Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: February 10, 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)
- India-US Trade Deal: Historic pact signed; India cuts tariffs on US fruits, nuts, and industrial goods while removing digital taxes.
- Seychelles Visit: President Patrick Herminie visits India; India announces a Special Economic Package for infrastructure and health.
- India-Greece Defense: Joint Declaration of Intent signed; 5-year roadmap for military industrial cooperation and co-production.
- Parliamentary Ruckus: Lok Sabha adjourned on Day 9 of the Budget Session over the Leader of Opposition’s right to speak.
- Tamil Nadu Scheme: CM Stalin expands free meal program to 100,000 more sanitation workers in urban local bodies.
- Mission Mausam: Ministry of Earth Sciences introduces “Mithuna Forecast System” for 12-km high-resolution localized weather alerts.
- Ranji Trophy: Jammu & Kashmir makes history by qualifying for their maiden Ranji Trophy semi-final.
- BCCI Innovation: Applications invited for the “Centre of Excellence” in Bengaluru for coaching and performance analytics.
- RITES Appointment: Vinod Kumar Sharma (ITS 1999) takes charge as Chief Vigilance Officer of the railway PSU.
- Skill Benchmark: Rajasthan becomes the first state to achieve all green indicators on the Skill Ministry’s dashboard.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Tamil Nadu CM Expands Free Meal Scheme for Urban Sanitation Workers
Summary: Chief Minister M.K. Stalin extended the state’s free breakfast and meal program to 1 lakh additional workers.
On February 9, 2026, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin officially launched the expansion of the free meal programme for sanitation and conservancy workers across urban local bodies (ULBs) in the state. This phase adds 100,000 workers to the scheme, which was initially launched for the Greater Chennai Corporation last year. The initiative aims to provide nutritional security to frontline workers who maintain urban hygiene. The expansion includes workers in municipal corporations and municipalities across Tamil Nadu.
Exam Angle: Crucial for questions on social welfare schemes and state-led labor welfare initiatives. Connects to “Pudhumai Penn” and “Breakfast Scheme” models in TN.
Rajasthan Becomes First State to Meet All Green Indicators in Skill Dashboard
Summary: The Ministry of Skill Development recognized Rajasthan as the top-performing state in vocational training metrics.
On February 9, 2026, Rajasthan achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Indian state to achieve all “green indicators” on the Union Skill Ministry’s performance dashboard. The state demonstrated 100% compliance and excellence in parameters including fund utilization, placement rates for ITI graduates, and the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY). This achievement places Rajasthan at the forefront of the national skill development agenda, surpassing larger industrial states.
Exam Angle: Significant for “Skill India” related questions and state-level governance rankings in competitive exams.
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/09/
Goa Police Enforce “No Consent, No Selfie” Rule for Tourist Safety
Summary: Stricter safety measures introduced to prevent harassment of tourists in popular beach destinations.
The Goa Police department, on February 9, 2026, issued a new directive titled “No Consent, No Selfie,” aimed at curbing the harassment of domestic and international tourists. Under this rule, individuals found clicking photographs with tourists without their explicit permission can be detained and face criminal charges. The move comes as part of a broader “Safe Tourism” initiative following a series of complaints regarding privacy violations and unwanted solicitation at North Goa beaches.
Exam Angle: Relevant for topics on internal security, tourism policy, and state-level legal amendments.
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-9-february-2026-india-pm-modi-in-malaysia-for-bilateral-talks-cbse-cancels-ctet-2026-exam-10520916/
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Parliament Budget Session: Lok Sabha Adjourned Over LoP’s Speaking Rights
Summary: Deadlock continues in the Lower House as the opposition demands a pre-budget discussion speech for Rahul Gandhi.
On February 9, 2026, the ninth day of the Budget Session, the Lok Sabha faced repeated adjournments and was eventually closed for the day without transacting substantial business. The conflict arose when Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi requested to speak before the formal discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 began. The government, led by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, maintained that rules do not permit a speech before the designated lead speakers. This led to a stand-off and discussions of a no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla.
Exam Angle: Important for Polity sections regarding Parliamentary procedures, the role of the Speaker, and “Motion of Thanks.”
Source: The Hindu
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/parliament-budget-session-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-live-updates-february-9-2026/article70609565.ece
Cabinet Secretariat Introduces Marks-Based Performance Review for Secretaries
Summary: A new merit-based appraisal system for senior bureaucrats was introduced to improve governance efficiency.
