Daily GK Update- 28th Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Assam Launches Mission Basundhara 3.0 Land Pattas: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the distribution of land pattas to over one lakh indigenous landless families and public institutions under Mission Basundhara 3.0, reinforcing the government’s commitment to resolving long-pending land disputes through a transparent framework. The state-level programme was inaugurated at Deuri Beel in Dhemaji district, where digital land pattas and allotment letters were handed over to beneficiaries. Mission Basundhara was launched to streamline historically disorganised land records that denied families legal ownership and access to institutional credit. Over five years, land-related grievances of nearly 10 lakh families have been addressed. Mission Basundhara 1.0 resolved issues such as conversion of annual pattas to periodic pattas and record corrections, benefitting 5.82 lakh families. Version 2.0 focused on granting land rights to indigenous communities residing on government land, benefiting 2.29 lakh families, largely from Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and OBC groups.

 

2. Jammu University Hosts Goonj 2026 Youth Festival: The University of Jammu is set to organise the third edition of its flagship multi-genre youth festival, Goonj 2026, bringing together students and faculty in a celebration of creativity and institutional spirit. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who serves as the Chancellor of the University, will inaugurate the two-day event. The valedictory function will be attended by Professor Bechan Lal, former Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University and Advisor to the Governor of Assam. Launched in 2024, Goonj was conceived to promote holistic student development and foster a deeper sense of belonging within the university community. Goonj serves as a platform for students to explore their talents beyond academics. By encouraging participation, collaboration and interaction, the festival seeks to nurture leadership, teamwork and creative expression. This year, around 600 students from teaching departments, off-site campuses, affiliated colleges and neighbouring universities have registered, with participation expected to rise further.

 

3. Tripura to Pilot Nari Adalat in 10 Panchayats: The Tripura government has approved the rollout of the Centre’s Nari Adalat scheme as a pilot initiative across 10 selected gram panchayats spanning all eight districts of the state. The decision, taken by the council of ministers, seeks to strengthen grassroots mechanisms for addressing women’s social issues and ensuring timely redressal of grievances. The Nari Adalat scheme, spearheaded by the Union ministry of social justice and empowerment, is designed as a panchayat-level arbitration forum. It aims to handle cases of violence, abuse and other atrocities against women within the community framework.

The model focuses on early intervention and counselling, while facilitating prompt police action in cases requiring legal enforcement. By situating the forum at the village level, the scheme intends to make justice delivery more accessible and less intimidating for women.

 

4. Sonowal Launches Three Brahmaputra Waterway Projects: Union minister for ports, shipping and waterways Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated three major inland waterways infrastructure projects on National Waterway-2 (River Brahmaputra) in Assam, signalling a renewed thrust on river-based connectivity and trade. The projects were launched at a public event in Dibrugarh and are aimed at strengthening cross-border commerce, improving logistics efficiency, and preserving the region’s riverine heritage. The Customs and Immigration Complex at Bogibeel has been developed as a modern tourist-cum-cargo terminal. It integrates customs, immigration and Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) administrative functions within a single facility. The complex includes dedicated arrival and departure halls, cargo storage areas, administrative offices, staff amenities and integrated security systems. The facility is expected to streamline operations under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol routes and promote seamless cargo movement. By reducing procedural delays, it aims to enhance trade competitiveness and position the Brahmaputra as a reliable economic corridor.

 

5. DST Institute Develops Novel Biosurfactant from Ghee: An institute under India’s Department of Science and Technology (DST) in North East India has synthesised a novel biosurfactant using natural substances, offering a potential alternative to synthetic surfactants widely used in cosmetics and medicines. The compound demonstrates promising antibacterial and cleansing properties, particularly against skin pathogens. The breakthrough was achieved by researchers at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), led by Director Prof. Ashis K. Mukherjee, along with Prof. M. R. Khan and senior research fellow Anushree Roy. The team synthesised the biosurfactant using the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum JBC5. Ghee, a lipid-rich dairy product with deep cultural relevance in India, was used as the primary substrate.

