Daily GK Update- 24th Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ministry of Power Forms High-Level Committee to Oversee Proposed Merger of Power Finance Corporation and REC Limited: The Ministry of Power has set up a three-member High-Level Committee and a three-member Working Group to oversee the proposed merger of Power Finance Corporation and REC Limited.Both PFC and REC function under the administrative control of the Ministry of Power, and the merger aims to strengthen the power sector financing framework.The High-Level Committee includes Parminder Chopra (CMD, PFC), Jitendra Srivastava (CMD, REC), and Shashank Mishra, Joint Secretary (Distribution), Ministry of Power.

P. Radhakrishnan Releases Gujarati and Tamil Versions of Constitution of India on International Mother Language DayOn the occasion of International Mother Language Day (21 February), C. P. Radhakrishnan released the updated versions of the Constitution of India in Gujarati and Tamil languages.The Santali version of the Constitution was earlier released on 25 December 2025, further promoting linguistic inclusivity and constitutional awareness.

 

2. Bela Gram Becomes India’s First Net-Zero Panchayat: Bela Gram, a village in Bhandara district in Maharashtra, has become India’s first net-zero panchayat (net-zero village) and was honoured during Mumbai Climate Week 2026.A net-zero village reduces its greenhouse gas emissions and balances any remaining emissions through eco-friendly measures like tree plantation and renewable energy adoption.In simple terms, a net-zero status means: Pollution produced = Pollution reduced or absorbed, ensuring environmental sustainability.

 

3. P. Nadda and Emmanuel Macron Inaugurate Indo-French Centre for AI in Health at AIIMS New Delhi: Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda and French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health (IF-CAIH) at AIIMS New Delhi.The centre aims to advance AI-based research, medical education, and clinical innovation to address complex healthcare challenges through Indo-French collaboration.IF-CAIH has been established under a joint MoU between AIIMS New Delhi, Sorbonne University, and Paris Brain Institute, with academic support from IIT Delhi and other French institutions.

 

4. 24 February – Central Excise Day: Central Excise Day is observed annually on 24 February to commemorate the enactment of the Central Excise and Salt Act, 1944.The day recognises the contribution of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and excise officials in administering indirect taxes and ensuring revenue collection for the nation.

 

5. Centre Targets ₹27,500 Crore Aviation Monetisation Under NMP 2.0: The Centre has set a monetisation target of ₹27,500 crore for the civil aviation sector under the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP) 2.0 for the period FY26 to FY30. The renewed framework seeks to accelerate private participation in operational, revenue-generating airports and select aviation public sector entities, while retaining government ownership of core assets.The move provides fresh momentum to the next phase of airport leasing as the government expands infrastructure monetisation to support capital expenditure and fiscal consolidation.A total of eleven airports have been identified for monetization during the five-year period. These include Varanasi, Bhubaneswar, Amritsar, Indore, Raipur, Trichy, Calicut, Coimbatore, Ranchi, Jodhpur and Gaya.The proposal is currently under consideration by the Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC). The airports will be offered to private players under structured concession agreements rather than outright sale.

 

6. PM Modi Inaugurates Full Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the remaining sections of the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), completing the 82-km Delhi–Meerut corridor. The newly opened stretches include the 5-km link between Sarai Kale Khan and New Ashok Nagar in Delhi and the 21-km section between Meerut South and Modipuram in Uttar Pradesh. The RRTS has also been integrated with the Meerut Metro, marking a major milestone in high-speed regional connectivity. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister described the corridor as a glimpse of connectivity in a developed India, combining metro systems for intra-city travel with Namo Bharat trains for rapid inter-city movement.The Sarai Kale Khan station has emerged as a major multi-modal transport hub. It connects Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station, the Delhi Metro’s Pink Line, Veer Haqeeqat Rai ISBT and Ring Road. Similar integration has been ensured at Anand Vihar, Ghaziabad and Meerut, linking Indian Railways, Metro services and bus terminals. The Prime Minister noted that such integration would enable commuters to travel within cities or directly to Delhi, reducing the need for workers and students to reside in rented accommodation in the capital.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India and Brazil Sign Key Agreements, Set $30 Billion Trade Target by 2030: India and Brazil signed key agreements to enhance cooperation in rare earth and critical minerals, steel and mining, renewable energy, and digital partnership during talks in New Delhi.The discussions were held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to deepen strategic and economic ties.Both nations set a target to boost bilateral trade to $30 billion annually by 2030, aiming to significantly expand economic engagement beyond current levels.

