Daily GK Update- 15th Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Indian National Science Academy and CSIR-NIScPR Sign MoU to Strengthen Science Communication and Evidence-Based Policy Research: Indian National Science Academy (INSA) and National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) signed an MoU in New Delhi to enhance science communication and evidence-based policy research.The agreement promotes collaborative policy research, joint publications, pilot projects, capacity-building programmes, outreach initiatives, and stakeholder consultations to strengthen India’s science and technology ecosystem.The partnership aims to advance robust, inclusive, and forward-looking Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policies through research collaboration, knowledge exchange, and national and global dialogue.

 

2. Gujarat’s Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary Records Over 6.42 Lakh Birds of 270 Species in Bird Census 2026: A bird census by the Gujarat Forest Department recorded 6,42,232 birds of 270 species at the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, located near Ahmedabad.The sanctuary was divided into 50 survey zones, and teams conducted two systematic counts (morning and evening) to ensure accurate estimation of bird populations.The exercise saw participation from 220 bird experts and wildlife enthusiasts, 12 forest officials, and 99 local boatmen and guides, reflecting strong community involvement.Recognised as a Ramsar site in 2012, Nalsarovar is Gujarat’s largest wetland and is protected under the international framework of the Ramsar Convention for conservation and sustainable use.

 

3. RBI Proposes Strict Rules to Curb Harsh and Coercive Debt Recovery Practices: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued draft guidelines to curb harsh and coercive debt recovery practices, explicitly banning abusive language, threats, harassment, public humiliation, misleading claims, and excessive or anonymous calls by banks or recovery agents.Under the proposed norms, recovery calls and visits will be permitted only between 8 am and 7 pm, agents must avoid sensitive occasions (such as bereavement or festivals), and recovery agents can interact only with borrowers or guarantors, not relatives or associates.Banks are required to establish a dedicated grievance redressal mechanism, document and record all recovery calls, notify borrowers in writing when a case is assigned to or changed between recovery agents, and pause recovery if a genuine grievance is pending.For microfinance loans, collections must take place at a mutually agreed location, with home or workplace visits allowed only after repeated failure by the borrower to appear at the designated place.RBI has mandated training and certification of recovery agents through the Indian Institute of Banking & Finance, enforcement of a code of conduct, public disclosure of empanelled agents, safeguards for borrower data, and has invited public feedback on the draft guidelines by March 4, with implementation proposed from July 1.

 

4. Brahmaputra Rail-Road Twin Tunnel Gets Cabinet Approval: The Union Cabinet has approved a major infrastructure project featuring India’s first underwater rail-cum-road tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra river. The 33.7-kilometre greenfield corridor will connect Gohpur on NH-15 with Numaligarh on NH-715 in Assam at an estimated cost of ₹18,662 crore. Executed under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode, the project aims to transform connectivity across the Northeast. The centrepiece is a 15.79-kilometre twin-tube tunnel under the Brahmaputra. One tube will accommodate rail provision, while the other will serve a four-lane access-controlled highway. The design also includes a 1.26-kilometre road cut-and-cover section and a 4-kilometre rail cut-and-cover stretch.Once completed, it will be India’s first underwater road-cum-rail tunnel and only the second such structure globally. The corridor will significantly shorten travel between Gohpur and Numaligarh, which currently spans nearly 240 kilometres via the Kaliabhomora bridge route and takes around six hours.