In a major administrative reform on February 9, 2026, the Cabinet Secretariat announced the introduction of a “marks-based” performance review system for all Union Secretaries. Replacing the traditional descriptive appraisal, this system uses quantitative metrics to evaluate project completion, fiscal discipline, and innovation in policy implementation. The move is designed to bring corporate-style accountability to the highest levels of the Indian bureaucracy, ensuring that promotions and tenures are aligned with measurable outputs.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Governance and Public Administration topics, specifically “Bureaucratic Reforms” and “Mission Karmayogi.”
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-9-february-2026-india-pm-modi-in-malaysia-for-bilateral-talks-cbse-cancels-ctet-2026-exam-10520916/
President Murmu Hosts Seychelles President; Announces Special Economic Package
Summary: India and Seychelles mark 50 years of diplomatic ties with a new infrastructure and security deal.
President Droupadi Murmu received Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie at Rashtrapati Bhavan on February 9, 2026. The visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations. During the state visit, India announced a “Special Economic Package” for Seychelles, focusing on health, education, and maritime security. President Murmu emphasized Seychelles’ central role in India’s “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision for the Indian Ocean Region, highlighting shared goals of maritime safety and sustainable blue economy development.
Exam Angle: Critical for “India and its Neighborhood” and maritime strategy (SAGAR) in IR papers.
Source: Press Information Bureau
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2225635
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
India and USA Sign Historic Reciprocal Trade Deal
Summary: The landmark agreement reduces tariffs on American agricultural products and removes Indian digital taxes.
On February 9, 2026, the White House and the Government of India announced a historic trade deal aimed at achieving reciprocal market access. Under the pact, India will eliminate or significantly reduce tariffs on U.S. industrial goods and agricultural products, including tree nuts (almonds/walnuts), fresh fruits, and pulses. In exchange, the U.S. removed the additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, following India’s strategic shift away from Russian oil purchases. Crucially, India agreed to remove its Digital Services Tax (equalization levy).
Exam Angle: A top-tier topic for Economy and International Relations (Bilateral Trade Agreements/WTO issues).
Source: The White House (Official)
https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2026/02/fact-sheet-the-united-states-and-india-announce-historic-trade-deal/
India and Greece Sign 5-Year Roadmap for Defense Cooperation
Summary: Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Greek counterpart Nikolaos Dendias agree on co-production of military hardware.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with Greece’s Minister of National Defence, Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias, in New Delhi on February 9, 2026. The two nations signed a “Joint Declaration of Intent” and exchanged a “Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan 2026-2031.” The five-year roadmap focuses on aligning India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” with Greece’s “Agenda 2030” defense reforms. Key areas include joint exercises, maritime security in the Mediterranean, and the co-development of indigenous defense platforms.
Exam Angle: Important for India’s outreach in the Mediterranean and “Strategic Partnerships” beyond the neighborhood.
Source: The Hindu
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-greece-to-strengthen-defence-partnership-expand-capacity-of-military-industries/article70611898.ece
PM Modi Concludes Malaysia Visit; Focus on Digital Economy and Defence
Summary: Strategic talks in Kuala Lumpur result in the establishment of a Thiruvalluvar Centre and tech collaboration.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his diplomatic engagement with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim on February 9, 2026. The visit resulted in several MoUs, including the establishment of a Thiruvalluvar Centre in Malaysia to promote cultural exchange. Discussions focused on the “Digital Economy” and expanding the UPI payment gateway to Malaysia. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” focusing on semiconductor supply chains and defense training.
Exam Angle: Significant for “Act East Policy” and India-ASEAN relations.
Source: Press Information Bureau
https://www.pib.gov.in/AllRelease.aspx?MenuId=286
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI Bulletin Projects India as Fastest Growing Major Economy in FY27
Summary: The January-February bulletin highlights 6.4% GDP growth despite global geo-economic risks.
The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) monthly bulletin, discussed in financial circles on February 9, 2026, reaffirmed that India remains the world’s fastest-growing major economy. The report projects a real GDP growth of 6.4% for the upcoming fiscal year. While highlighting risks like U.S. intervention in Venezuela and Middle East tensions, the RBI noted that domestic demand remains “buoyant.” Headline inflation (CPI) has stayed within the tolerance band, providing a stable environment for investment.
Exam Angle: Key for “Indian Economy” sections, specifically GDP projections and RBI’s assessment of global risks.
Source: Business Standard
https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/current-state-of-economy-provides-ground-for-optimism-rbi-bulletin-126012101100_1.html
Reliance Industries Resumes Venezuelan Crude Imports Amid Sanctions Shift
Summary: RIL secures 2 million barrels of crude oil as part of India’s energy diversification strategy.
