Daily GK Update- 23rd Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IICA Forms High-Level Advisory Group on Ease of Doing Business, Signs MoU for ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ Reform Study: The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, has constituted a high-level Advisory Group on Ease of Doing Business to strengthen the regulatory and business ecosystem.The Advisory Group is chaired by Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, who serves as Director General and CEO of IICA.IICA has signed an MoU with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs to undertake a research study titled “Re-envisioning Ease of Doing Business for Viksit Bharat 2047”, aligning reforms with the long-term development vision.

 

2. NHAI Plans 100% Digital Toll Collection from April 1, 2026: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is considering discontinuing cash transactions at National Highway toll plazas from April 1, 2026, with all payments proposed to be made through digital modes such as FASTag and UPI.The initiative aims to create a fully digital tolling ecosystem, improve ‘Ease of Commuting’, enhance lane throughput, reduce congestion at toll plazas, and ensure greater transparency and consistency in toll collection.FASTag penetration has crossed 98%, with most toll payments already processed electronically through RFID-enabled FASTags, while UPI facilities have also been operationalised to provide instant and accessible digital payment options.

 

3. VP C. P. Radhakrishnan Launches Book on Sree Narayana Guru Authored by Shashi Tharoor: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan launched the book The Sage who Reimagined Hinduism: The Life, Lessons and Legacy of Sree Narayana Guru in New Delhi, authored by MP Shashi Tharoor.He highlighted that Sree Narayana Guru emerged as a spiritual reformer during a period of deep caste divisions and social discrimination, promoting social justice and equality.

 

4. 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.

 

5. Amaravati to Host India’s First Quantum Valley: Amaravati, the upcoming capital of Andhra Pradesh, is set to host India’s first Quantum Valley, anchored by a proposed full-scale quantum computing facility from IBM. The initiative aligns with India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM) and marks a major step in building next-generation computing infrastructure within the country. Under discussions at an advanced stage between IBM and the Andhra Pradesh government, the Quantum Valley Tech Park in Amaravati is expected to house an IBM Quantum System Two. The installation would be powered by IBM’s most advanced superconducting quantum processor and represent the most powerful quantum computer deployed on Indian soil.Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has joined the initiative to develop quantum algorithms, applications and workforce skills. The facility aims to support industry, academia and government research, positioning Amaravati as the nucleus of a national quantum ecosystem.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Joins U.S.-Led Pax Silica Coalition to Strengthen Electronics and Critical Minerals Supply Chains: India joined the U.S.-led Pax Silica coalition during the AI Impact Summit, with Union Minister for Electronics and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw signing the agreement to formally include India in the group.The coalition aims to build a common and resilient supply chain for electronics and critical minerals, reducing dependence on China, especially in refined rare earth elements.Other signatories of Pax Silica include the United States, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union, working together to strengthen supply chain security and strategic technology cooperation.

 

2. India and UK Launch Offshore Wind Task Force Under Vision 2035 at 4th Energy Dialogue: India and the United Kingdom launched the India–UK Offshore Wind Task Force in New Delhi under Vision 2035 to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy and offshore wind development.The initiative was launched by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy during the 4th India–UK Energy Dialogue.

 

3. Donald Trump to Host 21st G20 Leaders’ Summit in Miami on December 14–15: Donald Trump will host the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Miami on December 14–15; it will be the 21st meeting of the Group of Twenty.The 2025 G20 Summit was held in South Africa, and the United Kingdom is scheduled to host the G20 in 2027.

 

4. Switzerland to Host AI Impact Summit 2027 in Geneva: Switzerland announced that the AI Impact Summit 2027 will be held in Geneva, reinforcing its position as a global hub for technology and multilateral cooperation.The announcement was made by Swiss President Guy Parmelin during the AI Summit held in New Delhi.The AI Impact Summit 2028 will be hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), continuing the summit’s global rotation.

 

5. 21 February – International Mother Language Day: International Mother Language Day is observed every year on February 21 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism; the idea was approved in 1999 by UNESCO.The day highlights the importance of languages in fostering inclusion, preserving minority and indigenous languages, and supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through multilingual education.Theme 2026 – Youth voices on multilingual education

 

6. 20 February – World Day of Social Justice: World Day of Social Justice is observed annually on February 20 to promote social equity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all.Theme 2026 – Renewed Commitment to Social Development and Social JusticeThe observance was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 to highlight issues such as poverty eradication, gender equality, unemployment, and social protection.The day emphasizes the importance of social justice in achieving sustainable development, human rights, and inclusive growth worldwide.