 

5. Sangtam Resolution Boosts Pangolin Protection in Nagaland: The apex body of Nagaland’s Sangtam community has adopted a resolution to protect pangolins within its jurisdiction, marking a significant step in combating wildlife trafficking along the India–Myanmar border. The initiative covers areas in Kiphire and Tuensang districts, which lie close to Myanmar and are known transit routes for illegal wildlife trade.Pangolins are the world’s most trafficked wild mammals, targeted primarily for their scales and meat. The 1,643-km India–Myanmar border has emerged as a major corridor for smuggling pangolins from northeastern India to international markets.The resolution was passed by the United Sangtam Likhum Pumji, the apex organisation of the Sangtam tribe. Conservationists have termed it a major milestone under the Countering Pangolin Trafficking Project led by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI).The project is supported by the Wildlife Conservation Network’s Pangolin Crisis Fund and focuses on reducing illegal trade through community engagement and enforcement coordination.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Andrey Gyurov Takes Charge as Interim PM Amid Repeated Elections in Bulgaria: Iliana Yotova, President of Bulgaria, has appointed central bank deputy governor Andrey Gyurov as interim prime minister to lead a caretaker government ahead of national elections scheduled for April 19.The caretaker government’s primary mandate is to ensure the conduct of free and fair elections amid prolonged political instability, as Bulgaria prepares for its eighth election in five years following repeated failures to form a stable parliamentary coalition.

 

2. 14 February – World Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) Awareness Day: 14 February is observed as World Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) Awareness Day to spread awareness about heart defects that are present at birth.The day highlights the importance of early detection, proper medical treatment, and lifelong care for individuals affected by congenital heart defects.It also aims to support patients and families, promote research, and improve access to quality cardiac healthcare worldwide.

 

3. Philippine Eagle Among World’s Largest Raptors: The Philippine eagle, scientifically known as Pithecophaga jefferyi, is one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey on Earth. Often nicknamed the “monkey-eating bird”, it is endemic to the Philippines and serves as a national symbol. However, the species is now listed as Critically Endangered, with fewer than 500 mature individuals believed to survive in the wild. The eagle earned its popular nickname from early reports of it hunting monkeys in forest canopies. While monkeys form part of its diet, the bird also preys on flying squirrels, civets, bats, snakes and other small vertebrates. It is a daytime hunter and functions as an apex predator within its ecosystem, helping maintain ecological balance in tropical forests.

 

4. Indus Valley Civilisation May Date Back 8,000 Years: Fresh archaeological research suggests that the Indus Valley Civilisation could be far older than previously believed. New radiocarbon dating from the site of Bhirrana in northern India indicates that organised settlement in the region may date back nearly 8,000 years. If confirmed, this would place its origins well before the era of Egypt’s earliest pharaohs, potentially reshaping long-held assumptions about the chronology of ancient civilisations. Researchers examined pottery fragments and animal remains recovered from deep cultural layers at Bhirrana. Radiocarbon analysis suggests human occupation stretching back almost 9,000 years before present. The findings, published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, indicate that early agrarian communities may have developed in the region thousands of years before the mature urban phase of the Indus civilisation.The Indus Valley Civilisation, also known as the Harappan civilisation, is traditionally dated between 2600 and 1900 BC. The new evidence pushes its formative phase much earlier, suggesting gradual cultural evolution rather than a sudden urban emergence.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Agneevasthraa Signs MoU with Indian Army to Supply Advanced Carbon & Composite Materials: Agneevasthraa signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Army to supply advanced carbon fabrics and high-performance composite materials.The collaboration focuses on the custom design and manufacturing of specialised carbon and allied materials tailored for critical, high-stakes defence applications.The MoU strengthens access to cutting-edge, locally developed carbon technologies for the Indian Army, ensuring compliance with the most stringent global quality and performance standards.

 

2. Northeast’s First Emergency Landing Facility Inaugurated in Assam: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Northeast’s first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) at Moran in Assam’s Dibrugarh district. The strategic infrastructure, located on the Moran Bypass, marks a major boost to India’s defence preparedness and disaster response capability in the region. The Prime Minister made a historic landing at the facility and witnessed a 40-minute aerial display by the Indian Air Force, showcasing fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters. The Emergency Landing Facility is a specially designed highway airstrip constructed in coordination with the Indian Air Force. It enables the landing and take-off of military and select civil aircraft during emergencies. This is the first such facility in Northeast India, a region of high strategic importance due to its proximity to international borders. The ELF enhances rapid deployment capability and strengthens national security infrastructure in the region.