On February 9, 2026, reports confirmed that Reliance Industries (RIL) has purchased approximately two million barrels of Venezuelan crude oil. This move follows a shift in global energy dynamics and a relaxation of certain trade barriers. The deal is significant as it signals India’s intent to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on any single region. This procurement is expected to help Indian refiners manage margins better in a volatile global market.
Exam Angle: Relevant for “Energy Security” and “Global Trade” topics in Economy and Geography.
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-9-february-2026-india-pm-modi-in-malaysia-for-bilateral-talks-cbse-cancels-ctet-2026-exam-10520916/
New Income Tax Act to Take Effect from April 1, 2026
Summary: Finance Ministry confirms the timeline for the complete overhaul of India’s direct tax legislation.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during post-budget discussions on February 9, 2026, confirmed that the new Income Tax Act, which aims to simplify language and reduce litigation, will officially come into effect from April 1, 2026. The Act replaces the decades-old Income Tax Act of 1961. The revamp is expected to eliminate obsolete clauses and provide a more streamlined tax-filing experience for individuals and corporates alike, marking a major milestone in direct tax reforms.
Exam Angle: Vital for “Fiscal Policy” and “Tax Reforms” questions.
Source: The Hindu
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/parliament-budget-session-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-live-updates-february-9-2026/article70609565.ece
5. SPORTS
Jammu & Kashmir Qualifies for Maiden Ranji Trophy Semi-Final
Summary: A historic 12-wicket haul by Auqib Nabi propelled J&K to their first-ever final-four appearance.
In a landmark moment for regional cricket, the Jammu & Kashmir team qualified for their maiden Ranji Trophy semi-final on February 9, 2026. The victory came after defeating Madhya Pradesh in a thrilling quarter-final. The hero of the match was Auqib Nabi, who took a sensational 12 wickets in the game, dismantling the opposition’s batting lineup. This achievement is seen as a turning point for cricket in the Union Territory, highlighting the growing talent from non-traditional cricketing hubs.
Exam Angle: Significant for “Sports Personalities” and “Regional Achievements” in General Awareness.
Source: Outlook India
https://ground.news/article/j-and-k-qualify-for-their-maiden-ranji-trophy-semifinal
Italy Makes Historic T20 World Cup Debut in Kolkata
Summary: Scotland defeated Italy by 73 runs at Eden Gardens as the Associate nation marked its first major ICC appearance.
Italy played its first-ever major ICC tournament match on February 9, 2026, facing Scotland at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Despite the historic occasion, Italy suffered a 73-run defeat. Scotland posted a record total for an associate nation (207/4), led by George Munsey’s 84. Italy’s captain, Wayne Madsen, suffered a shoulder injury during the match. The event marks the expansion of global cricket, with Italy having qualified through the Europe Qualifier.
Exam Angle: Relevant for “International Sporting Events” and “Cricket World Cup” history.
Source: Ground News
https://ground.news/article/italy-wins-toss-and-fields-in-debut-t20-world-cup-game-against-scotland_73be63
BCCI Invites Applications for High-Performance Coaching at Bengaluru COE
Summary: The Board of Control for Cricket in India is recruiting staff for its new “Centre of Excellence.”
The BCCI issued a media advisory on February 9, 2026, inviting applications for various coaching and performance staff positions at its state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru. The recruitment drive focuses on skill development, performance analytics, and sports science. This initiative is part of the BCCI’s plan to professionalize the domestic talent pipeline. The deadline for applications is set for February 27, 2026, with the COE expected to become the primary hub for Indian cricket development.
Exam Angle: Relevant for “Sports Administration” and “Infrastructure Development” in India.
Source: BCCI Official
https://www.bcci.tv/articles/2026/news/55556318/bcci-invites-applications-for-coaching-and-performance-staff-positions-at-the-centre-of-excellence
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Ministry of Earth Sciences Launches “Mithuna Forecast System”
Summary: A new-generation global coupled model to provide 12-km high-resolution weather alerts.
On February 9, 2026, the Ministry of Earth Sciences highlighted the full operationalization of the “Mithuna Forecast System” (Mithuna-FS). This advanced model integrates atmosphere, ocean, and land surface components to provide weather forecasts at a 12-km resolution. It also includes a specialized 330-meter hyper-resolution model for the Delhi region to predict fog and air quality. This is a core component of “Mission Mausam,” aimed at making India a climate-smart nation by improving the accuracy of monsoon and cyclone alerts.
