Current Affairs

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PM RAHAT Scheme: Cashless Treatment for Road Accident Victims

On 15 February 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the launch of the PM RAHAT (Road Accident Victim Hospitalisation and Assured Treatment) Scheme. Under this scheme, every eligible road accident victim on any type of road will receive cashless medical treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh for a maximum period of seven days from the date of the accident.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways stated that the scheme reflects the government’s commitment to saving lives by ensuring immediate medical assistance after road accidents. Hospital expenses will be reimbursed through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund.

Launched from Seva Teerth, New Delhi, PM RAHAT represents a citizen-first and compassionate governance approach. The initiative is significant as India records a high number of road accident fatalities each year, many of which are preventable. Studies show that nearly 50% of road accident deaths can be avoided if victims receive hospital care within the golden hour.

Inauguration of Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan 1 & 2

The inauguration of Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan 1 & 2 on 13th February 2026 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a historic milestone in India’s governance and administrative architecture.

🏛 Significance of Seva Teerth

  • New Prime Minister’s Office (PMO): Seva Teerth is now the official address of the PMO, moving from the colonial-era South Block for the first time since Independence.
  • Integrated Governance Hub: It also houses the National Security Council Secretariat and the Cabinet Secretariat, bringing key decision-making bodies under one roof.
  • Symbolism: The name Seva Teerth reflects the spirit of service (Seva) as the soul of India. The walls bear the motto “Nagriko Devo Bhava” (Citizens akin to God), emphasizing citizen-centric governance.

🏢 Kartavya Bhavan 1 & 2

  • These two buildings accommodate several crucial ministries, including Finance, Defence, Health & Family Welfare, and Education.
  • Designed to replace fragmented, ageing infrastructure, they ensure efficiency, accessibility, and modern facilities for governance.
  • The name Kartavya (duty) highlights the responsibility of public service and national progress.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party Secures Victory in 2026 General Election

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, has secured a decisive victory in the country’s 2026 general elections, marking a historic political shift after nearly two decades out of power.

Key Highlights

  • Majority Secured: BNP won 200+ seats in the 300-member Jatiya Sangsad (parliament), giving it a clear majority to form the government independently.
  • Leadership: Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, returned to Bangladesh in December 2025 after 17 years of self-exile in London. He is expected to be sworn in as Prime Minister.
  • Historic Context: This was the first election since the 2024 student-led uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina. The BNP’s victory represents a major realignment in Bangladeshi politics.
  • Women’s Representation: Out of 78 women candidates, 7 won seats, with 6 belonging to BNP, highlighting the party’s growing inclusivity.
  • International Reactions: Leaders from neighboring countries, including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, congratulated Tarique Rahman, signaling regional interest in Bangladesh’s new political chapter.

White Revolution 2.0 : Boost to Dairy Cooperatives and Women Empowerment

The Centre has launched White Revolution 2.0, a cooperative-led initiative by the Ministry of Cooperation, to expand dairy cooperative coverage, boost employment, address malnutrition, and strengthen women’s empowerment, the Lok Sabha was informed on February 9, 2026.

The programme aims to increase milk procurement by dairy cooperatives by 50% over five years, reaching 1,007 lakh kg per day by 2028–29. This will be achieved through a two-pronged strategy of expanding cooperative coverage in uncovered areas and deepening the reach of existing cooperatives in the organised sector.

Under the initiative, 75,000 new Dairy Cooperative Societies (DCS) will be set up in uncovered areas, while 46,422 existing DCSs will be strengthened. Around 1.20 lakh cooperatives (DCS, M-DCS and M-PACS) will be supported and connected to milk routes, along with infrastructure such as automatic milk collection units, milk testing equipment and bulk milk coolers.

White Revolution 2.0 is funded through the National Dairy Development Programme 2.0 (NPDD 2.0) of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

Highlighting women’s role, the Centre noted that nearly 70% of the dairy workforce comprises women. By expanding cooperatives to every uncovered panchayat or village, the initiative seeks to bring more women into the organised dairy sector, enhancing their economic and social empowerment.

The details were shared by Union Minister for Home and Cooperation Amit Shah in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.

