Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: February 19, 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)
- PM RAHAT Scheme: Approved by PM Modi to provide life-saving medical care for road accident victims.
- India–Estonia Meet: PM Modi and President Alar Karis discuss clean energy and talent mobility at the AI Impact Summit.
- WFP Rice Deal: FCI signs a 5-year MoU to supply 2 lakh metric tonnes of rice for global food security.
- India–Croatia Ties: PM Modi and PM Andrej Plenković focus on shipbuilding, blue economy, and the IMEC corridor.
- Forex Reforms: RBI proposes draft rules for wider operational flexibility for Authorised Dealers.
- High-Speed Highway: CCEA approves ₹11,000 crore highway projects in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Telangana.
- Brahmaputra Tunnel: Construction of India’s first underwater twin-tube road-cum-rail tunnel approved in Assam.
- Puppets of India: Department of Posts releases 8 commemorative stamps celebrating Indian puppetry.
- Waterjet Milestone: India becomes the 3rd country globally to host a Waterjet Production & Testing Facility, located in Goa.
- Ramzan 2026: Crescent moon sighted; the month of fasting begins in India on February 19.
1. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
PM Modi Approves ‘PM RAHAT’ Scheme for Road Accident Victims
A new national scheme launched to ensure immediate hospitalisation and treatment for accident victims.
On February 18, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the Pradhan Mantri RAHAT (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment) scheme. The initiative aims to provide immediate, life-saving medical care during the “golden hour” to reduce road fatalities. The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) will oversee policy integration via the Electronic Detailed Accident Report (eDAR) platform, while the National Health Authority (NHA) will handle claims through TMS 2.0. This scheme follows a successful pilot phase and marks a shift toward a cashless, universal health response for trauma victims. It is a major social security and public health initiative under the “Viksit Bharat” vision.
🔗 Source (PIB): https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2229945
CCEA Clears ₹11,000 Crore Highway Projects and Brahmaputra Tunnel
Cabinet approves major connectivity projects in three states and a landmark underwater tunnel in Assam.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Modi on February 18, 2026, approved highway projects worth over ₹11,000 crore across Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Telangana. A standout approval is the construction of India’s first underwater twin-tube road-cum-rail tunnel under the Brahmaputra River in Assam, estimated to cost ₹18,662 crore. In Maharashtra, the Ghoti–Trimbak–Palghar section of NH-160A will be upgraded. In Gujarat, NH-56 stretches will be 4-laned under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM). These projects are designed to bolster the logistics network and strategic connectivity in the Northeast and Western India.
🔗 Source (PIB): https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2229950
India Post Releases ‘Puppets of India’ Commemorative Stamps
Eight traditional puppet forms of India featured in a new philatelic release at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
On February 18, 2026, the Department of Posts released a set of eight commemorative postage stamps titled “Puppets of India.” The stamps celebrate diverse traditions including Yakshagana Sutrada Gombeyatta (Karnataka), Daanger Putul (West Bengal), Kathi Kundhei (Odisha), and Pavakathakali (Kerala). The collection also features shadow puppetry styles such as Ravanachhaya (Odisha) and Tolu Bommalatta (Andhra Pradesh). Each stamp carries a face value of ₹5. The initiative aims to preserve intangible cultural heritage and promote traditional arts among the youth.
🔗 Source (PIB): https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2229955
2. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
India and WFP Sign 5-Year Rice Supply Agreement
FCI to provide 2 lakh metric tonnes of rice to support global humanitarian operations.
The Food Corporation of India (FCI) and the World Food Programme (WFP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on February 18, 2026, in New Delhi. Signed by FCI CMD Rabindra Kumar Agarwal and WFP Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau, the agreement mandates the supply of 200,000 metric tonnes of rice (up to 25% broken) over five years. The price is fixed at ₹2,800 per quintal until March 31, 2026, with annual reviews thereafter. This partnership underscores India’s role as a “global food provider” and its commitment to the UN’s “Zero Hunger” goal.