Production was optimised through response surface statistical analysis, enabling efficient yield of a lipopeptide biosurfactant. The approach highlights the potential of combining traditional food-based substrates with modern biotechnology.

 

6. Rare Smew Sighted in Kaziranga for First Time: The rare smew, a striking white diving duck, has been recorded for the first time in Kaziranga National Park during the 7th Waterbird Count. The sighting occurred at the Rowmari-Donduwa beels in the Laokhowa buffer of the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, marking a significant ornithological milestone for the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The smew emerged as the ‘star species’ of this year’s census, which documented over 1.05 lakh waterbirds across Kaziranga’s wetlands. The Smew (Mergellus albellus) is a winter migrant to India from the Eurasian taiga. Males are distinctive with a black mask on a predominantly white body, while females display mottled brown plumage. In India, sightings are rare and typically localised to northern and central wetlands. Previous records include Haiderpur in Uttar Pradesh and earlier observations around Corbett. The species favours fish-rich, sheltered waters and is usually seen singly or in small flocks. Globally, the smew population is estimated at around 1.3 lakh mature individuals. Although considered abundant, numbers are declining due to habitat loss and removal of nesting snags.

 

7. South Central Railway Launches Rail Parcel App: South Central Railway (SCR) has launched the next-generation ‘Rail Parcel Application’, a digital e-marketplace offering seamless door-to-door parcel booking and delivery services through trains. The initiative marks a major step in the digital transformation of parcel logistics within Indian Railways. The application was formally launched by SCR General Manager Sanjay Kumar Srivastava at a Rail Parcel Logistics conclave. SCR becomes the first railway zone in India to implement this comprehensive digital parcel platform. The application integrates first-mile pick-up, mid-mile transportation by rail, and last-mile delivery into a unified digital system. This end-to-end integration simplifies logistics operations for individuals, businesses and industry stakeholders. Users can book consignments, track shipments in real time and manage deliveries through a single interface. The system aims to streamline coordination between logistics partners and railway operations.

 

8. Telangana Police Launch Operation Crackdown on Cybercrime: The Telangana Police has launched “Operation Crackdown”, a statewide drive aimed at dismantling organised cybercrime networks and curbing financial fraud. The initiative is being spearheaded by the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) in coordination with district police units and commissionerates. The operation will be conducted in phases over the coming months, focusing initially on mule bank accounts used to channel proceeds of cyber fraud. Data analysis by TGCSB revealed that 4,775 mule accounts were operated in Telangana during 2025. In the first phase, 1,888 suspected mule accounts across 137 bank branches in 16 districts were taken up for verification. These accounts are linked to 9,431 cybercrime connections nationwide, including 782 cases within Telangana. Police deployed 137 teams comprising 512 personnel to conduct simultaneous inspections at the identified branches, collecting KYC documents and examining transaction records.

 

9. BRO Restores Chungthang–Lachen Axis in North Sikkim: Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth inaugurated the restored Chungthang–Lachen axis and a 400-foot Bailey Suspension Taram Chu Bridge in North Sikkim, marking a major milestone in post-disaster recovery. The critical infrastructure has been rebuilt by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Swastik. The restoration follows a series of natural disasters, including cloudbursts in May–June 2025, Cyclone Remal in June 2024 and the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood of October 2023, which severely disrupted connectivity in the region. The completion of the 28 km Chungthang–Lachen road and the Taram Chu Bridge is expected to benefit local residents, security forces and regional trade. The route holds strategic significance due to its proximity to international borders and its role in facilitating troop and supply movement. Officials stated that improved connectivity will also boost tourism and economic activities in the remote Himalayan district.

 

10. India Crosses 520 GW Installed Power Capacity: India’s total installed power capacity has surpassed 520 gigawatts, with more than half generated from non-fossil fuel sources, Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik said while addressing the India Energy Transition Summit 2026 in New Delhi. The summit was organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). The Minister stated that India’s energy transition is actively underway, supported by policy clarity and sustained investments in renewable infrastructure. India has set a target of achieving 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. The country has also committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2070 as part of its long-term climate strategy. Officials emphasised that the shift to clean energy is aligned with global climate commitments while addressing domestic energy security needs.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 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.