Pakistan’s Boycott and U-turn on India T20 World Cup 2026 Match

February 10, 2026 — In a dramatic twist, Pakistan has reversed its earlier decision to boycott the high-voltage ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash against India. The match, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, will now go ahead as planned after days of uncertainty and controversy.

📅 Timeline of the Controversy

  • Early February 2026: Pakistan announced it would boycott the India fixture, citing political tensions and security concerns.
  • February 9, 2026 (Evening): The Government of Pakistan issued a directive allowing the national team to play against India, marking a complete U-turn.
  • February 10, 2026: ICC confirmed the match, stating that the reversal saved “crores in losses” and preserved the integrity of the tournament.

⚖️ Reasons Behind the U-turn

  • ICC Pressure: The ICC warned of financial penalties and reputational damage if Pakistan persisted with the boycott.
  • Financial Stakes: The India–Pakistan clash is the most commercially valuable fixture in cricket, with massive broadcast and sponsorship revenues at risk.
  • Diplomatic Appeals: Boards from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the UAE urged Pakistan to reconsider, citing past solidarity during Pakistan’s cricket isolation.
  • Fan Expectations: Millions of fans worldwide demanded the marquee match not be cancelled.

India Climbs Four Places to 45th in Network Readiness Index 2025

India has made notable progress in the Network Readiness Index 2025 (NRI 2025), climbing four places to rank 45th among 127 economies, according to a report released on February 4 by the Portulans Institute, a Washington DC–based non-profit research organization.

The index evaluates countries across **four pillars—Technology, People, Governance, and Impact—**using 53 indicators to measure how effectively economies leverage information and communication technologies (ICT). Along with the ranking improvement, India’s overall score increased from 53.63 in 2024 to 54.43 in 2025, reflecting steady digital progress.

India achieved top global rankings in several key areas, including annual investment in telecommunication services, AI scientific publications, ICT services exports, and e-commerce legislation. The country also ranked second in FTTH/building internet subscriptions, domestic mobile broadband traffic, and international internet bandwidth, and third in domestic market scale and income inequality.

Overall, the NRI 2025 highlights India’s growing strength in leveraging digital technologies to support economic growth, innovation, and social development.

Tejaswin Shankar Wins Gold at Asian Indoor Athletics Championships 2026

India concluded its campaign at the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships 2026 in Tianjin, China, with an impressive haul of five medals, finishing sixth in the overall medal standings.

The highlight for India came from Tejaswin Shankar, who delivered a stellar performance to win gold in the Men’s Heptathlon on 8 February 2026—India’s only gold medal at the championships. Shankar scored 5,993 points, setting a new national indoor record and bettering his previous mark of 5,650 points achieved in the USA in 2021.

India strengthened its tally on the final day with three more medals. Pooja claimed silver in the high jump, Tajinderpal Singh Toor secured silver in the shot put, and Ancy Sojan won bronze in the long jump.

The championships were dominated by host nation China, which topped the medal table with a massive 34 medals, including 10 gold, 11 silver, and 13 bronze, underlining their strong presence in indoor athletics.

Services Win Santosh Trophy 2025–26 After Thrilling Extra-Time Final

The Santosh Trophy 2025–26 final produced a tense and memorable contest as Services defeated Kerala 1–0 in extra time at the Dhakuakhana Football Stadium, Assam on 8 February 2026. After 90 minutes of goalless football, the deadlock was finally broken in the 109th minute when Abhishek Pawar struck the winning goal. Pawar finished a well-delivered cross from Shubham Rana with a composed side volley, sparking celebrations for Services and sealing their eighth Santosh Trophy title.

Key Highlights of the Final

Kerala dominated much of the match, enjoying greater possession and attacking momentum. Their closest chance came in the 27th minute, when Arjun V hit the post, narrowly missing the opener. Despite sustained pressure, Kerala struggled to penetrate a disciplined Services defence.

Services adopted a compact defensive approach, often deploying six players at the back. Goalkeeper Gagandeep emerged as a standout performer, making several crucial saves to keep Kerala at bay. The strategy paid dividends in extra time, as Pawar’s goal—his seventh of the tournament—proved decisive.

