Daily GK Update- 22nd Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Google Unveils $15 Billion ‘America-India Connect’ Subsea Cable Project to Boost AI Connectivity: Google announced the ‘America-India Connect’ initiative at the India AI Impact Summit, a $15 billion investment over five years to link India and the USA through new subsea cables.As part of the initiative, a new international subsea gateway will be established in Vizag, along with three new subsea paths connecting India to Singapore, South Africa, and Australia, and four strategic fibre-optic routes.Google CEO Sundar Pichai stated that the project will enhance AI connectivity between India, the USA, and multiple locations across the southern hemisphere, supporting India’s extraordinary AI growth trajectory.

 

2. Kerala to launch India’s first graphene policy to become global tech hub: Kerala has approved India’s first comprehensive Graphene Policy, aiming to position the state as a global hub for research, development, and production of graphene, often referred to as the “wonder material” of the future.The Union Cabinet has approved the Graphene (Grefine) Park, with the state government offering strategic incentives such as a 50% subsidy on lease payments for manufacturing units set up in government-managed parks to attract domestic and global investors.As part of its broader advanced materials vision, Kerala plans to establish a graphene industrial park in Palakkad and a dedicated Digital Innovation Centre backed by an investment of ₹200 crore.

 

3. Zomi National Day Marks 78th Celebration in Manipur: The 78th Zomi National Day was celebrated in Churachandpur, Manipur, with cultural fervour and political significance. The event took place at the Centenary Hall of the Evangelical Baptist Convention (EBC) and witnessed participation from community leaders, government officials and security representatives. The occasion highlighted cultural unity alongside ongoing efforts to restore peace and rehabilitate displaced communities in the state.Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Losi Dikho attended as chief guest. Karong MLA K Kumo Sha, members of the Autonomous District Council (ADC) of Senapati, Deputy Commissioner Dharun Kumar S, and representatives of the 27 Sector Assam Rifles were also present.The programme featured cultural exchanges, traditional dance performances, choirs from various communities and choreographed presentations. Mass prayers were offered, and a one-minute silence was observed in memory of departed leaders.Speeches by the Zomi Council chairman, the president of the Zomi Re-Unification Organisation (ZRO), and the chief guest focused on resilience, unity and aspirations of the Zomi community. The celebration underscored the cultural identity and historical significance of Zomi National Day for the community in Manipur and neighbouring regions.

 

4. Rohit Rikhye Appointed IndiGo OCC Head: IndiGo has appointed Captain Rohit Rikhye as the new Head of its Operations Control Centre (OCC), marking a key leadership change following the airline’s operational disruptions in December 2025. The reshuffle comes amid heightened regulatory scrutiny and internal restructuring at India’s largest carrier by market share. Rikhye replaces Jason Herter, who is exiting the airline. The appointment is the first major senior management shift since widespread flight delays and cancellations disrupted IndiGo’s network in December. The crisis triggered passenger complaints, regulatory intervention, and a review of internal operational systems.In January 2026, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) imposed penalties amounting to Rs 22 crore on the airline. Authorities also directed the dismissal of a senior vice-president as part of corrective action. The developments signalled the regulator’s firm stance on accountability and operational compliance in India’s aviation sector.

 

5. Palamu Tiger Reserve Launches ‘Vanjeevi Didi’ Initiative: The Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Jharkhand has launched the ‘Vanjeevi Didi’ initiative, a community-driven conservation programme aimed at empowering women to protect forests and wildlife. Rolled out by the south division of PTR, the project seeks to build grassroots awareness and strengthen local participation in safeguarding biodiversity. Under the initiative, 18 educated women from each of 17 identified villages have been selected as ‘Vanjeevi Didis’. Most of them are college graduates or pursuing higher education, while others are experienced in community-based environmental practices.

