Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: February 07, 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)
- RBI Repo Rate: Maintained at 5.25%; GDP growth forecast for FY26 raised to 7.4%.
- India-US Trade: Interim framework released; US tariffs on Indian goods cut to 18%.
- Frontier Nagaland: Historic agreement signed for Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA).
- India-GCC: Terms of Reference (ToR) signed to resume Free Trade Agreement talks.
- U-19 World Cup: India clinches record sixth title by defeating England.
- Banking & REITs: RBI allows commercial banks to extend direct finance to REITs.
- Aviation: Airbus inaugurates Centre of Excellence at Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara.
- Space & Tech: HAL to bid for manufacturing 5th-gen AMCA fighter jets.
- Diplomacy: India contributes $35.18 million to the UN Regular Budget for 2026.
- Sports Achievement: Rudrankksh Patil wins gold in 10m Air Rifle at Asian Championships.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Historic Agreement Signed for Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority
Summary: The Centre, Nagaland government, and ENPO signed a pact to create a new administrative body for Eastern Nagaland.
On February 6, 2026, the Government of India signed a landmark tripartite agreement with the Government of Nagaland and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO). This agreement facilitates the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA), a specialized administrative body aimed at addressing the developmental and socio-political aspirations of the people in the six eastern districts of Nagaland. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the pact as a “historic milestone” for the Northeast, emphasizing its role in fostering inclusive growth. The agreement follows years of demands for separate statehood or autonomous status due to perceived developmental neglect in the region. Union Home Minister Amit Shah noted that the FNTA would have significant administrative and financial autonomy while remaining within the state of Nagaland.
Exam Angle: Crucial for questions on Article 371A, federalism, and the “Act East” policy. Knowledge of the FNTA’s structure is vital for UPSC Mains.
Source: Press Information Bureau – https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2224220
Bihar Overhauls Hostel Safety Protocols Following Student Tragedy
Summary: Bihar government introduces biometrics and 24/7 wardens for student hostels after a death in coaching hubs.
Following the tragic death of a NEET aspirant, the Bihar government on February 6, 2026, announced a comprehensive overhaul of safety protocols for private and government student hostels across the state. The New Hostel Safety Guidelines 2026 mandate the installation of high-resolution CCTV cameras at all entry and exit points, mandatory biometric attendance linked to a central state portal, and the presence of 24/7 wardens. Additionally, every hostel must now have a dedicated mental health counselor available for students. State Education Minister Chandra Shekhar stated that these measures aim to create a secure environment for students migrating to educational hubs like Patna and Gaya. Hostels failing to register under the new portal by March 2026 will face immediate closure and heavy penalties.
Exam Angle: Relevant for State PSCs and questions on social safety nets and educational reforms in India.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/education/bihar-hostel-safety-guidelines-2026/
Rajasthan Declares Fully Insured Villages Under CSR Initiative
Summary: Nine villages in Rajasthan achieved 100% insurance coverage for adults through a joint NGO-Government effort.
In a significant social sector milestone, the Rajasthan state government on February 6, 2026, recognized nine villages, including Bhulla Ka Bas and Palankheda, as “Fully Insured Villages.” This initiative, supported by a prominent NGO and the United India Insurance Company Limited (UIIC), ensured that every eligible adult in these villages received personal accident and health insurance coverage. The premiums were funded through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds, removing the financial burden from the rural population. This model is being studied by NITI Aayog as a potential blueprint for achieving universal insurance penetration in rural India. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma emphasized that this “security cover” is essential for protecting farming families from debt traps caused by medical emergencies.
Exam Angle: Important for “Financial Inclusion” and “Social Security Schemes” topics in Banking and UPSC exams.
Source: AffairsCloud – https://affairscloud.com/current-affairs-6-february-2026/
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
India and GCC Sign Terms of Reference to Restart FTA Talks
Summary: India and the Gulf Cooperation Council formalize the resumption of Free Trade Agreement negotiations.