Historical Significance of the Victory

This triumph reinforces Services’ reputation as one of the most consistent teams in Santosh Trophy history, taking their title tally to eight. For Kerala, a seven-time champion, the defeat was a bitter one, marking their second consecutive loss in a Santosh Trophy final, following last season’s defeat to West Bengal.

About the Santosh Trophy

The Santosh Trophy, first held in 1941 and organized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), is India’s premier state-level football championship. Contested by state teams and institutional sides like Services, it has played a vital role in shaping Indian football and nurturing legendary players over the decades. 🏆⚽

Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s Election Victory

Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, led the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partners to a landslide victory in the snap elections held on February 8, 2026.

Her coalition secured over two-thirds of the seats in the House of Representatives, a supermajority not achieved since World War II.

This victory cements her position as a powerful leader, often compared to Margaret Thatcher and nicknamed Japan’s “Iron Lady.” The supermajority gives her government the ability to push through major reforms without significant opposition.

India Wins the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026

India’s U-19 cricket team has once again stamped its dominance on the world stage, clinching the 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup in Harare, Zimbabwe on 6 February 2026. This marks India’s record-extending sixth title, further solidifying their status as the most successful nation in the tournament’s history.

📌 Match Highlights (Final: India vs England)

  • Venue: Harare Sports Club, Zimbabwe
  • Result: India defeated England by 100 runs
  • India’s Innings:
    • Total: 411/9 (50 overs)
    • Star Performer: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi – 175 runs off 80 balls (15 fours, 15 sixes)
    • Captain Ayush Mhatre contributed a steady half-century.
    • Late fireworks from Kanishk Chouhan pushed India past 400.
  • England’s Chase:
    • Total: 311 all out (40.2 overs)
    • Key Resistance: Caleb Falconer scored 115 runs.
    • India’s bowlers shared wickets, with Deepesh Devendran among the standout performers.

🌍 Significance of the Victory

  • Record: India now has 6 U-19 World Cup titles (2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, 2022, 2026).
  • Youth Talent Pipeline: Players like Sooryavanshi and Mhatre are being hailed as future stars for the senior team.
  • Global Impact: India’s dominance highlights the depth of its cricketing structure and grassroots development.

RBI Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged at 5.25%, Maintains Neutral Policy Stance

On 6 February 2026, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously decided to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, while maintaining a neutral policy stance.

Policy InstrumentCurrent RateDecisionNotes
Repo Rate5.25%UnchangedReflects cautious stance amid global uncertainties.
Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)5.00%UnchangedMaintains liquidity balance.
Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Bank Rate5.50%UnchangedNo change to borrowing costs for banks.
Monetary Policy StanceNeutralContinuedMPC remains flexible to respond to evolving conditions.

📊 Economic Outlook

  • Inflation: Currently low and under control, allowing RBI to avoid tightening.
  • Growth Projection: FY26 GDP growth estimated at 7.4%, supported by strong domestic demand.
  • Global Context: MPC highlighted uncertainties in global markets but noted India’s resilience.
  • Past Actions: Since Feb 2025, RBI has already cut repo rate by 125 basis points, creating room for growth.


Rouble Nagi Wins Global Teacher Prize 2026

Indian educator and social reformer Rouble Nagi has won the prestigious $1 million Global Teacher Prize 2026, often called the “Nobel of Teaching,” for her transformative work in turning slums into vibrant learning spaces through murals and community centres. The award was announced at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, recognising her two decades of dedication to inclusive education.

Rouble Nagi: Global Teacher Prize 2026 Winner

About the Award

  • Global Teacher Prize: Established by the Varkey Foundation in collaboration with UNESCO.
  • Prize Money: $1 million, the largest international award for educators.
  • Venue: Announced at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on February 5, 2026.
  • Significance: Recognises teachers who have gone beyond conventional classrooms to transform communities.

