NATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Cabinet Approves MSP for Raw Jute at Rs. 5,925 per
Quintal for 2026-27 Season: Cabinet,
chaired by PM Shri Narendra Modi, approves Minimum Support Price (MSP) for
Raw Jute at Rs. 5,925 per quintal for the 2026-27 season.The MSP ensures a
61.8% return over the all-India weighted average cost of production, following
the government’s principle of at least 1.5 times cost of production. MSP of Raw
Jute has increased by Rs. 3,525 per quintal since 2014-15, with total MSP
payments to farmers rising from Rs. 441 Crore (2004-14) to Rs. 1,342 Crore
(2014-26).
2. Jayant Chaudhary Launches ‘Badhna Hai Toh Yahan Judna
Hai’ Campaign to Boost Digital Skilling via Skill India Digital Hub: Minister of State for Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary launched the nationwide
campaign ‘Badhna Hai Toh Yahan Judna Hai’ to boost digital skilling through the
Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH).The campaign aims to expand access to SIDH,
India’s integrated digital platform for skilling, employment, and lifelong
learning, building on initiatives like India Stack. To enhance awareness and
participation, the campaign features legendary actor Amitabh
Bachchan as part of its outreach efforts.
3. Government Launches Mobile Labs to Monitor Quality of
National Highway Projects: The government has launched Mobile Quality
Control Vans (MQCVs) to monitor and diagnose the quality of ongoing
National Highway projects.Pilot projects have been implemented in Rajasthan,
Gujarat, Karnataka, and Odisha, with each van functioning as a mobile
laboratory equipped with advanced non-destructive testing instruments.The
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is developing a National
Highway Quality Monitoring Portal to provide online test reports and real-time
GPS tracking for transparent and data-driven oversight.
4. West Bengal Launches ‘Banglar Yuva Sathi’ Scheme to
Provide ₹1,500 Monthly Aid to Unemployed Youth: The Government of West Bengal has launched the
‘Banglar Yuva Sathi’ scheme in the Budget 2026-27 to provide financial
support to unemployed youth.Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries will
receive ₹1,500 per month, and many may also benefit from the Lakshmir Bhandar
Scheme for women.
5. Ministry of Ayush to Organise National Arogya Fair
2026 in Maharashtra: The Ministry
of Ayush, Government of India, in collaboration with the All India Ayurvedic
Congress, will organize the National Arogya Fair 2026 at Shegaon in
Buldhana district, Maharashtra.The event will be inaugurated by President
Droupadi Murmu at Visava Maidan of Sant Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan.
6. 28 February – National Science
Day: National Science Day is observed every
year on 28 February to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect
by Sir C. V. Raman.The day highlights the importance of science and technology
in national development and encourages a scientific temper among citizens.It
also aims to inspire students and young minds to pursue careers in science and
research.
INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Cabinet Approves ₹1,677 Crore Expansion of Civil
Enclave at Srinagar International Airport: The Cabinet has approved the expansion of the
Civil Enclave at Srinagar International Airport at an estimated cost of Rs.
1,677 crore to strengthen aviation infrastructure in the Kashmir
Valley.The new project, spread over 73.18 acres, will include a
state-of-the-art terminal building with an annual capacity of 10 million
passengers and peak-hour handling capacity of 2,900 passengers.The expansion
will also add 15 aircraft parking bays, a multi-level car parking facility for
1,000 cars, and other infrastructure, while the runway will continue to be
operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
2. Goa Hosts 4th World Ocean Science Congress 2026 on
‘Ocean Health and Sustainable Future’: Goa hosted the 4th edition of the World
Ocean Science Congress 2026 at the National Institute of Oceanography
(NIO) in Panaji.The event was inaugurated by Goa Chief Minister Pramod
Sawant.The congress was co-organised by NIO, the National Centre for Polar and
Ocean Research, and Goa University under the theme “Ocean Health and
Sustainable Future
3. IIT Madras Professor B. Ravindran Joins UN Independent
AI Scientific Panel: Professor
B. Ravindran of IIT Madras has been appointed to the United Nations’
Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI). He
is the Founding Head of the Centre for Responsible AI (CORAI) at IIT Madras;
the panel was established through a UN General Assembly Resolution.
4. UAE
Launches World’s First Sovereign Financial Cloud: In a significant move for
digital finance, the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) has unveiled what it
describes as the world’s first sovereign financial cloud services
infrastructure. Developed in partnership with Core42, a subsidiary of G42, the
platform is designed to provide a secure, AI-powered digital backbone
exclusively for the UAE’s financial sector. The initiative reinforces the
country’s ambition to lead in secure, regulated and innovation-driven finance. The Sovereign Financial
Cloud Services Infrastructure (SFCSI) is a centralised, fully isolated cloud
environment built to ensure that critical financial data remains within the
UAE’s national jurisdiction. Unlike conventional cloud systems operated by
global providers, the SFCSI embeds regulatory controls, cybersecurity protocols
and governance mechanisms directly into its architecture. This approach
prioritises data sovereignty, allowing financial institutions to operate under
domestic legal safeguards while reducing dependence on foreign-hosted
infrastructure.