In a major boost to trade diplomacy, India and the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) in New Delhi on February 6, 2026, to formally restart negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and GCC officials presided over the ceremony, marking the end of a long-standing pause since 2008. The GCC, which includes the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain, is India’s largest trading bloc partner. The FTA aims to lower tariffs on Indian exports like gems, textiles, and agricultural products while securing energy supplies and investment from the Gulf. Minister Goyal stated that the first draft of the pact is expected by the end of the current fiscal year.
Exam Angle: Significant for International Relations (IR) and “India’s Trade Policy” sections of competitive exams.
Source: Business Standard – https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/india-gcc-sign-tor-to-restart-free-trade-talks-after-three-year-pause-126020501135_1.html
HAL to Bid for License Manufacturing of 5th-Gen AMCA Fighter Jet
Summary: State-run HAL announces plans to lead the manufacturing of India’s indigenous 5th-generation stealth aircraft.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) announced on February 6, 2026, its intent to participate in the bidding process for the license manufacturing of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India’s indigenous 5th-generation fighter jet. The project, overseen by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), aims to develop a stealth multi-role aircraft with super-cruise capabilities. HAL’s entry into the bidding process underscores the government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative in the defense sector. Manufacturing is slated to begin in 2035, but the design and development phase is reaching critical milestones in 2026. This move is expected to attract private sector partners as part of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to scale production and integrate advanced avionics.
Exam Angle: Key for “Science and Tech” and “Internal Security” topics regarding indigenous defense production.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/india/hal-amca-fifth-generation-fighter-jet/
Delhi Ranked World’s Most Affordable City for International Students
Summary: A joint report by Knight Frank and Deloitte identifies Delhi as the most cost-effective global hub for higher education.
A comprehensive report titled “India’s 155 Million Student Mandate,” released on February 6, 2026, by Knight Frank India, Deloitte, and Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), has named New Delhi the world’s most affordable city for international students. The study analyzed cost-of-living indices, tuition fees, and accommodation expenses across major global education hubs. Delhi’s ranking is attributed to its competitive housing market and the lower cost of amenities compared to cities like London or New York. The report highlights that India is emerging as a preferred destination for students from the Global South, particularly in STEM fields. This recognition aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s goal of internationalizing Indian higher education and attracting 500,000 foreign students by 2030.
Exam Angle: Relevant for topics on “Human Capital,” “Education Policy,” and “Urban Development.”
Source: AffairsCloud – https://affairscloud.com/current-affairs-6-february-2026/
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
White House Releases Joint Statement on India-US Interim Trade Deal
Summary: An interim trade framework reduces US tariffs to 18% and opens Indian markets for American agricultural goods.
The White House on February 6, 2026, released a Joint Statement on the India-US interim trade framework, signaling a major realignment of economic ties. Under the agreement, the United States will reduce reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%, specifically benefiting the textiles, leather, and organic chemical sectors. In exchange, India has committed to reducing tariffs on U.S. industrial goods and a wide range of agricultural products, including dried distillers’ grains (DDGs), fresh fruits, and spirits. Furthermore, the framework includes a commitment from India to stop importing Russian oil directly or indirectly, replacing it with U.S. energy products. This deal serves as a precursor to a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) expected to be finalized by mid-2026.
Exam Angle: Vital for “Bilateral Relations” and “India-US Trade” questions. Note the specific tariff percentages (18%).
Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/us-india-interim-trade-agreement-joint-statement-white-house/article70601889.ece
India Contributes $35.18 Million to UN Regular Budget for 2026
Summary: India maintains its commitment to global governance by paying its annual dues to the United Nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed on February 6, 2026, that India has contributed USD 35.18 million to the United Nations Regular Budget for the calendar year 2026. This payment keeps India in the “Honour Roll” of member states who pay their mandatory assessments in full within the first 30 days of the year. The contribution reflects India’s proactive role in multilateralism and its support for UN operations ranging from peacekeeping to sustainable development goals (SDGs). This move comes at a time when India is intensifying its bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council (UNSC). By consistently meeting its financial obligations, India positions itself as a responsible global stakeholder compared to other major economies that often delay payments.
Exam Angle: Important for “International Organizations” and “India’s Role in UN” topics in various exams.
Source: SSBCrackExams – https://ssbcrackexams.com/current-affairs-06-february-2026/
Suicide Blast at Islamabad Mosque Kills 31 During Friday Prayers
Summary: A major terror attack in Pakistan’s capital leaves scores dead, heightening regional security concerns.
At least 31 people were killed and over 169 injured on February 6, 2026, when a suicide bomber targeted the Tarlai Imambargah mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan. The attack occurred during Friday prayers, a peak time for worship. Authorities identified the attacker as a foreign national linked to “Fitna al Khwaraji,” a term used by Pakistani security forces for the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) rejected allegations made by some Pakistani officials attempting to link the blast to Indian intelligence, calling them “baseless and diversionary.” The blast has led to increased security alerts along the Line of Control (LoC) and across South Asian capitals, as it marks a significant escalation of violence in Pakistan’s heavily guarded capital.
Exam Angle: Relevant for “Regional Security” and “Neighbourhood First Policy” (India-Pakistan relations) discussions.
Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-on-february-6-2026/article70600156.ece
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI MPC Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged at 5.25%; Raises GDP Forecast
Summary: The Reserve Bank of India maintains interest rates while projecting a robust 7.4% growth for FY26.
The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), led by Governor Sanjay Malhotra, concluded its three-day meeting on February 6, 2026, with a unanimous decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%. The central bank maintained its “neutral” policy stance, citing a balance between inflation control and growth support. Significantly, the RBI raised the real GDP growth forecast for FY26 to 7.4% from the previous estimate of 7.3%, citing resilient domestic demand and a boost from the recent India-US trade framework. The inflation (CPI) projection for FY26 was slightly adjusted to 2.1%. Governor Malhotra highlighted that while global uncertainties persist, India’s macroeconomic fundamentals remain strong. This pause follows a series of rate cuts totaling 125 basis points since early 2025.
Exam Angle: A “must-know” for all exams. Focus on the 5.25% repo rate, 7.4% GDP forecast, and the name of the RBI Governor (Sanjay Malhotra).
RBI Permits Commercial Banks to Extend Direct Finance to REITs
Summary: A major regulatory shift allows banks to lend directly to Real Estate Investment Trusts, lowering capital costs.
In a landmark policy move announced during the MPC review on February 6, 2026, the RBI has permitted commercial banks to extend finance to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). Previously, banks were restricted from direct lending to these trusts. The new guidelines allow banks to lend for both greenfield projects and the refinancing of existing debt, provided certain prudential safeguards are met. This move is expected to significantly lower the borrowing costs for REITs, as bank loans are generally cheaper than debt market instruments. Analysts predict this will increase the “distributable cash flow” for REITs, leading to higher dividends for retail investors. The Indian REITs Association welcomed the decision, stating it would provide a stable, long-term source of funding for the commercial real estate sector.
Exam Angle: Crucial for Banking (SBI/IBPS) and SEBI exams. Understand the impact on “yield” and “liquidity” in the real estate sector.
Source: Economic Times – https://m.economictimes.com/wealth/real-estate/good-news-for-reit-investors-as-they-are-likely-to-get-higher-returns-and-dividends-due-to-this-decision-by-rbi-announced-today/articleshow/127982646.cms
Rupee Posts Highest Single-Day Gain in 7 Years After Trade Deal
Summary: The Indian Rupee surged by 1.38% to settle at 90.27 against the US Dollar following the tariff reduction news.
The Indian Rupee (INR) witnessed a historic surge on February 6, 2026, gaining 119 paise to settle at 90.27 against the US Dollar (USD). This 1.38% jump represents the highest single-day gain for the currency in seven years. Market analysts attributed this rally to the positive sentiment surrounding the India-US interim trade framework and the reduction of US tariffs on Indian goods. Furthermore, the RBI’s decision to maintain a neutral stance and the upward revision of GDP growth estimates provided additional support. The strengthening of the rupee is expected to lower the cost of oil and electronic imports, potentially easing inflationary pressures. Forex dealers noted significant dollar inflows from foreign institutional investors (FIIs) following the announcement of the trade joint statement.
Exam Angle: Important for “Exchange Rate Dynamics” and “Balance of Payments” topics in Economics.
Source: Business Standard – https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news/rbi-mpc-meeting-february-2026-policy-review-repo-rate-interest-decision-126020400865_1.html
5. SPORTS
India Wins Record Sixth U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Title
Summary: India defeated England by 100 runs in the final to extend their dominance in junior cricket.
On February 6, 2026, the Indian U-19 cricket team made history by clinching their sixth ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup title. In a one-sided final held at the Bullring in Johannesburg, India defeated England by 100 runs. The star of the match was Vaibhav Suryavanshi, whose commanding innings of 175 runs set a massive target for the English side. The Indian bowlers, led by Ayush Mhatre, dismantled the English batting lineup to secure the victory. This win reinforces India’s status as a powerhouse in age-group cricket, having now won the trophy in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, 2022, and 2026. Tributes poured in from former players like Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir, hailing the “next generation” of Indian cricket stars.
Exam Angle: High probability for sports-related questions in SSC and Banking exams. Note the number of titles (6) and the star performer (Vaibhav Suryavanshi).
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/india-u19-world-cup-win-2026/
Rudrankksh Patil Wins Gold at Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship
Summary: The Olympic gold medalist secures the top podium spot in the 10m Air Rifle event in New Delhi.
Continuing India’s dominance in shooting, Rudrankksh Patil clinched the gold medal in the men’s 10m Air Rifle event at the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship on February 6, 2026. Held at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi, Patil displayed exceptional composure to overcome a stiff challenge from Chinese and South Korean shooters. This victory adds to India’s burgeoning medal tally at the championship, which surpassed 10 golds within the first two days. In another event, the mixed team of Samrat Rana and Suruchi Singh bagged a silver in the 10m Air Pistol event. National coach Jaspal Rana noted that these performances are critical indicators of India’s readiness for the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games.
Exam Angle: Key for “Sports Personalities” and “Major Tournaments” sections.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/sport-others/rudrankksh-patil-gold-asian-championship-2026/
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Crowned WPL 2026 Champions
Summary: RCB Women secure their second Women’s Premier League title, joining Mumbai Indians as the most successful franchise.
The fourth edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) concluded on February 6, 2026, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) emerging as champions for the second time in history. RCB defeated Mumbai Indians in a high-octane final, showcasing the rapid growth and popularity of women’s franchise cricket in India. With this win, RCB matches Mumbai Indians for the highest number of titles (two each) in the short history of the tournament. The tournament saw record viewership across digital platforms and stadiums, further cementing the WPL as the premier women’s T20 league globally. The BCCI announced plans to further expand the league to six teams in the 2027 season due to the overwhelming commercial and sporting success.
Exam Angle: Relevant for questions on women in sports and sports franchises.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-school-assembly-february-6-2026-new-manipur-cm-pak-cricket-force-majeure-sports-national-international-10515412/
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Airbus Inaugurates Centre of Excellence at Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya
Summary: The Vadodara-based center will focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and aerospace research.
On February 6, 2026, global aerospace giant Airbus inaugurated its Centre of Excellence (CoE) at Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) in Vadodara, Gujarat. This facility is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between a global aviation leader and an Indian central university. The CoE will focus on advanced research in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), including the innovative conversion of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) into jet fuel. Jürgen Westermeier, President of Airbus India, stated that the center would offer 45 scholarships to meritorious students, with a specific focus on increasing female participation in aerospace engineering. The initiative aligns with India’s “Gati Shakti” national master plan for multimodal connectivity and the goal of making India a global aviation manufacturing hub.
Exam Angle: Important for “Science & Tech” and “Government-Industry Partnerships.” Location (Vadodara) is a likely question.
Source: AffairsCloud – https://affairscloud.com/current-affairs-6-february-2026/
Study Warns of Rapid Urban Heat Intensification in Tier-II Indian Cities
Summary: Research indicates cities like Jalandhar and Patiala could warm by up to 0.8°C more than surrounding rural areas.
