Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: February 14, 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)
- DAP 2026 Draft: Ministry of Defence releases draft Defence Acquisition Procedure 2026; indigenous content mandate raised to 60%.
- Karmayoga for Empowered Bharat: President Droupadi Murmu launches nationwide spiritual campaign with Brahma Kumaris in New Delhi.
- ASEAN-India CSP: 26th AIJCC meeting held in Jakarta; 2026 designated as the “ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.”
- CPI Base Revision: Pronab Sen Committee details new CPI series; January retail inflation pegged at 2.75% under revised metrics.
- Telangana Civic Polls: Congress sweeps 116 municipalities; historic win as transgender person Nagilla Sudhakar wins in Chityala.
- RBI FX Reserves: India’s foreign exchange reserves drop by $6.71 billion to $717.6 billion as of February 6.
- GIFT City Leadership: Uday Kotak officially appointed as Chairman of Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City).
- Green Steel Taxonomy: Government defines benchmarks for “Green Steel,” incentivizing emissions below 2.2 tonnes of CO₂ per tonne of steel.
- National Women’s Day: India celebrates the 147th birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu on February 13.
- T20 World Cup: UAE stuns India A in Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars opener; Men’s T20 WC group stages heat up in Delhi and Chennai.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Congress Dominates Telangana Municipal Elections; Historic Win for Transgender Candidate
Summary: The ruling Congress party achieved a landslide victory in the Telangana municipal polls, while an independent transgender candidate secured a historic win.
On February 13, 2026, counting for the 116 municipalities and seven municipal corporations in Telangana revealed a massive wave for the Congress party. Under the leadership of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, the party secured leads in over 85% of the urban local bodies, effectively routing the BRS and BJP. A significant milestone was recorded in Chityala municipality, Nalgonda district, where Nagilla Sudhakar (also known as Kaveri), a transgender person, won the councillor seat from Ward No. 1 as an independent.
The elections, held on February 11 with a 73.01% voter turnout, served as a litmus test for the state government’s “People’s Governance” model. The BJP, which failed to take a lead in any major municipality during early rounds, alleged discrepancies in counting, while the BRS remained a distant second. This victory consolidates Congress’s hold on the state’s urban centers ahead of future legislative challenges.
Exam Angle: Relevant for State PSCs regarding local self-government (74th Amendment) and social inclusion in Indian politics.
Source: Indian Express
Uttar Pradesh to Construct Affordable Hostels for Students in New Delhi
Summary: The Uttar Pradesh government announced plans to build dedicated hostel facilities in the national capital for state students.
On February 13, 2026, the Lucknow administration confirmed that the Uttar Pradesh government will soon commence construction of affordable hostel facilities in New Delhi. These hostels are specifically designed to assist students from UP who migrate to the capital for competitive exam coaching and higher education. The move aims to alleviate the financial burden of high rental costs in areas like Mukherjee Nagar and Old Rajinder Nagar.
The project will be funded and managed by the UP state government, providing subsidized accommodation, library facilities, and 24/7 security. Officials stated that the facility would prioritize students from economically weaker sections (EWS). This initiative follows similar models by other states like Odisha and Maharashtra, which have built “State Bhawans” with student wings. By establishing a dedicated hub, the state aims to provide a safe and conducive environment for its youth aspiring for civil services and other national-level careers.
Exam Angle: Important for UPPSC and governance topics related to state-led social welfare and educational support systems.
Source: Indian Express
Rajkot Silver Robbery Case: Police Recover 111 kg of Stolen Bullion
Summary: Gujarat Police traced the majority of the 150 kg silver stolen in Rajkot, marking a major success in inter-district criminal investigation.
On February 13, 2026, the Rajkot police announced the recovery of 111 kg of silver out of the 150 kg stolen in a high-profile heist earlier this month. The investigation revealed a sophisticated network involved in the theft and subsequent attempt to melt the bullion into ingots to sell in the black market. While a significant portion was recovered, authorities expressed concern that the remaining 39 kg might have already been processed into unrecognizable forms.
The case highlights the challenges of monitoring the transport of precious metals across state highways. Rajkot, known as a hub for silver jewelry manufacturing, has seen intensified security measures following the incident. Police have arrested four individuals and are conducting raids to trace the illicit smelting units. This development underscores the need for better surveillance in industrial clusters and the regulation of unorganized bullion markets to prevent money laundering and organized crime.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Internal Security and Law & Order topics in State PSC exams.
