Card scheme.

5. SPORTS

T20 World Cup Warm-up: India A Defeats USA by 38 Runs

Summary: N. Jagadeesan hits a century as India A secures a comfortable win in Navi Mumbai.

On February 2, 2026, India A began their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup warm-up campaign with a 38-run victory over the USA at the DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai. Batting first, India A posted a formidable 238/3, powered by Narayan Jagadeesan’s 49-ball 100 and an unbeaten 60 off 26 balls by Ayush Badoni. Tilak Varma also contributed 38 runs and took a wicket, proving his fitness for the main tournament. In response, the USA fought hard but were bowled out for 200 in 19.4 overs. Spin bowler Ravi Bishnoi was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets. This match served as a crucial practice for the upcoming tournament, showcasing the depth of India’s T20 talent.

Exam Angle: General awareness. Key names: N. Jagadeesan (centurion), Ravi Bishnoi, and the venue (Navi Mumbai).

Source: Outlook India — https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/cricket/india-a-vs-usa-live-score-icc-mens-t20-cricket-world-cup-2026-2nd-warm-up-updates-highlights-navi-mumbai

Tilak Varma Clears Fitness Test with All-Round Performance

Summary: Senior team contender Tilak Varma stars in the warm-up match, ending injury concerns.

During the India A vs USA match on February 2, 2026, Tilak Varma’s performance was closely watched by national selectors. Returning from a minor injury, Varma scored a brisk 38 off 24 balls, took a stunning running catch, and picked up a wicket with his off-spin. His all-round display is seen as a major boost for the senior Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup group stages. The match, streamed on Jio Hotstar, highlighted the readiness of India’s middle-order options. Team management expressed satisfaction with the “match-fitness” demonstrated by Varma, who is expected to play a key role in the upcoming ICC event.

Exam Angle: Sports personality news. Tilak Varma’s utility as an all-rounder is a common point of discussion in sports current affairs.

Source: Crictoday — https://crictoday.com/cricket/news/t20-world-cup-warm-up-matches-india-a-beat-usa-afghanistan-overcome-scotland/

6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

MeitY and EU Collaborate on Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) Interoperability

Summary: New arrangement to link Indian and European “Trusted Lists” for digital signatures.

The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) on February 2, 2026, detailed the technical aspects of the new agreement with the European Commission. The core of this partnership is the interoperability of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) systems. India’s Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) will work with European counterparts to ensure that digital signatures and seals issued in India are recognized in the EU and vice versa. This is crucial for the “Digital India” initiative as it moves toward international standards. It will significantly reduce the time required for verifying cross-border trade documents, which currently rely on physical couriers or expensive third-party verification services. The arrangement is governed by the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Exam Angle: Technical Science/Policy topic. Focus on the acronyms (MeitY, CCA, PKI) and the legislative framework (IT Act 2000).

Source: Communication Today — https://www.communicationstoday.co.in/meity-signs-administrative-arrangement-on-advanced-electronic-signatures-and-seals-with-dg-connect-of-european-commission/

Bharat-VISTAAR: AI-Powered Platform to Revolutionize Farm Advisories

Summary: Budget 2026 introduces a multilingual AI system for customized agricultural risk management.

The launch of Bharat-VISTAAR was one of the most significant tech announcements in the Union Budget on February 2, 2026. This platform is an AI-based, multilingual advisory system that integrates diverse data sources, including the government’s AgriStack (digital farmer records) and research from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The system provides “hyper-local” advisories to farmers regarding weather risks, pest attacks, and crop health in their native languages. By combining satellite imagery with field-level data, Bharat-VISTAAR aims to increase the efficiency of agricultural inputs and reduce crop losses. The platform is a cornerstone of the government’s “Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture” initiative.

Exam Angle: Science & Tech (AI in Agriculture). Note the integration of AgriStack and ICAR, and the objective of “risk-reducing advisories.”

7. OTHERS

Union Bank of India Announces Leadership Change: Chief General Manager Retires

Summary: Shri Bhaskara Rao Kare retires from Union Bank after a distinguished career.

Union Bank of India informed the exchanges on February 2, 2026, that its Chief General Manager, Shri Bhaskara Rao Kare, retired from the bank’s services effective January 31, 2026. During his tenure, Mr. Kare played a pivotal role in strengthening the bank’s regional and zonal operations and guiding staff training initiatives. He was also instrumental in implementing IT and Cyber Security protocols within the bank, holding certifications from IDRBT, Hyderabad. The bank credited him with supporting strategic projects that enhanced operational efficiency across branches. This change is part of the periodic leadership transitions in India’s Public Sector Banks (PSBs).

Exam Angle: Banking awareness. Questions often feature retirements/appointments of senior officials in major Public Sector Banks.

Source: Adda247 Current Affairs — https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/third-edition-of-future-warfare-course-launched-in-new-delhi/

S. Jaishankar to Meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio

Summary: Diplomatic engagement in Washington to cover critical minerals and regional security.