A study published on February 6, 2026, in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has warned that several Tier-II Indian cities are facing rapid warming due to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. Led by the University of East Anglia, the research analyzed 104 medium-sized cities globally. In India, cities like Jalandhar, Patiala, Hisar, and Erode were identified as high-risk zones. The study found that under a 2°C global warming scenario, these cities could experience additional warming of 0.7°C to 0.8°C compared to their rural hinterlands. The causes cited include dense asphalt infrastructure, lack of green cover, and waste heat from air conditioning. This research emphasizes the urgent need for “Cool City” urban planning and increased vegetation in rapidly developing Indian urban centers.
Exam Angle: Highly relevant for “Environment & Ecology” and “Climate Change” topics.
Source: Down To Earth – https://www.downtoearth.org.in/climate-change/urban-heat-in-india-set-to-intensify-as-some-cities-warm-faster-new-research-finds
NBA Launches Digital Portal for Medicinal Plant Certification
Summary: The National Biodiversity Authority introduces a digital system to track and certify cultivated medicinal plants.
On February 6, 2026, the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) launched a specialized digital portal to issue “Certificates of Origin” for cultivated medicinal plants. This initiative aims to streamline the export process for Indian herbal and Ayurvedic products while ensuring compliance with the Biological Diversity Act. The portal will allow farmers and companies to obtain digital certification, proving that the plants were legally sourced and cultivated rather than illegally harvested from the wild. This move is expected to boost India’s share in the multi-billion dollar global herbal medicine market. The NBA Chairperson stated that the portal provides a “traceability link” that is increasingly demanded by international regulators in the EU and North America.
Exam Angle: Key for “Biodiversity,” “Agriculture,” and “Ease of Doing Business.”
Source: AffairsCloud – https://affairscloud.com/current-affairs-6-february-2026/
7. OTHERS
Union Minister Flags Off Joint Mountaineering Expedition to Mt. Aconcagua
Summary: A six-member Indian team begins a demanding climb of South America’s highest peak in Argentina.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off a joint mountaineering expedition to Mount Aconcagua on February 5, with formal reporting of the event’s mission details occurring on February 6, 2026. The expedition is a collaborative effort between the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM), Uttarkashi, and the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering & Winter Sports (JIM & WS), Pahalgam. Led by Colonel Hem Chandra Singh, the six-member team aims to summit the 6,961-meter peak in Argentina, which is the highest mountain outside Asia. The mission is designed to showcase the endurance and technical skills of Indian mountaineers on the global stage. Minister Singh emphasized that such expeditions foster a spirit of adventure and international camaraderie among India’s defense and specialized training institutes.
Exam Angle: Useful for “Awards & Honors” and “Geography” (Mapping South American peaks).
Source: AffairsCloud – https://affairscloud.com/current-affairs-6-february-2026/
RBI to Issue New Guidelines on Advertising of Financial Products
Summary: Regulated entities to face stricter norms to curb misleading advertisements and protect consumers.
In an effort to enhance consumer protection, the RBI announced on February 6, 2026, that it will soon issue comprehensive instructions to all Regulated Entities (REs) regarding the advertising, marketing, and sale of financial products. This decision, part of the “Additional Developmental and Regulatory Policies” released alongside the MPC statement, targets the rising trend of “dark patterns” and misleading claims in digital financial services. The new framework will mandate clear disclosures regarding interest rates, hidden charges, and risks associated with digital lending and investment products. Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the move is necessary to maintain public trust in the digital financial ecosystem, which has seen explosive growth in the last three years.
Exam Angle: Important for “Banking Regulation” and “Consumer Rights” topics.
India Joins BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC)
Summary: India formally joins the BRICS initiative to support manufacturing and small-scale industries.
India formally joined the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC) on February 6, 2026, during an event organized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The BCIC is designed to facilitate the exchange of best practices in industrial development, digital transformation, and manufacturing efficiency among BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). By joining this center, India seeks to leverage collective expertise to support its Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in adopting Industry 4.0 technologies. The DPIIT Secretary noted that this partnership would help Indian industries become more globally competitive while strengthening South-South cooperation.
Exam Angle: Significant for “International Groups” (BRICS) and “Industrial Policy” questions.
Source: AffairsCloud – https://affairscloud.com/current-affairs-6-february-2026/
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (Core Recall Points)
1. National & State Governance
- Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA): Historic tripartite agreement signed for 6 eastern districts of Nagaland.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of Article 371A, federalism, and Act East Policy.