 

2. Congo Lakes Release Ancient Carbon from Peatlands: Two major lakes in the Democratic Republic of Congo are emitting carbon that has been locked away for thousands of years in surrounding tropical peatlands, raising fresh concerns about climate stability. The findings, published in Nature Geoscience by researchers from ETH Zurich, challenge long-held assumptions that tropical peatlands securely store carbon over millennial timescales. Scientists examined carbon emissions from Lake Mai-Ndombe and Lake Tumba in the Congo Basin, identifying an unexpected source of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The study found that up to 40% of carbon dioxide released from the two lakes originates from ancient peat deposits, some more than 3,000 years old. This carbon was previously believed to remain stably trapped in waterlogged peat soils.

Researchers described the discovery as surprising, indicating that the carbon reservoir may be “leaking” into the lakes and subsequently into the atmosphere. The exact mechanism by which carbon travels from peatlands into the lakes remains unclear.

 

3. Indian Youth Rank 60th in Global Mental Health Study: Young adults in India have ranked 60th among 84 countries in key mental well-being indicators, according to the ‘Global Mind Health in 2025’ report released by US-based Sapien Labs. The findings point to a widening generational divide, with older Indians reporting significantly stronger mental health outcomes than those aged 18–34. The study surveyed over 78,000 internet-enabled individuals in India and assessed mental well-being using the Mind Health Quotient (MHQ), a composite metric evaluating 47 cognitive, emotional, social and physical indicators. Young Indian adults recorded an average MHQ score of 33, placing them 60th globally. In contrast, those aged 55 and above scored 96, a level aligned with normal mental functioning and ranking 49th among 84 nations. Researchers described this as a structural, multi-year generational shift rather than a temporary post-pandemic effect. The steep decline among younger cohorts in India was found to be more pronounced than in many other countries.

 

4. Denmark Calls March 24 Election Amid Greenland Row: Denmark will hold a parliamentary election on March 24, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced, seeking a renewed mandate as geopolitical tensions over Greenland reshape the national debate. The snap poll comes amid heightened friction following renewed United States interest in the Arctic territory. Frederiksen has positioned herself as a firm defender of Danish sovereignty, rallying European partners in response to statements by US President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. Recent opinion surveys suggest her assertive stance has strengthened her leadership credentials after earlier domestic criticism over living costs and welfare pressures. Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has become central to the campaign narrative. Frederiksen described the forthcoming vote as decisive, arguing that Denmark and Europe must “stand on their own feet” in the coming years. She has also called for redefining relations with the United States and accelerating defence investments to ensure security on the continent. The Greenland dispute has elevated her international profile, complementing her earlier leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and support for Ukraine.

 

5. Park Chan-wook Named Cannes Jury President: South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook has been appointed jury president for the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, becoming the first Korean director to hold the prestigious role. The festival will run from May 12 to 23, with Park presiding over the jury that selects the Palme d’Or winner. The announcement marks a historic milestone for Korean cinema, reflecting its growing global influence and sustained presence at major international festivals. Park’s appointment underscores the rising stature of South Korean filmmakers on the world stage. Over the past two decades, Korean cinema has gained international acclaim for its bold storytelling and genre innovation. As jury president, Park will lead deliberations and help determine the recipient of the Palme d’Or, the festival’s highest honour. His selection signals Cannes’ continued engagement with Asian cinema and its evolving global narrative.

