Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: February 05, 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 Recall Points (Snapshot)
- Manipur Governance: Yumnam Khemchand Singh sworn in as CM, ending a year of President’s Rule.
- Judiciary & Elections: WB CM Mamata Banerjee argues in SC against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
- Trade Diplomacy: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal confirms 18% U.S. tariff cap; agri/dairy sectors protected.
- Financial Scrutiny: SC orders SIT probe into alleged bank fraud involving Anil Ambani’s ADAG group.
- Monetary Policy: RBI Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) begins 3-day meet; status quo on repo rate expected.
- Health & Society: President Murmu inaugurates various developmental and tribal welfare projects in Rairangpur, Odisha.
- International Peace: Second round of U.S.-brokered Ukraine-Russia peace talks begins in Abu Dhabi.
- Cricket Achievement: India defeats South Africa by 30 runs in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match.
- Environment Crisis: NGT report finds heavy metal (Chromium) contamination in 215 blood samples in Kanpur.
- Space & Tech: UPSC 2026 notifications released for CSE and IFS; significant focus on digital governance vacancies.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Yumnam Khemchand Singh Sworn in as Manipur CM Ending President’s Rule
Summary: President’s Rule in Manipur was revoked on February 4, 2026, as a new BJP-led government took charge.
On February 4, 2026, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla administered the oath of office to Yumnam Khemchand Singh as the new Chief Minister at Lok Bhavan, Imphal. This marks the end of nearly a year of President’s Rule in the state. Alongside him, Nemcha Kipgen (BJP) and Losii Dikho (Naga People’s Front) were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers. The transition followed the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) proving its majority after a period of ethnic volatility. Khemchand Singh, a former Speaker and martial artist, faces the immediate challenge of restoring communal harmony and accelerating reconstruction projects. The ceremony was attended by central observers, signaling the Union’s support for the new administration.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Polity (Article 356 – President’s Rule) and North-East regional security.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-february-4-2026/article70591493.ece
President Murmu Lays Foundation for Tribal Welfare Projects in Odisha
Summary: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated education and health infrastructure in Rairangpur to boost tribal development.
On February 4, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University IT Campus and laid foundation stones for an AYUSH Hospital and an Archery Centre in Rairangpur, Odisha. Emphasizing the “Purvodaya” vision, she highlighted that the development of tribal communities is central to achieving “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. The President noted the success of the Pradhan Mantri-JANMAN Yojana and the provision of MSP for over 90 minor forest products. These projects aim to bridge the digital and healthcare divide in remote districts like Mayurbhanj, ensuring that tribal youths gain access to modern skill-building and specialized medical care.
Exam Angle: Significant for Government Schemes (PM-JANMAN) and Tribal Empowerment topics.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2223341
Kerala Announces ₹1,905 Crore Investment for Sabari Rail Project
Summary: The Kerala government has committed major funding to the long-pending Sabari rail link to improve pilgrim connectivity.
On February 4, 2026, the Kerala state cabinet approved an investment of ₹1,905 crore for the Sabari rail project, aimed at connecting the shrine of Sabarimala to the railway network. The project will involve a new route with a specific list of stations designed to ease the commute for millions of devotees. This funding commitment seeks to expedite land acquisition and infrastructure development which had been stalled due to cost-sharing disputes with the Centre. The state expects this project to boost regional tourism and provide a safer, faster alternative to road transport during the peak pilgrimage season.
Exam Angle: Important for State Infrastructure and Regional Development.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/04/
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Mamata Banerjee Challenges Electoral Roll Revision in Supreme Court
Summary: West Bengal CM argued in person against the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
In a rare judicial appearance on February 4, 2026, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee argued before a Supreme Court bench headed by CJI Surya Kant. She challenged the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging that West Bengal was being unfairly targeted with the appointment of micro-observers not seen in other states. The CM claimed the process could lead to the deletion of nearly 1 crore genuine voters. The Supreme Court issued a notice to the Election Commission of India (ECI), emphasizing that no genuine voter should be removed from the rolls. The next hearing is scheduled for February 9, 2026.
Exam Angle: Crucial for Polity (Electoral Reforms and powers of the ECI).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-february-4-2026/article70591493.ece
Supreme Court Orders SIT Probe into ADAG Bank Fraud Case
Summary: A Special Investigation Team will now probe alleged bank fraud involving Anil Ambani’s Reliance Group.