5. CBIC
to Launch SWIFT 2.0 on International Customs Day: The Central Board of
Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) will
launch the upgraded single-window platform SWIFT 2.0, release a Digital
Travellers Guide, and unveil a revamped Atithi app during International Customs
Day 2026 celebrations in New Delhi. The event will be presided over by Union
Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary, along with senior officials
from the Department of Revenue.The celebrations will be held under the theme
“Customs protecting society through vigilance and commitment”.
SWIFT, or Single Window Interface for Facilitating Trade,
is a digital platform designed to streamline customs clearance for exports and
imports. The upgraded SWIFT 2.0 aims to enhance transparency, reduce processing
time and simplify compliance through end-to-end digital integration. The
platform forms part of broader customs reforms focused on trust-based processes
and digital governance. Officials stated that SWIFT 2.0 will strengthen coordination
among regulatory agencies and improve trade facilitation.
6. India,
Germany Deepen Climate Adaptation Partnership: India and Germany have
reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening climate adaptation and resilience
during a high-level Climate Talk held in New Delhi. The dialogue focused on
advancing ecosystem-based approaches and supporting India’s upcoming National
Adaptation Plan (NAP). Jochen Flasbarth, State Secretary at Germany’s Federal
Ministry for Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear
Safety, announced a new Large Grant project for India under the International
Climate Initiative (IKI) with funding of up to EUR 20 million. The project aims to improve resilience in vulnerable
ecosystems across priority regions, including the Himalayas, island
territories, the Western Ghats, the North-East and the Lower Gangetic floodplains. The initiative will promote ecosystem-based approaches
such as forest restoration, strengthening biodiversity corridors, flood and
erosion control, groundwater recharge and community-led natural resource
management. It will also enhance monitoring and evaluation frameworks linked to
India’s National Adaptation Plan. Innovative
financing mechanisms, including blended finance, biodiversity credits and
insurance-based risk solutions, will be explored to support long-term
sustainability.
OTHER UPDATES:
DEFENCE
1. India
Eyes Israeli Sky Sting Missile for IAF: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertakes his second
state visit to Israel, India is advancing discussions to
procure the Israeli-origin ‘Sky Sting’ beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile
(BVRAAM) for the Indian
Air Force (IAF). The missile,
currently under development, is viewed as a potential force multiplier for
India’s fighter fleet amid evolving aerial threats from China and Pakistan. Weighing between 180 and 200 kg, the Sky Sting is
light enough for platforms such as the Tejas Mk1A while remaining compatible
with the Su-30MKI. The missile reportedly offers a strike range of up to 250
km.It is
powered by a three-pulse solid-fuel rocket motor, enabling terminal speeds
exceeding Mach 5. A radio-frequency seeker, enhanced by AI-driven target
discrimination and jam-resistant technology, allows early lock-on and strong
resistance to electronic countermeasures. The system also incorporates a two-way
data link for mid-course guidance and real-time pilot control.
2. Pakistan
Declares Open War After Kabul Airstrikes: Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated sharply after
Islamabad declared “open war” on the Afghan Taliban government following
renewed cross-border clashes. The escalation came after Pakistani airstrikes
targeted Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia, hours after
Afghan forces launched attacks on Pakistani border positions. Both sides have
reported heavy casualties, though figures differ widely, raising concerns over
regional stability and civilian safety along the volatile frontier. Explosions
were reported in Kabul, with Afghan authorities confirming strikes in the
capital as well as in Kandahar and Paktia provinces. Pakistan stated that the air raids targeted
Afghan military facilities, including brigade and corps headquarters and
logistics bases. Islamabad described the strikes as part of “Operation Ghazab
lil-Haq”, launched in response to what it termed unprovoked firing from across
the border. Afghan officials, however, condemned the attacks as violations of
sovereignty and international law.