 

3. Indian Army to Host IMACC 2026: The Indian Army will host the inaugural International Military Adventure Challenge Cup (IMACC) 2026 from February 18 to 23 in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. The Ministry of Defence stated that the event will bring together military teams from India and friendly foreign nations for a week-long series of rigorous adventure and endurance competitions.IMACC 2026 is designed to test the core attributes of soldiers, including physical fitness, mental resilience, teamwork, leadership and decision-making under pressure, in demanding mountain terrain conditions.Military teams from seven friendly countries — Bhutan, Brazil, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia — will participate in the competition. Indian representation will include teams from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force,Indian Coast Guard and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).The multinational participation underscores India’s growing defence engagement and military diplomacy with partner nations.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India Dominates Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship 2026: India finished atop the medal standings at the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship 2026, securing a commanding 94 medals, including 51 gold, 23 silver and 20 bronze. The championship concluded at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi, with the hosts delivering a dominant performance on the final day.India added six gold, three silver and four bronze medals on the concluding day, underlining its supremacy in continental shooting competitions.Indian shooters swept the podium in the 25m Centre Fire Pistol event. Amanpreet Singh clinched gold with a score of 589-24x, followed by Olympian Gurpreet Singh, who secured silver with 584-20x. Ankur Goel completed the sweep with bronze at 570-11x. The trio also combined to win team gold.In the 25m Pistol Junior event, Suraj Sharma continued his impressive run by winning gold with 585-25x. Mukesh Nelavalli secured silver with 582-21x, while Deaflympics medallist Abhinav Deshwal claimed bronze with 573-17x. The Indian trio also captured team gold in the junior category.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. IN-SPACe selects Astrome, Azista and Dhruva Space for satellite bus plan: The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) has selected three Indian start-ups—Astrome Technologies, Azista Industries, and Dhruva Space—to develop and test indigenous small satellite bus platforms under its Satellite Bus as a Service (SBaaS) initiative.The SBaaS initiative, announced in April 2025, invited proposals from Indian Non-Governmental Entities to create modular satellite buses capable of hosting diverse customer payloads; out of 15 proposals received by July 2025, these three firms were selected after a rigorous multi-stage evaluation.

Each selected company will receive a ₹5 crore grant to build robust, scalable satellite buses that can support multiple hosted payloads, providing cost-effective solutions for both domestic and global space.

 

2. DAC Clears High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellites for IAF: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for procuring Air-Ships Based High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (AS-HAPS) systems for the Indian Air Force. The approval forms part of a capital acquisition package worth ₹3.60 lakh crore, which also includes Rafale fighter aircraft and missile systems. Estimated at around ₹15,000 crore, AS-HAPS will significantly upgrade India’s Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.The proposal will now move to cost negotiations before being placed before the Cabinet Committee on Security for final approval.HAPS are solar-powered unmanned aerial platforms designed to operate in the stratosphere at altitudes of 18–20 km, nearly twice the cruising altitude of commercial aircraft. Unlike satellites orbiting at over 200 km above Earth, HAPS platforms can remain airborne for months using solar panels during the day and high-density batteries at night.They offer satellite-like capabilities at lower cost and with greater flexibility. Equipped with optical and infrared sensors, they function as “towers in the sky” for persistent monitoring and telecommunications.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. CCI Approves Innomotics India’s Acquisition of Low Voltage Motor Business of Siemens Limited: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of the low-voltage motor business of Siemens Limited by Innomotics India Private Limited through a slump sale arrangement.The approved combination strengthens Innomotics India’s presence in the industrial motors segment by expanding its portfolio to include low voltage motors, complementing its existing high and medium voltage motor and large drive systems business.Innomotics India, part of KPS Capital Partners LP, supplies industrial motors and drive systems to key sectors such as oil & gas, metals, cement, power, and marine industries.