Rouble Nagi’s Contributions

  • Community Learning Centres: Founded more than 800 centres across 100+ underserved communities in India, providing access to education for children who had never attended school.
  • Mural-Based Classrooms: Transformed neglected walls in slums into interactive murals teaching literacy, numeracy, hygiene, and environmental awareness.
  • Pedagogy Rooted in Art: Began in Mumbai’s slums, using art as a medium to engage children and create inclusive learning environments.
  • Philosophy: Believes education should “meet children where they are,” blending creativity with compassion and consistency.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won Women’s Premier League 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinched their second Women’s Premier League (WPL) title in 2026, defeating Delhi Capitals by six wickets in a thrilling final at Vadodara on 5 Feb 2026. Smriti Mandhana’s blistering 87 and Georgia Voll’s 79 powered RCB to chase down a record 204-run target, sealing their dominance in women’s cricket.

RCB’s Historic Triumph in WPL 2026

The Final Showdown

  • Venue: BCA Stadium, Vadodara
  • Match Result: RCB beat Delhi Capitals by six wickets.
  • Target: Delhi Capitals set a formidable 204-run target.
  • Chase: RCB successfully chased it down, marking the highest run chase in WPL final history.

Star Performances

  • Smriti Mandhana (Captain):
    • Scored 87 runs off 41 balls.
    • Played a captain’s knock, leading from the front.
  • Georgia Voll:
    • Contributed 79 runs, complementing Mandhana in a record-breaking partnership.
  • Partnership: Mandhana and Voll stitched together a 165-run stand, dismantling Delhi’s bowling attack.

Delhi Capitals’ Continued Heartbreak

  • Fourth Consecutive Final Loss: DC have now lost finals in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026.
  • Despite consistent performances through the league stages, they remain without a WPL title.
  • Captain Jemimah Rodrigues expressed disappointment but vowed to keep fighting for the elusive trophy.

RCB’s Journey to Glory

  • Second Title: RCB previously won the WPL in 2024, also against Delhi Capitals.
  • Consistency: Their women’s side has become a powerhouse, mirroring the men’s team’s IPL success in 2025.
  • Legacy Building: With Mandhana at the helm, RCB are establishing themselves as the most dominant franchise in WPL history.

President’s Rule Revoked in Manipur; Yumnam Khemchand Singh Sworn in as Chief Minister

President’s Rule in Manipur was revoked on 4 February 2026, and BJP MLA Yumnam Khemchand Singh was sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Manipur. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notification revoking President’s Rule with immediate effect. President’s Rule had been imposed on 13 February 2025 following the resignation of former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, placing the Legislative Assembly under suspended animation despite its tenure lasting until March 2027.

The swearing-in ceremony was held at Lok Bhavan, Imphal, where Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla administered the oath. Nemcha Kipgen (BJP) and Losii Dikho (NPF) were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers, while Govindas Konthoujam (BJP) and Khuraijam Loken (NPP) took oath as ministers. Nemcha Kipgen joined the ceremony via video conference from Manipur Bhavan, New Delhi.

Yumnam Khemchand Singh, a BJP leader from Singjamei Assembly Constituency, previously served as Speaker and minister in the N. Biren Singh government. After meeting the Governor, he claimed formation of a BJP-led NDA government.

Bharat Taxi: India’s First Cooperative Ride-Hailing Platform

Bharat Taxi is India’s first cooperative-based ride-hailing platform, launched on 5 February 2026 in New Delhi by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah. Unlike private aggregators such as Ola and Uber, Bharat Taxi follows a “Sarathi hi Malik” (driver is the owner) model, ensuring zero-commission rides, surge-free pricing, and direct profit distribution to drivers.

🚖 What is Bharat Taxi?

  • Concept: A cooperative-led ride-hailing service designed to empower drivers (called Sarathis) by making them stakeholders in the platform.
  • Ownership: Registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002.
  • Launch Date: Officially launched on 5 February 2026 at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi.
  • Pilot Operations: Began in December 2025 in Delhi-NCR and Gujarat.

🌟 Key Features

  • Zero Commission: Drivers keep full earnings; no deductions by the platform.
  • Surge-Free Pricing: Transparent fares without sudden hikes during peak hours.
  • Profit Sharing: Direct distribution of profits among drivers.
  • Driver Welfare:
    • Personal accident insurance cover of ₹5 lakh.
    • Family health insurance of ₹5 lakh.
    • Recognition through share certificates for top-performing drivers.
  • Technology Backbone: Developed under the Digital India initiative with support from the National e-Governance Division (NeGD).