 

2. Bihar Approves New International Airport at Sonepur with 4,200-Metre Runway: The Bihar Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has approved the construction of a new international airport at Sonepur, targeted for completion by 2030 to boost air connectivity in north Bihar.The airport will have a 4,200-metre runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380, and will support both passenger and cargo operations at an international level.Spread across 4,228 acres between Hajipur and Dumaria, it will be the largest airport in Bihar by land area, with site clearance and in-principle approval granted by the Union Civil Aviation Ministry and the Centre.

3. India Sets Guinness World Records Record for Most AI Responsibility Pledges in 24 Hours: India has set a Guinness World Records record for receiving the “Most pledges for an AI responsibility campaign in 24 hours,” as announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.A total of 2,50,946 valid pledges were recorded between 16 and 17 February 2026, with the announcement made at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 held at Bharat Mandapam. The nationwide AI Responsibility Pledge campaign was launched under the IndiaAI Mission in collaboration with Intel India to promote responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence.

 

4. 3rd International AYUSH Conference Concludes at Dubai World Trade Centre: The 3rd International AYUSH Conference & Expo concluded at the Dubai World Trade Centre, attracting over 1,500 delegates and nearly 20,000 visitors from 30 countries under the theme “Evidence-based AYUSH interventions for mind-body health,” with support from India’s Ministry of AYUSH.

The conference featured 62 scientific sessions, 16 plenary discussions, and the release of a white paper on AYUSH interventions by 100 experts from 20 countries, while the next edition of the biennial event is scheduled for 2028.

 

5. Peru Appoints Jose Maria Balcazar as Interim President After Impeachment of Jose Jeri: Peru has appointed Jose Maria Balcazar as the interim (temporary) President following a political transition.He assumed office after former President Jose Jeri was impeached and removed from power over graft/corruption allegations.

 

6. 23 February – World Peace and Understanding Day: World Peace and Understanding Day is observed annually on 23 February to promote global harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among nations.The day highlights the importance of dialogue, tolerance, and international cooperation in resolving conflicts and strengthening global unity.It also commemorates the founding of Rotary International in 1905, recognising its contributions toward peacebuilding and humanitarian service worldwide.

 

7. Modi to Address Israeli Knesset Plenum: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Knesset plenum during his two-day visit to Israel beginning February 25. The visit marks his second trip to the country since 2017 and underscores the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described the visit as “historic”, reflecting the deepening ties in defence, innovation, and regional cooperation. The address will be delivered during a special plenary session at the Knesset in Jerusalem. Modi will join Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and other senior leaders during the ceremonial proceedings. The session will also feature remarks by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana and Leader of the Opposition Yair Lapid. This will be the first time an Indian Prime Minister addresses the Knesset, symbolising India’s rising global profile and its expanding engagement in West Asia.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India Launches Prahaar Anti-Terror Policy Framework: India has unveiled its first comprehensive counter-terrorism policy, titled “Prahaar”, aimed at strengthening national security against evolving threats. Released by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the framework seeks to enhance prevention, coordination and response mechanisms across land, air and maritime domains. The policy comes amid rising concerns over cross-border terrorism, cyber warfare and the misuse of emerging technologies.Prahaar is positioned as an integrated legal, technological and community-driven strategy to counter both traditional and non-traditional security risks.The policy identifies cross-border terrorism as a continuing challenge, particularly from networks operating across India’s western frontiers. It notes the increasing use of drones in regions such as Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir for arms and narcotics smuggling.Prahaar also flags cyber operations conducted by hostile states and criminal hacker groups targeting critical infrastructure. Key sectors identified as vulnerable include power grids, railways, aviation, ports, defence installations, space assets and atomic energy facilities. The document underlines that terrorism is not linked to any religion, ethnicity or nationality, but warns of sustained efforts by foreign-based extremist networks to incite violence.

 