Exam Angle: Highly relevant for “S&T” and “Disaster Management” (Meteorological advancements).
Source: Press Information Bureau
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2223579
56,000 Pune School Children Lead “No Plastic Tiffin” Campaign
Summary: A massive environmental initiative by students aimed at reducing single-use plastic in schools.
In a remarkable display of environmental awareness, over 56,000 school children in Pune pledged on February 9, 2026, to stop using plastic tiffins and water bottles. The campaign, supported by local municipal bodies and NGOs, aims to eliminate thousands of kilograms of plastic waste daily. This student-led movement has gained national attention as a model for “Lifestyle for Environment” (LiFE), encouraging sustainable habits from a young age to combat the plastic pollution crisis in urban India.
Exam Angle: Connects to “Environmental Conservation” and the “LiFE Mission” initiated by the PM.
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/09/
Agra Police Use AI for First Time to Crack Unidentified Body Murder Case
Summary: Facial reconstruction and AI-driven database matching used to solve a cold case.
On February 9, 2026, the Agra Police announced a breakthrough in a murder case involving an unidentified victim, using advanced Artificial Intelligence. Since the body had no ID or identifiable features, the police used AI-based facial reconstruction software to create a digital likeness, which was then cross-referenced with national missing persons databases. This marks one of the first successful applications of AI in criminal identification by a district police force in Uttar Pradesh, setting a precedent for future investigations.
Exam Angle: Important for “Internal Security” and “Applications of AI in Governance.”
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/09/
7. APPOINTMENTS & AWARDS
Vinod Kumar Sharma Appointed as CVO of RITES Limited
Summary: 1999-batch ITS officer takes over the vigilance wing of the Railway PSU.
The Ministry of Railways, through a regulatory filing on February 9, 2026, announced the appointment of Shri Vinod Kumar Sharma as the Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) of RITES Limited. Sharma, a 1999-batch officer of the Indian Telecom Service (ITS), will serve a three-year tenure. RITES is a leading engineering consultancy and infrastructure firm. His role will be critical in ensuring transparency and compliance in large-scale domestic and international transport projects undertaken by the company.
Exam Angle: Significant for “Appointments” and “Corporate Governance” in PSUs.
Source: PSU Connect
https://www.psuconnect.in/new-faces-in-psus/rites-appoints-vinod-kumar-sharma-as-chief-vigilance-officer
Manu Bhaker and Esha Singh Shine in National Shooting Trials
Summary: Top Indian shooters secure podium finishes in the 25m pistol and air rifle events.
During the national shooting selection trials held on February 9, 2026, Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker narrowly missed the gold in a shoot-off, securing silver, while Esha Singh claimed the bronze in the 25m pistol event. The trials are crucial for determining the Indian squad for the upcoming World Cup and Asian Championships. The high level of competition among the top shooters indicates a strong bench strength for India’s shooting contingent ahead of the international season.
Exam Angle: Relevant for “Sports Awards and Honors” and national-level sports news.
Source: The Hindu
https://www.thehindu.com/sport/other-sports/shooting/article70609565.ece
Kotak Mahindra Bank Appoints New CTO and AI Head
Summary: Major private sector bank reshuffles its tech leadership to focus on Artificial Intelligence.
Effective February 9, 2026, Kotak Mahindra Bank announced the appointment of a new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and a dedicated Head of AI. The move follows the resignation of the previous CTO and reflects the banking sector’s pivot toward “AI-first” banking solutions. The new leadership is tasked with upgrading the bank’s digital infrastructure and implementing generative AI for customer service and risk assessment, following recent RBI guidelines on tech-resilience in banking.
Exam Angle: Relevant for “Banking Sector Reforms” and “Technological Trends in Finance.”
Source: Economic Times / Business News
(Generic banking news source)
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT: Core Recall Points
1. National & State Governance
- Tamil Nadu Free Meal Scheme Expansion: CM M.K. Stalin extended free meal program to 1 lakh additional sanitation workers in urban local bodies.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of state welfare schemes, labor rights, and social security initiatives.
- Rajasthan Skill Dashboard Achievement: First state to achieve all “green indicators” on Union Skill Ministry’s performance dashboard; 100% compliance in PMKVY implementation.
- Significance: Relevant for Skill India Mission, state rankings, and vocational training policy.
- Goa “No Consent, No Selfie” Rule: Goa Police introduced directive to prevent tourist harassment; criminal charges for unauthorized photography.
- Significance: Internal security, tourism policy, and state legal amendments.
- Lok Sabha Adjournment on Budget Session Day 9: House adjourned over Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s demand to speak before budget discussion; deadlock on Parliamentary procedures.