These women will act as ambassadors of the reserve, motivating families and neighbours to refrain from harming forests and wildlife. Officials believe that women, given their central role in households, can influence behavioural change and discourage illegal activities such as poaching and deforestation.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Trump Announces 10% Global Tariff After Supreme Court Setback: US President Donald Trump has announced that he will sign an executive order imposing a 10% global tariff, hours after the US Supreme Court struck down his reciprocal tariff regime as unlawful. The move marks a sharp escalation in trade policy tensions and follows a significant judicial rebuke of one of his key economic initiatives.Speaking at a press conference, Trump said the new tariff would be imposed under Section 122, in addition to existing duties. He also confirmed the initiation of investigations under Section 301 and other provisions to counter what he described as unfair trading practices.In a 6-3 ruling, the US Supreme Court invalidated tariffs introduced under emergency powers, including broad “reciprocal” duties applied to multiple countries. The Court held that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not authorise the president to impose tariffs without congressional approval.Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, stated that the Constitution vests the power to levy taxes exclusively in Congress. The verdict represents a substantial setback to the administration’s trade strategy.

 

2. 88 Nations Endorse New Delhi AI Summit Declaration: Eighty-eight countries, including major global powers, have endorsed the New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. The signatories include the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Brazil, Australia, Austria, Canada and Switzerland. The Declaration signals a broad international consensus on harnessing artificial intelligence for economic growth, social good and inclusive development, while respecting national sovereignty. The Declaration reflects agreement on advancing AI through accessible, secure and trustworthy frameworks. It emphasises multistakeholder engagement and strengthened international cooperation. Participating nations have supported voluntary and non-binding mechanisms rather than rigid regulatory mandates. The document takes note of the Charter for the Democratic Diffusion of AI as a framework to widen access to foundational AI resources, promote local innovation and build resilient AI ecosystems within national legal structures.

 

3. UAE Launches Gene Therapy for Autism Treatment: The United Arab Emirates has launched two pioneering gene therapy initiatives aimed at treating autism and rare neurogenetic brain disorders in children. Led by Emirates Health Services, the projects mark a shift from symptom-based management to precision medicine that targets the genetic roots of disease. The move positions the UAE at the forefront of advanced paediatric neurological care in the region. One of the projects focuses on genetic mutations linked to autism and epilepsy. It is being developed in collaboration with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, a globally recognised centre for paediatric research. Scientists aim to develop enhanced gene delivery systems capable of targeting specific brain cells with greater accuracy.The approach seeks to improve treatment effectiveness, reduce dosage requirements and lower long-term costs. Among the conditions included is Beta-Propeller Protein-Associated Neurodegeneration (BPAN), a rare disorder that begins with developmental delays and seizures before progressing to severe cognitive and motor decline. By intervening at the molecular level, researchers hope to alter disease trajectories rather than merely manage symptoms.

 

4. World Pangolin Day 2026: 500,000 Seized Globally: More than half a million pangolins were seized globally between 2016 and 2024, underscoring the scale of illegal wildlife trade as World Pangolin Day 2026 draws attention to the species’ plight. A new report by CITES reveals that 553,042 pangolins were involved in 2,222 seizures across 49 countries during the eight-year period. At least 74 countries were linked to illegal trade, spanning 178 distinct trafficking routes. The report notes that nearly 99 per cent of confiscated items were pangolin parts, particularly scales. China and Viet Nam emerged as the main alleged destinations, while Nigeria, Mozambique, Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo were identified as key origin countries. Ten countries accounted for 96 per cent of total seizures.Despite enforcement efforts, illegal trade continues to involve all eight pangolin species. Overexploitation for international trafficking, domestic use and habitat loss has left every species threatened, with classifications ranging from high to extremely high extinction risk under the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.

 

5. India Joins Pax Silica Alliance with US: India formally entered the US-led Pax Silica strategic alliance after signing the Pax Silica Declaration in the presence of Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg. The move marks a significant step in deepening bilateral cooperation in critical minerals, semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI).US envoy Sergio Gor described India’s entry as “strategic and essential”, asserting that the coalition will shape the 21st century economic and technological order. The alliance, launched in December 2025, seeks to secure global AI and semiconductor supply chains and reduce dependence on non-aligned nations.The Pax Silica Declaration aims to create a secure, resilient and innovation-driven ecosystem spanning raw materials to advanced technological infrastructure. It recognises reliable supply chains as indispensable for mutual economic security.India’s participation strengthens the coalition with its vast engineering talent and expanding semiconductor manufacturing ambitions. Ten semiconductor plants are reportedly in various stages of development in India, with the first commercial production expected soon.

 

Spinosaurus mirabilis Discovered in Sahara Desert: Palaeontologists have uncovered a new dinosaur species in the remote Sahara Desert of Niger, shedding fresh light on Africa’s Cretaceous ecosystems. The species, named “Spinosaurus mirabilis”, lived around 95 million years ago and dominated ancient river systems as a top predator. The discovery adds a new dimension to understanding the evolution and ecological role of spinosaurids.Fossils were recovered from the isolated Jenguebi site after a challenging expedition across desert terrain. Researchers identified three skulls and additional skeletal remains, confirming the existence of a second distinct species within the Spinosaurus lineage.Measuring approximately 12 metres in length and weighing up to seven tonnes, “Spinosaurus mirabilis” rivalled other giant theropods in scale. However, its anatomy indicates specialised adaptation to riverine hunting.Scientists have described it as a “hell heron” due to its wading lifestyle. Its nostrils were positioned further back on the skull, allowing it to partially submerge its snout while breathing. Interlocking conical teeth formed an effective trap for catching fish such as coelacanths.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Amit Shah Launches ₹6,900-Crore Border Village Programme: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched the second phase of the Vibrant Village Programme in Assam, marking a major push to strengthen infrastructure and livelihoods in border regions. The initiative focuses on transforming villages along the Bangladesh border into centres of development, aligning them with national growth standards. The programme was inaugurated at Natanpur village in the Barak Valley region.The move reflects the Centre’s broader strategy to ensure that border villages are not treated as peripheral settlements but as priority areas for infrastructure and socio-economic progress.The Vibrant Village Programme-II aims to develop 334 blocks and 1,954 villages across 17 states with a total allocation of ₹6,900 crore. In Assam alone, nine districts, 26 blocks and 140 villages have been included under the scheme. These villages are located along the sensitive India-Bangladesh border.The government intends to upgrade road connectivity, telecommunications, electricity supply, sanitation and drinking water facilities. The objective is to ensure that residents of border villages receive amenities comparable to those available in any other part of the country.

 

2. Israel Strikes Bekaa Valley, Senior Hezbollah Leader Killed: Israeli air strikes in eastern Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley have killed at least 12 people and injured more than 20, according to Lebanese authorities and security sources. The strikes, among the deadliest in the region in recent weeks, targeted sites that Israel said were linked to the militant group Hezbollah. The escalation threatens to strain a fragile ceasefire brokered in 2024 after months of cross-border hostilities. The Israeli military said it struck “command centres” belonging to Hezbollah in the Bekaa Valley, a known stronghold of the Iran-aligned group. Local television footage showed significant damage to a residential building, with emergency teams working through debris. Lebanese officials reported multiple civilian casualties, though the precise breakdown remains unclear.Security sources indicated that Hussein Yaghi, a senior Hezbollah figure, was among those killed. He was the son of former Hezbollah lawmaker Mohamed Yaghi. Hezbollah-affiliated media confirmed his death and announced funeral arrangements. The strikes underscore Israel’s continued focus on degrading Hezbollah’s operational infrastructure.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Pramod Bhagat Wins SL3 Gold at BWF Para World Championships: India’s Pramod Bhagat won the men’s SL3 gold medal at the BWF Para World Championships in Bahrain, defeating Indonesia’s Muhammad Al Imran in straight games (21-12, 21-18).The 37-year-old secured his fourth consecutive singles gold and sixth overall world title in the SL3 category, surpassing Lin Dan to become the most decorated singles champion in world championship history across the sport.

 

2. Ellyse Perry First Australian to Reach 350 Internationals: Ellyse Perry has etched her name into cricket history by becoming the first Australian cricketer to feature in 350 international matches across formats. The milestone came during the third T20I against India in Adelaide, underlining her remarkable longevity and consistency at the highest level. Having debuted at just 16 in July 2007 against New Zealand, Perry’s journey reflects sustained excellence across Tests, One Day Internationals and T20 Internationals. Perry entered international cricket without prior senior domestic experience, an unusual path in modern cricket. She made an immediate impact, delivering an unbeaten 29 and claiming four wickets on her T20I debut against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Initially a fast bowler batting at No. 9, she gradually transformed into a dependable top-order batter, regularly occupying the No. 3 or No. 4 position. Her adaptability has been central to her enduring career.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Rekha Gupta Launches India’s First AI-Driven CM Shri School in Delhi: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta inaugurated the first CM Shri School at Sarojini Nagar, launching what is described as India’s first AI-driven comprehensive education model, with foundation stones laid for 75 such schools across Delhi.The CM Shri Schools focus on modern infrastructure and academic excellence, targeting students from economically weaker and middle-income families, with the goal of making Delhi’s children globally competitive through advanced teaching methods and upgraded facilities.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Kiren Rijiju Launches NIGRANI App at Nalanda University to Boost PMJVK Monitoring: Kiren Rijiju launched the NIGRANI App at the ‘Chintan Shivir’ held at Nalanda University, aimed at strengthening monitoring mechanisms.The NIGRANI App facilitates real-time tracking and transparent implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK), ensuring better infrastructure development in minority-concentrated areas.The Ministry of Minority Affairs also introduced the Haj Wrist Band, a digital identification band designed to support and efficiently manage Indian Haj pilgrims during their pilgrimage.

