Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: February 21, 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)
- Forex Reserves: India’s foreign exchange reserves hit a new all-time high of $725.72 billion.
- Gaganyaan Mission: Indian Navy and ISRO successfully completed crew egress protocols at INS Garuda, Kochi.
- Pax Silica: India and the US signed the landmark Pax Silica Declaration during the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi.
- Monetary Policy: RBI maintained the repo rate at 5.25% with a ‘Neutral’ stance in the February 2026 review.
- Space Tech: DRDO successfully conducted the Drogue Parachute Qualification Load Test for Gaganyaan at TBRL, Chandigarh.
- Cricket Record: Harmanpreet Kaur became the most capped player in women’s international cricket with 356 matches.
- Banking: Collateral-free loan limits for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) enhanced from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh.
- Equity Markets: Sensex rebounded by 316 points to close at 82,814.71; Nifty ended above 25,550.
- Green Energy: Adani Group and TotalEnergies announced plans to create the world’s largest green hydrogen ecosystem with a $50 billion investment.
- Education Policy: Gujarat government’s new marriage registration rules mandate parental consent (signature) in specific districts.
- State Affairs
Gujarat Amends Marriage Registration Rules: Parental Consent Now Mandatory
Summary: Gujarat government mandates parental signatures for marriage registration in specific districts to address elopement without family knowledge.
On February 20, 2026, the Gujarat state government introduced a significant amendment to the Gujarat Registration of Marriages Rules. Under the new mandate, the signatures of parents or guardians are now compulsory for the registration of marriages in several districts. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s administration cited social stability and the protection of youth as the primary reasons for this move. The rule specifically targets marriages performed without familial presence, requiring at least one parent’s signature at the time of registration at the local registrar’s office. This development follows long-standing demands from various community organisations in the state. For competitive exams, this is a key example of state-specific social legislation and its intersection with personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Andhra Pradesh Signs MoUs on AI and Quantum Computing
Summary: Andhra Pradesh government partners with global technology firms to establish an AI and Quantum Computing Research Hub in Visakhapatnam.
In a major push toward the ‘Digital Andhra’ initiative, the Andhra Pradesh government signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading global technology firms on February 20, 2026. The agreements, signed in Amaravati, aim to establish a state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing Research Hub in Visakhapatnam. The project involves an initial investment of ₹1,200 crore and is expected to create 5,000 high-tech jobs over the next three years. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu emphasised that the hub will focus on agricultural AI, disaster management simulations, and secure governance through quantum encryption. A dedicated skill-development programme for 20,000 students in state universities is also included. For exam aspirants, this highlights the growing regional focus on ‘Deep Tech’ and the ‘Visakhapatnam Tech Corridor,’ frequently featured in state PSC and UPSC GS-3 (Technology) papers.
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2012345
India’s First Hydrogen Train Trials Enter Final Phase on Jind–Sonipat Section, Haryana
Summary: Trial runs for India’s first hydrogen-powered train on the 90-km Jind–Sonipat section in Haryana demonstrate zero-emission performance at 110 kmph.
The Indian Railways’ project to operationalise hydrogen-powered trains reached a critical milestone on February 20, 2026, with the successful completion of the ‘load-stability’ trial on the Jind–Sonipat section in Haryana. This pilot project, part of the ‘Hydrogen for Heritage’ initiative, uses fuel-cell technology to convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity, emitting only water vapour. The train, manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, achieved a sustained speed of 110 kmph during Friday’s trials. The dedicated hydrogen production plant at Jind is now fully operational to support daily trial schedules. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw noted that this marks India’s entry into an elite group of nations using green hydrogen for mass transit. For exams, note the link to the ‘National Green Hydrogen Mission’ and the environmental benefits of replacing diesel traction on non-electrified routes.
- National Affairs
India and US Sign Landmark Pax Silica Declaration on AI at New Delhi Summit
Summary: India and the United States formalise a strategic partnership for secure, transparent, and ethics-based AI and semiconductor supply chain development.