🔗 Source (PIB): https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2229931
PM Modi Meets Estonian President Alar Karis at AI Impact Summit
Bilateral talks focused on the India–EU FTA, clean energy, and talent mobility.
On the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi on February 18, 2026, PM Narendra Modi met H.E. Alar Karis, President of Estonia. Both leaders welcomed the upswing in India–EU relations following the conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement in January 2026. Discussions covered collaboration in clean energy, smart energy management, and facilitating greater mobility for Indian professionals in Estonia. President Karis praised India’s leadership in AI ethics and digital public infrastructure, emphasising shared democratic values.
🔗 Source (PIB): https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2229917
India and Croatia Strengthen Ties in Blue Economy and Shipbuilding
PM Modi and PM Plenković discuss the IMEC corridor and technology innovation.
On February 18, 2026, PM Narendra Modi held talks with Croatian PM Andrej Plenković in New Delhi. The leaders agreed to boost cooperation in shipbuilding, the blue economy, and technology. A key focus was the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), where Croatia is positioned as a Mediterranean gateway to Central Europe. PM Plenković reiterated Croatia’s support for the India–EU FTA, noting it creates a free trade area covering a quarter of humanity. The visit coincided with the AI Impact Summit, highlighting the role of emerging technology in diplomacy.
🔗 Source (The Hindu): https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pm-modi-croatia-pm-discuss-ways-to-add-momentum-to-bilateral-ties/article70647879.ece
3. STATE AFFAIRS
Madhya Pradesh Economic Survey Projects 11.14% GSDP Growth
State assembly presents a robust economic outlook driven by agriculture and manufacturing.
The Madhya Pradesh Economic Survey, tabled on February 18, 2026, projects the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth at 11.14%. The report highlights a significant surge in the secondary sector (manufacturing) and continued dominance in wheat and pulse production. Per capita income has seen a steady rise, attributed to flagship welfare schemes and infrastructure spending. The survey also notes challenges such as the re-emergence of the Sal Borer pest in over 5,000 trees across Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, which could threaten forest-based livelihoods.
🔗 Source (The Hindu): https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/madhya-pradesh-economic-survey-projects-states-gdp-at-1114/article70648000.ece
Bihar CM Transfers ₹2,500 Crore to Women Entrepreneurs
Nitish Kumar bolsters the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyami Yojana with fresh financial aid.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar transferred ₹10,000 each to an additional 25 lakh women under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyami Yojana on February 18, 2026. This flagship scheme aims to promote micro-entrepreneurship and financial independence among women in rural and semi-urban areas. The total disbursement on this occasion reached ₹2,500 crore. Speaking at the event in Patna, the CM emphasised that Bihar’s model of women’s empowerment — anchored by Jeevika self-help groups — is a template for the nation.
🔗 Source (Indian Express): https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-february-18-2026/
Karnataka Resumes National Park Safaris after 3-Month Ban
State forest department lifts suspension following improved man–animal conflict protocols.
The Karnataka Government announced on February 18, 2026, the resumption of jungle safaris in major national parks, including Bandipur and Nagarahole. Safaris had been suspended three months ago following a series of man–animal conflict incidents. The Forest Department has now implemented new safety guidelines, including GPS tracking of safari vehicles and restricted entry zones near sensitive habitats. However, farmers’ bodies in the region have condemned the move, citing ongoing crop raids by wild boars and elephants.
🔗 Source (Indian Express): https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/18/
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI Proposes Simplified Forex Rules for Authorised Dealers
Central Bank issues draft directions to enhance operational flexibility in foreign exchange dealings.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on February 18, 2026, released draft directions on “Foreign Exchange Dealings of Authorised Persons.” The proposal seeks to provide greater flexibility to Authorised Dealers (ADs) for hedging exposures, market-making, and proprietary positions. Key features include the use of Electronic Trading Platforms (ETPs) and simplified formats for reporting net open position limits. This move follows the February 6 Monetary Policy announcement aimed at refining forex regulations. Stakeholders have been invited to submit comments by March 10, 2026.
🔗 Source (RBI): https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=2229960
Sensex Rallies 283 Points; Nifty Crosses 25,800 Mark
Metals and PSU Banks lead a third consecutive day of gains in Indian markets.
Indian equity benchmarks extended their winning streak for a third consecutive session on February 18, 2026. The BSE Sensex closed at 83,734.25 (up 0.34%), while the NSE Nifty50 ended at 25,819.35 (up 0.37%). Market sentiment was bolstered by domestic institutional investment (DII) inflows and positive global cues. Leading gainers included Tata Steel (up 2.8%) and Axis Bank. Conversely, IT heavyweights TCS and Infosys faced selling pressure amid AI-related growth concerns. The India VIX volatility index dropped 3.5%, indicating cooling investor anxiety.
🔗 Source (Business Standard): https://www.business-standard.com/markets/news/stock-market-live-february-18-nse-bse-sensex-today-126021800085_1.html
SEBI Tightens ESG Disclosure Standards for Corporates
New rules mandate audit-level precision for sustainability reporting across value chains.
Market regulator SEBI introduced revised ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) disclosure standards on February 18, 2026. Companies are now required to provide “audit-level precision” in their Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reports (BRSR). To reduce administrative burden, SEBI will allow firms to focus on value chain partners contributing at least 75% of total purchases or sales. This shift towards a “BRSR Core” framework aims to prevent greenwashing and align India’s ESG rules with global financial regulations.
🔗 Source (Down To Earth): https://www.downtoearth.org.in/amp/clean-and-high-23268
5. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
India Unveils First Waterjet Production & Testing Facility in Goa
Milestone achievement makes India the 3rd country to possess this advanced maritime technology.
Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, Paramesh Sivamani, inaugurated India’s first Waterjet Production & Testing Facility in Goa on February 18, 2026. Developed under a Transfer of Technology (ToT) framework with M/s Marine Jet Power, this facility enables the domestic manufacturing of high-performance waterjets used in fast patrol vessels. India now joins the United States and South Korea as the only nations with this specific capability. This is a major boost for the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative in the maritime defence sector.
🔗 Source (PIB): https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2229965
IITs Launch Low-Cost AI Tools for Cancer Detection
Breakthrough research uses breath tests and oral swabs for early-stage diagnosis.
A consortium of IITs unveiled a suite of low-cost, AI-powered diagnostic tools on February 18, 2026. These tools can detect kidney disease and oral cancer with over 90% accuracy using simple breath tests and oral swabs. Developed as part of the “AI for Health” initiative, the technology analyses volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in human breath to identify disease markers. Showcased at the AI Impact Summit, the project aims to make early screening accessible in rural India, where expensive diagnostic infrastructure is often absent.
🔗 Source (Indian Express): https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/18/
Sal Borer Pest Threat Re-emerges in Central India
Experts warn of a major forest threat in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh after 30 years.
Environmentalists and forest officials on February 18, 2026, raised an alarm over the re-emergence of the Sal Borer (Hoplocerambyx spinicornis) beetle. In a 119-hectare forest near Sontirath, Madhya Pradesh, over 5,000 Sal trees have been identified as infested. This pest, which kills trees by tunnelling through the wood, was last seen as a major epidemic three decades ago. Its re-emergence is being linked to changing climatic conditions and rising temperatures in central India, posing a serious risk to the biodiversity of the region’s deciduous forests.
🔗 Source (Down To Earth): https://www.downtoearth.org.in/
6. SPORTS
Canada’s Yuvraj Samra Smashes T20 World Cup Century
Samra becomes the second player to score a century in the 2026 tournament.
