Daily GK Update- 19th Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NLCIL Signs MoU with NALCO to Boost Thermal and Renewable Energy Collaboration: NLC India Ltd. signed an MoU with National Aluminium Company to collaborate on thermal and renewable energy initiatives.The MoU covers a 1,200 MW Thermal Captive Power Project and renewable energy development to meet NALCO’s long-term and captive power needs efficiently.The collaboration includes potential joint project development, long-term power arrangements, and coal supply agreements to ensure energy and fuel security.

 

2. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to Inaugurate BioAsia 2026 Summit Highlighting TechBio Innovations: The 23rd edition of the international summit begins at Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) with the theme ‘TechBio Unleashed – AI, Automation, and the Revolutionary Changes in Life Sciences.’Revanth Reddy will officially launch the international exhibition featuring renowned life sciences organisations before delivering the keynote address.Telangana Chief Minister highlights future of healthcare and biotech – Delegates will discuss next-generation biologics, AI-driven R&D, digital transformation, and strategies under the theme ‘Telangana Rising 2047 – World-Class Life Sciences Ecosystem.’

 

3. President Murmu Inaugurates Centenary Celebrations of Ol Chiki Script, Honours Santal Achievers: The President of India inaugurated the 100-year celebrations of the Ol Chiki script, organised by the Ministry of Culture in New Delhi.The script, invented by Pandit Raghunath Murmu in 1925, preserves the Santhali language and serves as a symbol of Santal identity worldwide.Before Ol Chiki, the Santhali language was written in Roman, Devanagari, Oriya, and Bengali scripts, which could not capture the original pronunciation accurately.The President released a special coin and postage stamp and felicitated 10 achievers for promoting the use of Ol Chiki among the Santhali people.

 

4. PM Modi Launches PM RAHAT Scheme for Cashless Road Accident Treatment: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the PM RAHAT (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment) Scheme, providing cashless treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh per eligible road accident victim for seven days from the date of the accident.The Road, Transport and Highways Ministry emphasized that the scheme reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring no life is lost due to delayed medical assistance.Reimbursement to hospitals under PM RAHAT will be facilitated through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, ensuring smooth implementation of cashless treatment.The launch of PM RAHAT from Seva Teerth, New Delhi, highlights a citizen-first approach, aiming to reduce preventable road accident fatalities through timely medical intervention.

 

5. Govt Launches First National Call for BIRAC-RDI Fund to Boost High-Impact Biotechnology Innovation: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh announced the first national call for the BIRAC-RDI Fund, aimed at scaling high-impact biotechnology innovations under the Government of India’s ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) initiative.The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) has been appointed as a second-level fund manager and will deploy ₹2,000 crore over up to five years, with provisions for future expansion.The BIRAC-RDI Fund is part of the national RDI initiative approved by the Union Cabinet in July 2025 and launched in November 2025 under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), anchored by the Department of Science and Technology.The fund will provide long-term, low-interest financing for high-risk and long-gestation research projects in sunrise sectors such as biotechnology, deep-tech, and artificial intelligence.

 

6. Kerala Approves India’s First Graphene Policy: Kerala has approved India’s first comprehensive Graphene Policy, aiming to position the state as a global hub for graphene research, development, and manufacturing, integrating advanced materials into its long-term economic growth strategy.As part of the initiative, the Union Cabinet approved the establishment of Grefine Park, and the state will set up a dedicated graphene industrial park in Palakkad along with a ₹200 crore Digital Innovation Centre to promote graphene-based innovation.To attract domestic and global investors, Kerala will offer a 50% subsidy on lease payments for manufacturing units established in government-managed parks, creating a competitive ecosystem for advanced material production.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Balaghat Chosen as Pilot District Under World’s Largest Cooperative Grain Storage Plan: Balaghat district in Madhya Pradesh has been selected as a pilot region under the World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in the Cooperative Sector, with a 500-metric-tonne godown constructed at Parswada and inaugurated by Narendra Modi on 24 February 2024.The modern storage facility is operated by the Madhya Pradesh Warehousing and Logistics Corporation and aims to strengthen rural storage capacity, promote scientific warehousing, and support decentralised agricultural infrastructure at the grassroots level.The initiative focuses on empowering Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) by integrating schemes like AIF, AMI, SMAM, and PMFME, enabling PACS to become multi-functional service centres while reducing farmers’ dependence on distant warehouses.