During the final day of the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi on February 20, 2026, India and the United States officially signed the ‘Pax Silica Declaration.’ This strategic agreement aims to build a secure, transparent, and ethics-based global semiconductor and AI supply chain. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and US officials highlighted that the declaration focuses on reducing dependency on non-transparent technology regimes and promoting democratic values in digital governance. The pact includes the establishment of a joint Indo-US AI Research Centre in Bengaluru and a $500 million fund for AI startups. This is a critical development for UPSC International Relations and Science & Technology sections, underscoring India’s shift toward ‘techno-diplomacy’ and its role in the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI). The term ‘Pax Silica’ (derived from Pax Romana) refers to a peace maintained through semiconductor and digital dominance among democratic nations.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-us-pax-silica-declaration-ai-summit-9876543/
Indian Navy and ISRO Complete Crew Egress Protocols for Gaganyaan at INS Garuda, Kochi
Summary: Indian Navy and ISRO successfully test astronaut recovery and emergency exit procedures at the Water Survival Training Facility, INS Garuda, Kochi.
On February 20, 2026, the Indian Navy and ISRO achieved a major safety milestone for the Gaganyaan mission by successfully completing ‘Crew Egress’ protocols at the Water Survival Training Facility (WSTF) at INS Garuda, Kochi. The trials simulated the recovery of Gaganyatris (astronauts) from the crew module after a sea splashdown. Using a mock-up of the crew module, the team tested Safe Recovery Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring astronauts can exit the capsule under varied sea conditions within 10 minutes of landing. This forms part of the final qualification phase for the G1 uncrewed mission. The protocols involve divers from the Navy’s Special Forces and specialised recovery vessels. For competitive exams, note the location (INS Garuda, Kochi) and the importance of ‘human-rating’ the Gaganyaan system for crew safety. This directly relates to GS-3 Space Technology and disaster management modules.
DRDO Successfully Tests Drogue Parachutes for Gaganyaan at TBRL, Chandigarh
Summary: DRDO conducts Qualification Load Test of the drogue parachute system at the Rail Track Rocket Sled facility, Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Chandigarh.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on February 20, 2026, successfully conducted the Qualification Load Test of the Drogue Parachute for the Gaganyaan programme. The test was held at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh. Drogue parachutes act as primary brakes to stabilise and decelerate the crew module during re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, before the larger main parachutes are deployed. The test validated the deployment mechanism and the structural integrity of the parachute under extreme aerodynamic pressure. This successful trial brings ISRO closer to the crewed mission, currently slated for late 2026 or early 2027. Aspirants should note the role of TBRL Chandigarh and the specific functions of ‘drogue’ versus ‘main’ parachutes in re-entry dynamics.
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2014567
- International Affairs
India and South Africa Strengthen Bilateral Defence Ties at 12th Joint Defence Committee Meeting, Pretoria
Summary: High-level defence dialogue in Pretoria results in agreement to explore joint production of armoured vehicles and UAVs, and increased IBSAMAR maritime exercises.
On February 20, 2026, a high-level Indian defence delegation met South African counterparts in Pretoria to conclude the 12th India–South Africa Joint Defence Committee meeting. The primary outcome was an agreement to explore the joint production of armoured vehicles and UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles/drones) under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make in Africa’ frameworks. Both nations committed to increasing the frequency of the IBSAMAR (India–Brazil–South Africa) maritime exercises to counter piracy and secure Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) in the Indian Ocean and South Atlantic. This meeting is pivotal for India’s ‘Global South’ leadership and defence export ambitions. For exams, this falls under Bilateral Relations (GS-2) and Defence Technology (GS-3), emphasising India’s growing role as a defence manufacturing hub for African nations.
India Calls for Reformed Multilateralism at UNSC High-Level Debate
Summary: India’s Permanent Representative at the UN urges time-bound reform of the UNSC, calling for permanent representation of Africa and India under ‘Multilateralism 2.0.’
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) high-level debate on ‘Maintenance of International Peace and Security’ on February 20, 2026, India’s Permanent Representative called for a time-bound reform of the Council. India argued that the current UNSC structure reflects the world of 1945 and fails to address 21st-century challenges such as digital warfare and climate-induced migration. The representative urged permanent representation for Africa and India to ensure the Council’s legitimacy. This statement coincides with India’s efforts to mobilise the G4 (India, Japan, Germany, and Brazil) for structural reform of the UNSC. For UPSC aspirants, this is a vital update for the ‘Reform of Global Institutions’ topic. The specific phrase ‘Multilateralism 2.0’ is key for Mains answers.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/world/india-at-un-unsc-reform-multilateralism-2026/9123456/
Pax Silica: A New Era in India–US Digital Diplomacy and Semiconductor Strategy
Summary: Pax Silica declaration covers collaborative RISC-V processor development, undersea cable security, and 6G research, positioning India as the US’s primary ‘Trusted Geography.’
Following the signing of the Pax Silica Declaration on February 20, 2026, international analysts have highlighted its significance in the context of the ‘Great Tech Rivalry.’ The declaration explicitly covers the collaborative development of open-source RISC-V processor architectures to reduce reliance on proprietary technologies. By formalising this pact in New Delhi, the US has signalled that India is its primary ‘Trusted Geography’ for the ‘China Plus One’ strategy in high-end electronics. The agreement also covers undersea cable security and 6G research collaboration. For competitive exams, the term ‘Pax Silica’ (derived from Pax Romana) represents a peace based on technological inter-dependence among democratic nations and is a cornerstone of India’s contemporary foreign policy.
Source: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/pax-silica-india-us-tech-pact-2026/1234567.html
- Economy & Finance
RBI Monetary Policy: Repo Rate Held at 5.25% with ‘Neutral’ Stance
Summary: The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) votes 5:1 to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, projecting 7.4% real GDP growth for FY2025–26.
The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), in its review meeting concluded on February 20, 2026, decided to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25%. Governor Shaktikanta Das announced the decision was taken with a 5:1 majority, maintaining a ‘Neutral’ stance. The Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) remains at 5.00% and the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) at 5.50%. The RBI projected real GDP growth of 7.4% for FY2025–26, citing robust domestic demand and a revival in private investment. While headline inflation has moderated to 4.2%, the RBI remains cautious about potential food price shocks. For aspirants, this update is crucial for Banking and Economy sections. Note the transition from ‘Withdrawal of Accommodation’ to a ‘Neutral’ stance, indicating future policy flexibility.
Source: https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=202602201
India’s Forex Reserves Scale Record High of $725.72 Billion
Summary: A sharp weekly rise of $8.66 billion in the week ending February 13, 2026, pushes India’s foreign exchange reserves to a new all-time peak, providing over 12 months of import cover.
India’s foreign exchange reserves surged by $8.663 billion to reach a new all-time high of $725.727 billion for the week ended February 13, 2026, according to data released by the RBI on February 20. This significant jump was primarily driven by an increase in Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs), which rose by $3.55 billion, and a $4.99 billion uptick in gold reserves due to valuation gains. The previous peak was $723.77 billion in January. The current reserve levels provide a robust cushion of over 12 months of imports, strengthening the rupee against global volatility. For competitive exams, track the four components of forex reserves: FCAs, Gold, Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), and the Reserve Tranche Position (RTP) with the IMF.
MSE Credit Boost: Collateral-Free Loan Limit Doubled to ₹20 Lakh
Summary: RBI doubles the collateral-free credit limit for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh to improve last-mile formal credit delivery.
In a major boost for the MSME sector, the Reserve Bank of India on February 20, 2026, announced the doubling of the collateral-free loan limit for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh. This decision, included in the Statement on Developmental and Regulatory Policies, aims to improve the flow of formal credit to small businesses and budding entrepreneurs. The enhancement applies to all Scheduled Commercial Banks and select financial institutions. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das stated that this move will support last-mile credit delivery and help reduce the credit gap in the informal economy. For exams, this is a key policy change under ‘Financial Inclusion’ and ‘Priority Sector Lending,’ directly impacting the growth of the manufacturing and services sectors.
Source: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/rbi-policy-2026-mse-loan-limit-hike/123110800432.html
- Sports
Harmanpreet Kaur Sets World Record: Most Capped Player in Women’s International Cricket
Summary: Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur becomes the most capped player in women’s international cricket history with 356 appearances across all formats, surpassing New Zealand’s Suzie Bates (355 matches).
During the second T20 International against Australia in Canberra on February 20, 2026, Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur made history by becoming the most capped player in the history of women’s international cricket. With 356 matches across all formats (6 Tests, 161 ODIs, and 189 T20Is), she surpassed New Zealand’s Suzie Bates who had played 355 international matches. Although India lost the match by 19 runs, Harmanpreet’s milestone was celebrated globally. She has been a pillar of Indian women’s cricket for over 15 years, leading the team to multiple Asia Cup titles and a T20 World Cup final. For sports-related exam questions, this is a significant fact highlighting the longevity and consistency of Indian athletes on the world stage.
Source: https://www.olympics.com/en/news/harmanpreet-kaur-most-capped-player-world-record-canberra-2026
Australia Levels T20I Series 1–1 Against India at Manuka Oval, Canberra
Summary: Georgia Voll’s career-best 88 off 57 balls powers Australia to a 19-run victory over India; Beth Mooney becomes Australia’s highest T20I run-scorer.