 

2. CCI Approves Fidelity Funds’ 6.63% Minority Stake Acquisition in Valuedrive Technologies Private Limited: Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposed acquisition of around 6.63% minority shareholding in Valuedrive Technologies Private Limited by the Fidelity Funds.The approved combination involves the acquisition of shares on a fully diluted basis through primary subscription and secondary acquisition of compulsory convertible preference shares (CCPS) of Valuedrive Technologies.Valuedrive Technologies is the operating-cum-holding company of the Spinny Group, while Fidelity Funds operate as global investment vehicles under the Fidelity Group with a diversified international portfolio.

 

3. CCI Imposes ₹27.38 Crore Penalty on Intel Corporation for Anti-Competitive Practices: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed a penalty of ₹27.38 crore on Intel Corporation for engaging in anti-competitive practices related to its India-specific warranty policy.The Commission found that Intel abused its dominant position in the market for Boxed Micro Processors (BMPs) for desktops in India by enforcing unfair business practices. The ruling reinforces CCI’s commitment to ensuring fair competition and preventing misuse of market dominance in India’s technology and semiconductor sector.

 

Daily GK Update- 14th Feb, 2026

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Joe Simon Dies After Cardiac Arrest at KFCC Meeting: Veteran Kannada filmmaker Joe Simon passed away on Friday after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest during a meeting at the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC). He was 80. The incident has sent shockwaves across the Kannada film fraternity, marking the end of a prolific career that spanned several decades and more than 100 films. Joe Simon was attending an emergency executive committee meeting at the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce when he collapsed at around 4.30 pm. According to those present, he was actively participating in discussions and offering suggestions about future initiatives. He reportedly even proposed organising a celebratory programme. Shortly after stepping out of the meeting hall, he sat on an attendant’s chair and suddenly collapsed. Members later confirmed that he suffered a severe cardiac arrest.

 

2. Sangtam Resolution Boosts Pangolin Protection in Nagaland: The apex body of Nagaland’s Sangtam community has adopted a resolution to protect pangolins within its jurisdiction, marking a significant step in combating wildlife trafficking along the India–Myanmar border. The initiative covers areas in Kiphire and Tuensang districts, which lie close to Myanmar and are known transit routes for illegal wildlife trade.Pangolins are the world’s most trafficked wild mammals, targeted primarily for their scales and meat. The 1,643-km India–Myanmar border has emerged as a major corridor for smuggling pangolins from northeastern India to international markets.The resolution was passed by the United Sangtam Likhum Pumji, the apex organisation of the Sangtam tribe. Conservationists have termed it a major milestone under the Countering Pangolin Trafficking Project led by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI).The project is supported by the Wildlife Conservation Network’s Pangolin Crisis Fund and focuses on reducing illegal trade through community engagement and enforcement coordination.

 

3. National Conference on Workplace Safety and SHe-Box: The Ministry of Women and Child Development will organise a ‘National Conference on Safety of Women at Workplace (SHe-Box)’ at Vigyan Bhawan on February 14, 2026. The conference aims to reinforce the Government’s commitment to ensuring safe, dignified and harassment-free workplaces across sectors and to strengthen implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.The event will be attended by Union Minister Annpurna Devi and Minister of State Savitri Thakur, along with senior officials from Central Ministries, States and Union Territories, representatives of Internal and Local Committees, international organisations, industry leaders, and civil society. The Ministry launched the SHe-Box portal on August 29, 2024, as a secure, multilingual, single-window digital platform. It allows women to file complaints online with assured confidentiality. Complaints are automatically forwarded to the concerned Internal Committee (IC) or Local Committee (LC), with real-time tracking to enhance transparency and accountability.The portal also functions as a compliance resource hub. Workplaces can upload committee details, annual reports, and information on awareness and training initiatives, strengthening enforcement of the POSH Act.