 

2. India, France elevate ties to ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’: India and France elevated their ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership” after talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron, expanding cooperation across defence, advanced technologies, critical minerals, climate action, health, education, and economic security.The upgrade builds on the 1998 Strategic Partnership and the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, with both sides agreeing to launch an annual Foreign Ministers Comprehensive Dialogue and reaffirming support for a rules-based international order and India’s permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council.Defence cooperation was deepened through renewal of the 10-year defence agreement, MoUs under the 6th India–France Defence Dialogue, progress on Rafale-Marine jets, joint production of HAMMER missiles, and new initiatives in co-design, co-development, and “Make in India” manufacturing.The two countries also launched the 2026 India–France Year of Innovation, enhanced collaboration in AI, startups, and critical minerals, agreed to amend the DTAA to boost trade and investment, and strengthened cooperation in climate action, nuclear energy, and the Indo-Pacific region.

 

3. Tarique Rahman Sworn in as Bangladesh Prime Minister: Tarique Rahman, Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh, ending nearly 18 months of political uncertainty under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.The oath of office was administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in Dhaka; subsequently, 25 cabinet ministers and 24 state ministers were also sworn in.India was represented at the ceremony by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

 

4. India, South Korea Reaffirm Special Strategic Partnership: India and South Korea have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their Special Strategic Partnership, signalling sustained diplomatic momentum ahead of 2026. The pledge was made during the 6th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) held in Seoul, reflecting both sides’ intent to expand cooperation across political, economic and security domains. The dialogue was co-chaired by P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Park Yoon-joo, First Vice Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea. Discussions covered the entire spectrum of bilateral engagement, including defence, security, science and technology, culture and people-to-people exchanges.The two sides agreed to pursue a series of high-level visits and joint commission meetings in 2026. These engagements are expected to inject fresh impetus into diplomatic coordination and policy alignment under the Special Strategic Partnership framework.

 

5. ZSI Discovers New Diplura Species in Himalayas: cientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of Diplura in the eastern Himalayas, marking a milestone in Indian entomology. The wingless, soil-dwelling micro-arthropod has been named “Lepidocampa sikkimensis”. The discovery ends nearly five decades of limited research on Diplura in India andrepresents the first species of its kind to be formally described by an Indian research team.The findings were published on 7 January in the international taxonomic journal “Zootaxa”.Diplurans are primitive hexapods, a group of six-legged arthropods under the class Hexapoda. They are blind, soil-dwelling organisms commonly known as two-pronged bristletails. Researchers believe “Lepidocampa sikkimensis” belongs to an ancient evolutionary lineage of hexapods.Until now, 17 Diplura species had been recorded in India, all identified by foreign scientists. The new discovery signals a revival of indigenous taxonomic research in this lesser-known invertebrate group.

 

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. First Indigenous Cadet Training Ship Launched at L&T Kattupalli in Chennai: The first indigenous Cadet Training Ship (CTS), built by M/s L&T Shipyard for the Indian Navy, was launched at Kattupalli, Chennai, in the presence of Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan.The ship, named ‘Krishna’, pays tribute to the Krishna River, the third longest river in India, and was launched by Anupama, President of DWWA, following maritime traditions.The contract for building three Cadet Training Ships was signed on 07 March 2023 between the Ministry of Defence and Larsen & Toubro (L&T Shipyard).The ship will accommodate 20 Officers, 150 Sailors, and 200 Cadets, primarily for basic sea training, while also capable of roles like Hospital Ship, Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR), Search and Rescue (SAR), and Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO).

 

2. Iran Unveils Khorramshahr-4 Amid US Tensions: Iran has released dramatic footage of its Khorramshahr-4 ballistic missile, one of Tehran’s most powerful medium-range weapons, amid rising tensions with the United States. The video, circulated through state-linked platforms, appears aimed at signalling deterrence as American aircraft carriers operate near the Persian Gulf.The display comes at a time of heightened strategic rivalry, with both sides reinforcing their military postures in the region.The Khorramshahr-4 is assessed to have a range of approximately 2,000 kilometres. With a heavy payload capacity, the missile can potentially place key US military bases and naval assets within striking distance. It forms part of Iran’s broader missile programme designed to offset conventional limitations through long-range strike capability.Iran has invested significantly in ballistic missile development over the past two decades, viewing it as a core element of national defence and deterrence strategy.The footage was released as US aircraft carriers, including the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford, operate in waters near the Persian Gulf. Such deployments are routine for Washington but are closely monitored by Tehran.By publicising the missile’s readiness, Iran appears to be reinforcing its message that foreign military assets in the region remain within its operational range. Iranian officials describe the missile programme as defensive in nature, intended to deter aggression rather than provoke conflict.

 

3. India’s First Private Helicopter Assembly Line Launched: India has operationalised its first private-sector helicopter Final Assembly Line (FAL) with the inauguration of the Airbus H125 facility at Vemagal in Karnataka. The plant, owned by Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), was inaugurated virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron, signalling a deepening of Indo-French aerospace cooperation.The development marks a milestone in India’s defence and civil aviation manufacturing ambitions under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.The Vemagal facility represents the first instance of an Indian private company undertaking full-scale manufacturing, integration, testing and maintenance of a rotary-wing aircraft within the country. TASL, in partnership with Airbus Helicopters, will assemble the civil H125 helicopter and potentially its military variant, the H125M.The facility is expected to provide localised lifecycle support, strengthening India’s maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) ecosystem. The first “Made in India” H125 helicopter is scheduled for delivery in early 2027, with export plans for the South Asian region.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Rashid Khan Makes History as First Asian Bowler with 150+ T20I and 200+ ODI Wickets: Rashid Khan becomes the first Asian bowler to take over 150 wickets in T20Is and more than 200 wickets in ODIs.He is the first Afghan bowler to achieve 200 ODI wickets, reaching the milestone during the first ODI against Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi.In 115 ODIs, Rashid has 202 wickets at an average of 20.28 and an economy rate of 4.23, including six four-wicket hauls and five five-wicket hauls, with best figures of 7/18.

 

2. Norway’s Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo wins ninth gold medal in cross-country skiing: Norway’s Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo won his ninth gold medal in cross-country skiing, setting a Winter Games record, at the Milan Cortina Olympics.The 29-year-old anchored the 4 x 7.5-kilometre relay in the men’s competition for his fourth gold of the 2026 Games. He had shared the record with three retired Norwegian athletes.

 

3. Lucas Pinheiro Braathen Creates History, Wins Giant Slalom Gold for Brazil at Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: Lucas Pinheiro Braathen won gold in the Giant Slalom at the Winter Olympics Milano Cortina 2026, securing Brazil’s and South America’s first-ever Winter Olympics medal.The 25-year-old clocked a combined time of 2 minutes 25 seconds, defeating Switzerland’s defending champion Marco Odermatt by 0.58 seconds on the challenging Stelvio course amid snow and fog.In the overall medal standings, Norway leads with 20 medals (10 gold), followed by Italy (18) and the United States (17), and while India’s Arif Mohammad Khan is set to compete in the slalom event.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Madras High Court Launches AI-Assisted ‘Superlaw Courts’ System to Boost Judicial Efficiency: The Madras High Court has launched an AI-assisted system called Superlaw Courts, aimed at enhancing judicial efficiency by helping judges and legal professionals manage large volumes of case records and reduce delays in proceedings.The system acts as an intelligent record assistant, creating a secure digital workspace, converting scanned documents into searchable text using OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology, and enabling faster retrieval of relevant case information.Established in 1862, the Madras High Court is one of India’s three oldest High Courts, along with the Bombay High Court and the Calcutta High Court, and this initiative reflects the growing role of technology in strengthening India’s justice delivery system.

 

2. JP Nadda Launched SAHI and BODH to Strengthen AI Use in India’s Healthcare System: Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda has launched two national AI-driven healthcare initiatives—SAHI and BODH—at the India AI Summit being held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.The Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare for India (SAHI) has been introduced as a national guidance framework to ensure safe, ethical, evidence-based and inclusive adoption of AI across India’s healthcare system.The Benchmarking Open Data Platform for Health AI (BODH), developed by the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur in collaboration with the National Health Authority, will enable privacy-preserving evaluation of AI models using real-world health data.Positioned as a digital public good under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, SAHI and BODH together aim to strengthen trust, transparency and global competitiveness of India’s health AI ecosystem.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership Announced: India and France have elevated their bilateral ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership”, signalling a new phase of cooperation across defence, innovation and global governance. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following wide-ranging talks with French President Emmanuel Macron during the latter’s official visit to India from February 17 to 19.Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Modi described the relationship as expansive and forward-looking. He emphasised that innovation thrives on collaboration and underscored the need for deeper cooperation in a period of global uncertainty.The Special Global Strategic Partnership aims to broaden collaboration in defence, energy, space, advanced technology and critical minerals. Both leaders highlighted the strategic depth of the relationship, noting that cooperation extends “from deep oceans to the highest mountains”.The framework builds upon the long-standing strategic partnership established in 1998. The new designation reflects shared ambitions in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductor technologies and green energy transitions.

Daily GK Update- 18th Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NHAI Launches India’s First Bee Corridors Initiative: Reinforcing its commitment to sustainable infrastructure, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a pioneering initiative to develop pollinator or ‘Bee Corridors’ along National Highways. The move marks a transition from ornamental roadside plantations to ecologically driven green corridors aimed at supporting honeybees and other pollinators.The initiative seeks to address rising ecological stress that has affected pollination services, agricultural productivity and overall biodiversity.The Bee Corridor will comprise continuous stretches of bee-friendly vegetation, including flowering trees and plants that provide nectar and pollen throughout the year. By ensuring staggered flowering cycles, the project aims to maintain near-continuous blooming across seasons.Pollinators play a crucial role in food production and ecosystem stability. Declining bee populations have raised concerns globally, as nearly one-third of food crops depend on animal pollination. Roadside plantations offer a unique opportunity to create long, connected habitats that can support pollinator survival.

 

2. Kerala Approves India’s First Comprehensive Graphene Policy: Kerala has approved India’s first comprehensive graphene policy, aiming to position the state as a global hub for research, development and manufacturing of the advanced material. Graphene, often described as a wonder material, is known for its exceptional strength, conductivity and flexibility. The policy marks a strategic push to integrate high-technology industries into Kerala’s long-term economic growth model. As an initial step, the Union Cabinet has approved the Grefine Park to accelerate graphene-based innovation and manufacturing. The state government plans to establish a dedicated graphene industrial park in Palakkad, alongside a Digital Innovation Centre backed by an investment of ₹200 crore.To attract domestic and international investors, Kerala will provide a 50 per cent subsidy on lease payments for manufacturing units set up in government-managed parks. The initiative seeks to reduce entry barriers and create a competitive ecosystem for advanced material production.

 

3. J&K Plans Ravi Diversion, Revives Tulbul Project: The Jammu & Kashmir government is exploring new water management measures following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has reportedly raised with the Centre proposals to divert surplus water from the Ravi river to the Jammu region and to revive the long-pending Tulbul Navigation Barrage project in Kashmir.The Centre placed the 1960 treaty in abeyance in 2025 after the Pahalgam terror attack, opening policy space for fresh hydrological planning in the Union Territory.The Tulbul Navigation Barrage project on the Wular Lake was launched in 1984 but halted in 1987 after Pakistan objected under provisions of the IWT. The project aimed to regulate water flow to ensure year-round navigation and maintain minimum water depth in Wular Lake. With the treaty suspended, the J&K government has proposed maintaining adequate water levels in the lake to restore navigation, rejuvenate the ecosystem and benefit surrounding farmlands. Officials believe the project could provide ecological and economic gains for the Kashmir valley.

 

4. Assam Grants 3% Quota to Tea Tribes, Adivasis: In a significant policy move ahead of assembly elections, the Assam Cabinet has approved a 3% reservation in Class I and Class II state government jobs for tea tribes and Adivasi communities within the Other Backward Classes (OBC) quota. The Cabinet also expanded the Mission for Minority and Underprivileged Areas (MMUA) scheme to include over one lakh additional women beneficiaries. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the reservation for tea tribes and Adivasis was previously limited to Grade III and Grade IV posts. The new decision extends the 3% quota to Grade I and Grade II positions, including state civil services and professorial posts.The revised policy will apply to higher-level recruitment from next year, while for other posts advertised immediately, the new provision will come into force at once. The decision marks a structural shift in employment access for historically marginalised communities in Assam.

 

5. Pravina Deshpande Dies at 60 After Cancer Battle: Veteran actress Pravina Deshpande passed away on February 17 after a prolonged battle with cancer. She was 60. Her family confirmed the news through a statement shared on her official social media account, informing that her last rites were conducted the same day at the Hindu Crematorium in Chakala Parsiwada, Andheri East, Mumbai.Her demise has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and industry bodies, marking the end of a distinguished career across film, television, theatre and digital platforms.Pravina Deshpande built a versatile career spanning Hindi and Marathi cinema. She was known for her impactful supporting performances and strong screen presence. In Hindi cinema, she appeared in films such as Ready alongside Salman Khan, Ek Villain featuring Sidharth Malhotra and Shraddha Kapoor, and Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran with John Abraham.On television, she became a familiar face in popular shows including Ghar Ek Mandir, Kumkum, Karam Apnaa Apnaa and Kulfi Kumar Bajewala. Her work also extended to theatre and web series, reflecting her adaptability across formats.

 

6. India’s First Private Helicopter Assembly Line Launched: India has operationalised its first private-sector helicopter Final Assembly Line (FAL) with the inauguration of the Airbus H125 facility at Vemagal in Karnataka. The plant, owned by Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), was inaugurated virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron, signalling a deepening of Indo-French aerospace cooperation.The development marks a milestone in India’s defence and civil aviation manufacturing ambitions under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.The Vemagal facility represents the first instance of an Indian private company undertaking full-scale manufacturing, integration, testing and maintenance of a rotary-wing aircraft within the country. TASL, in partnership with Airbus Helicopters, will assemble the civil H125 helicopter and potentially its military variant, the H125M.The facility is expected to provide localised lifecycle support, strengthening India’s maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) ecosystem. The first “Made in India” H125 helicopter is scheduled for delivery in early 2027, with export plans for the South Asian region.

7. Jaisalmer to Host First Jain Chadar Mahotsav: Rajasthan’s desert city of Jaisalmer will host the country’s first Jain Chadar Mahotsav from 6 to 8 March 2026. The three-day religious event will centre on the worship of the 872-year-old garments of Dada Shri Jindatt Suri Maharaj, preserved in the Gyan Bhandar library of the Jain temple in Jaisalmer. Organisers expect participation from senior political leaders, Jain saints and over 30,000 devotees from across India. According to the Jaisalmer Jain Trust, the garments date back to Vikram Samvat 1211, when the first Dada Gurudev attained samadhi in Ajmer. It is believed that while his mortal remains were cremated, the garments remained intact. Around 145 years ago, during a severe epidemic in Vikram Samvat 1945, the then Maharawal requested that the garments be brought from Patan in Gujarat to Jaisalmer. Since then, they have been preserved in the temple’s manuscript repository.The relics include the Chadar, Cholpatta and Muhpatti associated with Dada Shri Jindatt Suri Maharaj, revered within the Khartar Gachchh sect of Jainism.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Iran Temporarily Closes Strait of Hormuz During US Talks: Iran temporarily announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid fresh indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States in Geneva. The move, described as a safety measure during live-fire drills, marked a rare escalation at a time of heightened regional tension.The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply passes, is one of the most strategically sensitive maritime chokepoints globally.Iran’s state media reported that Revolutionary Guard forces fired live missiles toward the strait and declared it closed for several hours over “safety and maritime concerns”. It was the first time Tehran publicly announced a temporary closure of the waterway in this context.Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stern warning, signalling that Iran would respond strongly to any aggression. Analysts viewed the drills as a message to the international community that military action against Iran could disrupt global energy flows.

 

2. BioAsia 2026 Summit Begins in Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy will inaugurate the 23rd edition of BioAsia 2026, an international life sciences summit, at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC). The two-day global conference positions Telangana as a growing centre for TechBio innovation and advanced healthcare technologies.This year’s theme, ‘TechBio Unleashed – AI, Automation, and the Revolutionary Changes in Life Sciences,’ reflects the rapid integration of digital technologies with biotechnology and pharmaceutical research.The summit will explore how artificial intelligence, automation and data-driven systems are transforming drug discovery, biologics development and healthcare delivery. As India strengthens its footprint in biotech and pharmaceutical manufacturing, the event will examine the role of TechBio in accelerating research and reducing development timelines.Delegates will deliberate on next-generation biologics, AI-driven research and development, digital transformation in laboratories and manufacturing, and the future trajectory of pharma and biotech industries.

 

3. India, South Korea Reaffirm Special Strategic Partnership: India and South Korea have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their Special Strategic Partnership, signalling sustained diplomatic momentum ahead of 2026. The pledge was made during the 6th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) held in Seoul, reflecting both sides’ intent to expand cooperation across political, economic and security domains. The dialogue was co-chaired by P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Park Yoon-joo, First Vice Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea. Discussions covered the entire spectrum of bilateral engagement, including defence, security, science and technology, culture and people-to-people exchanges.The two sides agreed to pursue a series of high-level visits and joint commission meetings in 2026. These engagements are expected to inject fresh impetus into diplomatic coordination and policy alignment under the Special Strategic Partnership framework.

 

4. ZSI Discovers New Diplura Species in Himalayas: Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of Diplura in the eastern Himalayas, marking a milestone in Indian entomology. The wingless, soil-dwelling micro-arthropod has been named “Lepidocampa sikkimensis”. The discovery ends nearly five decades of limited research on Diplura in India and represents the first species of its kind to be formally described by an Indian research team.The findings were published on 7 January in the international taxonomic journal “Zootaxa”.Diplurans are primitive hexapods, a group of six-legged arthropods under the class Hexapoda. They are blind, soil-dwelling organisms commonly known as two-pronged bristletails. Researchers believe “Lepidocampa sikkimensis” belongs to an ancient evolutionary lineage of hexapods.Until now, 17 Diplura species had been recorded in India, all identified by foreign scientists. The new discovery signals a revival of indigenous taxonomic research in this lesser-known invertebrate group.

 

5. India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership Announced: India and France have elevated their bilateral ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership”, signalling a new phase of cooperation across defence, innovation and global governance. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following wide-ranging talks with French President Emmanuel Macron during the latter’s official visit to India from February 17 to 19.Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Modi described the relationship as expansive and forward-looking. He emphasised that innovation thrives on collaboration and underscored the need for deeper cooperation in a period of global uncertainty.The Special Global Strategic Partnership aims to broaden collaboration in defence, energy, space, advanced technology and critical minerals. Both leaders highlighted the strategic depth of the relationship, noting that cooperation extends “from deep oceans to the highest mountains”.The framework builds upon the long-standing strategic partnership established in 1998. The new designation reflects shared ambitions in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductor technologies and green energy transitions.

 

6. Nitai Roy Chowdhury: Lone Hindu Minister in Bangladesh Cabinet: The swearing-in of Bangladesh’s new Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, marks a significant political transition following a decisive electoral victory. Among the members of the newly formed cabinet, Nitai Roy Chowdhury stands out as the lone Hindu minister, drawing attention both for his minority representation and his long political career within the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Nitai Roy Chowdhury is a seasoned politician and lawyer with decades of experience in Bangladesh’s political landscape. Currently serving as Vice-Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, he has been closely associated with the party’s central leadership. Known for his legal acumen and organisational skills, Chowdhury has played a strategic advisory role within the BNP during both opposition and government phases.His political journey spans multiple regimes, reflecting his enduring presence in national politics. He has consistently advocated constitutional governance and institutional reforms within party forums.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Iran Unveils Khorramshahr-4 Amid US Tensions: Iran has released dramatic footage of its Khorramshahr-4 ballistic missile, one of Tehran’s most powerful medium-range weapons, amid rising tensions with the United States. The video, circulated through state-linked platforms, appears aimed at signalling deterrence as American aircraft carriers operate near the Persian Gulf.The display comes at a time of heightened strategic rivalry, with both sides reinforcing their military postures in the region.The Khorramshahr-4 is assessed to have a range of approximately 2,000 kilometres. With a heavy payload capacity, the missile can potentially place key US military bases and naval assets within striking distance. It forms part of Iran’s broader missile programme designed to offset conventional limitations through long-range strike capability.Iran has invested significantly in ballistic missile development over the past two decades, viewing it as a core element of national defence and deterrence strategy.

 

2. INS Tarangini Anchors IFR and MILAN 2026: Sail training ship INS Tarangini is among the prominent vessels arriving in Visakhapatnam for the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 and the multinational naval exercise MILAN, commencing February 18. Around 75 naval vessels are expected to participate in the twin maritime events, including 20 foreign warships, underlining India’s expanding naval diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific. Commissioned in 1997, INS Tarangini serves as the Indian Navy’s sail training ship. In 2003–2004, she became the first Indian naval vessel to circumnavigate the globe. The ship also represented India at the International Fleet Review during the Sri Lankan Navy’s diamond jubilee celebrations in December 2010.On that occasion, Tarangini was the only tall ship present and the first to be reviewed by the Sri Lankan President. Her decks and yards were ceremonially manned by Indian naval cadets alongside midshipmen of the Sri Lanka Navy, symbolising maritime camaraderie.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Rashid Khan Reaches 700 T20 Wickets Milestone: Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan scripted history in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup by becoming the first bowler to claim 700 wickets in men’s T20 cricket. The landmark was achieved during Afghanistan’s group-stage match against the United Arab Emirates at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. His solitary wicket in the contest was enough to take him past the unprecedented mark.Already the leading wicket-taker in T20 Internationals, Rashid’s latest achievement reinforces his reputation as one of the most dominant spinners in modern cricket.Afghanistan restricted the UAE to 160 for 9 after opting to field first. While Rashid celebrated his record, the team continues to grapple with setbacks in the tournament. A dramatic double Super Over defeat to South Africa earlier in the competition dented their hopes of progressing deep into the event.Rashid acknowledged the emotional toll of narrow losses but emphasised resilience and long-term learning. He noted that limited exposure to top-tier opposition often increases pressure during major ICC events.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Delhi Launches AI-Driven CM Shri School Model: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday inaugurated the CM Shri School at Sarojini Nagar, marking the launch of what the government describes as India’s first AI-driven comprehensive education model. The foundation stones for 75 CM Shri School projects across the national capital were also laid. The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy and aims to provide technology-integrated, high-quality public education. The event was attended by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood, along with public representatives, officials, teachers, parents and students. The Union Minister congratulated the Delhi Government, stating that significant progress had been made within a year towards strengthening the education sector.The CM Shri Schools are designed to meet high academic and infrastructural standards. Officials said the project seeks to ensure effective implementation of the National Education Policy while expanding access to quality education for a large student population in the Capital.

 

2. Ancient Ice Bacterium Shows Modern Antibiotic Resistance: Scientists have identified a 5,000-year-old bacterium preserved in underground ice in Romania that can resist multiple modern antibiotics. The discovery has raised concerns about the risks posed by melting ice in a warming climate. The strain, recovered from Scărișoara Ice Cave, survived millennia in frozen isolation yet carries resistance to drugs commonly used in present-day clinical practice. Researchers drilled a 25-metre ice core from the “Great Hall” of Scărișoara Ice Cave in north-west Romania. The ice represents nearly 13,000 years of accumulation. To prevent contamination, samples were handled in sterile conditions and transported frozen to laboratories for analysis. Several bacterial strains were isolated and sequenced.The most significant was Psychrobacter SC65A.3, a cold-adapted bacterium belonging to a genus previously linked to infections in humans and animals. Despite its ancient origin, it demonstrated notable resilience to modern medicines.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Menstrual Health Recognised as Fundamental Right: In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court has held that menstrual health forms part of the right to dignity and merits constitutional protection. The judgement marks a decisive step towards addressing “period poverty” in India and reframes menstrual health as a matter of equality and public policy rather than welfare alone.The court observed that despite improvements in toilet construction and household tap connections, these inputs have not translated into the effective elimination of menstrual deprivation. Access remains uneven and many facilities are non-functional, exposing gaps between policy intent and ground realities.The ruling flagged serious implementation deficits. Ten states and eight Union Territories reportedly failed to respond to directions issued three years ago regarding menstrual hygiene management policies under key ministries, including drinking water and sanitation, women and child development, and education.This lack of reporting indicates that menstrual health has not received adequate administrative priority. The court clarified that even though menstruation directly affects only part of the population, the right to dignified menstrual health warrants constitutional safeguards.

 

2. Delhi Rolls Out Bhu-Aadhaar for Unique Land IDs: The Delhi government has announced the rollout of ‘Bhu-Aadhaar’, a system to assign every land parcel in the national capital a unique 14-digit identification number. The initiative forms part of the broader implementation of the Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) system aimed at modernising land records and improving transparency in property ownership.Under the scheme, each plot will receive a geo-referenced identification code, enabling accurate mapping and verification of land ownership. Authorities expect the move to reduce disputes related to unclear boundaries and prevent instances of multiple registrations of the same property.The government will create a comprehensive digital land map through drone surveys and high-resolution ortho-imaging. Around 2 terabytes of geospatial data are being processed to ensure precision in demarcation and record-keeping.Implementation is being handled by the IT branch of the revenue department in coordination with the Survey of India. The system will be introduced in phases across the city under a standard operating procedure with defined timelines.Initially, the rollout will cover 48 villages already mapped under the SVAMITVA scheme. Gradual expansion is planned to ensure uniform digitisation of land records throughout Delhi.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Bhavya Bharat Bhushan Award Launched by Sadhguru: Spiritual leader Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev has launched the ‘Bhavya Bharat Bhushan Award’, a national honour recognising individuals for their exceptional contributions to India’s growth and well-being. The award was presented during the Mahashivaratri celebrations at the Isha Yoga Center, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attending as chief guest. The initiative seeks to acknowledge excellence across diverse sectors that shape the nation’s progress. The Bhavya Bharat Bhushan Award aims to celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions in fields such as national security, business, arts and entertainment, sports, community welfare, science and technology, and literature and academia. According to the Isha Foundation, the award is envisioned as a tribute to citizens whose work strengthens the social, cultural and technological fabric of the country. By instituting this honour, Sadhguru has sought to create a platform that recognises sustained service and transformative impact.