Source: Indian Express
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Ministry of Defence Releases Draft DAP 2026 to Bolster Aatmanirbharta
Summary: The MoD has unveiled the draft Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2026, proposing an increase in indigenous content to 60%.
On February 13, 2026, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) released the draft Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2026, aimed at replacing the 2020 version. A pivotal change in the draft is the increase of the Indigenous Content (IC) mandate from 50% to 60% under the ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category. To streamline the process, the draft reduces procurement categories from five to four and introduces “Long Term Bulk Acquisition” to provide the industry with better visibility for investments.
The draft also introduces Technology Readiness Level (TRL) based categorization, allowing ab-initio single-vendor procurement for equipment between TRL 6 and 9. Furthermore, a “Low-Cost Capital Acquisition” procedure has been added for fast-moving, low-cost technological items. These reforms are designed to reduce import dependency and accelerate the induction of indigenous technology into the armed forces. Stakeholders have been invited to provide feedback on the draft via the MoD website.
Exam Angle: Crucial for UPSC GS Paper 3 (Defence & Indigenization) and prelims regarding procurement reforms.
Source: Press Information Bureau
President Murmu Launches ‘Karmayoga for Empowered Bharat’ Campaign
Summary: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a nationwide spiritual and moral campaign in New Delhi to promote holistic development.
On February 13, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the All-India Conference and launched the “Karmayoga for Empowered Bharat” campaign organized by the Brahma Kumaris in New Delhi. During the event, she also marked the silver jubilee of the Om Shanti Retreat Centre in Gurugram. The President emphasized that while economic and technological progress are essential, they must be anchored in morality to prevent social imbalances and the concentration of wealth.
The campaign promotes the concept of “Karmayoga”—integrating high spiritual principles with daily responsibilities. The President noted that ethical governance and value-based living are necessary to create a society that serves as a global model. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader “Mission Karmayogi” framework, though focused here on the spiritual and citizen-centric aspects of duty and service.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper 4 (Ethics) and topics related to social-cultural movements in India.
Source: Press Information Bureau
India Celebrates 147th Birth Anniversary of Sarojini Naidu as National Women’s Day
Summary: National Women’s Day 2026 was observed across India on February 13 to honor the legacy of the “Nightingale of India.”
On February 13, 2026, India celebrated National Women’s Day, marking the 147th birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu. Born in 1879, Naidu was a central figure in the Indian independence movement and became the first Indian woman to serve as President of the Indian National Congress (1925) and the first woman Governor of an Indian state (United Provinces). Her contributions to literature and women’s suffrage remain a cornerstone of Indian feminist history.
Commemorative events were held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan and various educational institutions to highlight her role in the independence movement and her advocacy for women’s rights. The day serves as a reminder of the progress made in gender equality while addressing contemporary challenges. Unlike International Women’s Day (March 8), this day specifically celebrates the indigenous roots of the women’s movement in India through the life of Naidu.
Exam Angle: High importance for History and Prelims regarding prominent personalities and women’s movements.
Source: Next IAS
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
26th ASEAN-India Joint Cooperation Committee Meeting Convenes in Jakarta
Summary: India and ASEAN reaffirmed their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and designated 2026 as the Year of Maritime Cooperation.
On February 13, 2026, the 26th ASEAN-India Joint Cooperation Committee (AIJCC) meeting was held at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta. Both sides reviewed the progress of the Plan of Action (2021-2025) and noted that 2026 marks the first year of the new POA (2026-2030). A major highlight was the formal designation of 2026 as the “ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation,” emphasizing shared security and economic interests in the Indo-Pacific region.
India reiterated that ASEAN is the “cornerstone” of its Act East Policy. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in digital transformation, including the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) and cross-border digital payments. Both parties also discussed the “Connecting the Connectivities” approach, aligning India’s infrastructure projects with the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan. The Philippines, as the 2026 ASEAN Chair, received India’s full support for its theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together.”
Exam Angle: Critical for UPSC GS Paper 2 (International Relations) and Act East Policy.
Source: ASEAN Secretariat
India Establishes National Biobank for Rare Lysosomal Storage Diseases (LSDs)
Summary: In a global first, India launched a government-supported biobank dedicated to LSDs to support research and clinical trials.
On February 13, 2026, the Indian government announced the operationalization of the first national biobank dedicated to Lysosomal Storage Diseases (LSDs). These are a group of about 50 rare inherited metabolic disorders. While individually rare, they affect an estimated 12,000+ patients in India, often leading to lifelong disability or early mortality. The biobank will store biological samples to facilitate genomic research and the development of indigenous Enzyme Replacement Therapies (ERT).
The initiative is part of the National Policy for Rare Diseases and aims to reduce the exorbitant cost of imported treatments, which can range from ₹50 lakh to over ₹1 crore annually per patient. By centralizing data and samples, the government hopes to attract international pharmaceutical collaboration for clinical trials. This move is a significant step toward achieving health equity for patients suffering from “orphan diseases” that are often neglected by mainstream commercial drug development.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Science & Tech (Biotechnology) and Social Justice (Health policies).
Source: PMF IAS
Trump Orders Second Aircraft Carrier to Middle East Amid Regional Tensions
Summary: U.S. President Donald Trump has deployed a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, signaling a shift in global maritime security.
On February 13, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that a second aircraft carrier is heading to the Middle East. This deployment follows a series of regional escalations that have threatened global trade routes, including the Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz. The move is seen as a “maximum pressure” tactic to deter hostile actors and protect American interests and allies in the region.
For India, this development is significant due to its heavy reliance on Middle Eastern energy imports and the safety of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf. Any disruption in these maritime corridors directly impacts India’s inflation and supply chain stability. The deployment also coincides with India’s own “Year of Maritime Cooperation” with ASEAN, highlighting a global trend toward increased naval posturing in critical choke points.
Exam Angle: Important for International Relations and Global Security dynamics.
Source: Economic Times
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
New CPI Series Pegs January Retail Inflation at 2.75%
Summary: The government has introduced a revised Consumer Price Index (CPI) series with a new base year to better reflect current consumption patterns.
On February 13, 2026, officials released the first data set under the revised CPI series, which pegs India’s retail inflation for January 2026 at 2.75%. The revision, led by recommendations from the Pronab Sen Committee, aims to reduce structural instability by updating the “consumption basket.” A major change includes the exclusion of free items provided under the Public Distribution System (PDS) to ensure the index reflects actual market transactions.
The new series also adjusts the weights of food and fuel, which had become outdated. Economists note that while the December number (under the old series) and the January print are not directly comparable, the 2.75% figure indicates that inflation remains well within the RBI’s comfort zone of 4% ± 2%. This revision is crucial for the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) as it provides a more accurate picture of the “Goldilocks moment” of the Indian economy—characterized by high growth and low inflation.
Exam Angle: Essential for Economics (Inflation, Indices) and upcoming banking exams.
Source: Business Standard
India’s FX Reserves Fall by $6.71 Billion to $717.6 Billion
Summary: Latest RBI data shows a significant weekly decline in foreign exchange reserves, primarily due to changes in the valuation of foreign currency assets.
According to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on February 13, 2026, India’s foreign exchange reserves dropped by $6.71 billion, settling at $717.6 billion for the week ended February 6. This decline is one of the sharpest in recent months. The fall is largely attributed to the depreciation of Foreign Currency Assets (FCA), which decreased by $5.9 billion. Gold reserves also saw a marginal decline of $600 million during the reporting period.
Despite this dip, India’s reserves remain among the highest globally, providing a robust cushion against external shocks and currency volatility. Market analysts suggest the RBI may have intervened in the spot market to provide liquidity and stabilize the Rupee against a strengthening US Dollar. The reserves currently cover approximately 11 months of projected imports, maintaining India’s “External Sector” stability.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Prelims and Banking exams (External Sector, RBI data).
Source: Economic Times
Uday Kotak Appointed as Chairman of GIFT City
Summary: Veteran banker Uday Kotak has been appointed to lead the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City, India’s first operational smart city and IFSC.
On February 13, 2026, the government officially appointed Uday Kotak as Chairman of GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City). Kotak, the founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank, brings decades of financial expertise to the role. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to accelerate GIFT City’s evolution into a global financial hub, competing with the likes of Dubai, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
As Chairman, Kotak is expected to focus on enhancing the regulatory framework for the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) and attracting more global banks and fintech firms. His leadership comes at a time when the government is pushing for the “onshoring” of Indian financial services currently traded abroad. This appointment underscores the government’s commitment to making GIFT City a cornerstone of India’s $5 trillion economy ambition.
Exam Angle: Important for Appointments and Economy (Financial Markets).
Source: Economic Times
5. SPORTS
UAE Stuns India A in Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars Opener
Summary: UAE secured a 7-wicket victory over defending champions India A in Bangkok, led by Esha Oza’s unbeaten 72.