On February 4, 2026, the Supreme Court directed the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate a high-profile bank fraud case involving the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG). The court criticized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the CBI for “unacceptable delays” in the investigation. The SIT is mandated to uncover the alleged nexus between bank officials and corporate executives. The bench stated that the investigation must be “fair and dispassionate,” and ordered a status report to be submitted within four weeks. This ruling underscores the judiciary’s push for corporate accountability and timely prosecution in financial crimes.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Corporate Governance and Judicial Oversight.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/04/page/8/
Piyush Goyal Assures Protection for Agri-Dairy in U.S. Trade Deal
Summary: Commerce Minister tells Lok Sabha that sensitive Indian sectors are shielded despite new trade concessions.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha on February 4, 2026, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the India-U.S. trade agreement fully protects the domestic agriculture and dairy sectors. He clarified that while U.S. tariffs on Indian goods will be capped at 18%—one of the lowest for any major economy—India has not compromised on market access for sensitive farm products. This deal is expected to provide a massive boost to the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Design in India’ initiatives by lowering export costs for Indian manufacturers. The Minister’s statement aimed to allay fears regarding the impact of the trade deal on local farmers.
Exam Angle: Important for International Trade (India-US Bilateral Relations).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-february-4-2026/article70591493.ece
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Second Round of Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks Commences in Abu Dhabi
Summary: Trilateral talks involving the U.S. have resumed to find a diplomatic end to the Ukraine conflict.
Negotiators from Ukraine and Russia began a second round of U.S.-brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi on February 4, 2026. This trilateral format, which includes U.S. representatives, focuses on reviving the energy truce that was allegedly violated last week. Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov stated that the talks aim to establish a sustainable ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis. The discussions come amidst a spike in ballistic missile strikes and heightened global pressure for a resolution. While significant breakthroughs remain elusive, the continuation of the Abu Dhabi channel is seen as a critical diplomatic lifeline for regional stability.
Exam Angle: Vital for International Relations and Global Security studies.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-february-4-2026/article70591493.ece
U.S. and Iran Scheduled for Nuclear Dialogue in Oman
Summary: Diplomacy resumes in Muscat as the U.S. and Iran seek to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.
Reports on February 4, 2026, confirmed that the United States and Iran are set to hold nuclear talks in Oman on February 6. The dialogue follows a period of intense military buildup and rhetoric from both sides. Regional diplomats suggest that the talks will focus on a “de-escalation framework” to prevent accidental conflict and address long-standing nuclear enrichment concerns. With President Trump warning of “bad things” if a deal isn’t reached, the Oman meeting is viewed as a high-stakes attempt to restore the JCPOA framework or a similar monitoring agreement.
Exam Angle: Significant for West Asia Geopolitics and Nuclear Non-Proliferation.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-february-4-2026/article70591493.ece
Nepal Deploys 300,000 Security Personnel for Upcoming Elections
Summary: Massive security mobilization in Nepal ahead of the March 5 polls to ensure peaceful voting.
The Nepal Ministry of Home Affairs announced on February 4, 2026, that 300,000 security personnel, including temporary police, are being deployed across the country. This move comes ahead of the general elections scheduled for March 5, the first since the major protests of 2025. Spokesman Ananda Kafle stated that the deployment aims to counter potential disruptions and ensure a fair voting process. The heightened security reflects the fragile political climate in Nepal as it seeks to stabilize its democratic institutions.
Exam Angle: Important for India-Nepal relations and South Asian neighborhood studies.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-february-4-2026/article70591493.ece
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI MPC Commences February Review; Policy Pause Likely
Summary: The Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee began its three-day meeting on February 4 to decide on interest rates.
The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) started its final meeting for FY26 on February 4, 2026. Governor Sanjay Malhotra is expected to announce the decision on February 6. Analysts anticipate a pause in the repo rate, currently at 5.25%, following 125 basis points of cuts over the past year. The meeting occurs in the backdrop of the recent India-U.S. trade deal and the Union Budget. Focus remains on “liquidity transmission” as the 10-year bond yields remain high despite previous rate cuts. The MPC is also assessing new base-year data for CPI and GDP.
Exam Angle: Essential for Economics (Monetary Policy, Repo Rate, Inflation).