As part of his US visit starting February 2, 2026, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is scheduled for high-level meetings with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The talks are expected to span several categories, including cultural exchange and Diaspora concerns, alongside the core agenda of critical minerals. This meeting is significant as it sets the tone for India-US relations in 2026, focusing on “friend-shoring” of supply chains and collaborative efforts in the Indian Ocean Region. The minister’s visit includes engagements with the Indian community and think-tank experts in Washington, D.C., and New York.

Exam Angle: IR/Diplomatic appointments. Note the counterpart’s name (Marco Rubio) and the overarching theme of supply chain resilience.

Source: Ministry of External Affairs — https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/40647

QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (Core Recall Points)

1. National & State Governance

East-West Dedicated Freight Corridor (EW-DFC): Connects Dankuni (West Bengal) to Surat (Gujarat).
- Significance: Tests knowledge of major infrastructure projects and logistics cost reduction (from 14% to 8% of GDP).
Seven New High-Speed Rail Corridors: Mumbai–Pune, Pune–Hyderabad, Hyderabad–Chennai, Chennai–Bengaluru, Bengaluru–Hyderabad, Delhi–Varanasi, Varanasi–Siliguri.
- Significance: Understanding of National High-Speed Rail Corporation (NHSRCL) and Japanese Shinkansen technology partnership.
Southern Tech-Corridor (Golden Triangle): Hyderabad–Chennai, Chennai–Bengaluru, Bengaluru–Hyderabad.
- Significance: Concept of “City Economic Regions” as a policy tool for urban-led growth.
Baggage Rules 2026: Duty-free limit increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000 for Indian residents; foreign tourists get ₹25,000 (up from ₹15,000).
- Significance: CBIC regulations, customs facilitation, and jewellery rules (40g for females, 20g for others).
Yantra India Limited (YIL): Granted Miniratna Category-I status with ₹500 crore capital expenditure autonomy.
- Significance: OFB corporatization history (2021) and Aatmanirbhar Bharat defence production.
Third Edition of Future Warfare Course: February 2-25, 2026, at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
- Significance: HQ IDS and CENJOWS partnership; focus on cyber warfare, AI, and supply chain vulnerabilities.

2. Economy & Finance

Union Budget 2026-27 – Agriculture Allocation: ₹1.40 lakh crore to Ministry of Agriculture; launch of Bharat-VISTAAR AI platform.
- Significance: AgriStack integration, high-value crops (coconut, cashew, cocoa, sandalwood), and 27% hike in Animal Husbandry budget (₹6,150 crore).
Six Focus Areas (“Kartavya” Framework): (1) Manufacturing in frontier sectors, (2) Legacy industrial rejuvenation, (3) Champion MSMEs, (4) Infrastructure push, (5) Long-term security, (6) City economic regions.
- Significance: Vision for “Viksit Bharat” by 2047; TCS on tour packages reduced to 2%.
Fertilizer Subsidy FY27: ₹1.70 lakh crore (8.9% increase from ₹1.56 lakh crore).
- Significance: Soil Health Card scheme celebrates 10 years; focus on nano-fertilizers and organic alternatives.

3. International Relations & Defence

EAM S. Jaishankar’s US Visit: February 2-4, 2026, for Critical Minerals Ministerial with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
- Significance: Focus on lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements; Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) and iCET framework.
India-EU Digital Signature Pact: MeitY and EU DG CONNECT sign arrangement for Advanced Electronic Signatures interoperability.
- Significance: Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), IT Act 2000, and cross-border digital trade facilitation.
India AI Impact Summit 2026: February 16-20, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi; first Global South AI summit.
- Significance: Three Sutras (People, Planet, Progress); 300+ exhibitors from 30 countries; IndiaAI Mission advocacy.

4. Science, Environment & Sports

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) Interoperability: MeitY-EU collaboration for digital signatures recognition.
- Significance: Digital India initiative, cross-border trade document verification under IT Act 2000.
Bharat-VISTAAR Platform: AI-based multilingual farm advisory system integrating AgriStack and ICAR research.
- Significance: Hyper-local advisories on weather, pests, crop health; Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture.
T20 World Cup Warm-up: India A defeated USA by 38 runs; N. Jagadeesan scored 100 off 49 balls at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.
- Significance: Key player performances (Ravi Bishnoi, Tilak Varma, Ayush Badoni) ahead of ICC T20 World Cup.
Tilak Varma’s All-Round Performance: Scored 38 off 24 balls, took a catch and a wicket, proving match-fitness.
- Significance: Injury recovery and middle-order strengthening for senior team selection.

5. Banking & Corporate

Union Bank of India Leadership Change: Shri Bhaskara Rao Kare, Chief General Manager, retired effective January 31, 2026.
- Significance: Periodic PSB leadership transitions; IT and Cyber Security implementations.

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