 

7. 22 February – World Thinking Day: World Thinking Day is observed annually on February 22 by members of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts to celebrate global sisterhood and the shared values of the guiding and scouting movement.Theme 2026 – Our FriendshipThe day encourages reflection on personal and community development, promoting awareness of social issues, leadership, and global citizenship among young members.

 

8. Rob Jetten Becomes Netherlands’ Youngest Prime Minister: The Netherlands is set to swear in its youngest-ever prime minister as 38-year-old Rob Jetten takes office in The Hague. Jetten will also become the country’s first openly gay prime minister, marking a historic moment in Dutch political history. The new government will be formally installed by King Willem-Alexander at the Huis Ten Bosch Palace.Jetten’s rise follows a closely fought snap election in October, where his centrist party overturned the far-right Freedom Party (PVV) led by Geert Wilders. The result signals a shift in Dutch politics after months of uncertainty.Jetten’s Democrats 66 (D66) secured a narrow victory over Wilders’ PVV, which had earlier triggered the collapse of the previous coalition by withdrawing support. The prior government, considered the most right-wing in recent Dutch history, lasted just 11 months.After 117 days of negotiations, D66 formed a coalition with the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) and the liberal People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD). The alliance controls 66 seats in the 150-member parliament, falling nine short of a majority. This means the government will depend on opposition backing to pass major legislation.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. India Launches Prahaar Anti-Terror Policy Framework: India has unveiled its first comprehensive counter-terrorism policy, titled “Prahaar”, aimed at strengthening national security against evolving threats. Released by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the framework seeks to enhance prevention, coordination and response mechanisms across land, air and maritime domains. The policy comes amid rising concerns over cross-border terrorism, cyber warfare and the misuse of emerging technologies.Prahaar is positioned as an integrated legal, technological and community-driven strategy to counter both traditional and non-traditional security risks.The policy identifies cross-border terrorism as a continuing challenge, particularly from networks operating across India’s western frontiers. It notes the increasing use of drones in regions such as Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir for arms and narcotics smuggling.Prahaar also flags cyber operations conducted by hostile states and criminal hacker groups targeting critical infrastructure. Key sectors identified as vulnerable include power grids, railways, aviation, ports, defence installations, space assets and atomic energy facilities. The document underlines that terrorism is not linked to any religion, ethnicity or nationality, but warns of sustained efforts by foreign-based extremist networks to incite violence.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Pankaj Advani Wins Inaugural Liber Win Champions Cup 2026, Named Brand Ambassador: Pankaj Advani won the inaugural Liber Win Champions Cup 2026, defeating Kamal Chawla 6–3 in the best-of-11 final held at the Karnataka State Billiards Association (KSBA), Bengaluru.The three-day invitational tournament featured 16 top professional cueists, with Advani displaying tactical mastery and break-building excellence to become the first-ever champion of the event.The 2026 edition marked the formal entry of Liber Win into the Indian market, and Advani was officially announced as the brand’s Indian ambassador at the conclusion of the tournament.

 

2. India Finishes Asian Shooting Championships 2026 in New Delhi with 33 Medals: India concluded the Asian Shooting Championships 2026 in New Delhi with a total of 33 medals in senior rifle and pistol events, including 13 gold, 11 silver, and 9 bronze; seven medals were won on the final day.Amanpreet Singh won gold in the 25m centre fire pistol with 589 points, while Gurpreet Singh (silver, 584) and Ankur Goel (bronze, 570) completed a clean podium sweep for India in the event.In the women’s 50m rifle prone, Sift Kaur Samra secured silver (623.2) and Tejaswini Sawant won bronze (621.0), while the trio of Sift Kaur Samra, Tejaswini Sawant, and Manini Kaushik clinched gold in the women’s team event with a combined score of 1862.9.