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news/rbi-mpc-meeting-february-2026-policy-review-repo-rate-interest-decision-126020400865_1.html
CBDT Reports 88% Individual Taxpayers Opted for New Tax Regime
Summary: The Central Board of Direct Taxes chief confirmed a massive shift toward the simplified tax regime in FY26.
CBDT Chairman Ravi Agrawal announced on February 4, 2026, that approximately 88% of individual taxpayers in India have now opted for the New Tax Regime. This shift is attributed to the increased standard deductions and revised tax slabs introduced in recent budgets. The department remains confident of meeting the revised direct tax collection target of ₹24.21 trillion for the 2025-26 fiscal. Agrawal also noted that the department aims to dispose of over 200,000 appeals in the coming months to reduce litigation and increase tax certainty for citizens.
Exam Angle: Important for Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
RBI’s $10 Billion FX Swap Auction Subscribed 2.5 Times
Summary: The central bank’s move to manage dollar liquidity saw robust demand from market participants.
On February 4, 2026, the RBI conducted a $10 billion Foreign Exchange (FX) swap auction which received bids worth $25.03 billion, signifying a subscription rate of 2.5 times. The central bank accepted 118 bids with a premium cut-off set at 7.48 rupees. This intervention is part of the RBI’s strategy to manage rupee liquidity and stabilize the exchange rate following the volatility caused by global trade shifts. The high subscription indicates strong demand for dollars among Indian banks to meet end-of-fiscal requirements.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Banking and Forex Management.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
5. SPORTS
India Defeats South Africa by 30 Runs in T20 World Cup Warm-up
Summary: A solid performance by Indian batters and bowlers secured a win in the pre-tournament clash at Navi Mumbai.
In a high-voltage ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match on February 4, 2026, India defeated South Africa by 30 runs at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai. Batting first, India posted a formidable total fueled by quick starts from Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. In response, South Africa was restricted to 210/7 despite a late blitz of 45 runs by Tristan Stubbs. Indian spinners Axar Patel and Abhishek Sharma took crucial wickets, while Hardik Pandya’s all-round performance was a highlight. This victory boosts India’s confidence as they prepare to defend their title on home soil.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Sports Current Affairs (T20 World Cup 2026).
Source: Livemint — https://www.livemint.com/sports/india-vs-south-africa-live-score-icc-mens-t20-world-cup-2026-ind-vs-sa-national-cricket-team-scorecard-4-feb-11770206524591.html
Gukesh Confirmed for Norway Chess 2026 Elite Field
Summary: Indian teenage Grandmaster Gukesh D. has been officially named the fourth participant in the prestigious tournament.
Organizers of the Norway Chess 2026 tournament confirmed on February 4, 2026, that World Champion Gukesh D. will be part of the elite six-player field. The inclusion of the 19-year-old Indian star underscores his dominant position in global chess. The tournament, known for its innovative Armageddon format, will feature the world’s highest-ranked players. Gukesh’s participation is a significant milestone for Indian chess, as he continues to be a frontrunner in every major international circuit after his historic title win.
Exam Angle: Important for Awards and Sports Achievements.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-4-february-2026-india-india-us-trade-talks-update-renewed-ukraine-conflict-and-h-1b-visa-updates-10511418/
MS Dhoni Backs Kohli and Rohit for T20 World Cup Campaign
Summary: The legendary former captain urged critics to respect the experience of India’s senior batting duo.
In an interview released on February 4, 2026, former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni strongly supported Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating that their experience is irreplaceable for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Dhoni remarked that the “Ro-Ko” pair (Rohit and Kohli) should decide their own future based on their fitness and passion, rather than being pushed by external narratives. He described the current Indian T20 squad as “extremely dangerous” and well-equipped to win the trophy at home. Dhoni’s rare comments on active cricket matters have energized the fan base ahead of the tournament.
Exam Angle: General Sports news.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-february-4-2026/article70591493.ece
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
NGT Report Reveals Severe Chromium Contamination in Kanpur Blood Samples
Summary: A survey across three districts in Uttar Pradesh found chromium levels exceeding permissible limits in 215 people.