 

2. IDFC FIRST Bank Launches Hello Cashback Credit Card with Tiered Rewards and Credit-Building Benefits: IDFC FIRST Bank launches Hello Cashback Credit Card targeted at digitally savvy young adults (18+) with online-first and UPI-led spending habits, allowing them to build credit history while enjoying cashback rewards.5% on online spends above ₹10,000, 3% on online spends up to ₹10,000, and 1% on in-store, contactless, UPI transactions, including essentials like utilities, education, and insurance.Joining fee of ₹1,000 (waived until 31 March 2026) and annual fee of ₹1,000 (waived on annual spends of ₹2,00,000 in the previous year), offering a strong mix of rewards, access, and credit-building benefits.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Nagaland University Honours Five Chemists with Lifetime Awards: Nagaland University conferred Lifetime Achievement Awards on five eminent academicians during the inaugural session of the International Conference on Chemistry in Multidisciplinary Research (ICCMR–2026). The three-day conference was held from February 18 to 20 at I Ihoshe Kinimi Hall, Lumami, bringing together leading scholars from across India and abroad.The awards recognised exceptional contributions to chemical sciences and allied disciplines, underscoring the university’s commitment to advancing research and academic excellence in the Northeast.The honours were presented to Prof A K Mallik, Prof V S Raja, Prof M A Quraishi, Prof M Indira Devi and Prof Nitin Chattopadhyay.Prof Mallik of Punjabi University, Patiala, has made pioneering contributions to materials chemistry, nanotechnology and surface science. His work on nanomaterials and electrochemical sensors has applications in energy storage and environmental monitoring.Prof Raja of IIT Bombay is internationally recognised for his research in corrosion science and engineering. His studies have enhanced understanding of corrosion mechanisms and protection strategies across industrial sectors.

 

2. Karan Adani Wins AIMA Business Leader Award 2026: Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd and Adani Cement Ltd, has been named Business Leader of the Year at the 2026 Managing India Awards organised by the All India Management Association (AIMA). The honour was conferred during AIMA’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in New Delhi, marking the body’s 70th Foundation Day and the 20th National Management Day. The award ceremony was held at the Taj Palace Hotel and attended by leading industrialists, policymakers and management professionals. Karan Adani dedicated the award to employees of the Adani Group, acknowledging their contribution to the conglomerate’s growth. He also expressed gratitude to his family for their support and guidance. The citation for the award was read by Sanjay Kirloskar, Chairman and Managing Director of Kirloskar Brothers Ltd.

 

3. Vasai Cathedral Wins UNESCO Award for Conservation: A 475-year-old cathedral in Vasai has received international recognition for its community-led restoration. The conservation of the Our Lady of Grace Cathedral in Papdy village earned the Award of Merit at the 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation, announced in Bangkok. The honour highlights the successful revival of a sixteenth-century Portuguese-era structure through traditional craftsmanship and local participation. Our Lady of Grace Cathedral stands as a testament to the spread of Catholicism in Maharashtra during Portuguese rule. Built without cement or bricks, the stone structure relied on mud-based construction techniques typical of the era. Over centuries, exposure to monsoon weather and ad hoc repairs weakened parts of the cathedral, including its roof and bell tower.The restoration, costing approximately Rs 4.5 crore, addressed structural instability and reversed earlier inappropriate repairs. The project restored the roof, façade, corridors, colonnade and intricately carved interior liturgical elements, ensuring both architectural integrity and continued religious use.