In a Group Stage match of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup held on February 18, 2026, Canada’s Yuvraj Samra scored a historic century against New Zealand at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Samra reached the 100-run mark off just 58 balls, becoming only the second player to achieve the feat in the current edition. Despite his heroics, the match remained a close contest, showcasing the rising competitiveness of associate nations in global cricket.
🔗 Source (Indian Express): https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-february-18-2026/
Pakistan Qualifies for Super 8s after Beating Namibia
Sahibzada Farhan’s century secures Pakistan’s spot in the next round of the ICC T20 World Cup.
On February 18, 2026, Pakistan defeated Namibia to officially qualify for the Super 8 stage of the ICC T20 World Cup. The match featured a dominant performance by Sahibzada Farhan, whose century helped Pakistan set a commanding target. Namibia, despite a spirited effort, fell short, ending their tournament campaign. The victory stabilises Pakistan’s position after an inconsistent start to the tournament, making them a key contender in the upcoming knockout rounds.
🔗 Source (Indian Express): https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/18/
4th Telangana State Police Sports Meet Begins in Cyberabad
Regional sports event inaugurated to promote fitness and camaraderie among police personnel.
The Fourth Telangana State Police Sports Meet was inaugurated on February 18, 2026, in Cyberabad. The event brings together thousands of police personnel from various districts to compete in athletics, shooting, and team sports. State officials highlighted the importance of physical and mental health for law enforcement officers. The meet also serves as a platform to identify talent for national police games and foster inter-district cooperation.
🔗 Source (The Hindu): https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/fourth-telangana-state-police-sports-meet-begins-in-cyberabad/article70648111.ece
7. OTHERS
Jesse Jackson, US Civil Rights Leader, Passes Away at 84
The close associate of Martin Luther King Jr. died on February 17, 2026.
Prominent US civil rights leader and Baptist minister Jesse Jackson passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 84. His family confirmed the news on Wednesday, February 18. Jackson was a towering figure in American politics, having twice sought the Democratic presidential nomination and having worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement. He was known for building the “Rainbow Coalition” and his lifelong efforts to promote social justice and voting rights for African Americans.
🔗 Source (Indian Express): https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-february-18-2026/
Mumbai University to Launch Research Hub for Sea Forts
New centre at Malvan will focus on the conservation of Sindhudurg’s iconic coastal forts.
Mumbai University announced on February 18, 2026, the establishment of a specialised Research Hub for Sea Forts at Malvan. The centre will focus on four iconic forts in the Sindhudurg district, employing historical research and advanced structural engineering to aid in their preservation. The initiative is part of a broader project to document the maritime history of the Konkan coast and promote sustainable heritage tourism in Maharashtra.
🔗 Source (Indian Express): https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/02/18/
Galgotias University Apologises for AI Summit Controversy
Institution clarifies confusion over a robot demonstration at the India AI Impact Summit.
Galgotias University issued an official apology on February 18, 2026, following a controversy at the India AI Impact Summit. The university had been accused of presenting an existing Chinese-made robot as its own innovation. The administration clarified that the representative involved was “ill-informed” and was not authorised to speak to the press. The summit, held at Bharat Mandapam, continued to showcase hundreds of other genuine AI-driven grassroots innovations from across the country.
🔗 Source (Indian Express): https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-february-18-2026/
📚 QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT – CORE RECALL POINTS
1. National & State Governance
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PM RAHAT Scheme: Approved by PM Modi on February 18, 2026, for cashless, assured treatment of road accident victims during the golden hour.↳ Significance: Government schemes (GS II); Road safety and social justice under Viksit Bharat.
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Brahmaputra Underwater Tunnel (Assam): India’s first underwater twin-tube road-cum-rail tunnel approved at ₹18,662 crore.↳ Significance: Landmark infrastructure; Northeast connectivity; GS III (Infrastructure).
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CCEA Highway Projects: ₹11,000+ crore approved for Maharashtra (NH-160A), Gujarat (NH-56, HAM model), and Telangana.↳ Significance: GS III (Infrastructure/Economy); Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) as a model for PPP.