3. IAF
Conducts Kalari Leap Exercise in Lakshadweep:
The Southern Air Command of the Indian Air Force successfully
conducted a high-tempo joint maritime exercise, ‘Kalari Leap’, across the Lakshadweep and
Minicoy archipelago. The exercise focused on validating joint planning, rapid
force projection and precision operations in complex maritime environments. The
drill underscored India’s growing emphasis on integrated island defence and
maritime domain awareness in strategically sensitive waters. Kalari Leap involved
coordinated operations between the Indian Air Force,
the Armed Forces Special Operations Division and the Indian Coast Guard. The
exercise was designed to test seamless interoperability among air, maritime and
special operations components. Anti-ship strike simulations and maritime search and
rescue missions formed a key part of the operational drills. These activities
assessed the ability to respond swiftly to maritime contingencies in island
territories.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. Meity Forms High-Level Committee to Modernize DigiLocker
System: The Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology (Meity) has set up
a high-level committee to harmonize the regulatory framework of
DigiLocker. The committee, headed by Ajay Sawhney, former Secretary of Meity,
aims to review and modernize the Digital Locker system. RBI constituted a
Regulatory Review Cell (RRC) to strengthen the institutional mechanism for
reviewing regulations, ensuring a systematic internal review every 5–7 years;
Chaired by – Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh (MD of SBI) AICTE forms expert
committee to integrate AI across all academic streams; chaired by Anand
Deshpande SEBI constituted a high-level committee to review rules on conflict
of interest and disclosures by its board members and officials; chaired by –
Pratyush Sinha GoM on revenue mobilisation in case of natural calamities or
disaster ;chaired by – FM of UP Suresh Khanna
2. Moist
Heatwaves During Monsoon Now Predictable Weeks Ahead: Many parts of India
experience moist heatwaves during the southwest monsoon (SWM), yet the
phenomenon has remained poorly understood. A new study published in the journal
“Climate Dynamics” finds that the timing and location of these events are
closely linked to the active and break phases of the monsoon. Crucially,
researchers suggest that moist heatwaves can now be predicted two to four weeks
in advance, enabling better public health preparedness. Unlike dry
summer heatwaves driven mainly by high temperatures, moist heatwaves result
from a combination of elevated temperatures and high atmospheric humidity.
During such events, the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating is
severely impaired. High humidity limits evaporation from the
skin, increasing physiological stress. This can lead to hyperthermia, heat
exhaustion and, in extreme cases, fatal heatstroke. The risks are particularly
acute during outdoor gatherings and prolonged exposure.
BANKING AND FINANCE
1. RBI Launches March 2026 Urban Consumer Confidence
Survey Across 19 Cities: RBI launches March
2026 Urban Consumer Confidence Survey (UCCS) to assess urban household
sentiment. Survey conducted across 19 cities focusing on economic
outlook, employment, prices, income, and spending. Hansa Research Group Pvt
Ltd, Mumbai, conducts the survey on behalf of the Reserve Bank of India.
2. NAMASTE
Scheme Awareness Programme to Be Held in Pilibhit: A programme promoting the National Action for Mechanized
Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme will be organised on 26 February 2026 at
Gandhi Prekshagrih, Gandhi Stadium, Nakhasa, Pilibhit in Uttar Pradesh. The event
aims to enhance awareness about the scheme and strengthen social security
measures for sanitation workers. The
initiative reflects the Government of India’s focus on ensuring dignity, safety
and economic empowerment for Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs) and waste
pickers. During the programme, Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) kits will be distributed to sanitation workers to improve occupational
safety and reduce health risks associated with hazardous cleaning activities.
Ayushman Cards will also be provided to eligible beneficiaries, ensuring access
to healthcare under government health protection schemes. The distribution drive is intended to promote safe
sanitation practices while extending institutional support to a vulnerable
workforce.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
1. Mangaluru International Airport Wins 2025 ASQ Award
for Best Airport at Arrivals – Globally: Mangaluru International Airport has won
the 2025 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award in the category “Best Airport
at Arrivals – Globally.” The award is presented by Airports Council
International (ACI) World, marking the second consecutive win for the airport
after also securing the title in 2024. Mangaluru International Airport is
managed by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd.
2. Narendra Modi Becomes First Global Leader to Receive
Speaker of the Knesset Medal in Israel: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the
“Speaker of the Knesset Medal,” the highest honour of the Knesset. The award
was presented at the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) in Jerusalem, Israel. PM Modi
became the first global leader to receive this prestigious medal.
3. Ministry
of Ayush Invites Entries for PM Yoga Awards 2026: The Ministry of Ayush has invited applications for the
Prime Minister’s Awards for Yoga 2026, aimed at promoting excellence,
innovation and leadership in the field of Yoga. The awards seek to recognise
outstanding contributions towards the development and global promotion of Yoga
at both national and international levels. The initiative reflects the
government’s continued emphasis on positioning Yoga as a tool for holistic
health and global cultural outreach.
4. The Prime Minister’s Awards for Yoga will be conferred in two categories: Individuals and Institutions. Each awardee will receive a trophy, a certificate of recognition and a cash prize of ₹25 lakh. The awards honour those who have demonstrated sustained impact in spreading awareness, research, training and community outreach related to Yoga.
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