Daily GK Update- 5th Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Two new schemes for empowerment of Divyangjan in Union Budget 2026-27: The Union Budget 2026-27 has introduced two major initiatives aimed at enhancing skill development and access to assistive technologies for persons with disabilities (Divyangjan), reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive growth under the vision of Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas. The government will provide industry-relevant, customised training to Divyangjan in sectors such as Information Technology (IT), Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC), hospitality, and food and beverage services.The scheme aims to ensure dignified and sustainable livelihood opportunities by aligning training modules with specific functional needs of different Divyang groups and the requirements of industry.

 

2. Union Budget 2026–27 Boosts Fisheries Sector with Record ₹2,761.80 Crore Allocation, Export Reforms, and Livelihood Support: The Union Budget 2026–27 proposes ₹2,761.80 crore for the fisheries sector, with ₹2,500 crore earmarked for Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to strengthen coastal and inland fisheries, boost exports, and improve livelihoods of fishers.Major initiatives include development of 500 reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars, enhancing market linkages through start-ups, women-led groups, and Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (Fish FPOs) while reducing post-harvest losses.Around 200 fisheries start-ups will be supported, along with 34 production and processing clusters, promoting technology adoption, enterprise development, and efficiency across the sector.Budget proposes duty-free fish catch by Indian vessels in EEZ and high seas and increases duty-free import of seafood processing inputs from 1% to 3%, boosting competitiveness in global markets like EU, Japan, UK, and South Korea.

 

3. Union Budget 2026-27 announces launch of Khelo India Mission; Rs 500 crore earmarked for sports goods manufacturing: The 2026–27 Budget introduces a decade-long Khelo India Mission to transform India’s sports sector, focusing on talent development, infrastructure creation, and manufacturing-led employment generation.The proposals are youth-driven, inspired by ideas from the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, making the Budget “Yuva Shakti-driven.”₹500 crore has been allocated to promote domestic sports equipment manufacturing, research, and innovation, aiming to position India as a global hub for high-quality, affordable sports goods.The mission will create integrated talent development pathways through foundational, intermediate, and elite training centres, along with systematic development of coaches, support staff, and sports science integration.

 

4. Union Budget 2026–27 Boosts Education with Record Allocation, Girls’ Hostels, University Townships, and Skill Development Initiatives: Total allocation for the Ministry of Education in 2026–27 rises to ₹1,39,289.48 crore, an 8.27% increase over the previous year.One girls’ hostel will be established in every district through viability gap funding to boost enrolment, especially in STEM education.Five University Townships will be set up near industrial and logistics corridors, hosting universities, colleges, research institutes, skill centres, and residential complexes.

A high-powered ‘Education to Employment and Enterprise’ Committee will focus on AI integration, teacher training, and emerging technology impacts on jobs and skills.Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC) Content Creator Labs will be established in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges, supporting the creative economy and providing opportunities for up to two million professionals by 2030.

 

5. Union Budget 2026–27 Allocates ₹1.63 Lakh Crore for Agriculture: The Union Budget 2026–27 allocates ₹1,62,671 crore for the agriculture sector, a 7% increase over the 2025–26 revised estimate of ₹1,51,853 crore.The allocation emphasizes farmer welfare, food security, and rural livelihoods, reflecting continued government support for the agricultural backbone of India.Ministry outlay has grown from ₹21,933.50 crore in 2013–14 to ₹1,51,853 crore in 2025–26, showing a decade-long trend of increasing investment in agriculture.

 

6. Union Budget 2026–27 to Establish Three Chemical Parks: The Budget proposes the establishment of three new dedicated Chemical Parks on a cluster-based, plug-and-play model to strengthen domestic chemical manufacturing and reduce import dependence.₹20,000 crore allocated over five years for Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) technologies across chemicals, power, steel, cement, and refineries to reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner industrial growth.A scheme to revive 200 legacy industrial clusters through infrastructure and technology upgradation aims to improve cost competitiveness, operational efficiency, and preserve employment in traditional industries.

 

7. Sunetra Pawar Becomes First Woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra: Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, becoming the first woman to hold this constitutional post in the state’s history.The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat at Raj Bhavan. The Deputy CM post became vacant following the death of Ajit Pawar, senior NCP leader and her husband, in a plane crash on January 29, 2026.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Kochi Airport to Become India’s First with Hydrogen-Powered Buses: Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) is set to become India’s first airport to operate hydrogen-powered buses for passenger transportation.A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed between Kerala Hydrogen Valley Innovation Cluster (HVIC) Foundation and CIAL, exchanged by Kerala Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty and Industries Minister P. Rajeeve.The agreement covers the procurement and operation of three hydrogen fuel cell electric buses at Kochi airport under the Kerala Hydrogen Valley initiative of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, with funding capped at ₹2.90 crore per bus and a total project outlay of ₹8.7 crore.