An action-taken report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on February 4, 2026, revealed that 215 out of 233 blood samples tested in Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat, and Fatehpur districts contained chromium levels above safe limits. The contamination is linked to industrial chromium dumps and untreated effluents affecting groundwater. The report, prepared with inputs from IIT Kanpur and RML Institute, Lucknow, highlighted that some samples also showed excessive mercury and lead. Health camps have been mandated in the affected 17 clusters to provide clinical assessment and follow-up treatment.
Exam Angle: Critical for Environment (Pollution and Health Hazards).
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/amp/story/environment/daily-court-digest-major-environment-orders-february-2-2026
Experts Warn Against Commercial Plantations on Forest Land
Summary: Recent amendments to forest conservation rules have triggered concerns over monoculture and biodiversity loss.
Environmentalists on February 4, 2026, raised alarms regarding the notified amendments to the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980. The new rules allow private entities to raise commercial plantations on forest land without paying traditional levies like Net Present Value (NPV). Experts argue that this could lead to large-scale “monocultures” that destroy native biodiversity and affect forest-dependent communities. While the government maintains the move is aimed at restoring 33% forest cover, campaigners from the ‘Campaign to Defend Nature and People’ warn it effectively opens protected ecosystems to industrial exploitation.
Exam Angle: Vital for Environment Law and Biodiversity.
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/amp/story/forests/access-open-why-opening-forestlands-to-commercial-plantations-would-prove-disastrous
IndiGo Suspends Copenhagen Flights Due to Airspace Constraints
Summary: India’s leading carrier is adjusting its international schedule following geopolitical and operational hurdles.
On February 4, 2026, IndiGo announced the suspension of its services to Copenhagen effective February 17, 2026. The airline cited “external operational constraints,” including continuously changing airspace restrictions due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts. Additionally, the carrier will reduce flight frequencies on the Delhi-London and Delhi-Manchester routes. This development reflects the challenges faced by the aviation industry in navigating volatile international airspaces and airport congestion. The airline is refocusing its wide-body operations to more stable corridors to maintain operational efficiency.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Economy and Aviation Sector.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-february-4-2026/article70591493.ece
7. OTHERS (APPOINTMENTS, AWARDS & OBITUARIES)
UPSC Releases 2026 Notifications for Civil Services and Forest Services
Summary: The Union Public Service Commission has officially opened applications for the 2026 exam cycle.
On February 4, 2026, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) released the official notifications for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) and the Indian Forest Service (IFS) 2026. Candidates can now apply online through the official portal. The notification details the number of vacancies, eligibility criteria, and the updated exam schedule. This year’s notification includes a significant emphasis on vacancies within digital governance and environmental management departments, reflecting the government’s current policy priorities. The preliminary examination is expected to take place in late May 2026.
Exam Angle: Essential for all aspirants for exam timelines.
Source: Livemint — https://www.livemint.com/politics/budget-session-jp-nadda-jokes-skill-development-dept-for-opposition-jayant-singh-posts-video-epstein-india-us-trade-11770209969969.html
Renowned Sociologist Andre Beteille Passes Away at 91
Summary: India’s foremost scholar on caste and social stratification, Professor Andre Beteille, died in New Delhi.
On February 4, 2026, tributes poured in for Professor Andre Beteille, who passed away at the age of 91 due to age-related illness. A pioneer in Indian sociology, Beteille was known for his rigorous fieldwork and scholarship on the Indian middle class, caste systems, and social inequality. His work, “Caste, Class and Power,” remains a foundational text for students of social sciences. His passing is seen as the end of an era for traditional academic scholarship in India. He was a recipient of the Padma Bhushan and served as a Professor of Sociology at the Delhi School of Economics.
Exam Angle: Important for Obituaries and Social Science context.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/morning-digest-february-5-2026/article70591493.ece
U.S. Announces H-1B Visa Registration Start Date for 2026
Summary: The registration for H-1B visas will open on March 4, affecting thousands of Indian tech professionals.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on February 4, 2026, that the initial registration period for the FY 2027 H-1B visa cap will begin on March 4, 2026. The announcement also included details on an additional visa cap for H-2B workers. This update is critical for Indian IT firms and skilled workers seeking employment in the U.S. market. The registration process remains digital, and the selection will be through a lottery system if the number of applicants exceeds the annual limit.
Exam Angle: Relevant for International Relations and Economy (Service Exports).