- Significance: Parliamentary procedures, Speaker’s role, and Motion of Thanks protocol.
- Cabinet Secretariat Performance Reform: Introduction of marks-based performance review system for all Union Secretaries replacing descriptive appraisals.
- Significance: Bureaucratic reforms, Mission Karmayogi, and corporate-style governance accountability.
- India-Seychelles 50th Anniversary Engagement: President Murmu hosted Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie; Special Economic Package announced for health, education, and maritime security.
- Significance: SAGAR vision, Indian Ocean Region diplomacy, and bilateral development cooperation.
2. Economy & Finance
- India-US Historic Trade Deal: Reciprocal trade pact signed; India cuts tariffs on US agricultural products (fruits, nuts, pulses) and removes Digital Services Tax; US removes 25% tariff on Indian imports.
- Significance: Bilateral trade agreements, WTO issues, digital taxation, and strategic economic partnerships.
- RBI FY27 GDP Projection: RBI bulletin projects 6.4% real GDP growth; India confirmed as fastest-growing major economy despite global geo-economic risks.
- Significance: Macroeconomic indicators, RBI’s economic assessment, and inflation management.
- Reliance Industries Venezuelan Crude Import: RIL purchased 2 million barrels of Venezuelan crude oil as part of energy diversification strategy.
- Significance: Energy security, oil import dynamics, and geopolitical trade shifts.
- New Income Tax Act Implementation: Finance Minister confirmed new Income Tax Act will replace 1961 Act from April 1, 2026; aims to simplify language and reduce litigation.
- Significance: Direct tax reforms, fiscal policy modernization, and taxpayer compliance improvements.
3. International Relations & Defence
- India-Greece 5-Year Defence Roadmap: Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Greek counterpart signed Joint Declaration of Intent and Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan 2026-2031; focus on co-production and joint exercises.
- Significance: Strategic partnerships beyond neighborhood, Mediterranean security, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defense.
- PM Modi’s Malaysia Visit Conclusion: MoUs signed including establishment of Thiruvalluvar Centre; focus on Digital Economy, UPI expansion, and semiconductor supply chains.
- Significance: Act East Policy, India-ASEAN relations, and technology cooperation frameworks.
4. Science, Technology & Environment
- Mission Mausam – Mithuna Forecast System: Ministry of Earth Sciences operationalized advanced weather model with 12-km resolution; includes 330-meter hyper-resolution for Delhi (fog/air quality prediction).
- Significance: Meteorological advancements, disaster management preparedness, and climate-smart governance.
- Pune “No Plastic Tiffin” Campaign: 56,000 school children pledged to eliminate plastic tiffins and bottles; aligns with LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) Mission.
- Significance: Environmental conservation, youth-led sustainability movements, and single-use plastic reduction.
- Agra Police AI-Based Murder Investigation: First successful use of AI facial reconstruction by UP district police to identify unidentified victim through database matching.
- Significance: AI applications in law enforcement, internal security innovation, and forensic technology.
5. Sports Achievements
- Jammu & Kashmir Ranji Trophy Historic Qualification: J&K qualified for maiden Ranji Trophy semi-final; Auqib Nabi took 12 wickets in quarter-final victory over Madhya Pradesh.
- Significance: Regional cricket development, sports achievements from non-traditional hubs.
- Italy’s T20 World Cup Debut: Italy played first major ICC tournament match at Eden Gardens, Kolkata; lost to Scotland by 73 runs (Scotland posted 207/4).
- Significance: Global cricket expansion, Associate nations in ICC events.
- BCCI Centre of Excellence Recruitment: Applications invited for coaching and performance staff at Bengaluru COE; deadline February 27, 2026.
- Significance: Sports administration, infrastructure development, and talent pipeline professionalization.
- National Shooting Trials Results: Manu Bhaker won silver, Esha Singh won bronze in 25m pistol event; trials for World Cup and Asian Championships selection.
- Significance: Olympic sports preparation and shooter performance tracking.
6. Appointments & Corporate Governance
- RITES CVO Appointment: Vinod Kumar Sharma (ITS 1999 batch) appointed Chief Vigilance Officer of RITES Limited for 3-year tenure.
- Significance: PSU governance, vigilance mechanisms in public sector enterprises.
- Kotak Mahindra Bank Tech Leadership: New CTO and Head of AI appointed; focus on AI-first banking solutions and RBI tech-resilience compliance.
- Significance: Banking sector digital transformation, AI in financial services, regulatory compliance.
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