2. 7th Dharma Guardian Exercise Begins in Uttarakhand: The 7th edition of the annual India–Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ commenced on 24 February 2026 at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubattia, Uttarakhand. The exercise will continue until 9 March 2026. Held alternately in India and Japan, the exercise remains a key pillar of defence cooperation between the two countries.This year’s edition brings together 120 personnel from each side. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) is represented by troops from the 32nd Infantry Regiment, while the Indian Army contingent is drawn from the Ladakh Scouts.Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN aims to strengthen military collaboration and enhance combined capabilities for joint operations in semi-urban environments. The focus is on building interoperability, improving tactical coordination and sharing best practices.The exercise also emphasises the employment of modern technology and contemporary operational concepts, reflecting evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Sachin Tendulkar Named UN Global Road Safety Champion: Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has been designated a ‘Global Champion for Road Safety’ by the United Nations, joining a group of prominent international figures advocating safer roads. The announcement was marked by the release of a video message in which Tendulkar urged citizens to adopt responsible driving habits and prioritise safety.The initiative forms part of broader UN efforts to reduce road traffic fatalities worldwide.In his message, Tendulkar emphasised that discipline and awareness are essential not only in sport but also on the roads. He underlined that everyday actions such as wearing seat belts, using helmets, staying alert and respecting traffic rules can prevent fatalities.He noted that road crash fatality rates remain disproportionately high compared to vehicle volumes, stressing the need for collective responsibility. The core message — “Every life matters” — is intended to resonate across age groups and communities.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Waaree to Set Up 16 GWh Battery Gigafactory: In a major push to India’s clean-energy manufacturing ambitions, Waaree Energies has committed to establishing the country’s largest integrated lithium-ion battery gigafactory at Rambilli in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh. The project entails an investment of ₹8,175 crore and will have a production capacity of 16 GWh. The greenfield facility has received in-principle approval from the State Investment Promotion Board. The proposed plant will span the complete battery value chain, including cell manufacturing, battery pack assembly and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). With a capacity of 16 gigawatt-hours, it will be the largest battery manufacturing facility in India.The integrated nature of the project is expected to enhance domestic value addition and reduce dependence on imported battery cells and components, particularly from East Asian markets. It also positions Andhra Pradesh as a key manufacturing hub in the emerging energy storage sector.

 

2. Goa Hosts World Ocean Science Congress 2026: Goa is hosting the fourth edition of the World Ocean Science Congress 2026, bringing together scientists, policymakers, maritime industries and coastal communities at the National Institute of Oceanography in Panaji. The event runs until February 26 and focuses on ocean health, climate resilience and sustainable blue economy pathways. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that scientific temperament is deeply embedded in Goa’s ecosystem and emphasised the state’s maritime legacy. Addressing the gathering, Sawant underlined that nearly 75% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water and about 25% of India’s population lives in coastal regions. With a coastline of 193 km, Goa’s economy is closely tied to the sea through fisheries, tourism and maritime trade.He stressed that the ocean shapes climate systems, sustains livelihoods and demands responsible stewardship. Forums such as this congress aim to bridge science, policy and grassroots realities, ensuring research translates into practical solutions.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Imposes ₹38.60 Lakh Penalty on UCO Bank for Regulatory Non-Compliance: The Reserve Bank of India imposed a monetary penalty of ₹38.60 lakh on UCO Bank for non-compliance with certain regulatory directions.The penalty was imposed under the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 and the Credit Information Companies (Regulation) Act, 2005.RBI identified violations including non-payment of interest on some savings accounts, failure to report SHG members’ credit data to Credit Information Companies, and non-refund of proportionate locker rent upon early surrender.

2. RBI Removes New India Co-operative Bank Ltd. from Second Schedule Following Merger with Saraswat Co-operative Bank: The Reserve Bank of India has excluded New India Co-operative Bank Ltd. from the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, thereby removing its “scheduled bank” status.Earlier, in August 2025, RBI approved the amalgamation of New India Co-operative Bank with Saraswat Co-operative Bank following a ₹300 crore embezzlement scam, to stabilise the bank and safeguard depositors’ interests.Effective August 4, 2025, all branches, assets, and liabilities of New India Co-operative Bank were transferred to Saraswat Bank under the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, ensuring full protection to depositors.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Vasai Cathedral Wins UNESCO Award for Conservation: The 475-year-old Our Lady of Grace Cathedral in Papdy village, Vasai, received the Award of Merit at the 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation for its community-led restoration, highlighting the successful revival of a sixteenth-century Portuguese-era structure.Built without cement or bricks using traditional mud-based construction, the cathedral faced structural weakening over centuries; the Rs 4.5 crore restoration project addressed roof, façade, corridors, colonnade, and intricate interior liturgical elements while preserving its architectural and religious integrity.The conservation was executed by architect Ainsley Lewis in collaboration with parish members and church authorities, with the local community funding the restoration through donations, exemplifying strong stakeholder engagement and traditional craftsmanship.

 

2. Manipuri film Boong wins BAFTA Award for Best Children’s & Family Film in London: The Manipuri film Boong, produced by Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment, won the BAFTA Award for Best Children’s & Family Film in London, with debutant director Lakshmipriya Devi making an emotional plea for peace during her acceptance speech.The film stars Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam, and beat international competitors including Lilo and Stitch, Arco, and Zootropolis 2, marking a historic win for Manipuri cinema on the global stage.The 79th BAFTA Awards also celebrated films like One Battle After Another, winning six awards including Best Film and Best Director (Paul Thomas Anderson), while Hamnet, Sinners, and Frankenstein earned multiple honours, with the ceremony attended by Hollywood and British stars, including Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales.