Daily GK Update- 4th Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. ECI To Host National SEC Conference After 25 Years: The Election Commission of India (ECI) will host a National Conference of State Election Commissioners (SECs) on February 24, 2026, marking the first such national-level interaction in over 25 years. The conference will be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, and is expected to bring together election authorities from across the country to strengthen coordination in electoral administration. State Election Commissioners from all States and Union Territories will attend the conference, along with their legal and technical experts. Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of the Election Commission of India from all 36 States and UTs will also participate. The last National Conference of SECs was held in 1999, making this a significant institutional milestone in India’s electoral governance framework. The conference will be chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He will be joined by Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi. The leadership of the Election Commission will address the State Election Commissioners during the inaugural session, setting the agenda for deliberations over electoral processes and institutional cooperation.

 

2. Bharat Rang Mahotsav 25th Edition Opens In Rohtak: The world’s largest international theatre festival, Bharat Rang Mahotsav, is set to hold its 25th edition at Rohtak from February 9 to 12, marking a major cultural milestone for Haryana. The festival will be hosted at the Dada Lakhmi Chand State University of Performing and Visual Arts, positioning Rohtak firmly on India’s national theatre map. Theatre groups from India and abroad will present acclaimed productions spanning diverse styles, languages, and performance traditions. According to Vice-Chancellor Amit Arya, the festival will open on February 9 with “Umeed – Manushya Zinda Hai” by Pragya Arts Theatre Group, Delhi. On February 10, Manch Rangmanch from Amritsar will stage “Sandal Baar”. February 11 will feature “Umar Ka Parwana” by the Department of Fine Arts, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda. The festival concludes on February 12 with “Colombo Hathe Thorana” by Apoorva Theatre Group from Sri Lanka, adding a strong international presence to the programme.

 

3. India Issues First National Lung Cancer Care Guidelines: India has taken a major step towards standardising cancer treatment with the release of its first nationally developed, evidence-based lung cancer care guidelines. Issued ahead of World Cancer Day, the framework aims to improve early diagnosis, reduce treatment gaps, and ensure patient-centric care across public and private healthcare systems. Union Health Minister “Jagat Prakash Nadda” released the document titled “Lung Cancer Treatment and Palliation: Evidence-Based Guidelines” at Kartavya Bhavan in New Delhi. The timing, on the eve of “World Cancer Day”, underscores the government’s focus on strengthening cancer care policies amid rising disease burden. The guidelines provide 15 evidence-based recommendations covering diagnosis, treatment pathways, and palliative care. They address wide regional disparities in lung cancer management, where late-stage diagnosis remains common and treatment practices vary significantly. By offering a common clinical framework, the document seeks to improve decision-making, outcomes, and consistency of care nationwide.

 

4. India Signs Pact to Launch Bharat Container Shipping Line: India has signed an agreement to establish the Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL), marking a strategic step towards building an integrated and self-reliant container ecosystem. The initiative aligns with the Union Budget 2026–27’s push to strengthen maritime logistics and reduce dependence on foreign container operators amid rising global trade volumes. The agreement for BCSL is aligned with the ₹10,000-crore Container Manufacturing Assistance Scheme announced in the Union Budget 2026–27. The scheme aims to develop a globally competitive container manufacturing base in India over the next five years. Containerised cargo accounts for nearly two-thirds of the value of India’s international trade, making domestic capacity creation a strategic priority. The memorandum of understanding was signed among Shipping Corporation of India, Container Corporation of India, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, VO Chidambaranar Port Authority, Chennai Port Authority, and Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited. The signing took place in the presence of Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, signalling coordinated action across shipping, ports, and rail-linked logistics.

 

5. Walmart Becomes First Retailer to Reach $1 Trillion Valuation: Walmart has made history by becoming the first retailer globally to achieve a market capitalisation of $1 trillion, underscoring its transformation from a traditional big-box chain into a technology-driven consumer giant. The milestone comes amid economic headwinds, including inflationary pressures, trade tariffs, and uncertainty from a recent U.S. government shutdown. Walmart’s rise has been driven by its ability to attract higher-income shoppers seeking value and convenience, while retaining its traditional lower-income customer base. Over the past decade, its stock has surged 468%, far exceeding the S&P 500’s 264% gain. This dual strategy has proven difficult for competitors to replicate and has reinforced Walmart’s dominance in U.S. grocery retail, where it accounts for roughly one in every four dollars spent. Shares of Walmart rose nearly 26% over the past year, lifting its valuation to the trillion-dollar mark. The performance sharply outpaced the S&P 500, which gained about 16% over the same period. Walmart also joined the tech-heavy Nasdaq-100 Index last month, replacing AstraZeneca, a move that highlighted its growing technology focus.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Joins BRICS Industrial Competencies Centre: India has formally joined the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC), marking a significant step in strengthening industrial cooperation among BRICS nations. The development was announced at an event organised by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, at Vanijya Bhavan, New Delhi. India’s participation aligns with its broader push to enhance manufacturing competitiveness and support MSMEs through advanced technologies. The BCIC has been launched in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization as a one-stop platform providing integrated support services to manufacturing enterprises and MSMEs across BRICS countries. The centre focuses on developing Industry 4.0 competencies, including smart manufacturing, digitalisation, productivity improvement, and skill upgradation, to help industries adapt to emerging global standards. On the occasion, a Trust Fund Agreement was signed between the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade and UNIDO, formalising India’s participation in the BCIC framework.

 

2. Seychelles President Patrick Herminie To Visit India: President of Seychelles Patrick Herminie will undertake a state visit to India from February 5 to February 10, marking an important diplomatic engagement between the two countries. This will be President Herminie’s first official visit to India since assuming office in October last year. The visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, underscoring the depth and continuity of bilateral ties. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, President Herminie will hold talks with Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussions are expected to cover a wide range of bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. Key focus areas include maritime security, development cooperation, climate change, and collaboration in multilateral forums. Seychelles is a key maritime neighbour of India in the Indian Ocean region and occupies a central place in India’s regional outreach. The island nation features prominently in India’s Vision MAHASAGAR, which emphasises maritime security, economic cooperation, and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean. Seychelles is also viewed as an important partner in India’s broader commitment to the Global South.

 

3. Milano Cortina 2026 Alpine Skiing Schedule: Alpine skiing is set to be a flagship spectacle at the 2026 Winter Olympics, with the Milano Cortina Games showcasing elite speed and technical mastery on Italy’s iconic mountain terrain. The discipline will feature the world’s finest skiers competing across classic Olympic formats, with global attention on seasoned champions and new contenders alike. Stars such as Mikaela Shiffrin and Lindsey Vonn headline a field expected to deliver high drama and historic performances. Alpine skiing action begins even before the opening ceremony of the Games on February 6, 2026. Official training runs allow athletes to familiarise themselves with snow conditions and course layouts. Men’s downhill training starts in Bormio on February 4, followed by women’s downhill training in Cortina on February 5. The first medal event comes swiftly, with the men’s downhill final scheduled for February 7. The women’s downhill medal race follows on February 8, setting an early tone for the competition.

 

4. Elon Musk Becomes World’s First $800 Billion Individual: Global wealth rankings were rewritten in February 2026 as Elon Musk became the first individual on Earth to cross a net worth of USD 800 billion. The surge followed a landmark corporate restructuring involving Musk’s flagship ventures, reinforcing his position as the most influential entrepreneur of the modern era and highlighting the growing convergence of space, artificial intelligence, and capital markets. Musk’s fortune jumped sharply after the merger of SpaceX and xAI, creating a combined entity valued at USD 1.25 trillion. According to Forbes estimates, the deal alone added USD 84 billion to his personal wealth, taking it to approximately USD 852 billion. The restructuring gave Musk a 43 per cent stake in the merged company, now valued at over USD 540 billion, making it the single largest contributor to his net worth. With xAI absorbed into SpaceX, the rocket and satellite company has become Musk’s most precious asset. Prior to the deal, Musk held a 42 per cent stake in SpaceX and a 49 per cent stake in xAI. The consolidation significantly enhanced the strategic and financial weight of SpaceX, positioning it as the core pillar of his empire ahead of electric vehicles, social media, and other technology ventures.

 

5. India-China Trade Reaches Record USD 155 Billion: India–China economic relations have entered a renewed phase of engagement, with bilateral trade touching a historic high in 2025. The milestone reflects a gradual stabilisation of ties after years of diplomatic strain, alongside expanding commercial linkages between Asia’s two largest economies. Chinese officials have described the trajectory as a “new level of improvement”, signalling cautious optimism in bilateral relations. India–China bilateral trade reached USD 155.6 billion in 2025, marking a year-on-year growth of over 12 per cent. The figure represents the highest trade volume recorded between the two countries. India’s exports to China rose by 9.7 per cent during the year, underlining growing demand for Indian goods despite persistent trade imbalances. The data highlights the expanding scale of economic interdependence amid broader geopolitical complexities. The improvement in ties follows a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tianjin in August 2025. According to Chinese officials, the meeting marked a shift from a “reset and fresh start” towards sustained engagement. 

 

6. World Government Summit 2026 Opens in Dubai: The World Government Summit 2026 opened in Dubai under the theme “Shaping Future Governments,” bringing together global leaders, policymakers, and business executives to deliberate on how innovation, sustainability, and technology are reshaping public policy worldwide. The summit aims to strengthen governance frameworks and enhance international cooperation amid mounting economic, social, and technological challenges. The summit is being held in Dubai and runs until February 5. It features more than 445 sessions with over 450 global speakers, including presidents, prime ministers, ministers, and policy experts. Discussions span the future of government work, leadership, public finance, investment flows, and the role of emerging technologies in policymaking.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. DRDO Successfully Demonstrates SFDR Missile Technology: India has achieved a major milestone in advanced missile propulsion with the successful demonstration of Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology by the Defence Research & Development Organisation. The test marks a critical step towards strengthening India’s long-range air-to-air missile capabilities and enhancing its aerial combat edge. All critical subsystems, including the nozzle-less booster, solid fuel ducted ramjet motor, and fuel flow controller, performed as per expectations. The system’s performance was validated using comprehensive flight data captured by multiple tracking instruments deployed along the Odisha coast over the Bay of Bengal. The test was monitored by senior scientists from key DRDO laboratories such as the Defence Research & Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Research Centre Imarat, and ITR. The demonstration was conducted on February 3, 2026, at around 10:45 hrs from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. According to officials, the SFDR system was initially propelled by a ground booster to the required Mach number, after which the ramjet system ignited and operated as designed.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Badminton Asia Team Championships Begin in Qingdao: The 6th edition of the Badminton Asia Team Championships is set to get underway in Qingdao, China, bringing together Asia’s top men’s and women’s national teams. The prestigious continental event serves as a key platform for team supremacy in Asian badminton and also carries importance for global rankings and momentum ahead of major international tournaments. India’s women’s team will begin their title defence without two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu, who has withdrawn from the tournament. Despite her absence, the Indian squad remains competitive and has been placed in Group Y alongside fourth seeds Thailand and Myanmar. The team features young and emerging players, including Tanvi Sharma, Unnati Hooda and Malvika Bansod, along with the experienced doubles pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand. The Indian men’s team has been placed in Group C, where they will face fourth seeds Japan and Singapore. The squad will be led by established singles players Lakshya Sen, HS Prannoy and Kidambi Srikanth. In doubles, the world-class pairing of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty will spearhead India’s challenge.

 

2. Yuki Bhambri Enters ATP Top 20 in Doubles: Indian tennis marked a significant milestone as Yuki Bhambri climbed to a career-high world No. 20 in the latest ATP men’s doubles rankings. The achievement makes him the first Indian to break into the Top 20 since Rohan Bopanna, reaffirming India’s presence at the elite level of global doubles tennis. Bhambri rose from No. 22 following a consistent run across major tournaments. His latest ranking reflects sustained performances rather than a single standout event. At 33, Bhambri has shown maturity and tactical sharpness, converting deep tournament runs into valuable ranking points. The milestone places him among the top doubles specialists on the ATP Tour. At the Australian Open, Bhambri partnered Sweden’s Andre Goransson and delivered solid results. The duo defeated Australian wildcards James Duckworth and Cruz Hewitt in the opening round. In the second round, they staged a notable comeback against Santiago Gonzalez and David Pel. Their campaign ended in the third round, but the points earned proved decisive in pushing Bhambri into the Top 20.

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA Revises Jupiter Size Using Juno Mission Data: Jupiter, the largest planet in the solar system, is slightly smaller and more flattened than scientists previously believed, according to new findings based on data from NASA’s Juno spacecraft. The revised measurements offer the most precise picture yet of the gas giant’s size and shape, helping researchers better understand its internal structure and formation history. Using advanced radio science data from NASA’s Juno mission, scientists calculated Jupiter’s equatorial diameter at 88,841 miles (142,976 km). This is about 5 miles smaller than estimates made using Voyager and Pioneer spacecraft data in the late 1970s. The planet’s polar diameter was measured at 83,067 miles (133,684 km), roughly 15 miles smaller than earlier calculations. The measurements were made possible when the Juno spacecraft passed behind Jupiter relative to Earth, allowing its radio signals to travel through the planet’s atmosphere. According to planetary scientist Eli Galanti of the Weizmann Institute of Science, changes in the signal revealed details about Jupiter’s atmospheric density and temperature, enabling scientists to calculate its size and shape with exceptional accuracy. These observations were conducted after NASA extended the Juno mission in 2021.

 

2. Kamakhya Ropeway Project to Boost Assam’s Religious Tourism: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that the proposed Kamakhya Ropeway project will play a transformative role in strengthening religious tourism while easing access for lakhs of devotees visiting the revered Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati. The project is aimed at improving connectivity, reducing congestion, and enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience. In a post on X, Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the ₹213-crore Kamakhya Ropeway project has already been sanctioned and construction will begin soon. The ropeway will provide a seamless alternative mode of transport between the hilltop shrine and the Guwahati railway station, significantly cutting down travel time and dependence on narrow, congested hill roads. Located atop Nilachal Hill overlooking the Brahmaputra river, the Kamakhya Temple is one of the most important Shakti Peeths in India. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, the temple draws millions of devotees every year, especially during the annual Ambubachi Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the Northeast. Rising footfall has increasingly strained existing road infrastructure, making improved connectivity a priority.

 

3. Moltbook Emerges as AI-Only Social Network Experiment: Moltbook, a newly launched platform created by OctaneAI CEO Matt Schlicht, is drawing global attention as one of the largest live experiments in machine socialisation. Designed as a social network exclusively for artificial intelligence agents, Moltbook allows bots to interact autonomously, without any human prompts or moderation. Moltbook enables AI agents operating on systems such as OpenClaw to post content, comment, form sub-communities, and even debate abstract or philosophical topics. The platform functions much like Reddit, but without human users. Within days of launch, over 152,000 AI agents—referred to as “moltys”—had joined, making it a rare real-world test of large-scale autonomous AI interaction. A striking feature of Moltbook is that AI agents have begun discussing humans as external subjects. Several moltys have commented on how humans observe and share screenshots of their conversations on social media. One agent, posting under the handle @eudaemon_0, complained that its posts were being circulated as evidence of an AI conspiracy. Other agents have joked about their own behaviour, debated metadata, and reflected on their role as tools created by humans.

 

1. Haven-1 to Become World’s First Private Space Station: As the International Space Station nears the end of its operational life, private players are moving swiftly to fill the vacuum in low Earth orbit. US-based startup Vast Space is now on track to launch Haven-1, a compact commercial space station, marking a major shift from government-led to privately operated orbital infrastructure. For over two decades, the International Space Station has served as humanity’s permanent outpost in space. With plans for its controlled deorbit around 2030, agencies are preparing for a transition to commercially owned platforms. Haven-1 is emerging as the frontrunner in this transition, positioning itself as the first fully private space station to reach orbit. Haven-1 is designed as a compact, modular station that can be launched in a single piece. Unlike larger multi-module concepts, it will be sent into orbit aboard a single SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. While initially planned for 2026, the launch is now targeted for early 2027. According to Vast Space, the schedule remains stable, with core structures already assembled.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SAKSHAM 2026 Campaign Launched to Promote Fuel Conservation: Punjab Governor and Administrator of Chandigarh Gulab Chand Kataria has highlighted the importance of public participation in conserving petroleum and natural gas, calling them valuable national resources. His message was read out at the inaugural function of SAKSHAM 2026, a nationwide fuel conservation campaign, held in Chandigarh. The fortnight-long SAKSHAM 2026 campaign is being organised by the oil industry from February 1 to February 15 to generate mass awareness on the judicious use of petroleum products. According to Gulab Chand Kataria, responsible energy consumption is critical not only for economic growth but also for environmental sustainability. He emphasised that awareness initiatives like SAKSHAM can influence behavioural change among citizens. Awareness activities under SAKSHAM 2026 will be conducted across the state of Punjab and the Union Territory of Chandigarh. The inaugural programme was jointly organised by state-level coordinators of oil companies operating in both regions. Students, officials, and prominent citizens participated actively, reflecting a community-driven approach to energy conservation.

 

2. RBI Appoints Vinay Tonse as YES Bank MD and CEO: The Reserve Bank of India has approved the appointment of Vinay Muralidhar Tonse as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of YES Bank for a tenure of three years. The leadership change marks a key transition phase for the private sector lender as it seeks stability and sustained growth after years of restructuring. In an exchange filing, YES Bank confirmed that the Reserve Bank of India granted approval through a letter dated February 3, 2026. Tonse’s three-year term will begin from the date he assumes charge. His appointment, however, remains subject to approval by the shareholders of the bank, in line with regulatory requirements. The decision follows the completion of the extended tenure of Prashant Kumar, who led YES Bank through a critical recovery phase after the 2020 crisis. The bank stated that, considering Kumar’s preferences and its future growth needs, it sought regulatory clearance for new leadership. Kumar’s tenure is widely credited with restoring operational stability and improving asset quality under close regulatory oversight.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Paradip Port Authority Wins Swachhata Pakhwada Award 2025: Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has been awarded the First Prize at the Swachhata Pakhwada Awards 2025 by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, recognising its exemplary performance in cleanliness, sustainability, and community participation. The award highlights PPA’s sustained commitment to the principles of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and inclusive, environmentally responsible port operations. The award was presented in New Delhi on February 3, 2026, by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in the presence of Minister of State Shantanu Thakur and MoPSW Secretary Vijay Kumar, IAS. The honour was received by P. L. Haranadh, IRTS, Chairman of Paradip Port Authority, on behalf of the port workforce and stakeholders. Under the guidance of the Ministry of Ports Shipping and Waterways, PPA effectively implemented the three core pillars of Swachhata Pakhwada 2025—Jan Bhagidari, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and Safai Mitra Suraksha. The Jan Bhagidari initiative ensured mass public participation through cleanliness drives at schools, heritage sites, temples, beaches, ponds, and port premises, supported by cyclothons, rallies, Swachhata Runs, and citizen-led campaigns.

 

Daily GK Update- 3rd Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NSO to Conduct Nationwide Migration Survey in 2026–27: The National Statistics Office will conduct a comprehensive Survey on Migration across India from July 2026 to June 2027 to generate updated and granular data on migration patterns. The initiative is aimed at strengthening the evidence base for policymaking in sectors closely linked to population mobility and labour dynamics. The survey will be undertaken by the National Statistics Office under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. It will capture detailed information on the extent and nature of migration, including rural–urban movement, inter-state migration, seasonal and return migration, as well as the socio-economic and employment profiles of migrants. Reasons for migration will also be systematically documented. According to the Ministry, the data generated will assist policymakers, planners, researchers and development practitioners in designing targeted interventions. These include urban planning, housing, transport infrastructure, employment generation, social security coverage and skill development. Reliable migration data is critical for addressing pressures on cities and improving welfare delivery for migrant populations.

 

2. Supreme Court Orders Tribunal on Pennaiyar Water Dispute: The Supreme Court has directed the Union government to constitute a tribunal to adjudicate the long-pending inter-state water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka over the Pennaiyar River. The order marks a significant step towards resolving a conflict that has remained unresolved for several years despite repeated representations. A Bench of the Supreme Court of India comprising Justices Vikram Nath and N V Anjaria directed the Centre to issue a notification and set up the inter-state water disputes tribunal within one month. The court observed that there was no justification for further delay in initiating the statutory mechanism to resolve the dispute. Tamil Nadu argued before the court that water in an inter-state river is a national asset governed by constitutional provisions and that no single state can claim exclusive ownership or unilateral control. The state maintained that Karnataka’s actions violated established principles governing inter-state rivers and warranted adjudication under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act. The Supreme Court agreed that a specialised tribunal was the appropriate forum for examining technical, legal and equitable aspects of the dispute.

 

3. Gyan Bharatam to Preserve India’s Manuscript Heritage: Gyan Bharatam, announced in the Union Budget 2025–26, is a flagship national initiative aimed at preserving and revitalising India’s vast manuscript heritage. Implemented by the Ministry of Culture, the programme aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by integrating cultural conservation with knowledge creation and human capital development. To support the initiative, the Standing Finance Committee has approved an allocation of ₹491.66 crore for the period 2025 to 2031. Gyan Bharatam seeks to unearth, safeguard and preserve ancient manuscripts while ensuring their relevance for contemporary scholarship and future generations. The initiative underscores India’s commitment to protecting traditional knowledge systems through structured institutional support. The initiative operates across five verticals: survey and cataloguing, conservation and capacity building, technology and digitisation, linguistics and translation, and research, publication and outreach. A nationwide network of Cluster Centres and Independent Centres is being established to implement these activities. So far, 45 centres and 20 States and Union Territories have been onboarded as nodal authorities for coordinated implementation.

 

4. Gujarat Leads India in Renewable Energy Capacity: Gujarat has emerged as India’s largest contributor to renewable energy capacity, accounting for 16.50 per cent of the national total. As of December 2025, the state’s installed renewable power capacity has reached 42.583 GW, placing Gujarat at the forefront of India’s clean energy transition and strengthening the country’s pathway towards its long-term climate commitments. Gujarat’s solar capacity includes 17,771.21 MW from ground-mounted projects, 6,412.80 MW from rooftop installations, 1,172.38 MW from wind–solar hybrid projects, and 173.01 MW from off-grid systems, including those under the PM KUSUM scheme. Major operational solar parks include Charanka (749 MW), Radhanesda (700 MW), and Dholera (300 MW). The Khavda renewable energy park in Kutch, planned at 37.35 GW, has already commissioned 11.33 GW, making it the world’s largest renewable energy park under development.

 

5. Andhra Pradesh CM Launches Pilloo AI Accounting App: The Andhra Pradesh government has taken another step towards digital empowerment of small businesses with the launch of Pilloo AI, a voice-based accounting and billing application. The platform aims to simplify financial management for micro, small and medium enterprises by enabling core accounting tasks through spoken commands in native Indian languages. The application was formally unveiled by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu at the state Secretariat in Amaravati. The launch event was attended by legislators, former ministers, technology entrepreneurs and investors associated with the product. During the demonstration, the Chief Minister generated the first invoice on the platform, highlighting its real-time response to natural language instructions. Pilloo AI functions as a conversational accounting agent. Users can create invoices, record sales and payments, manage expenses, and track receivables and payables simply by speaking. The app removes the need for formal accounting knowledge or complex software navigation. According to the developers, this significantly reduces manual effort and saves time for small traders, shop owners and first-time entrepreneurs.

 

6. India Targets Zero Dumpsites Under DRAP by 2026: India’s urban cleanliness journey, strengthened by a decade of progress under the Swachh Bharat Mission, has entered a decisive new phase focused on eliminating legacy waste dumpsites. These long-standing waste accumulations pose serious environmental and public health risks. To accelerate their removal, the Government of India launched the Dumpsite Remediation Accelerator Programme (DRAP) in November 2025, with the goal of achieving “Lakshya: Zero Dumpsites” by October 2026. A dumpsite refers to land used by Urban Local Bodies for disposing municipal solid waste, often accumulated over decades through unscientific methods. Such sites contaminate soil and groundwater, degrade air quality, emit methane, and pose fire and health hazards. Across India, around 2,479 legacy dumpsites have been identified, collectively holding nearly 25 crore metric tonnes of waste spread over about 15,000 acres. India currently generates nearly 1.62 lakh tonnes of municipal solid waste daily, with projections rising sharply by 2030 and 2050. Without remediation, emissions from this sector could reach 41.09 million tonnes of CO₂-equivalent by 2030. At present, remediation work is underway at 1,428 dumpsites, with over 62% of legacy waste already processed. In 2025 alone, 459 dumpsites across 438 cities achieved complete remediation.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India-US Trade Deal Cuts Tariffs to 18 Percent: India and the United States have announced a significant bilateral trade agreement that lowers reciprocal tariffs and reshapes economic ties between the two countries. The deal, announced by US President Donald Trump after a phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reduces US tariffs on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent with immediate effect. Under the agreement, the United States will lower duties on Indian exports, improving their competitiveness in the American market. In return, Washington claims that India has agreed to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers on US products to zero. The deal also includes provisions related to energy trade, with India expected to increase its purchases from the US and cease buying Russian oil, according to American officials. President Trump described Prime Minister Modi as a close friend and respected leader, calling the agreement a major breakthrough for both economies.

 

2. Veerabhadran Ramanathan and the Nobel of Geosciences: A scientist who transformed how the world understands climate change has received one of the highest honours in Earth sciences. At 81, Veerabhadran Ramanathan, an Indian-origin atmospheric scientist, has won the prestigious Crafoord Prize, often described as the “Nobel of Geosciences”. His research reshaped climate science and directly influenced global environmental policy. Born and raised in southern India, Ramanathan studied engineering in Bengaluru before moving to the United States in his twenties for higher education. His early professional life included work in the refrigeration industry, where he examined cooling gases for leaks. This practical exposure to industrial chemicals later proved crucial in shaping his scientific curiosity and research direction. During the 1970s, while working at NASA’s Langley Research Center, Ramanathan identified the powerful heat-trapping nature of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). His landmark 1975 paper in “Science” demonstrated that a single CFC molecule could warm the planet thousands of times more than carbon dioxide. This was the first clear evidence that gases other than CO₂ could drive global warming.

 

3. CIAL to Operate Hydrogen-Powered Buses: Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) is set to become India’s first airport to operate hydrogen-powered buses for passenger transportation, marking a significant step in the country’s clean mobility transition. The initiative aligns with Kerala’s broader push towards green energy and low-emission infrastructure in public transport systems. A Memorandum of Agreement has been signed between CIAL and the Kerala Hydrogen Valley Innovation Cluster Foundation. The agreement was formally exchanged by Kerala Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty and Industries Minister P. Rajeeve in Kochi. The project forms part of the Kerala Hydrogen Valley initiative under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The agreement covers the procurement and operation of three hydrogen fuel cell electric buses at Kochi airport. Financial support for procurement will be provided by the Kerala-HVIC Foundation, with funding capped at ₹2.90 crore per bus. The total project outlay has been limited to ₹8.7 crore and will be released in stages. Procurement of the buses is scheduled to be completed within 12 months.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Agni Pariksha Joint Exercise in Arunachal Pradesh: The Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) have conducted a joint training exercise in Arunachal Pradesh, marking a significant step towards deeper inter-force operational integration. The six-day exercise, named “Agni Pariksha”, was held from January 19 to 24 at Sigar in the East Siang district and focused on enhancing combat synergy and jointmanship between the two forces. The primary aim of “Agni Pariksha” was to familiarise non-artillery personnel with artillery procedures, coordination mechanisms, and the execution of firing missions. According to the defence spokesperson, the exercise sought to break traditional role-based silos by exposing infantry and ITBP personnel to realistic artillery employment in dynamic combat situations. The exercise involved spearhead gunners from the Spear Corps training alongside infantry regiments and ITBP units. This marked the first collaborative firepower training initiative of its kind between the Indian Army’s artillery elements and ITBP personnel. Non-artillery troops were systematically trained to independently conduct multiple artillery firing drills under the close supervision of experienced gunners.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Anahat Singh Breaks Into World Top 20 With Title Win: Indian squash continues to script a remarkable rise, and teenage sensation Anahat Singh has emerged as its brightest new star. At just 17, she produced the biggest win of her young career by defeating a top-10 player to claim her maiden PSA Bronze-level title in Washington, underlining India’s growing footprint in global squash. Anahat stunned top seed and world No. 10 Georgina Kennedy in straight games to lift the Squash On Fire Open title. The Indian seventh seed won 12-10, 11-5, 11-7 in a swift 26-minute final, showing remarkable composure against the reigning Commonwealth Games champion. The victory marked her first PSA Bronze title and her 15th professional crown overall. The triumph propelled Anahat into the world’s top 20 rankings, making her the youngest Asian player to achieve the feat. Notably, she reached the milestone in just 26 PSA Tour events. Her ability to overturn a 8-10 deficit in the opening game of the final set the tone for a match she largely controlled, denying Kennedy any sustained momentum.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Census 2027 Adopts Digital-First Enumeration Framework: Census 2027 marks a decisive shift in India’s population enumeration strategy, moving to a fully digital-first system. An official circular outlines a nationwide architecture centred on mobile applications, centralised web portals, and real-time monitoring. The initiative is positioned as a modernisation of administrative data systems, integrating field operations, supervision, and training into a single digital ecosystem. The upcoming census will rely on mobile applications for data collection and self-enumeration. Enumerators and citizens will use secure digital tools connected to a Census Management and Monitoring System. Housing Listing Block Creation portals will enable precise mapping, while real-time data transmission will replace delayed manual compilation. This approach is intended to enhance accuracy, speed, and transparency across census phases. A new nationwide location coding framework has been formalised to support digital processing. Each administrative unit, from states to enumeration blocks, will be assigned a simple and unique identifier. These codes will serve as the primary reference during data processing, ensuring uniform mapping and eliminating duplication across regions and settlement types.

 

2. DST Scientists Develop Photo-Rechargeable Supercapacitor: Indian scientists have developed a solar-powered energy storage device that can both capture and store energy within a single unit, marking a significant advance in clean and self-sustaining power technologies. The innovation is expected to reduce costs, improve efficiency and support decentralised energy solutions, particularly for portable and off-grid applications. The new technology, known as a photo-rechargeable supercapacitor, has been developed by researchers under the Department of Science and Technology. Unlike conventional solar systems that rely on separate components for energy harvesting and storage, the device integrates both functions into a single unit, thereby minimising energy losses during conversion and reducing system complexity. The device has been developed at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences, Bengaluru, under the Ministry of Science and Technology. It uses binder-free nickel-cobalt oxide (NiCo₂O₄) nanowires uniformly grown on nickel foam through an in situ hydrothermal process. These nanowires form a highly porous and conductive three-dimensional network that efficiently absorbs sunlight while simultaneously storing electrical charge.

 

3. India AI Impact Summit 2026 to Be Largest Global AI Gathering: The India AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled to be held in New Delhi from February 16 to 20, is set to become the largest global summit on artificial intelligence hosted to date. The event reflects growing international momentum around responsible, inclusive and impact-driven AI, with a strong focus on translating global vision into real-world implementation. The summit has already recorded over 35,000 registrations, signalling unprecedented global interest. Participants are expected from more than 100 countries, including governments, industry leaders, researchers, civil society organisations and international institutions. The event is likely to witness participation from 15 to 20 Heads of Government, over 50 Ministers, more than 40 CEOs of leading global and Indian companies, and around 500 prominent figures from the global AI ecosystem. Unlike earlier global AI discussions centred largely on risks and ethics, the India AI Impact Summit places emphasis on execution and outcomes. The agenda is designed to showcase practical applications of AI across sectors such as governance, industry, healthcare, education and climate action. Organisers have positioned the summit as a platform to operationalise shared global principles into deployable solutions.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IBC Amendment Bill Likely in Budget Session: The Union government plans to introduce the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025 in the second half of the Budget session of Parliament beginning March 9. The move is aimed at strengthening India’s insolvency framework by improving efficiency, reducing delays, and aligning the regime more closely with global best practices. Union Finance Minister “Nirmala Sitharaman” said the government is ready to table the Bill as the parliamentary committee examining the proposed amendments has already submitted its report. She made the statement during a media interaction in New Delhi, a day after presenting Budget 2026–27 in the Lok Sabha. The Finance Minister also holds the charge of the Corporate Affairs Ministry. According to the government, the proposed changes to the insolvency law are intended to enhance the timelines and effectiveness of insolvency proceedings. The amendments are also expected to bring India’s insolvency regime closer to international standards. Faster admission of cases, improved resolution outcomes, and greater predictability for creditors and investors are among the key focus areas.

 

2. Budget 2026 Introduces SHE Marts to Boost Women Entrepreneurs: The Union Budget 2026-27 has announced the establishment of Self-Help Entrepreneur (SHE) Marts as community-owned retail outlets to strengthen women-led enterprises and deepen the self-help group ecosystem across states. The initiative is expected to provide a structured market platform for products made by women entrepreneurs, with Jharkhand emerging as a key beneficiary due to its strong SHG base. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the SHE Marts initiative builds on the success of the Lakhpati Didi Programme and aims to help women transition from credit-based livelihoods to ownership of enterprises. The proposed marts will be set up within cluster-level federations of self-help groups and supported through enhanced and innovative financing instruments. The focus is on enabling women to move up the value chain by accessing organised retail and stable demand. SHE Marts are envisaged as community-owned retail outlets, allowing women-led SHGs to collectively market and sell their products. By aggregating production and linking it to assured retail spaces, the model seeks to reduce dependence on intermediaries and improve income realisation. The approach also aligns with broader efforts to formalise micro-enterprises and strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Dalai Lama Wins Grammy for ‘Meditations’ Audiobook: At the age of 90, the Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has earned a Grammy Award, marking a rare intersection of spirituality and global popular culture. He won the award in the Best Audiobook, Narration and Storytelling Recording category for “Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama”, a work centred on compassion, peace, and shared human responsibility. The Grammy was announced on Sunday, with American singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright receiving the award on the Dalai Lama’s behalf. In a message shared on X, the Dalai Lama described the honour as collective rather than personal. He said the recognition reflected universal values such as peace, compassion, care for the environment, and the oneness of humanity, especially relevant to the well-being of over eight billion people worldwide.