 

2. Indian Mountaineer Kabak Yano Summits Mount Aconcagua: Kabak Yano (27), a mountaineer from Arunachal Pradesh, successfully summited Mount Aconcagua in Argentina—the highest peak in South America and the Western Hemisphere (22,831 feet)—as part of her ambitious 7-Summit Mountaineering Expedition.Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K.T. Parnaik (Retd.) congratulated Yano, recalling that he had flagged off her 7-Summit Expedition from Itanagar on July 28 last year, and described her success as a source of inspiration for the youth of the state.

 

3. India–US Announce Major Trade Deal, Slash Tariffs and Deepen Economic Ties: India and the United States announced a major bilateral trade agreement to lower reciprocal tariffs and strengthen economic ties, following a phone conversation between PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump.As part of the deal, the US reduced tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18% with immediate effect, boosting the competitiveness of Indian exports in the American market.In return, India agreed to cut tariffs and non-tariff barriers on US products to zero, along with provisions on energy trade, including increased US energy purchases and cessation of Russian oil imports, as per US officials.

 

4. India, GCC Formalise Start of Free Trade Talks: India has moved closer to a comprehensive free trade agreement with the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) by signing the Terms of Reference for negotiations, marking a renewed push to deepen economic ties with one of its most critical trading partners amid global uncertainty. The signing of the Terms of Reference (ToR) formally outlines the scope, structure and modalities of negotiations for a proposed India–GCC free trade agreement. This step enables both sides to begin structured discussions on tariff reduction, market access and regulatory cooperation. The GCC comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, collectively forming India’s largest regional trading bloc. The GCC is a key trade and investment partner for India, accounting for over 15% of India’s total global trade. India’s exports to the bloc are valued at nearly $57 billion, while imports, largely driven by crude oil, gas and petrochemicals, stand at around $122 billion. Bilateral trade with the GCC has grown at an average annual rate of about 15% over the past five years, highlighting the region’s strategic economic importance.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Adani Defence and Leonardo Sign MoU to Build Integrated Helicopter Manufacturing Ecosystem in India: Adani Defence & Aerospace signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italian defence major Leonardo (formerly AgustaWestland) to establish a fully integrated helicopter manufacturing ecosystem in India, targeting the large defence aviation market.The partnership aims to cater to the Indian Armed Forces’ helicopter requirement of over 1,000 units, including light utility, medium-lift, intermediate, and maritime multi-role helicopters across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.The MoU will focus on Leonardo’s AW169M and AW109 TrekkerM helicopters, with emphasis on phased indigenisation, strong MRO capabilities, and comprehensive pilot training.

 

2. Defence Ministry Grants Miniratna Category-I Status to Yantra India Limited: Defence Ministry has approved the grant of Miniratna Category-I status to Yantra India Limited (YIL).YIL manufactures key defence products including carbon fibre and glass composites, aluminium alloys, and assembly products for ammunition, armoured vehicles, artillery guns and main battle tanks.With Miniratna-I status, the YIL Board can now incur capital expenditure up to 500 crore rupees without government approval, enabling faster modernisation and growth.

 

3. India and Kyrgyzstan’s joint military exercise KHANJAR begins in Assam: The 13th edition of the joint military Exercise KHANJAR between India and Kyrgyzstan begins at Misamari in Sonitpur district of Assam.The 14-day-long military exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the Special Forces of both nations, with a focus on joint operations in urban warfare and counter-terrorism scenarios under the United Nations mandate.India and Kyrgyzstan organising joint military exercises annually since 2011, with venues alternating between the countries to reflect deepening defence ties.The 12th edition was conducted in March 2025 in Kyrgyzstan.

 

4. Exercise Khanjar Begins At Missamari In Assam: The annual India–Kyrgyzstan joint special forces exercise ‘Khanjar’ commenced on February 4 at Missamari in Assam, reinforcing defence cooperation between the two countries. The bilateral drill underscores the shared commitment of India and Kyrgyzstan towards enhancing counter-terrorism capabilities and promoting regional peace and stability. The exercise will be conducted from February 4 to February 17 and involves a 20-member contingent from the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and an equal-strength team from the ILBRIS Special Forces Brigade of Kyrgyzstan. The training is being held at Missamari, a key military station in Assam, known for hosting joint exercises and operational readiness activities. According to the Ministry of Defence, the primary aim of Exercise Khanjar is to exchange best practices and operational experiences in counter-terrorism and Special Forces missions. The training focuses on urban and mountainous terrain, reflecting real-world operational environments. Key skill areas include sniping, complex building intervention, and advanced mountain craft, enhancing the tactical proficiency of participating troops.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Devika Sihag Wins Maiden BWF Super 300 Title at Thailand Masters: Young Indian shuttler Devika Sihag clinched her maiden BWF Super 300 crown after Malaysia’s Goh Jin Wei retired midway through the women’s singles final of the Thailand Masters at Bangkok.The 20-year-old from Haryana was leading 21-8, 6-3 when world No. 68 Goh, a two-time former world junior champion, pulled out due to a hamstring injury, handing the Indian the biggest title of her career.