On February 13, 2026, the Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament kicked off in Bangkok with a major upset. India A, batting first, posted a modest total of 130/9 in 20 overs. Anushka Sharma top-scored with 47 runs, while Tanuja Kanwar added a quick 34. However, the UAE bowlers, led by Samaira Dharnidharka’s 3-wicket burst in the powerplay, kept the Indian batters under pressure.
In response, UAE captain Esha Oza played a masterful knock, scoring 72* off 61 balls to guide her team to 131/3 with four balls to spare. This win marks a significant milestone for Associate cricket, proving the narrowing gap between established powers and emerging nations. India A, placed in Group A alongside Pakistan A, UAE, and Nepal, now faces a “must-win” situation in their next match against Pakistan A on Sunday to stay in contention for the semi-finals.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Sports news and achievements of Indian athletes.
Source: Olympics.com
Riyan Parag Appointed Captain of Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026
Summary: Rajasthan Royals have named Riyan Parag as their new captain for the 2026 season, signaling a focus on young leadership.
On February 13, 2026, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) announced that Indian all-rounder Riyan Parag will lead the side in the upcoming IPL 2026 season. Parag, who has been with the franchise since 2019, becomes one of the youngest captains in the league’s history. This decision follows his consistent domestic performances and his growing maturity as a finisher and handy spin option for the national team.
The move is part of RR’s long-term strategy to build a team around a core of young Indian talent. Parag succeeds Sanju Samson, who led the team for several seasons. The franchise stated that the change in leadership aims to bring a fresh perspective to their tactical approach. For Parag, this is a massive opportunity to showcase his captaincy credentials on a global stage, potentially paving the way for future leadership roles in the Indian team.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Sports (Appointments/IPL).
Source: Indian Express
ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Triple-Header Friday Heats Up Group Stages
Summary: Three crucial matches were held across Colombo, Delhi, and Chennai on February 13 as teams battle for the Super 8 spots.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 continued its intense group stage on February 13, 2026, with three matches. In Colombo, powerhouse Australia faced Zimbabwe in a Group B clash. In Delhi, associate nations Canada and UAE fought for their first points at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The final match of the day featured the USA against the Netherlands in Chennai, where the spin-friendly Chepauk pitch was expected to be the deciding factor.
With the tournament format allowing only the top two from each group to advance to the Super 8, every run and wicket has become vital. These mid-tournament fixtures often determine the “dark horses” of the competition. For India, which is hosting several matches of the tournament, the focus remains on the organizational success and the performance of the home team in subsequent rounds.
Exam Angle: Important for current sports events and venues.
Source: Times of India
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Government Defines “Green Steel” Taxonomy to Decarbonize Heavy Industry
Summary: A new benchmark has been set for steel production, classifying “Green Steel” as having emissions below 2.2 tonnes of CO₂ per tonne of metal.
On February 13, 2026, the Union Ministry of Steel, supported by PM Modi’s endorsement of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), officially defined the “Green Steel” taxonomy. Steel produced with emissions of less than 2.2 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per tonne of crude steel (tCO₂e/t-cs) will now receive a 3 to 5-star rating. This initiative aims to incentivize producers to adopt CCUS technologies and avoid carbon taxes like the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on exports.
India currently depends on coal for 55-60% of its primary energy, making an immediate shift impossible. CCUS allows for the continued use of fossil fuels while capturing emissions to produce methanol or aid in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR). The government is also exploring a cluster-based approach in industrial hubs like Odisha and Gujarat to share CO₂ transport infrastructure, reducing costs for individual plants.
Exam Angle: Vital for GS Paper 3 (Environment & Economy) and Net-Zero 2070 targets.
Source: Drishti IAS
NITI Aayog Proposes Massive Nuclear Capacity Surge to 300 GW by 2070
Summary: A new roadmap by NITI Aayog emphasizes nuclear energy as a “firm low-carbon baseload” to achieve India’s climate goals.
On February 13, 2026, NITI Aayog released a policy recommendation paper suggesting a rapid expansion of India’s nuclear power capacity. The report projects an increase from the current 8.18 GW (2025) to approximately 100 GW by 2047 and up to 300 GW by 2070 under the “Net Zero Scenario.” A key pillar of this strategy is the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which are land-efficient and flexible compared to traditional large-scale reactors.
