Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: February 17, 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)
- AI Summit: PM Modi inaugurated the India AI Impact Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
- Environment: NGT cleared the Galathea Bay mega port project in Great Nicobar Island.
- Geopolitics: Bangladesh’s Muhammad Yunus resigned as head of the interim government.
- State News: Bihar’s Nitish government transferred ₹10,000 each to 25 lakh women under a flagship scheme.
- Health: Union Minister J.P. Nadda announced the ‘SAHI’ and ‘BODH’ health-AI frameworks.
- Trade: Canada’s PM Mark Carney scheduled a March visit to India for CEPA negotiations.
- Sports: Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka scored the first century of the T20 World Cup 2026.
- Technology: AMD partnered with TCS to co-develop ‘Helios’ rack-scale AI data centers in India.
- Education: 12 candidates scored a perfect 100 percentile in JEE Main Session 1 (2026).
- Economy: FPIs turned net sellers (₹972 crore) while DIIs remained net buyers (₹1,666 crore).
1. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
PM Modi Inaugurates India AI Impact Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam
Summary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened a 5-day global AI event in New Delhi.
On February 16, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the “India AI Impact Expo 2026” at the Bharat Mandapam complex in New Delhi. The event, which runs until February 20, serves as a national demonstration of AI applications in governance and industry. It features 13 country pavilions, including Japan and the UK, and showcases over 600 high-potential startups. PM Modi emphasized that India’s AI progress is built on a “human-centric” approach rather than just regulatory frameworks. The expo covers 70,000 square meters and is expected to attract over 2.5 lakh visitors. This marks the first time a global AI summit of this scale has been hosted in a Global South country. For competitive exams, this is crucial for questions on digital public infrastructure, the IndiaAI Mission, and international technology partnerships.
Source: Press Information Bureau
URL: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2228871
Health Ministry to Launch SAHI and BODH AI Frameworks
Summary: Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda announced national guidance for AI in healthcare.
Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda announced on February 16, 2026, that the government will launch two key initiatives: the Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare for India (SAHI) and the Benchmarking Open Data Platform for Health AI (BODH). SAHI is a national guidance framework designed to ensure the safe, ethical, and evidence-based adoption of AI across the Indian healthcare ecosystem. BODH will provide a standardized platform for researchers to access open health data for AI training. These initiatives aim to bridge the rural-urban healthcare divide using predictive analytics and AI-driven diagnostics. For UPSC and State PSC aspirants, these frameworks are vital examples of governance in the “Science and Tech” and “Social Justice” sectors, specifically regarding the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM).
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/india-ai-impact-summit-2026-delhi-modi-responsible-intelligence-live-updates/article70637485.ece
NTA Announces JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Results: 12 Score 100 Percentile
Summary: The National Testing Agency released results for the first edition of the engineering entrance.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) on February 16, 2026, declared the results for the JEE Main 2026 Session 1. A total of 12 candidates achieved a perfect 100 percentile score, with the highest number of toppers hailing from Rajasthan. Among the toppers is 17-year-old Shreyas Mishra from Delhi. The exam is the gateway for admission to premier technical institutes like NITs and IIITs. The NTA noted a significant increase in the number of female candidates appearing for the exam compared to the previous year. For aspirants, this news highlights the competitive landscape of Indian higher education and the role of the NTA as a centralized testing body. It also underscores the regional performance trends in competitive exams, often a point of discussion in social development topics.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-02-16-2026-news-headlines-10534320/
2. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Bangladesh Interim Head Muhammad Yunus Resigns Ahead of New Elections
Summary: Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus steps down as Bangladesh prepares for a new government.
On February 16, 2026, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus announced his resignation as the head of Bangladesh’s interim government. This move signals the end of the transitional phase following the 2024 uprising that toppled the previous regime. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has claimed victory in the national vote, and Tarique Rahman is expected to take the oath of office shortly. The resignation is a critical development for India-Bangladesh bilateral relations, as the interim government had been managing border security and trade pacts during a volatile period. For aspirants, this event is essential for understanding regional stability in South Asia and the “Neighbourhood First” policy. Changes in leadership in Dhaka directly impact India’s internal security in the Northeast and the operationalization of trans-shipment agreements through Chittagong port.
Source: Economic Times
URL: https://m.economictimes.com/news/newsblogs/breaking-news-live-updates-india-ai-summit-pm-modi-donald-trump-us-india-trade-deal-ukraine-russia-war-israel-hamas-february-16-2026/liveblog/128403082.cms
Canada PM Mark Carney to Visit India for Trade Deal Framework
Summary: Canadian Prime Minister to visit New Delhi in March 2026 for a comprehensive trade pact.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit New Delhi in early March 2026 to work with PM Narendra Modi on the framework for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The announcement was made by Canadian officials on February 16, 2026. This visit is seen as an effort by Canada to diversify its trade alliances beyond the United States following the imposition of tariffs by the US administration. The CEPA aims to enhance bilateral trade in sectors like clean energy, education, and technology. For competitive exams, this is a significant development in India-Canada relations, which have seen diplomatic friction in the past. It highlights India’s growing stature as a trade alternative for G7 nations. Aspirants should track this for “International Relations” and “Bilateral Trade Agreements” sections.
Source: Economic Times
URL: https://m.economictimes.com/news/newsblogs/breaking-news-live-updates-india-ai-summit-pm-modi-donald-trump-us-india-trade-deal-ukraine-russia-war-israel-hamas-february-16-2026/liveblog/128403082.cms
US EPA Repeals 2009 Endangerment Finding on Greenhouse Gases
Summary: The US Environmental Protection Agency has rescinded the legal basis for climate regulations.
In a move with global structural impacts, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on February 16, 2026, officially repealed its 2009 “endangerment finding.” This finding had legally classified greenhouse gases as pollutants that endanger public health under the Clean Air Act, providing the federal basis for regulating emissions. US President Donald Trump announced the move, which effectively removes the foundation for federal climate regulations. This development is expected to influence international climate negotiations and the commitments made under the Paris Agreement. For UPSC aspirants, this is a major “Environment and Ecology” update. It affects global carbon markets and the collective ability of nations to meet warming targets. The reversal of such a foundational legal tool in the world’s second-largest emitter creates a significant precedent for environmental law.
Source: Down To Earth
URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/climate-change/trump-has-scrapped-the-long-standing-legal-basis-for-tackling-climate-emissions
3. STATE AFFAIRS
NGT Clears Galathea Bay Port Project in Great Nicobar
Summary: The National Green Tribunal approved the controversial mega port project on ecological grounds.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on February 16, 2026, cleared the way for the ₹72,000 crore International Transshipment Terminal at Galathea Bay, Great Nicobar Island. Rejecting petitions that warned of ecological damage, the NGT’s Eastern Regional Bench in Kolkata ruled that the project can proceed subject to strict compliance with environmental clearances and the Island Coastal Regulation Zone (ICRZ-2019) Notification. The tribunal approved a coral translocation plan by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), noting that no large coral reefs were found in the immediate work area. The project is strategically vital for India’s dominance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). For exams, this is a “Geography and Environment” case study involving the balance between strategic infrastructure development and the protection of leatherback turtles and the Nicobar megapode.
Source: Down To Earth
URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/forests/no-good-ground-to-interfere-ngt-approves-andaman-nicobar-port-project-dismisses-all-petitions
Bihar Government Transfers ₹10,000 to 25 Lakh Women Beneficiaries
Summary: The Nitish Kumar-led government expanded its financial inclusion drive for women.
On February 16, 2026, the Bihar state government transferred ₹10,000 each to the bank accounts of 25 lakh women across the state. This takes the total number of beneficiaries under this specific financial empowerment initiative to 1.81 crore. The scheme is aimed at improving the economic autonomy of women in rural and semi-urban areas. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar highlighted that the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) ensures transparency and eliminates middlemen. For State PSC and SSC aspirants, this is a prime example of “Social Sector Schemes” and “Women Empowerment” initiatives at the state level. It also reflects the trend of using DBT for large-scale welfare distribution, which is a frequent topic in “Indian Economy” and “Governance” papers regarding fiscal management and social safety nets.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-02-16-2026-news-headlines-10534320/
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Re-admitted to Hospital After Exhaustion
Summary: CM Mann returned to Fortis Hospital Mohali hours after attending an anti-drug event.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was re-admitted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali on the evening of February 16, 2026. The CM had been discharged earlier that morning and had travelled to Moga to attend an event under the state’s anti-drug drive, ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh.’ According to hospital sources, the Chief Minister experienced severe exhaustion, leading to his return for medical observation. This development comes amid a busy administrative schedule in the state. While largely a regional administrative update, for competitive exams, it highlights the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign, which is a significant state policy aimed at curbing the drug menace in Punjab. Understanding state-led social campaigns is essential for regional PSC interviews and general awareness regarding internal security and public health initiatives.
Source: Economic Times
URL: https://m.economictimes.com/news/newsblogs/breaking-news-live-updates-india-ai-summit-pm-modi-donald-trump-us-india-trade-deal-ukraine-russia-war-israel-hamas-february-16-2026/liveblog/128403082.cms
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI Revises FY26 GDP Forecast Upward to 7.4%
Summary: The central bank cited strong domestic demand and new trade deals for the growth revision.
In its latest assessment on February 16, 2026, following the February Monetary Policy meeting, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY 2025-26 to 7.4%, up from the previous estimate of 7.3%. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the Indian economy remains in a “good spot” despite global geopolitical tensions. The revision is attributed to robust agricultural activity, GST rationalization, and the impact of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. The RBI kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% with a “neutral” stance. For exam purposes, the 7.4% figure and the 5.25% repo rate are vital data points. Understanding the reasons for the “neutral” stance and the factors driving GDP growth (like FTAs and domestic demand) is essential for the “Indian Economy” section of UPSC and Banking exams.
Source: Livemint
URL: https://www.livemint.com/economy/rbi-mpc-raises-fy26-gdp-forecast-marginally-to-7-4-in-february-policy-outcome-11770353017791.html
AMD and TCS Partner for Sovereign AI Data Centers in India
Summary: The partnership aims to deploy ‘Helios’ platform infrastructure for large Indian enterprises.
On February 16, 2026, chipmaker AMD announced an expanded partnership with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to deploy rack-scale AI data center technology in India. The collaboration centers on AMD’s ‘Helios’ platform, which is designed to meet the growing demand for “sovereign AI”—the ability of a nation to produce AI using its own data, infrastructure, and workforce. This move is a direct challenge to Nvidia’s dominance in the Indian market. The partnership was timed with the opening of the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. For competitive exams, this is a significant development in the “Information Technology” and “Economy” sectors. It reflects the “Make in India” push in high-tech manufacturing and the strategic importance of data localization and sovereign computing power in modern geopolitics.
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/india-ai-impact-summit-2026-delhi-modi-responsible-intelligence-live-updates/article70637485.ece
FPIs Sell ₹972 Crore in Cash Market; DIIs Buy ₹1,666 Crore
Summary: Provisional data for February 16 shows divergent trends between foreign and domestic investors.
Provisional data released on February 16, 2026, indicated that Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) sold shares worth ₹972.13 crore in the Indian equity market. Conversely, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) remained net buyers, purchasing shares worth ₹1,666.98 crore. This trend continues a period of volatility where FPIs have sold over ₹40,000 crore since the start of 2026, primarily due to rising interest rates in the US and geopolitical shifts. The GIFT Nifty also suggested a weak opening for the broader market. For aspirants, understanding the role of FPIs and DIIs is fundamental to the “Capital Markets” section of the economy syllabus. The divergence in their behavior often reflects differing views on domestic economic resilience versus global risk factors, a frequent topic in banking and finance interviews.
Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/markets/capital-market-news/gift-nifty-hints-at-negative-opening-for-equities-all-eyes-on-us-iran-nuclear-negotiations-126021700181_1.html
5. SPORTS
Pathum Nissanka Scores First Century of T20 World Cup 2026
Summary: The Sri Lankan opener powered his team to a win over Australia in Pallekele.
Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka became the first player to score a century in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. On February 16, 2026, during a Group stage match against Australia in Pallekele, Nissanka hammered 100 runs off just 52 balls. His innings included 12 boundaries and 4 sixes, guiding Sri Lanka to an eight-wicket victory and securing their spot in the Super 8 stage. Australia, missing the injured Mitchell Marsh, struggled to contain the Lankan batting unit. This achievement is a significant milestone in the tournament’s history. For sports-related questions in competitive exams, Nissanka’s record is a likely candidate. Additionally, understanding the qualification format (Super 8) of the T20 World Cup is useful for general awareness sections in SSC and Banking exams.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/16/
England Defeats Italy by 25 Runs in T20 World Cup Group C
Summary: Will Jacks and Sam Curran starred as England overcame a spirited Italian challenge.
In a Group C encounter at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on February 16, 2026, England defeated Italy by 25 runs. Batting first, England posted 202/7, bolstered by Will Jacks’ rapid 53 off 22 balls. Italy, making their mark in their first-ever World Cup, fought valiantly with Ben Manenti scoring 60 off 25 balls. However, Sam Curran’s disciplined bowling (3/33) ensured England’s victory. This result moves England to second in their group standings. Italy’s performance, despite the loss, has been hailed as a breakthrough for “Associate Nations” in cricket. For competitive exams, this news highlights the expansion of cricket to non-traditional nations and the role of major Indian venues like Eden Gardens in hosting global events. It also serves as a reminder of the T20 World Cup’s progression throughout February 2026.
Source: Outlook India
URL: https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/cricket/england-vs-italy-live-score-icc-t20-world-cup-2026-group-c-match-29-eng-vs-ita-updates-highlights-kolkata
Afghanistan Faces UAE in Crucial Group D T20 World Cup Clash
Summary: The two sides met on Feb 16 as qualification scenarios tightened in Group D.
On February 16, 2026, Afghanistan faced the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a critical Group D fixture. Afghanistan entered the match seeking their first win of the tournament after a heartbreaking Super Over loss to South Africa. The UAE, having recently beaten Canada, sought to solidify their position. Group D has emerged as one of the most competitive “groups of death” in the 2026 edition, with New Zealand and South Africa also in the fray. The outcome of these matches determines the final standings for the Super 8 stage. For exam-takers, keeping track of major international tournaments like the T20 World Cup is a standard part of current affairs, specifically the venues, participating teams, and significant upsets or milestones involving Asian nations.
Source: Times of India
URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/icc-mens-t20-world-cup/icc-t20-world-cup-2026-full-match-schedule-for-february-16/articleshow/128389219.cms
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
NGT Orders Strict Protection for Leatherback Turtles in Great Nicobar
Summary: Approval for the mega port comes with mandatory conservation measures for rare species.
While clearing the Galathea Bay port project on February 16, 2026, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) mandated stringent safeguards for the leatherback turtle and the Nicobar megapode. The tribunal ordered the establishment of specialized research centers and monitoring committees to oversee biodiversity protection. The NGT emphasized that no construction would be allowed in areas classified as CRZ-IA (ecologically most sensitive). The Zoological Survey of India will lead the coral translocation efforts. This development is significant for the “Environment and Wildlife” section of exams, as the Galathea Bay is one of the most important nesting sites for the Giant Leatherback Turtle in the Indian Ocean. It highlights the legal mechanisms (NGT orders) used to mitigate the environmental impact of large-scale infrastructure projects in sensitive zones.
Source: Down To Earth
URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/forests/no-good-ground-to-interfere-ngt-approves-andaman-nicobar-port-project-dismisses-all-petitions
MeitY Secretary Highlights AI’s Potential for Job Creation
Summary: Government official counters AI job-loss fears during the AI Impact Summit.
Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit on February 16, 2026, the Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) stated that AI can create significantly more jobs than it destroys in the Indian context. He argued that the demand for data annotators, AI ethics officers, and developers will surge. The Ministry also launched the “WAVES Creators Corner” at the summit, where 51 startups are showcasing AI-driven production workflows for media and entertainment. This news is relevant for “Economy” and “Science & Tech” topics, specifically the impact of automation on the Indian labor market. For UPSC Mains, this provides a pro-technology perspective on the “Future of Work” and the role of the IndiaAI Mission in skilling the workforce for the 4th Industrial Revolution.
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/india-ai-impact-summit-2026-delhi-modi-responsible-intelligence-live-updates/article70637485.ece
Drones to Deliver Emergency Medicines in Nandurbar
Summary: Maharashtra district to start drone-based healthcare delivery by end of February.
On February 16, 2026, it was announced that the Nandurbar district in Maharashtra will begin using drones to deliver emergency medicines to remote and hilly areas by the end of this month. This initiative follows successful trials conducted by the state health department. The drones are designed to carry payloads of up to 5 kg and operate in challenging weather conditions. This makes Nandurbar one of the first districts in the state to institutionalize drone technology for public health. For competitive exams, this is an excellent example of “Technology in Governance” and the application of the “Drone Rules 2021” for social good. It is particularly relevant for topics concerning rural healthcare infrastructure and the “Digital India” initiative’s extension to last-mile delivery.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/16/
7. OTHERS
ED Slaps ₹184 Crore Penalty on NewsClick under FEMA
Summary: The Enforcement Directorate issued a fine for alleged violations of foreign exchange rules.
On February 16, 2026, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) imposed a penalty of ₹184 crore on the news portal NewsClick and its Editor-in-Chief, Prabir Purkayastha. The fine was issued under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) for allegedly receiving foreign funds in violation of established norms. The probe into the portal’s funding has been ongoing for several years, involving allegations of money laundering and illegal foreign influence. This development is significant for “National News” and “Polity,” particularly concerning the regulation of digital media and the role of investigative agencies like the ED. For aspirants, it underscores the importance of FEMA and PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) in India’s legal and economic regulatory framework.
Source: Economic Times
URL: https://m.economictimes.com/news/newsblogs/breaking-news-live-updates-india-ai-summit-pm-modi-donald-trump-us-india-trade-deal-ukraine-russia-war-israel-hamas-february-16-2026/liveblog/128403082.cms
Photographer Ramesh Shukla, Who Chronicled UAE’s Birth, Dies
Summary: The renowned Indian photographer passed away in Ahmedabad on February 16.
Ramesh Shukla, the legendary Indian photographer known for capturing the iconic “founding fathers” image of the United Arab Emirates, passed away on February 16, 2026, in Ahmedabad. Shukla had moved to Dubai in the 1960s and became the unofficial chronicler of the UAE’s formation and growth. His work is displayed in royal palaces and museums across the Gulf. His death marks the end of an era for the Indian diaspora’s cultural contribution to the Middle East. For competitive exams, this obituary is relevant for “Awards and Honours” and “International Relations” (India-UAE cultural ties). Shukla’s legacy is a testament to the “Soft Power” of the Indian community abroad and their role in historical documentation.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/16/
Supreme Court Issues Notice on Data Protection Law Challenge
Summary: The apex court is examining pleas against certain provisions of the data law.
On February 16, 2026, the Supreme Court of India issued a notice to the Central Government on pleas challenging the new data protection law. The petitioners argued that certain amendments and provisions might infringe upon the Right to Information (RTI) and the Fundamental Right to Privacy. However, the court explicitly stated that there is “no question of a stay” on the RTI amendments at this stage. The case has been scheduled for further hearing. This is a vital update for “Polity and Governance” as it involves the judicial review of a major parliamentary act. For UPSC aspirants, the intersection of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act and the RTI Act is a high-yield topic for “General Studies Paper II.”
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/16/
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (CORE RECALL POINTS)
1. National & State Governance
- India AI Impact Expo 2026: PM Modi inaugurated at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi; 5-day event featuring 13 country pavilions and 600+ startups.
- Significance: First Global South country to host AI summit of this scale; tests knowledge of IndiaAI Mission and digital public infrastructure.
- SAHI & BODH Health AI Frameworks: Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda announced national guidance for AI in healthcare.
- Significance: Governance in Science & Tech; links to National Digital Health Mission (NDHM).
- JEE Main 2026 Session 1: 12 candidates scored 100 percentile; highest toppers from Rajasthan.
- Significance: National education trends; role of NTA as centralized testing body.
- Bihar Women Empowerment Scheme: ₹10,000 transferred to 25 lakh women; total beneficiaries reach 1.81 crore.
- Significance: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), state-level social sector schemes, women’s economic autonomy.
- Supreme Court on Data Protection Law: Issued notice on challenges to DPDP Act; no stay on RTI amendments.
- Significance: Judicial review of parliamentary acts; intersection of DPDP Act and RTI Act.
2. International Relations
- Bangladesh Leadership Transition: Muhammad Yunus resigned as interim head; BNP’s Tarique Rahman expected to take office.
- Significance: India-Bangladesh bilateral relations; “Neighbourhood First” policy; Northeast security and Chittagong port agreements.
- Canada-India Trade: PM Mark Carney to visit India in March 2026 for CEPA framework negotiations.
- Significance: India as trade alternative for G7 nations; bilateral trade in clean energy, education, and technology.
- US EPA Climate Rollback: Repealed 2009 “endangerment finding” on greenhouse gases under Clean Air Act.
- Significance: Impact on Paris Agreement commitments; global carbon markets; environmental law precedent.
3. Economy & Finance
- RBI GDP Forecast Revision: FY 2025-26 GDP growth revised to 7.4% from 7.3%; repo rate unchanged at 5.25% (neutral stance).
- Significance: Key macroeconomic indicator; factors include robust agriculture, GST rationalization, India-EU FTA.
- AMD-TCS Partnership: ‘Helios’ platform for rack-scale AI data centers; focus on “sovereign AI.”
- Significance: “Make in India” in high-tech manufacturing; data localization; challenge to Nvidia dominance.
- FPI vs DII Flows: FPIs net sellers (₹972.13 crore); DIIs net buyers (₹1,666.98 crore) on Feb 16.
- Significance: Capital market volatility; FPIs sold ₹40,000+ crore in 2026 due to US interest rates and geopolitical shifts.
- ED Penalty on NewsClick: ₹184 crore fine under FEMA for alleged foreign fund violations.
- Significance: Digital media regulation; FEMA and PMLA in India’s legal framework.
4. State Affairs & Environment
- NGT Clears Galathea Bay Port: ₹72,000 crore International Transshipment Terminal approved with strict environmental compliance.
- Significance: Strategic Indian Ocean Region (IOR) infrastructure; balance between development and conservation; protection of leatherback turtles and Nicobar megapode; CRZ-IA regulations.
- Punjab CM Health Update: Bhagwant Mann re-admitted to hospital after exhaustion; attended ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ anti-drug event.
- Significance: State anti-drug campaign; internal security and public health initiatives.
- Nandurbar Drone Delivery: Maharashtra district to use drones for emergency medicine delivery by end of February.
- Significance: Technology in Governance; Drone Rules 2021; rural healthcare infrastructure; Digital India last-mile delivery.
5. Science, Technology & Sports
- MeitY on AI Job Creation: AI projected to create more jobs than it destroys in India; “WAVES Creators Corner” launched with 51 startups.
- Significance: Impact of automation on labor market; Future of Work; IndiaAI Mission and 4th Industrial Revolution.
- T20 World Cup 2026 Highlights:
- Pathum Nissanka: First century of tournament (100 off 52 balls vs Australia in Pallekele); Sri Lanka reaches Super 8.
- England vs Italy: England won by 25 runs at Eden Gardens; Italy’s breakthrough as Associate Nation.
- Afghanistan vs UAE: Crucial Group D clash; competitive “group of death.”
- Significance: International tournament milestones; expansion of cricket; major Indian venues hosting global events.
6. Obituaries & Cultural News
- Ramesh Shukla: Legendary photographer who chronicled UAE’s birth passed away in Ahmedabad.
- Significance: India-UAE cultural ties; Indian diaspora’s soft power; historical documentation.
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