13th India–Kyrgyzstan Joint Military Exercise KHANJAR Begins in Assam

The 13th edition of the joint military Exercise KHANJAR between India and Kyrgyzstan commenced on 4 February 2025 at Misamari in Sonitpur district, Assam. The 14-day exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the Special Forces of both countries, with a focus on urban warfare and counter-terrorism operations under a UN mandate.

India is represented by its elite Parachute Regiment, while Kyrgyzstan is participating with its Scorpion Brigade. The exercise includes training in sniping, room intervention, building clearance, mountain craft, and specialised counter-terrorism drills.

Exercise KHANJAR is held annually since 2011, with venues alternating between the two nations, reflecting growing defence cooperation. The 12th edition, held in March 2025 in Kyrgyzstan, featured high-altitude operations, advanced combat drills and cultural exchanges. Overall, Exercise KHANJAR highlights the strengthening India–Kyrgyzstan defence partnership and contributes to regional security and closer military ties.

DRDO Successfully Demonstrates SFDR Missile Propulsion Technology at Chandipur

On 3 February 2026, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully demonstrated the Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, off the Odisha coast. The test marks a major milestone in India’s missile development programme and places India among a select group of countries with this advanced propulsion capability.

SFDR technology is crucial for next-generation long-range air-to-air missiles, as it significantly enhances range, speed, and manoeuvrability, giving the Indian armed forces a strong tactical edge. During the flight test, all key subsystems—including the nozzle-less booster, ramjet motor, and fuel flow controller—performed as expected. After initial boost to the required Mach number, the ramjet system operated smoothly.

The system’s performance was validated using flight data from multiple tracking instruments deployed along the Bay of Bengal coast. Senior scientists from DRDL, HEMRL, RCI and ITR monitored the test. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V. Kamat congratulated the DRDO teams and industry partners on the successful demonstration.

India-US Trade Deal 2026: Tariffs Cut to 18%

On February 2, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a landmark U.S.–India trade agreement, marking a major easing of trade tensions between the two countries.

Key Highlights

  • The United States has reduced reciprocal tariffs on Indian products to 18%, down from much higher effective rates earlier.
  • An additional 25% punitive duty linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil has been withdrawn, sharply lowering the overall tariff burden on Indian exports.
  • The U.S. President stated that India has agreed to stop buying Russian crude oil and shift energy imports towards the U.S. and other sources.
  • The U.S. administration also claimed that India will purchase over $500 billion worth of American energy, technology, and agricultural products, while moving towards reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers on U.S. goods.

Economic Impact

The announcement boosted market sentiment, as the U.S. is India’s largest trading partner. The lower tariff rate makes Indian exports more competitive compared to other Asian exporters.

Sectors expected to benefit include:

  • Textiles and Apparel, which were among the worst affected by earlier high duties
  • Gems and Jewellery, due to reduced export costs
  • IT Services, with major Indian tech companies witnessing positive market reactions
  • Energy and Technology, driven by increased imports from the U.S.

World Wetlands Day is observed every year on 2 February

World Wetlands Day is observed every year on 2 February to commemorate the signing of the Ramsar Convention in 1971. In 2026, the theme is “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage”, highlighting the deep connections between wetlands, communities, and cultural practices. Wetlands are lifelines for biodiversity, climate resilience, and human livelihoods.

🌍 What is World Wetlands Day?

  • Date: Celebrated annually on 2 February.
  • Origin: Marks the adoption of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (1971, Ramsar, Iran).
  • Purpose: Raise awareness about the ecological, cultural, and economic importance of wetlands.

🌱 Theme for 2026

  • “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage”
  • Focuses on how wetlands have historically supported human settlement, spirituality, craftsmanship, and food production.
  • Recognizes indigenous and local knowledge systems that have safeguarded wetlands for generations.