The paper also calls for increased private sector participation, enabled by the “SHANTI Act, 2025,” to mobilize capital and innovation. By strengthening indigenous reactor development led by BARC, India aims for technological self-reliance in the nuclear fuel cycle. This shift marks a transition where coal-based plants will increasingly serve as backup capacity, while nuclear and renewables provide the primary power for a decarbonized grid.
Exam Angle: Significant for Science & Tech (Nuclear Energy) and Energy Security topics.
Source: PMF IAS
IoT-Based Monitoring Framework Launched to Track Waste Sector Emissions
Summary: NITI Aayog has suggested a unified national waste-data architecture using IoT sensors to reduce methane leakages from landfills.
On February 13, 2026, a new strategy was proposed to address emissions from India’s 3,000+ dumpsites. Approximately 74% of waste-sector emissions in India originate from wastewater systems and legacy waste. The proposed IoT-based monitoring framework will use sensors for real-time tracking of methane (CH₄) levels and waste processing efficiency. This is part of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) 2.0 and the GOBAR-dhan initiative.
The strategy prioritizes “Aerobic Treatment” over “Anaerobic Treatment” where possible, as the former produces CO₂, which has a significantly lower climate impact than methane. For existing anaerobic systems, the focus will be on large-scale methane recovery to produce Bio-CNG. Under the Net Zero Scenario, these measures are projected to reduce waste-sector emissions by 95.9% by 2070, turning a major environmental burden into a source of rural income and clean energy.
Exam Angle: Important for Environment (Pollution & Waste Management) and Digital India initiatives.
Source: PMF IAS
7. OTHERS
Delhi Police Issues Notice to Publisher Over General Naravane’s Memoir
Summary: A controversy has erupted over the unpublished memoir of former Army Chief General M.M. Naravane, leading to a police notice to the publisher.
On February 13, 2026, the Delhi Police issued a formal notice to Penguin Random House India seeking clarifications regarding the memoir of former Chief of Army Staff, General M.M. Naravane. The book, titled “Four Stars of Destiny,” has reportedly been under scrutiny by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and security agencies for potentially sensitive content related to national security and border developments during his tenure.
The notice seeks to understand if the manuscript underwent the mandatory vetting process required for retired high-ranking military officials before publication. This development highlights the legal and ethical balance between an individual’s right to share history and the state’s requirement to protect classified operational details. The publication of the memoir has been delayed multiple times due to these ongoing reviews.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Governance (Freedom of Speech vs National Security) and Ethics.
Source: Indian Express
BSE Receives SEBI Nod for Focused Midcap Index Derivatives
Summary: The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has been cleared to launch futures and options contracts on its new Focused Midcap Index.
On February 13, 2026, capital markets regulator SEBI granted approval to the BSE to expand its derivatives portfolio. The introduction of F&O contracts on the “BSE Focused Midcap Index” comes at a time when exchanges have streamlined their operations into a single weekly expiry structure. This move is expected to provide investors with more targeted hedging tools in the mid-cap segment, which often sees higher volatility and growth potential.
In a related development, the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) announced a 10-year technology partnership with TCS to power its entry into the equity derivatives segment. These advancements reflect the maturing of India’s financial markets and the increasing adoption of sophisticated trading instruments by retail and institutional investors alike.
Exam Angle: Important for Economy (Financial Markets and Regulators).
Source: Economic Times
Udaipur-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat to Commence Commercial Run Next Week
Summary: The newest Vande Bharat Express connecting Rajasthan and Gujarat will begin its commercial operations, enhancing regional connectivity.
On February 13, 2026, the Ministry of Railways announced that the Udaipur-Asarva (Ahmedabad) Vande Bharat Express would start its regular commercial run next week. This high-speed train aims to reduce travel time significantly between the two major tourist and industrial hubs. The route includes several key stops, catering to both business travelers and the heavy tourist inflow into Udaipur.
This launch is part of the government’s broader “Mission Raftar” to modernize the Indian Railways’ fleet. However, the announcement comes amidst heightened security concerns; on the same day, a man was arrested by the RPF for placing a snake in a Mumbai-Solapur Vande Bharat train to cause panic. The ministry has reiterated that while expanding the network, passenger safety and security protocols are being upgraded with AI-based surveillance and stricter onboard monitoring.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Infrastructure and National Schemes (Vande Bharat).
Source: Indian Express
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (Core Recall Points)
1. National & State Governance
- Draft Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2026: Indigenous content mandate raised from 50% to 60% under ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category; procurement categories reduced from 5 to 4.