- Bihar Hostel Safety Guidelines 2026: Biometric attendance, 24/7 wardens, mental health counselors mandatory in all hostels.
- Significance: Educational reforms and social safety nets in state governance.
- Rajasthan Fully Insured Villages: 9 villages (including Bhulla Ka Bas) achieved 100% insurance coverage via CSR funding.
- Significance: Financial inclusion models and social security schemes.
2. Economy & Finance
- RBI Repo Rate: Maintained at 5.25% with neutral stance; GDP growth forecast raised to 7.4% for FY26.
- Significance: Core monetary policy development; RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra’s key decision.
- RBI-REIT Financing: Commercial banks now permitted to extend direct finance to Real Estate Investment Trusts.
- Significance: Banking sector reforms and real estate market liquidity enhancement.
- Indian Rupee Rally: INR surged 1.38% to settle at ₹90.27/$1 – highest single-day gain in 7 years.
- Significance: Exchange rate dynamics following India-US trade deal.
- RBI Financial Product Advertising Guidelines: New regulations to curb “dark patterns” in digital lending and investment ads.
- Significance: Consumer protection and banking regulation.
3. International Relations & Trade
- India-US Interim Trade Deal: US tariffs on Indian goods reduced from 25% to 18%; India to replace Russian oil with US energy.
- Significance: Major bilateral trade policy shift; critical for IR and trade negotiations topics.
- India-GCC FTA: Terms of Reference (ToR) signed to restart Free Trade Agreement talks after 2008 pause.
- Significance: Trade diplomacy with Gulf nations (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain).
- India’s UN Contribution: USD 35.18 million paid to UN Regular Budget for 2026; maintains “Honour Roll” status.
- Significance: India’s role in multilateralism and UNSC permanent seat bid.
- Islamabad Mosque Attack: 31 killed, 169 injured in suicide bombing linked to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
- Significance: Regional security and India-Pakistan relations under Neighbourhood First Policy.
4. Defence & Security
- HAL and AMCA 5th-Gen Fighter: HAL to bid for manufacturing India’s indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft; production planned from 2035.
- Significance: Atmanirbhar Bharat in defense; indigenous defense production capabilities.
- Mt. Aconcagua Expedition: 6-member team from NIM Uttarkashi and JIM&WS Pahalgam to summit 6,961m peak in Argentina.
- Significance: Adventure sports, defense training institutes, and geography (highest peak outside Asia).
5. Science, Technology & Environment
- Airbus Centre of Excellence: Inaugurated at Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara; focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and MSW-to-jet-fuel conversion.
- Significance: Government-industry partnership, skill development, and green aviation technology.
- NBA Medicinal Plant Portal: National Biodiversity Authority launched digital certification system for cultivated medicinal plants.
- Significance: Biodiversity conservation, Ayurvedic exports, and ease of doing business.
- Urban Heat Island Study: Tier-II cities (Jalandhar, Patiala, Hisar, Erode) could warm 0.7-0.8°C more than rural areas under 2°C global warming.
- Significance: Climate change, urban planning, and environmental ecology.
- BRICS Industrial Centre (BCIC): India joined to support MSME adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies.
- Significance: BRICS cooperation and industrial policy reforms.
6. Education & Social Development
- Delhi – Most Affordable for International Students: Knight Frank-Deloitte-QS report ranks Delhi #1 globally for cost-effective higher education.
- Significance: NEP 2020 internationalization goals and urban development.
7. Sports
- India U-19 Cricket World Cup: Record 6th title won (2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, 2022, 2026); defeated England by 100 runs in Johannesburg.
- Significance: Star performer – Vaibhav Suryavanshi (175 runs).
- Rudrankksh Patil: Gold medal in 10m Air Rifle at Asian Championship, New Delhi.
- Significance: Olympic preparation and shooting excellence.
- WPL 2026 Champions: Royal Challengers Bengaluru won 2nd title; ties Mumbai Indians for most WPL titles (2 each).
- Significance: Women’s sports franchise growth and BCCI expansion plans.
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