4. President Murmu Launches Karmayoga for Empowered Bharat Campaign: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated an All-India Conference and launched the nationwide campaign ‘Karmayoga for Empowered Bharat’ of the Brahma Kumaris in New Delhi on February 13, 2026. She also commenced the silver jubilee celebrations of the Om Shanti Retreat Centre in Gurugram, marking 25 years of its establishment.Addressing the gathering, the President emphasised the need to integrate moral values and spirituality with material advancement to ensure balanced and holistic development of the nation.The President observed that economic progress drives prosperity, while technological advancement fosters innovation and efficiency. Together, they form the foundation of a modern nation. However, she cautioned that development devoid of ethical considerations can create social imbalances. She highlighted that unethical economic expansion may result in wealth concentration, environmental degradation, and exploitation of vulnerable communities. Similarly, technology used without moral restraint can pose risks to humanity.

 

5. Supreme Court Upholds Full Disability Pension Arrears: In a significant relief to thousands of ex-servicemen, the Supreme Court has ruled that eligible Armed Forces personnel are entitled to full arrears of disability pension from the applicable cut-off dates—January 1, 1996, or January 1, 2006—without restriction to a three-year limitation period.The Court underscored that disability pension is not charity but a recognition of sacrifice made in service of the nation. It held that once the right to receive disability pension is established, the benefit must be granted from the date it became due.A Bench comprising Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha and Justice Alok Aradhe dismissed appeals filed by the Union government and allowed those of ex-servicemen seeking complete arrears.The principal issue was whether arrears should be restricted to three years preceding the filing of claims before the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT). The Centre argued that such claims were governed by the Limitation Act, 1963, and that even continuing wrongs could not extend beyond the prescribed limitation period.Rejecting this contention, the Court clarified that disability pension is a vested right and cannot be curtailed by procedural limitations.

 

6. New Toll Rules for Incomplete Expressways Notified: The Centre has amended toll collection norms to ensure commuters do not pay full expressway charges for stretches that are not fully operational. The revised framework will allow toll to be levied only on completed sections of National Expressways, and at rates applicable to National Highways.The changes have been introduced through amendments to the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008. The new provisions will take effect from February 15, 2026.Under the revised rules, if a National Expressway is not open end-to-end, users will be charged only for the operational portion. The applicable rate will be that of a National Highway, which is lower than the expressway rate.Previously, toll was often collected for the full notified length of an expressway, even if substantial sections were under construction. This meant commuters paid the higher expressway fee despite partial usability.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. WHO Prequalifies New Oral Polio Vaccine nOPV2: The World Health Organization (WHO) has prequalified another novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2), strengthening global efforts to eradicate poliomyelitis. The decision enables United Nations agencies, including UNICEF, to procure and distribute the vaccine for immunisation campaigns worldwide.Prequalification confirms that the vaccine meets international standards of quality, safety and efficacy, facilitating its use in large-scale public health programmes.The nOPV2 vaccine has been engineered to be more genetically stable than earlier oral polio vaccines. Traditional oral vaccines, while effective, carried a rare risk of mutating and triggering circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus outbreaks.By enhancing genetic stability, nOPV2 lowers the likelihood of such reversions while maintaining the ability to interrupt virus transmission. This innovation addresses a key challenge in the final stages of global polio eradication.

 

2. Bangladesh Approves July Charter in National Referendum: Around 70 per cent of Bangladeshi voters have approved the July National Charter 2025 in a national referendum held alongside general elections. The Election Commission reported a voter turnout of 60.26 per cent, with 4.8 crore votes cast in favour of the reforms and 2.25 crore against.The referendum coincided with a sweeping electoral victory for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led alliance, paving the way for Tarique Rahman to form the next government. The charter seeks to restructure Bangladesh’s governance framework through wide-ranging constitutional and institutional reforms.The July Charter was drafted after the July 2024 student-led uprising that led to the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. It represents the third major reform charter proposed in Bangladesh’s political history.The document outlines 84 reform points aimed at overhauling the state structure. Of these, 47 require constitutional amendments, while 37 can be implemented through legislation or executive orders. A Constitutional Reform Council is expected to execute the changes within 270 working days.