- Significance: Defence reforms, indigenization (Aatmanirbharta), and procurement policy changes for UPSC GS Paper 3.
- Karmayoga for Empowered Bharat Campaign: Launched by President Droupadi Murmu with Brahma Kumaris; emphasizes ethical governance and value-based living.
- Significance: Relevant for Ethics (GS Paper 4) and social-cultural movements.
- Telangana Municipal Elections: Congress secured over 85% of urban local bodies; Nagilla Sudhakar (transgender) won councillor seat in Chityala municipality.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of 74th Constitutional Amendment (local self-government) and social inclusion in politics.
- Uttar Pradesh Student Hostels in Delhi: State government to build affordable hostels for UP students preparing for competitive exams in the national capital.
- Significance: State-led social welfare and educational support systems.
- General Naravane’s Memoir Controversy: Delhi Police issued notice to publisher regarding mandatory vetting process for retired military officials.
- Significance: Balance between freedom of speech and national security concerns.
2. Economy & Finance
- Revised CPI Series: January 2026 retail inflation at 2.75% under new base year; Pronab Sen Committee recommendations implemented; excludes PDS free items from consumption basket.
- Significance: Core development in economic indicators, monetary policy framework, and RBI’s inflation targeting.
- Foreign Exchange Reserves: India’s FX reserves declined by $6.71 billion to $717.6 billion (week ended February 6); covers ~11 months of imports.
- Significance: External sector stability indicator, crucial for macroeconomic assessments.
- Uday Kotak Appointed Chairman of GIFT City: Founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank to lead Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (IFSC).
- Significance: Key appointment in financial markets development and India’s $5 trillion economy ambition.
- BSE Focused Midcap Index Derivatives: SEBI approved F&O contracts; NCDEX announces 10-year tech partnership with TCS for equity derivatives.
- Significance: Capital markets development and SEBI’s regulatory functions.
3. International Relations & Defence
- 26th ASEAN-India Joint Cooperation Committee Meeting: Held in Jakarta; 2026 designated as “ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation”; reviewed Plan of Action (2021-2025) and new POA (2026-2030).
- Significance: Critical for Act East Policy, Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and Indo-Pacific engagement.
- Trump Orders Second Aircraft Carrier to Middle East: U.S. deployment amid regional tensions affecting Suez Canal and Strait of Hormuz.
- Significance: Global maritime security, impact on India’s energy imports and diaspora safety in the Gulf.
4. Science, Technology & Environment
- National Biobank for Lysosomal Storage Diseases (LSDs): First government-supported biobank for rare diseases; aims to develop indigenous Enzyme Replacement Therapies (ERT).
- Significance: National Policy for Rare Diseases, health equity, and biotechnology development.
- Green Steel Taxonomy: Emissions below 2.2 tonnes CO₂ per tonne of crude steel qualify for 3-5 star rating; supports CCUS technology adoption.
- Significance: Crucial for Net-Zero 2070 targets, environment-economy interface, and CBAM compliance.
- NITI Aayog Nuclear Capacity Roadmap: Projects increase from 8.18 GW (2025) to 100 GW by 2047 and 300 GW by 2070; emphasis on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
- Significance: Energy security, climate goals, and nuclear power development.
- IoT-Based Waste Monitoring Framework: Real-time tracking of methane emissions from 3,000+ dumpsites; part of Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 and GOBAR-dhan.
- Significance: Waste management, methane reduction, Digital India, and circular economy.
5. Sports & Culture
- National Women’s Day: India celebrated 147th birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu (February 13); first woman President of Indian National Congress (1925) and first woman Governor of India.
- Significance: High importance for History prelims, prominent personalities, and women’s movements.
- Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars: UAE defeated India A by 7 wickets in Bangkok; Esha Oza scored unbeaten 72.
- Significance: Associate cricket growth and women’s sports achievements.
- Riyan Parag Appointed Rajasthan Royals Captain: One of IPL’s youngest captains for 2026 season; succeeds Sanju Samson.
- Significance: Sports appointments and leadership transitions.
- ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026: Triple-header on February 13 across Colombo, Delhi, and Chennai; group stage battles for Super 8 qualification.
- Significance: Current sporting events and India as tournament host.
6. Infrastructure & Railways
- Udaipur-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat Express: Commercial operations to begin next week; part of “Mission Raftar” to modernize Indian Railways.
- Significance: Infrastructure development and national connectivity schemes.
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