 

3. Vaishnavi Adkar Reaches Historic W100 Singles Final: Indian tennis has found a new rising star in 21-year-old Vaishnavi Adkar, who became the first Indian woman since 2009 to reach the singles final of a W100 event. The Pune-born player achieved the milestone at the ITF Women’s Open in Bengaluru, marking a significant breakthrough for Indian women’s tennis. Entering the tournament as a wildcard and ranked World No. 690, Adkar stunned higher-ranked opponents to reach the final. She eventually finished runner-up after losing 6-0, 6-1 to Belgium’s World No. 124 Hanne Vandewinkel.Despite the one-sided final, Adkar earned 65 WTA ranking points and $8,147 in prize money. Her performance has propelled her live ranking up by more than 200 places to around World No. 466, reflecting a major leap in her career trajectory.She became the first Indian woman to reach a W100 or higher singles final since Sania Mirza accomplished the feat in 2009.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. PM Modi Inaugurates India AI Impact Summit 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, with participation from over 100 countries, making it one of the largest global AI gatherings.During the summit, he presented India’s AI governance framework “MANAV” — Moral & Ethical Systems, Accountable Governance, National Sovereignty, Accessible & Inclusive, and Valid & Legitimate.The summit was guided by the theme “Welfare for All, Happiness for All,” highlighting India’s commitment to inclusive and responsible AI development.

 

2. MeitY Launches ‘VoicERA’ Open-Source Voice AI Stack at India AI Impact Summit 2026: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launched VoicERA, an open-source end-to-end Voice AI stack, at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, aimed at enabling secure and scalable multilingual voice systems.Deployed on the BHASHINI National Language Infrastructure, VoicERA serves as a national execution layer for multilingual Voice and Language AI, supporting cloud and on-premises deployment across government and research ecosystems. By modularising the voice technology stack, VoicERA reduces duplication and vendor lock-in while expanding BHASHINI’s capabilities into real-time speech systems, conversational AI, and multilingual telephony at population scale.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. National Arogya Fair 2026 to Boost Ayush and Farmers: The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, in collaboration with the All India Ayurvedic Congress, is organising a four-day National Arogya Fair 2026 at Shegaon in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district from 25 to 28 February 2026. The mega event aims to promote Ayush systems of medicine, expand public access to traditional healthcare and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for farmers through medicinal plant cultivation and agroforestry.The fair will be inaugurated on 25 February 2026 by President Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Visava Maidan of Sant Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan. The ceremony will be attended by the Governor of Maharashtra, Union Minister of Ayush Shri Prataprao Jadhav, senior state officials and other dignitaries.Citizens will receive free health check-ups, medical consultations and medicines under various Ayush systems, including Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa and Homoeopathy. The event will host live therapy counters, yoga demonstrations, expert lectures and interactive sessions focused on preventive and promotive healthcare.Separate stalls will represent each Ayush stream under the Ministry, enabling visitors to experience India’s diverse traditional medical heritage on a single platform.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Jessie Buckley Wins Best Actress at BAFTA 2026: Jessie Buckley secured the Best Actress honour at the 2026 EE British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards, continuing her strong awards season run. The ceremony took place at the Royal Festival Hall in London, marking a significant milestone in Buckley’s career. The Irish actor’s victory came just two days after she claimed the same title at the Irish Film and Television Academy Awards in Dublin, cementing her dominance this season. With this win, Buckley became the first Irish performer to receive the Best Actress award at the BAFTAs. Her recognition reflects both critical acclaim and industry respect for her nuanced performance. The award was presented by actor Cillian Murphy, adding to the celebratory Irish presence at the event. Buckley’s achievement signals a broader recognition of Irish talent within the British film establishment.

 

2. ‘One Battle After Another’ Dominates BAFTA 2026: Paul Thomas Anderson’s politically charged thriller ‘One Battle After Another’ emerged as the biggest winner at the 2026 EE British Academy Film Awards, securing six major honours including Best Picture and Best Director. The sweep strengthens the film’s position as a frontrunner ahead of next month’s Academy Awards. ‘One Battle After Another’ won awards for Best Picture, Director, Adapted Screenplay, Cinematography and Editing, along with a Supporting Actor prize for Sean Penn. Anderson described the recognition as “overwhelming and wonderful” while accepting the directing honour.The film, centred on a group of revolutionaries clashing with the state, led the nominations with 14 nods. Its strong performance at BAFTA positions it as a key Oscars contender.

 

3. ‘Boong’ Wins BAFTA 2026 Best Children’s Film: In a landmark achievement for Indian cinema, ‘Boong’, a Manipuri-language coming-of-age film, has won the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the 2026 British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards. The victory marks a significant global recognition for regional Indian storytelling on an international stage. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, the 2024 film secured the award ahead of major international contenders including ‘Zootopia 2’, ‘Lilo & Stitch’, and ‘Arco’. The category featured strong competition from high-profile Hollywood productions, making the win particularly notable. The award was presented in a memorable moment by the fictional character Paddington Bear, who delivered a light-hearted monologue while announcing the winner. The nominations for the BAFTAs were revealed earlier in January.

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.