 

3. India-AI Impact Summit 2026 to Host 20 Leaders: India will host leaders and heads of state from 20 countries at the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi from February 16 to 20. The four-day event is spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and aims to deliberate on how artificial intelligence can benefit people and the planet.According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the summit will convene global policymakers, innovators and domain experts to shape a cooperative roadmap for responsible AI development. The event underscores India’s ambition to position itself as a key voice in global AI governance.Among the prominent attendees are French President Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian President

 

4. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, both visiting India on official state visits. Presidents from Estonia, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Sri Lanka and Switzerland are also scheduled to participate.

Prime Ministers from Bhutan, Croatia, Finland, Greece, Kazakhstan, Mauritius and the Netherlands will attend. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the Hereditary Prince of Liechtenstein, and Vice Presidents from Bolivia, Guyana and Seychelles will represent their nations.

 

5. Tarique Rahman’s Win Bangladesh General Elections: The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has claimed a sweeping victory in Bangladesh’s general elections, positioning Tarique Rahman as the country’s next prime minister. The development marks a major political shift following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. For India, which shares a 4,000-km border and deep historical ties with Bangladesh, the outcome carries significant diplomatic and strategic implications. Under Khaleda Zia’s leadership, the BNP had a contentious relationship with India. During her tenures from 1991–1996 and 2001–2006, tensions arose over cross-border insurgency, water-sharing disputes, and transit rights. India had accused Dhaka of sheltering insurgent groups such as ULFA and NDFB. The BNP’s alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami further complicated ties. Zia opposed overland transit to India’s northeast and criticised perceived Indian interference.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Northeast’s First Emergency Landing Facility Inaugurated in Assam: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Northeast’s first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) at Moran in Assam’s Dibrugarh district. The strategic infrastructure, located on the Moran Bypass, marks a major boost to India’s defence preparedness and disaster response capability in the region. The Prime Minister made a historic landing at the facility and witnessed a 40-minute aerial display by the Indian Air Force, showcasing fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters. The Emergency Landing Facility is a specially designed highway airstrip constructed in coordination with the Indian Air Force. It enables the landing and take-off of military and select civil aircraft during emergencies. This is the first such facility in Northeast India, a region of high strategic importance due to its proximity to international borders. The ELF enhances rapid deployment capability and strengthens national security infrastructure in the region.

 

2. DAC Clears High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellites for IAF: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for procuring Air-Ships Based High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (AS-HAPS) systems for the Indian Air Force. The approval forms part of a capital acquisition package worth ₹3.60 lakh crore, which also includes Rafale fighter aircraft and missile systems. Estimated at around ₹15,000 crore, AS-HAPS will significantly upgrade India’s Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.The proposal will now move to cost negotiations before being placed before the Cabinet Committee on Security for final approval.HAPS are solar-powered unmanned aerial platforms designed to operate in the stratosphere at altitudes of 18–20 km, nearly twice the cruising altitude of commercial aircraft. Unlike satellites orbiting at over 200 km above Earth, HAPS platforms can remain airborne for months using solar panels during the day and high-density batteries at night.They offer satellite-like capabilities at lower cost and with greater flexibility. Equipped with optical and infrared sensors, they function as “towers in the sky” for persistent monitoring and telecommunications.