 

2. Anahat Singh Wins Squash on Fire Open: Anahat Singh defeated England’s top seed Georgina Kennedy to win the Squash on Fire Open in Washington, claiming her maiden PSA Bronze-level title.This victory marks the biggest title of Anahat’s career and her 15th PSA Tour title in just 26 tournaments.In the men’s final, Mohamed ElShorbagy defeated fellow Englishman Declan James to win his 52nd PSA Tour title.

 

3. Esha Singh Wins Gold At Asian Shooting Championship: Olympian Esha Singh clinched the gold medal in the women’s individual 10m air pistol event on the opening day of the Asian Rifle and Pistol Championship in New Delhi. Competing at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range, the 21-year-old produced a strong comeback in the final to reaffirm India’s dominance in the discipline. Esha Singh scored 239.8 in the final to secure her second individual senior Asian Championship gold medal. She finished ahead of shooters from Chinese Taipei, overcoming a stiff challenge from Cheng Yen-Ching, who won silver with 235.4, and Yu Ai-Wen, who took bronze with 217.7. Esha’s composed shooting under pressure proved decisive in the later stages of the final. In the women’s team 10m air pistol event, India struck gold with a combined score of 1,726. The Indian trio comprised Esha Singh, Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker, and Suruchi Singh. Vietnam finished second to claim silver, while Chinese Taipei secured the bronze medal, completing a strong team showing for India on the opening day.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu Launches ‘Pilloo AI’ Voice-Based Accounting App: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu launched Pilloo AI, a voice-based billing and accounting agent that allows businesses to create invoices, record transactions, generate reports, and manage accounts by speaking in their native language.Available in five Indian languages, the app enables users to record daily sales and payments, access business reports like balance sheets, receivables, and payables, and automate entries by uploading bills and bank statements for instant data extraction.Launched at the Andhra Pradesh Secretariat in Amaravati, the initiative aims to help small businesses and entrepreneurs manage finances easily, save time, reduce manual effort, and improve financial transparency.

 

2. Isro Readies Gisat-1A Launch After Past Setbacks: More than four years after a failed mission derailed India’s geo-imaging ambitions, the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is preparing to launch Gisat-1A, also designated EOS-05, as a replacement for the lost Gisat-1 satellite. The spacecraft is expected to reach India’s spaceport shortly, marking a critical step in restoring near real-time Earth observation capability. Gisat-1A follows the unsuccessful GSLV-F10 mission of August 12, 2021, when a cryogenic upper stage anomaly prevented the original Gisat-1 (EOS-03) from reaching orbit. That failure came after two earlier launch postponements in 2020 and early 2021 due to technical issues. Since then, Isro has undertaken multiple design reviews and validation exercises to ensure mission readiness. The 2.2-tonne class Gisat-1A satellite is designed to provide frequent, near real-time imaging of large regions of interest. While primarily a civilian Earth observation satellite, it holds strategic value by enabling all-weather, cloud-free monitoring of the Indian subcontinent. Its data will support agriculture, forestry, mineral exploration, disaster management, oceanography, snow and glacier studies, and cloud property analysis, while also aiding operational planning by India’s armed forces.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Karnataka Rolls Out Automatic Property Mutation System: The Karnataka government has announced the introduction of an automatic property mutation system aimed at speeding up land and property transactions across the state. The reform is part of a broader push to digitise land records and reduce procedural delays in updating ownership details after property transfers. Under the existing system, buyers must apply separately for mutation after completing a sale, gift, or similar transaction. This process involves mandatory notice periods—seven days for registrable instruments and up to fifteen days for non-registrable cases—often leading to delays. With the new system, ownership records will be updated automatically once a transaction is registered, removing the need for a separate application with the revenue department. The auto-mutation initiative builds on Karnataka’s ongoing digital land governance reforms led by the Karnataka government. Existing platforms such as the Bhoomi land records portal already allow citizens to view Record of Rights, Tenancy and Crops (RTC) and mutation status online. The new system directly links registration offices with land record databases, enabling seamless and real-time updates of ownership data.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Rouble Nagi Wins Global Teacher Prize In Dubai: Indian teacher and social activist Rouble Nagi has won the prestigious Global Teacher Prize, earning international recognition for transforming education access among children living in urban slums. The award was presented in Dubai on February 5, honouring her efforts to bring structured learning to children who had never attended school and to support those at risk of dropping out. Rouble Nagi has pioneered an unconventional yet impactful approach to education by setting up over 800 learning centres across India. Alongside these centres, she has painted educational murals in slum settlements, turning walls into classrooms. These murals cover literacy, mathematics, science, and history, making learning visually engaging and accessible to children from underserved communities. Nagi travels extensively to work directly with children at these centres and mentors the teachers who manage daily instruction. She has recruited and trained more than 600 volunteer and paid educators. Her teaching model adapts to the realities of poverty, child labour, early marriage, and irregular attendance by offering flexible schedules, practical lessons using recycled materials, and skill-based learning relevant to family livelihoods.

 

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.