🌊 Why Wetlands Matter

  • Biodiversity: Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems, home to countless species.
  • Climate Regulation: They store vast amounts of carbon, helping mitigate climate change.
  • Water Security: Wetlands filter water, recharge aquifers, and prevent floods.
  • Livelihoods: Millions depend on wetlands for fishing, farming, and cultural practices.
  • Cultural Heritage: Wetlands are living landscapes shaped by traditions and sustainable practices.

📌 Highlights from World Wetlands Day 2026

  • India: Union Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasized wetlands as “lifelines of the planet,” placing communities and cultural heritage at the center of conservation.
  • Manipur: Launch of a Wetlands Virtual Museum and recognition of climate-resilient villages.
  • Youth Engagement: Hackathons, symposiums, and student-led initiatives in Navi Mumbai showcased innovation in urban ecology.

Union Budget 2026–27: Key Highlights for Competitive Exams

Union Budget 2026–27 is India’s 80th budget, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 1st February 2026. It emphasizes fiscal discipline, infrastructure push, reforms in taxation, and youth-centric growth.

📌 Union Budget 2026–27: Key Highlights

Fiscal & Economic Indicators

  • Total Expenditure: ₹53.47 lakh crore (↑7.7% from 2025–26)
  • Receipts (excluding borrowings): ₹36.51 lakh crore (↑7.2%)
  • Nominal GDP Growth Estimate: 10% (real growth + inflation)
  • Fiscal Deficit Target: 4.3% of GDP (vs. 4.4% in 2025–26)
  • Revenue Deficit Target: 1.5% of GDP (same as 2025–26)

Taxation & Customs

  • Simplification of customs tariff structure to boost exports.
  • Duty-free import limit for seafood export inputs raised to 3% of FOB turnover.
  • Exemptions extended for lithium-ion battery storage, solar glass, nuclear power projects (till 2035).
  • Phasing out exemptions for items with negligible imports to encourage domestic manufacturing.

Infrastructure & Growth

  • High-speed corridors announced for logistics efficiency.
  • Capital expenditure thrust continues to drive growth.
  • Focus on manufacturing in frontier sectors and rejuvenation of legacy industries.
  • Push for MSMEs as “champion sectors.”

Social & Welfare Initiatives

  • Yuva Shakti-driven Budget: Emphasis on youth employment and skill development.
  • Strengthening social welfare schemes for inclusive growth.
  • Focus on healthcare, education, and rural development.

Haryana Thunders win Pro Wrestling League 2026

Haryana Thunders were crowned champions of the Pro Wrestling League (PWL) 2026 after a thrilling final against Delhi Dangal Warriors at the Noida Indoor Stadium on 1 February 2026. With the contest tied 4–4 after eight bouts, the title was decided in the final women’s 62 kg bout, where Paris Olympic silver medallist Iryna Koliadenko displayed remarkable composure and technical superiority to secure a dramatic 5–4 victory for Haryana.

Turan Bayramov (Delhi Dangal Warriors) was named Player of the Tournament for winning all 7 of his bouts in the men’s 57 kg category with 59 points, while Chandermohan (Punjab Royals) emerged as the highest point scorer overall. In the final, Neha Sangwan (Haryana Thunders) won Player of the Match, Ronak (Delhi Dangal Warriors) was adjudged Fighter of the Match, and Akshay Dhere (Haryana Thunders) claimed Impact Player of the Match, bringing a dramatic and memorable PWL 2026 season to a fitting close.

Patna Bird Sanctuary & Chhari-Dhand added to Ramsar List

Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah district, Uttar Pradesh and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch district, Gujarat have been added to India’s Ramsar network, strengthening the country’s commitment to wetland conservation. The announcement was made by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav on 31 January 2026. The two wetlands support hundreds of migratory and resident bird species and are also habitats for wildlife such as chinkara, wolves, caracal, desert cats, desert foxes, along with several endangered bird species.

India is a Contracting Party to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, which was signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, and India became a signatory on 1 February 1982. The newly designated sites highlight India’s growing role in internationally recognised wetland conservation and management efforts.