 

6. UAE Enters Top Three in Global Residence Index 2026: The United Arab Emirates has, for the first time, secured a position among the world’s top three best countries to live in, according to the Global Residence Programme Index 2026 published by Henley & Partners. The UAE climbed from fifth place to joint second, marking a significant milestone in its evolution as a preferred destination for globally mobile investors and professionals. In the 2026 edition, Greece retained the top position. The UAE shared second place with Italy and Switzerland. The index evaluates 40 leading residence programmes worldwide across parameters such as reputation, quality of life, taxation, visa-free or visa-on-arrival access, compliance standards, and processing efficiency. The report signals a shifting global landscape. While Europe continues to dominate, emerging hubs such as the UAE and Singapore are gaining ground by offering policy stability and investor-friendly frameworks. The UAE’s rapid ascent reflects its transformation into a global wealth hub. Zero personal income tax, strong regulatory systems, and proactive investor engagement have strengthened its appeal. The country scored highly on quality of life, alongside Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Switzerland. It also ranked among the leaders in tax efficiency, sharing the top band with Monaco and Saudi Arabia. Clear long-term residence pathways, including Golden Visa schemes, and consistent policy signals have enhanced investor confidence. Safety, infrastructure, and ease of doing business further reinforced its standing.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Israel’s Multi-Layered Air Defence Against Ballistic Threats: Israel maintains one of the world’s most sophisticated multi-layered air defence networks, designed primarily to counter ballistic missile and aerial threats, including those posed by Iran and its regional proxies. The system integrates long-range, mid-range and short-range interceptors, alongside emerging laser-based technology and U.S.-backed assets, creating a comprehensive defensive umbrella. The Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 systems form the upper tier of Israel’s missile defence architecture. Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries in cooperation with Boeing, these interceptors are specifically designed to counter long-range ballistic missiles. Arrow-2 engages threats within the atmosphere, while Arrow-3 is capable of exo-atmospheric interception. This high-altitude engagement allows for safer dispersal of potential non-conventional warheads. The system is tailored to neutralise advanced ballistic missile threats before they reach Israeli airspace.

 

2. 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.

 

3. Droupadi Murmu Flies LCH Prachand Helicopter: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday became the first Indian President to undertake a sortie in an attack helicopter, flying in the indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand near the India–Pakistan border in Rajasthan. The 25-minute flight took place from the Jaisalmer Air Force Station, marking another milestone in her engagement with frontline military platforms as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Clad in an olive-green flying suit and helmet, President Murmu flew as co-pilot in the LCH Prachand after being briefed by Indian Air Force officials. The helicopter took off from Jaisalmer and flew over the strategically significant Pokhran firing range, where the IAF’s firepower demonstration ‘Vayu Shakti’ is scheduled. During the sortie, she delivered a message to the nation from the cockpit, praising the armed forces and highlighting the importance of indigenous defence capabilities.

 

4. 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.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. 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.

 

2. New Advances in Epstein-Barr Vaccine Research: Researchers report significant progress towards a potential vaccine against the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common pathogen linked to infectious mononucleosis, multiple sclerosis and certain cancers. Nearly 95% of the global population carries EBV, though risks of severe complications rise when the virus reactivates, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The latest findings, published in Cell Reports Medicine, describe laboratory success using engineered monoclonal antibodies in mice models.

Scientists developed 10 monoclonal antibodies using mice carrying human antibody genes. These antibodies targeted two viral surface proteins: gp350, which enables EBV to bind to host cell receptors, and gp42, which facilitates viral entry into cells. One antibody directed against gp42 fully prevented infection in mice with humanised immune systems exposed to EBV. Another antibody targeting gp350 provided partial protection. The findings suggest that blocking viral entry mechanisms may offer a viable preventive strategy.

 

3. 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.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. World Bank Flags Global Gaps in Women’s Economic Rights: Laws intended to guarantee equal economic opportunities for women are only half-enforced globally, according to the latest Women, Business and the Law report released by the World Bank Group. The study highlights significant “opportunity gaps” that are limiting economic growth and job creation worldwide. While the average country scores 67 out of 100 for laws promoting gender equality on paper, enforcement lags sharply. The average enforcement score falls to 53, and the adequacy of systems required to implement these rights drops further to 47. Only 4 per cent of women globally live in economies offering near-full legal equality. For the first time, the report assesses not just the presence of laws but also their enforcement. Legal experts surveyed estimated that laws supporting women’s economic participation are enforced only halfway. Economies, on average, have implemented fewer than half the policies and services needed to make these laws effective. The findings suggest that even if current laws were fully enforced, women would still enjoy only about two-thirds of the legal rights granted to men.