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-4-february-2026-india-india-us-trade-talks-update-renewed-ukraine-conflict-and-h-1b-visa-updates-10511418/
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (CORE RECALL POINTS)
1. National & State Governance
- Manipur CM Appointment: Yumnam Khemchand Singh sworn in as Chief Minister, ending President’s Rule.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of Article 356 (President’s Rule) and North-East governance.
- Electoral Roll Revision Challenge: WB CM Mamata Banerjee argued in Supreme Court against Special Intensive Revision (SIR), alleging potential deletion of 1 crore voters.
- Significance: Crucial for Electoral Reforms, ECI powers, and federalism issues.
- Tribal Welfare in Odisha: President Murmu inaugurated IT Campus, AYUSH Hospital, and Archery Centre in Rairangpur under “Purvodaya” vision.
- Significance: Relevant for PM-JANMAN Yojana and tribal development schemes.
- Kerala Infrastructure: State cabinet approved ₹1,905 crore for Sabari rail project connecting Sabarimala shrine.
- Significance: Important for state-specific infrastructure and regional development.
2. Judiciary & Corporate Governance
- SIT Probe Ordered: Supreme Court directed Special Investigation Team for alleged ADAG bank fraud case involving Anil Ambani.
- Significance: Corporate governance, judicial oversight, and financial crime prosecution.
3. Economy & Finance
- RBI MPC Meeting: Three-day Monetary Policy Committee meeting began; repo rate expected to remain at 5.25%.
- Significance: Core development in Monetary Policy, inflation control, and interest rate mechanism.
- New Tax Regime Adoption: 88% of individual taxpayers opted for New Tax Regime in FY26.
- Significance: Major shift in Fiscal Policy and tax compliance trends.
- FX Swap Auction: RBI’s $10 billion forex swap oversubscribed 2.5 times, accepting 118 bids at 7.48 rupees premium.
- Significance: Forex management, rupee liquidity, and external sector stability.
4. International Relations & Trade
- India-US Trade Deal: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed 18% U.S. tariff cap with full protection for agri-dairy sectors.
- Significance: Bilateral trade relations, ‘Make in India’ initiative impact.
- Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks: Second round of U.S.-brokered trilateral talks commenced in Abu Dhabi.
- Significance: Global security, conflict resolution, and international diplomacy.
- US-Iran Nuclear Talks: Scheduled for February 6 in Oman focusing on de-escalation and JCPOA framework.
- Significance: West Asia geopolitics and nuclear non-proliferation.
- Nepal Elections Security: 300,000 security personnel deployed for March 5 general elections.
- Significance: India-Nepal relations and South Asian neighborhood policy.
- H-1B Visa Registration: USCIS announced March 4 start date for FY 2027 H-1B visa cap registration.
- Significance: India-US relations, service sector exports, and skilled migration.
5. Science, Technology & Environment
- Chromium Contamination in Kanpur: NGT report found 215 out of 233 blood samples with excessive chromium levels across three UP districts.
- Significance: Environmental pollution, health hazards, and industrial waste management.
- Forest Land Controversy: Amendments to Van Adhiniyam allowing commercial plantations without NPV payment raised biodiversity concerns.
- Significance: Environment law, forest conservation, and biodiversity protection.
- Aviation Sector Challenge: IndiGo suspended Copenhagen flights from February 17 due to airspace constraints.
- Significance: Aviation sector challenges and geopolitical impact on operations.
6. Sports Achievements
- T20 World Cup Warm-up: India defeated South Africa by 30 runs in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match at Navi Mumbai.
- Significance: International cricket and pre-tournament performance tracking.
- Chess Achievement: World Champion Gukesh D. confirmed for Norway Chess 2026 elite six-player field.
- Significance: Indian chess excellence and international sporting achievements.
- MS Dhoni Statement: Former captain backed Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for T20 World Cup, calling squad “extremely dangerous.”
- Significance: General sports news and leadership perspectives.
7. Appointments, Examinations & Obituaries
- UPSC 2026 Notifications: Official notifications released for CSE and IFS with emphasis on digital governance vacancies.
- Significance: Examination timelines and policy priorities in recruitment.
- Andre Beteille (1929-2026): Renowned sociologist and author of “Caste, Class and Power” passed away at 91.
- Significance: Important personalities in Social Sciences; Padma Bhushan recipient.
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