Supreme Court Declares Menstrual Hygiene a Fundamental Right Under Article 21

On 30 January 2026, the Supreme Court of India ruled that the right to menstrual hygiene is an integral part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. A bench comprising Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice R. Mahadevan issued a set of binding directions to all States, Union Territories, and schools to ensure dignity, health, privacy, and equality for girls and women.

The Court directed that every school must provide free biodegradable sanitary napkins to adolescent girls and ensure the availability of functional, hygienic, and gender-segregated toilets. It observed that the absence of basic facilities and the social stigma surrounding menstruation adversely impact girls’ health, education, and privacy.

Further, the Supreme Court ordered pan-India implementation of the Union Government’s ‘Menstrual Hygiene Policy for School-going Girls’ for students from Classes 6 to 12. The ruling clarified that compliance is mandatory for both government and private schools, warning that private institutions may face derecognition if they fail to provide separate toilets or ensure access to free sanitary pads. The judgment was delivered while hearing a petition seeking free sanitary napkins and adequate sanitation facilities for schoolgirls.

Indian Railways Commissions 472 Route km of Kavach 4.0 to Boost Rail Safety

On 30 January 2026, Indian Railways commissioned 472 route kilometres of Kavach Version 4.0 across three key sections, marking a major milestone in rail safety. The newly commissioned sections include 344 km from Vadodara to Virar (Western Railway), 35 km from Tuglakabad Junction Cabin to Palwal (Northern Railway), and 93.3 km from Manpur to Sarmatanr (East Central Railway).

This achievement represents the highest-ever Kavach commissioning in a single day as well as in a single month. With this addition, Kavach Version 4.0 now covers over 1,300 route kilometres across five routes of the Indian Railways network. The Ministry of Railways stated that this expansion reflects India’s continued focus on strengthening train protection, operational safety, and reliability, especially on high-density corridors.

About Kavach System

Kavach is India’s indigenous Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, designed to prevent train collisions and enhance overall railway safety. It is capable of automatically applying brakes in situations such as signal passing at danger (SPAD), overspeeding, and potential collisions.

Supreme Court Keeps UGC Promotion of Equity Regulations, 2026 in Abeyance

On 29 January 2026, the Supreme Court of India ordered that the University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026 be kept in abeyance after expressing serious reservations about their constitutional validity. The Regulations are under challenge for being discriminatory against the general category, with the Court observing that they are prima facie vague and susceptible to misuse.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi suggested that the Regulations should be revisited by a committee of eminent jurists. While issuing notice to the Union Government and the University Grants Commission, returnable on March 19, the Court directed that the 2012 UGC Regulations will continue to operate until a final decision is taken.

Economic Survey 2025–26: India Projects 7.4% Growth with Historic Low Inflation

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the Economic Survey 2025–26 in the Lok Sabha on 29 February 2026, prepared by the Department of Economic Affairs under the guidance of the Chief Economic Advisor.

The Survey presents a comprehensive assessment of India’s economy, projecting strong real GDP growth of 7.4%, historic low inflation of 1.7%, and sustained economic resilience despite global uncertainties. It highlights robust domestic demand, infrastructure-led growth, improving banking health, and fiscal consolidation, positioning India as the fastest-growing major economy.

Serving as the foundation for Union Budget 2026, the Survey emphasizes reforms, social sector priorities, and a forward-looking approach of “caution, not pessimism” as India advances toward long-term stability and global leadership.

Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Dies in Plane Crash

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a tragic plane crash on 28 January 2026 after a Learjet 45 (VT-SSK) crash-landed at Baramati airport. The Civil Aviation Ministry confirmed that all five people on board, including Ajit Pawar, lost their lives.

Following the incident, the Maharashtra government declared three days of state mourning, and his last rites will be held in Baramati, Pune district, with full state honours at Vidya Pratishthan ground. Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde paid their last respects and met his family.

A six-time Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar had a political career spanning nearly four decades, served as Finance Minister, presented the state budget 11 times, and played a key role in the cooperative and sports sectors, earning him a strong mass connect and the title of “Dada” in Maharashtra politics.

Republic Day Parade 2026: Best Marching Contingents and Best Tableaux

The results of the Best Marching Contingents and Best Tableaux at the Republic Day Parade 2026 have been declared, celebrating excellence in discipline, creativity, and cultural pride.