 

3. Indian Army to Host IMACC 2026: The Indian Army will host the inaugural International Military Adventure Challenge Cup (IMACC) 2026 from February 18 to 23 in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. The Ministry of Defence stated that the event will bring together military teams from India and friendly foreign nations for a week-long series of rigorous adventure and endurance competitions.IMACC 2026 is designed to test the core attributes of soldiers, including physical fitness, mental resilience, teamwork, leadership and decision-making under pressure, in demanding mountain terrain conditions.International military sports events have historically served as platforms for fostering camaraderie and mutual trust among armed forces. These initiatives are often conducted under the banner of the International Military Sports Council (CISM), which operates under the motto “Friendship through Sport”.India has been an active participant in CISM activities and previously hosted the 4th CISM Military World Games in 2007, strengthening its profile in global military sporting events.

 

4. Defence Ministry Signs Rs 2,312 Crore Dornier Deal: The Ministry of Defence has signed a Rs 2,312 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of eight Dornier 228 aircraft for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The agreement was finalised in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, marking another step in strengthening India’s maritime surveillance capabilities.The acquisition has been executed under the “Buy (Indian)” category, reinforcing the government’s push for indigenous defence manufacturing.The contract covers the supply of eight Dornier 228 aircraft along with operational role equipment tailored to the requirements of the Indian Coast Guard. The aircraft will enhance coastal surveillance, maritime reconnaissance and search-and-rescue operations across India’s vast coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).The Dornier 228 is a versatile, short take-off and landing aircraft widely used for maritime patrol and utility roles.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India Dominates Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship 2026: India finished atop the medal standings at the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship 2026, securing a commanding 94 medals, including 51 gold, 23 silver and 20 bronze. The championship concluded at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi, with the hosts delivering a dominant performance on the final day.India added six gold, three silver and four bronze medals on the concluding day, underlining its supremacy in continental shooting competitions.In the 50m Rifle Prone Women’s event, Olympian Sift Kaur Samra won silver with a score of 623.2. Veteran shooter and 2010 World Champion Tejaswani Sawant earned bronze, marking her return to the international podium after five years. Yelizaveta Bezrukova of Kazakhstan took gold. Sift, Tejaswani and Manini Kaushik secured team gold for India.In the junior category, Dhavalika Devi Nyamurus won bronze with 614.1. Kazakhstan’s Tomiris Amanova and Darya Ponomarenko claimed gold and silver respectively. The Indian trio of Prachi Gaikwad, Anuskha Thokur and Devi clinched team gold.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

2. Bonnie Bassler Highlights Power of Bacterial Communication: Bacteria are often associated with disease and infection, yet they are also essential to life. Renowned molecular biologist Bonnie Bassler of Princeton University described bacteria as “magical microbes” that hold transformative potential in medicine, environmental sustainability and agriculture. Delivering a lecture titled “A Chemical Language that Enables Communication Between Diverse Organisms”, she underscored the remarkable ability of bacteria to communicate and coordinate behaviour.According to Prof. Bassler, bacteria are multilingual organisms capable of collective decision-making. This communication system, known as quorum sensing, reshapes scientific understanding of microbial life.Quorum sensing refers to the chemical signalling process through which bacteria detect their population density and synchronise actions. By releasing and sensing small signalling molecules, bacteria coordinate group behaviours such as biofilm formation, virulence and bioluminescence.This collective communication allows bacteria to act as multicellular communities rather than isolated single cells. It also explains how microbes regulate complex functions essential for survival and adaptation.

 

3. JNCASR Discovers Wave-Like Heat Transport in Tl₂AgI₃: In a major scientific breakthrough, researchers at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru, have uncovered an unusual mechanism of heat transport in solids that challenges conventional understanding. The study demonstrates a rare particle-to-wave crossover in phonon behaviour within a crystalline material exhibiting local disorder. The findings, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), have significant implications for next-generation thermoelectrics and thermal management technologies.Heat in solids is typically transported by phonons behaving as particle-like entities that scatter across crystal lattices. This classical “phonon gas” model has shaped materials science for decades. However, the new research reveals a distinct regime where heat propagates through wave-like coherence.The team studied Tl₂AgI₃, a zero-dimensional inorganic metal halide with discrete cluster-like building blocks rather than an extended three-dimensional network. The material exhibits an exceptionally low lattice thermal conductivity of about 0.18 W/m·K.Instead of decreasing steadily with rising temperature, as predicted by the phonon gas model, thermal conductivity becomes nearly temperature-independent above 125 K. Around 175 K, wave-like phonon transport overtakes particle-based scattering, signalling a breakdown of conventional theory.