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Bihar – Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyami Yojana: CM Nitish Kumar transferred ₹2,500 crore (₹10,000 each) to 25 lakh women entrepreneurs.↳ Significance: GS II (Women Empowerment / Social Justice); State-level schemes.
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Madhya Pradesh GSDP Growth: Economic Survey projects 11.14% growth; secondary sector (manufacturing) leads.↳ Significance: GS III (Regional Economy); State PSC current affairs.
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Karnataka Safari Resumption: Bandipur and Nagarahole safaris resume after 3-month ban; GPS tracking and restricted zones introduced.↳ Significance: GS III (Wildlife Conservation / Man–Animal Conflict).
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Puppets of India Stamps: 8 commemorative ₹5 stamps released by India Post, featuring Yakshagana, Pavakathakali, Tolu Bommalatta, Ravanachhaya, and others.↳ Significance: GS I (Art & Culture); Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition.
2. Economy & Finance
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RBI Draft Forex Rules: Draft directions for Authorised Dealers (ADs) released; comment deadline March 10, 2026; focuses on ETPs and net open position limits.↳ Significance: GS III (Monetary Policy / FEMA / Banking Regulations).
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Sensex & Nifty Rally: Sensex at 83,734.25 (+0.34%); Nifty50 at 25,819.35 (+0.37%); India VIX down 3.5%.↳ Significance: General Awareness; Banking exam market indicators.
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SEBI ESG Norms (BRSR Core): Audit-level precision mandated; value chain partners threshold set at 75% of purchases/sales.↳ Significance: GS III (Corporate Governance / Capital Markets / Greenwashing prevention).
3. International Relations & Defence
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FCI–WFP Rice MoU: 5-year deal for 2 lakh MT of rice at ₹2,800/quintal; signed by FCI CMD Rabindra Kumar Agarwal and WFP’s Carl Skau.↳ Significance: GS II (International Relations / Food Security); India as global food provider.
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India–Estonia (AI Summit): PM Modi meets President Alar Karis; discuss clean energy, talent mobility, India–EU FTA (concluded January 2026).↳ Significance: India–EU relations; Baltic states; GS II (Bilateral Relations).
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India–Croatia Ties: PM Modi and PM Plenković focus on shipbuilding, blue economy, and IMEC (Croatia as Mediterranean gateway to Central Europe).↳ Significance: GS II (Bilateral Relations); GS III (IMEC Connectivity).
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Waterjet Facility (Goa): India becomes the 3rd country (after USA and South Korea) to have a Waterjet Production & Testing Facility; developed via ToT with M/s Marine Jet Power.↳ Significance: GS III (Defence Indigenisation / Atmanirbhar Bharat / Coastal Security).
4. Science, Environment & Sports
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IIT AI Cancer Detection Tools: Breath tests and oral swabs detect kidney disease and oral cancer with >90% accuracy; unveiled at AI Impact Summit.↳ Significance: GS III (Science & Technology / Health Innovation / AI for social good).
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Sal Borer Re-emergence (Hoplocerambyx spinicornis): 5,000+ trees infested in 119-hectare forest near Sontirath, MP; linked to climate change.↳ Significance: GS III (Biodiversity / Forest Ecology / Climate Impact).
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T20 World Cup – Yuvraj Samra (Canada): 58-ball century vs New Zealand at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai; 2nd century of the 2026 tournament.↳ Significance: Sports current affairs; ICC T20 World Cup 2026 milestones.
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T20 World Cup – Pakistan: Qualified for Super 8s after defeating Namibia; Sahibzada Farhan scored a century.↳ Significance: Sports current affairs; ICC T20 World Cup 2026 standings.
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Obituary – Jesse Jackson (USA): Passed away February 17, 2026, age 84; civil rights leader, two-time Democratic presidential candidate, associate of Martin Luther King Jr.↳ Significance: International Personalities / Obituaries section; Civil Rights Movement.