🏅 Best Marching Contingents

  • Indian Navy – Best among the three Services.
  • Delhi Police – Best among Central Armed Police Forces & Auxiliary Forces.

🎨 Best Tableaux (States & UTs)

  1. Maharashtra – Ganeshotsav: A Symbol of Aatmanirbharta
  2. Jammu & Kashmir – Handicrafts and Folk Dances of Jammu & Kashmir
  3. Kerala – Water Metro and 100% Digital Literacy: Aatmanirbhar Kerala for Aatmanirbhar Bharat

🏛️ Best Tableaux (Central Ministries & Departments)

  • Winner: Ministry of Culture – Vande Mataram – The Soul Cry of a Nation
  • Special Prizes:
    • CPWD – Vande Mataram – Commemoration of 150 Years
    • Dance Group – Vande Mataram: The Eternal Resonance of India

🗳️ Popular Choice Awards (MyGov Poll)

  • Marching Contingents (Services) – Assam Regiment
  • Marching Contingents (CAPFs/Auxiliary Forces) – CRPF
  • Tableaux (States/UTs) – Gujarat (Mantra of Swadeshi – Self-Reliance: Vande Mataram), followed by Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.
  • Tableaux (Ministries) – Department of School Education & Literacy (National Education Policy 2020: Rocketing Indian School Education on the Path to Viksit Bharat)

✨ The Parade at Kartavya Path once again showcased India’s unity in diversity, blending military precision with cultural vibrancy.

New UGC Guidelines on Caste-Based Discrimination in Higher Education

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued new legally binding guidelines in January 2026 to curb caste-based discrimination in higher education institutions. These rules, called the Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026, replace the earlier 2012 advisory framework and mandate strict compliance by all UGC-recognised universities and colleges.

📌 Key Features of the New UGC Guidelines

  • Legal Framework: Unlike the 2012 guidelines, the 2026 regulations are mandatory and enforceable, with penalties for non-compliance.
  • Expanded Definition of Discrimination: Explicitly covers SC, ST, and OBC students, correcting earlier gaps that excluded OBCs.
  • Equal Opportunity Centres (EOCs): Every institution must establish an EOC to handle complaints, promote inclusivity, and monitor compliance.
  • Accountability: Vice-chancellors, principals, and heads of institutions are directly responsible for ensuring equity and preventing discrimination.
  • Grievance Redressal: Institutions must set up dedicated grievance mechanisms for caste-based complaints, covering admissions, hostels, classrooms, and faculty interactions.
  • Penalties: Non-compliance can lead to financial sanctions, withdrawal of recognition, or other disciplinary action against institutions.

🏛 Impact on Campuses

  • Students: Greater protection for marginalized groups, ensuring dignity and equal opportunity in academics, hostels, and extracurricular activities.
  • Faculty & Staff: Required to undergo sensitization programs to prevent discriminatory practices.
  • Institutions: Must adopt proactive measures like awareness campaigns, reporting systems, and periodic audits of inclusivity.

📊 Comparison: Old vs New Guidelines

Aspect2012 Guidelines2026 Guidelines
NatureAdvisory onlyLegally binding
CoverageSC/ST studentsSC, ST, OBC students
ComplianceVoluntaryMandatory with penalties
Grievance SystemGeneral redressDedicated caste-based complaint mechanisms
Institutional RoleEncouraged equityEqual Opportunity Centres compulsory

Budget Session of Parliament 2026 from January 28

The Budget Session of Parliament 2026 began on January 28 with President Droupadi Murmu’s address to a joint sitting of both Houses. The session will run in two phases until April 2, featuring the Economic Survey on January 29 and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1, setting a new parliamentary record.

Structured into Phase 1 (Jan 28–Feb 13), Recess (Feb 14–Mar 8), and Phase 2 (Mar 9–Apr 2), the session includes 30 sittings over 65 days. Key events include the President’s Address outlining priorities for Viksit Bharat, the Economic Survey reviewing performance for FY 2025–26, and the Union Budget for FY 2026–27.

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