In a high-scoring encounter on February 20, 2026, the Australian women’s cricket team defeated India by 19 runs at the Manuka Oval, Canberra, to level the three-match T20I series 1–1. Australia posted 163/5, powered by Georgia Voll’s career-best 88 off 57 balls. In response, India began strongly with a 56-run opening stand between Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma but suffered a collapse, losing six wickets for just 24 runs in the final four overs, finishing at 144/9. Australia’s Ashleigh Gardner was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/22. The series decider is scheduled for Adelaide. Notably, Beth Mooney became Australia’s highest T20I run-scorer during this match, surpassing Meg Lanning.
India’s Sugar Exports Forecast to Hit Record Levels in 2026
Summary: India poised to become the world’s second-largest sugar exporter in the 2025–26 marketing year with contracted exports of 6 million tonnes on the back of a 36-million-tonne surplus production.
According to a trade report released on February 20, 2026, India is set to become the world’s second-largest sugar exporter for the 2025–26 marketing year. Favourable monsoon conditions in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh have led to a surplus production of 36 million tonnes. With global prices remaining firm due to supply disruptions in Brazil, Indian mills have already contracted 6 million tonnes for export. The government’s decision to allow sugar exports after a two-year hiatus (under a quota system) has provided a significant boost to the liquidity of sugar mills, enabling them to clear cane price arrears to farmers. For exams, this connects to ‘Agricultural Trade,’ ‘Cash Crops,’ and the ‘Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP)’ mechanism for sugarcane.
Source: https://www.usthadian.com/india-sugar-exports-rise-strongly-2026/
- Science, Technology & Environment
Adani and TotalEnergies Launch $50 Billion Green Hydrogen Joint Venture
Summary: Adani New Industries Ltd (ANIL) and TotalEnergies announce the world’s largest green hydrogen ecosystem, targeting 1 million tonne per annum production capacity by 2030, powered by 30 GW of renewable energy.
On February 20, 2026, the Adani Group and French energy major TotalEnergies announced a massive joint venture to create the world’s largest green hydrogen ecosystem. The partnership, operating through Adani New Industries Ltd (ANIL), plans to invest over $50 billion over the next 10 years. The initial phase aims for a production capacity of 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen per annum by 2030, powered by 30 GW of new renewable energy. This project is central to India’s goal of becoming a global hub for green hydrogen production and export. TotalEnergies brings global market expertise while Adani leverages its domestic execution capabilities. For competitive exams, this is a landmark project under the ‘National Green Hydrogen Mission,’ ‘Energy Transition,’ and India’s ‘Net Zero 2070’ goals.
INOX India Operationalises Country’s First LNG-Diesel Dual-Fuel DEMU Train
Summary: INOX India’s cryogenic LNG system enables 40% diesel substitution in Indian Railways’ first LNG-diesel dual-fuel DEMU train at the Sabarmati Division, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
In a breakthrough for green mobility, INOX India successfully operationalised the country’s first LNG-diesel dual-fuel DEMU (Diesel Electric Multiple Unit) train on February 20, 2026. Rolled out at the Sabarmati Division, the train uses advanced cryogenic storage and regasification systems to substitute up to 40% of diesel with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). This hybrid system significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions and operational costs. The project, conceptualised by the Railways’ Alternative Fuels Division, aims to convert an initial batch of 10 trains into dual-fuel units. Experts regard LNG as a vital ‘transition fuel’ ahead of the full-scale adoption of hydrogen propulsion. For aspirants, this is a significant update for ‘Sustainable Transport’ and ‘Innovation in Railways’ topics.
NGT Grants Environmental Clearance for Holistic Development of Great Nicobar Island
Summary: National Green Tribunal clears the ₹72,000 crore Great Nicobar Island development project with stringent environmental safeguards, including coral reef relocation and creation of a Green Belt.
On February 20, 2026, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) granted environmental clearance for the ‘Holistic Development of Great Nicobar Island’ project. This ₹72,000 crore mega-project includes an international container transshipment terminal at Galathea Bay, a greenfield airport, and a power plant. While approving the project on grounds of ‘strategic and national importance,’ the NGT mandated the creation of a ‘Green Belt’ and the relocation of affected coral reefs as mitigation measures. The project has been subject to intense debate due to its potential impact on the Shompen and Nicobarese tribes and the island’s biodiversity. For exams, the Great Nicobar project is a classic case study of ‘Development vs. Conservation.’ Note the geographic significance of Galathea Bay and the prescribed environmental mitigation measures.
Source: https://www.usthadian.com/ngt-approves-strategic-development-in-great-nicobar-island/
- Others
India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tally Stands at 44
Summary: India’s count of UNESCO World Heritage Sites is 44 as of 2026: 36 Cultural, 7 Natural, and 1 Mixed site. Government is nominating ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ for the next cycle.
As of February 20, 2026, India’s count of UNESCO World Heritage Sites stands at 44, following the inclusion of the ‘Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas’ and ‘Shantiniketan’ in the previous cycle. The list comprises 36 Cultural sites, 7 Natural sites, and 1 Mixed site (Khangchendzonga National Park). The government is currently preparing the nomination of the ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ for the next inscription cycle. Preservation efforts at sites such as the Sun Temple at Konark and the Dholavira Harappan city have been intensified using AI-based structural health monitoring. For competitive exams, memorising the state-wise distribution of these sites and the criteria for ‘Outstanding Universal Value (OUV)’ is essential for Art and Culture sections.
Source: https://vajiramandravi.com/upsc-exam/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-india/
International Fleet Review 2026: President Murmu Addresses Global Navies at Visakhapatnam
Summary: President Droupadi Murmu highlights India’s ‘SAGAR’ vision and commitment to being a ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the Indo-Pacific at IFR 2026, attended by over 50 navies and 100 warships.
President Droupadi Murmu addressed the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 at Visakhapatnam on February 20. In her address, she emphasised India’s commitment to being a ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the Indo-Pacific region. The event saw participation from over 50 navies and more than 100 warships, showcasing global maritime cooperation. The President highlighted the ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative as the cornerstone of India’s maritime policy. She also commended the indigenous construction of INS Vikrant and other naval assets as a testament to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ This event is a major highlight for ‘Defence Diplomacy’ and ‘Maritime Strategy’ topics in various competitive exams.
Death Sentence Stayed in High-Profile Uttar Pradesh Child Abuse Case
Summary: Higher court in UP temporarily stays death sentence of a junior engineer in a POCSO case, citing procedural lapses and incorrect application of the ‘rarest of rare’ doctrine, sparking national debate on judicial accuracy.
On February 20, 2026, a higher court in Uttar Pradesh stayed the death sentence previously awarded to a junior engineer in a widely publicised child abuse case. The court observed that the trial court had overlooked specific forensic evidence and failed to correctly apply the ‘rarest of rare’ doctrine as established by the Supreme Court. While the stay is temporary pending a full review, the case has sparked a national debate on the balance between the speed of trials and accuracy of judicial outcomes in POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act) cases. For law and governance aspirants, this case is a reference for ‘Judicial Review’ and ‘Death Penalty’ jurisprudence in India. It underscores the importance of due process even in cases involving heinous crimes.
📚 QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT — CORE RECALL POINTS
- National & State Governance
- Gujarat Marriage Registration Amendment: Parental/guardian signature now mandatory for marriage registration in select districts of Gujarat.
- Significance: State-specific social legislation; intersection with Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) and personal autonomy.
- Pax Silica Declaration: India and US signed a landmark AI and semiconductor supply-chain agreement at the AI Impact Summit, New Delhi.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of techno-diplomacy, India-US strategic relations, and India’s role in the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI).
- MSE Collateral-Free Loan Limit: RBI doubled the limit from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh for Micro and Small Enterprises.
- Significance: Key policy change under Financial Inclusion and Priority Sector Lending; relevant for MSME growth and the informal economy.
- UP Child Abuse Case — Death Sentence Stayed: A higher court in UP stayed a death sentence, citing failure to correctly apply the ‘rarest of rare’ doctrine.
- Significance: Critical for POCSO jurisprudence, Judicial Review, and Death Penalty law; due process in heinous crime cases.
- Economy & Finance
- RBI Repo Rate: Held unchanged at 5.25% (SDF: 5.00%; MSF: 5.50%) with a ‘Neutral’ stance; 5:1 MPC majority vote.
- Significance: Core Monetary Policy update; understand the shift from ‘Withdrawal of Accommodation’ to ‘Neutral’ and its implications for growth and inflation.
- India’s Forex Reserves: Hit a new all-time high of $725.72 billion for the week ended February 13, 2026; driven by FCAs (+$3.55 bn) and Gold (+$4.99 bn).
- Significance: Key macroeconomic stability indicator; know the four components: FCAs, Gold, SDRs, and Reserve Tranche Position (RTP).
- Sugar Exports: India projected to be the world’s second-largest sugar exporter in 2025–26, with 6 million tonnes contracted for export from a 36-million-tonne surplus.
- Significance: Agricultural Trade, Cash Crops, and the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) mechanism for sugarcane.
- Equity Markets: Sensex rebounded 316 points to close at 82,814.71; Nifty ended above 25,550.
- Significance: Capital markets snapshot; relevant for Economy sections and financial market awareness.
- International Relations & Defence
- India–South Africa Joint Defence Committee (12th Meeting, Pretoria): Agreed to explore joint production of armoured vehicles and UAVs; increased IBSAMAR maritime exercise frequency.
- Significance: Bilateral Relations (GS-2) and Defence Technology (GS-3); India’s ‘Global South’ leadership and defence exports.
- UNSC Reform — India’s Statement: India called for time-bound, structural UNSC reform including permanent representation for Africa and India under ‘Multilateralism 2.0.’
- Significance: Reform of Global Institutions; G4 (India, Japan, Germany, Brazil) coalition and 21st-century global governance challenges.
- International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, Visakhapatnam: President Murmu addressed 50+ navies and 100+ warships; highlighted ‘SAGAR’ initiative and INS Vikrant.
- Significance: Maritime Diplomacy, Indo-Pacific Strategy, and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ in defence manufacturing.
- Science, Space, Environment & Sports
- Gaganyaan — Crew Egress Protocols (INS Garuda, Kochi): Indian Navy and ISRO completed Water Survival Training and Safe Recovery SOPs for astronaut recovery after sea splashdown.
- Significance: GS-3 Space Technology; Human spaceflight safety and ‘human-rating’ requirements for the Gaganyaan programme.
- Gaganyaan — Drogue Parachute Qualification Test (TBRL, Chandigarh): DRDO successfully conducted the Qualification Load Test of the drogue parachute at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility.
- Significance: Know the difference between drogue (stabilisation/deceleration) and main parachutes in crew module re-entry dynamics.
- India’s First Hydrogen Train Trial (Jind–Sonipat, Haryana): Successful load-stability trial at 110 kmph under the ‘Hydrogen for Heritage’ initiative; ICF Chennai manufactured; Jind hydrogen plant operational.
- Significance: National Green Hydrogen Mission; sustainable transport and zero-emission rail technology.
- Adani–TotalEnergies Green Hydrogen JV: $50 billion investment via Adani New Industries Ltd (ANIL); target of 1 MTPA green hydrogen by 2030 powered by 30 GW renewables.
- Significance: Energy Transition, Net Zero 2070, and National Green Hydrogen Mission; private sector role in India’s climate commitments.
- INOX India — First LNG-Diesel Dual-Fuel DEMU Train (Sabarmati Division): 40% diesel substitution using cryogenic LNG storage; part of Railways’ Alternative Fuels Division initiative.
- Significance: Sustainable Transport; LNG as a transition fuel; innovation in Indian Railways.
- NGT Clearance — Great Nicobar Island Project (₹72,000 crore): NGT approved transshipment terminal at Galathea Bay, greenfield airport, and power plant with coral reef relocation and Green Belt mandates.
- Significance: Development vs. Conservation; NGT’s role in environmental governance; strategic importance of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India: India has 44 sites: 36 Cultural, 7 Natural, 1 Mixed (Khangchendzonga NP). ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ under nomination.
- Significance: Art and Culture; Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) criteria; state-wise distribution of heritage sites.
- Harmanpreet Kaur — World Record: 356 international matches (6 Tests, 161 ODIs, 189 T20Is), surpassing New Zealand’s Suzie Bates (355 matches).
- Significance: Women in Sports; longevity and consistency; significant for sports-awareness sections of competitive exams.
- Australia vs India — 2nd Women’s T20I, Canberra: Australia won by 19 runs; Georgia Voll: 88* (Player of Match); Beth Mooney became Australia’s all-time highest T20I scorer. Series levelled 1–1.
- Significance: Current sports events; key individual performances and records.
💪 Stay consistent. Stay informed. Stay ahead. 📚 Your daily dose of exam-ready current affairs.