 

4. Andhra Pradesh Assembly Adopts AI Digital Attendance: The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly has introduced an artificial intelligence-based digital attendance system for Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), aiming to enhance accountability and transparency. Speaker Ch Ayyanna Patrudu announced the reform at the commencement of the Budget Session, marking a significant administrative shift in legislative functioning.A notification issued by Legislature Secretary General Prasanna Kumar Suryadevara confirmed that, with immediate effect, attendance would be recorded through digital means. The traditional practice of signing physical attendance registers has been discontinued.Under the new mechanism, attendance will be marked using AI-powered facial recognition technology. PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras have been installed inside the Assembly to identify and monitor members accurately.Attendance will be recorded only when a legislator occupies their designated seat within the House. The system will also track the duration of presence, ensuring that late arrivals or early departures are automatically reflected in official records.The reform forms part of broader administrative modernisation efforts in the legislature.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Sthree Suraksha Scheme Launched in Kerala: The Government of Kerala has officially launched the Sthree Suraksha Scheme, a monthly pension initiative aimed at supporting unemployed women and transwomen from economically weaker sections. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the scheme in Malayinkeezhu, Thiruvananthapuram. The first instalment of ₹1,000 was credited to over 10.18 lakh beneficiaries whose applications have been approved.The scheme seeks to strengthen financial independence among women and promote gender justice through direct income support.The Sthree Suraksha Scheme was announced in October last year as part of a broader package of welfare measures targeted at working-class households. The initiative reflects the policy priorities of the Left Democratic Front government, which has emphasised social security and redistributive welfare.The Chief Minister described the scheme as a decisive intervention to reduce financial dependency among women. He noted that economic vulnerability often limits autonomy and participation in public life, and that the pension aims to ensure dignity and self-reliance.

 

2. RBI Draft Norms Tighten Bank Lending to REITs: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed stricter norms permitting banks to lend to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) under defined conditions. As per the draft Second Amendment Directions, 2026, banks may extend credit only to REITs registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), listed on recognised stock exchanges, and having a minimum three-year operational track record with positive cash flows.Parallel draft guidelines have also been issued for Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs), with broadly similar exposure norms and safeguards.Under the draft framework, banks’ aggregate credit exposure to a borrowing REIT and its underlying special purpose vehicles (SPVs) or holding companies cannot exceed 49 per cent of the value of the REIT’s assets as on March 31 of the previous financial year. Banks may prescribe a lower cap subject to board approval.The central bank has emphasised prudent risk assessment, given that REITs operate as trusts and hold income-generating real estate assets through SPVs.

 

3. Uday Kotak Appointed Chairman of GIFT City: The Gujarat government has appointed Uday Kotak as Chairman of Gujarat International Finance Tec-City Company Ltd, the state-promoted entity that develops and manages GIFT City. He replaces Hasmukh Adhia, who had been serving as non-executive chairman since June 19, 2023. The appointment takes immediate effect, according to a resolution issued by the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department of the Government of Gujarat.Kotak will continue in the role until further orders. The terms and conditions of his appointment will be notified separately. His elevation comes at a time when GIFT City is expanding its international footprint and regulatory framework.GIFT City, located in Gandhinagar, is India’s first operational smart city and International Financial Services Centre (IFSC). It is designed to serve as a global financial and technology hub with advanced infrastructure and a business-friendly ecosystem. The city houses banking units, capital market intermediaries, insurance entities and fintech firms operating under a unified regulatory framework. The transition in leadership is seen as part of the state’s effort to strengthen institutional governance and attract deeper global participation.