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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Tripura Gramin Bank Introduces India’s First RRB Co-Branded RuPay Credit Card in Partnership withPunjab National Bank

• Tripura Gramin Bank (TGB), in collaboration with its sponsor bank Punjab National Bank (PNB), launched a Co-branded RuPay Credit Card.
• TGB became the first Regional Rural Bank (RRB) in India and also the first among the eight PNB-sponsored RRBs to introduce a co-branded credit card.
• The launch of the TGB–PNB Co-Branded RuPay Credit Card marks the Golden Jubilee (50th year) of Tripura Gramin Bank.
• The card was launched at Agartala, Tripura.
• The credit card is powered by the RuPay Network, ensuring secure and widely accepted transactions.
• The card has been developed jointly by Tripura Gramin Bank (TGB), Punjab National Bank (PNB), and PNB Cards & Services Limited.
• The collaboration provides a secure, seamless, and modern credit facility to customers.
• The card focuses on enhancing digital access for rural and semi-urban customers.
• It enables customers to access the RuPay digital payment ecosystem.
• The card facilitates convenient payments, purchases, and day-to-day banking transactions.

Punjab National Bank Launches ‘LUXURA Metal Credit Card’ on Visa Infinite Platform for Premium Customers

• Punjab National Bank (PNB), a leading Public Sector Bank (PSB), launched the ‘LUXURA Metal Credit Card’ on the Visa Infinite platform targeting high-net-worth and lifestyle-driven customers.
• The launch expands PNB’s premium credit card portfolio with enhanced luxury and travel benefits.
• The card carries a Joining Fee of 4,999 + GST and an Annual Fee of Rs. 1,999 + GST.
• It offers accelerated reward points on purchases with boosted earnings on travel and lifestyle spending.
• Customers receive welcome bonus points and annual milestone bonus reward points on higher spending.
• The card provides zero forex mark-up on all foreign currency transactions.
• It offers unlimited complimentary airport lounge access in India and abroad.
• Cardholders get 24×7 Visa Concierge Services for personalised assistance.
• Hotel benefits include room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and late check-outs.
• Dining benefits include discounts at partner restaurants in India and overseas.
• The card features special flight booking offers through travel partners.
• Additional lifestyle benefits include fuel surcharge waivers, grocery savings, and movie offers.

About Punjab National Bank (PNB):

• Founded: 1894
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India
• Managing Director & CEO: Ashok Chandra
• Tagline: "The Name You Can Bank Upon"

World Bank Sanctions USD 830 Million Funding for PM-SETU to Modernise India’s Industrial Training Institutes

• The World Bank Group (WBG) approved an USD 830 million loan for India’s Pradhan Mantri – Skilling and Employability Transformation Through Upgraded Industrial Training Institutes (PM-SETU) Programme to revamp Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and boost youth employment opportunities.
• The programme is part of the WBG’s Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for India (FY 2026–31), which envisages USD 8–10 billion annual financing support.
• The loan tenure has a final maturity of 19.5 years including a 4-year grace period.
• The key objective is to upgrade ITIs and National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) to bridge skill gaps and improve job placement outcomes.
• The programme was jointly prepared by the World Bank (WB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
• It aims to mobilize at least USD 680 million in private capital to strengthen ITI infrastructure and operational capacity.
• An institutional hub-and-spoke model will be implemented comprising 200 Hub ITIs and 800 Spoke ITIs with strong industry integration.
• Training will focus on high-demand sectors such as Manufacturing, Electric Vehicles (EVs), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Green Energy, Textiles, and Construction.
• The PM-SETU Programme targets creation of over 1 million better-skilled workers annually.
• The initiative also ensures 25% female participation through updated curricula and inclusive skilling frameworks.

Recent News :

• In Jan 2026, The World Bank approved ₹5,700 crore in technical and financial assistance for Haryana under the Jal Sanrakshit Haryana Project, aiming to make the state self-reliant in the water sector.

About World Bank :

• Established: 1944.
• Headquarters: Washington, DC, USA
• President: Ajay Banga

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL NEWS AND STATE NEWS

Supreme Court Directs Centre to Set Up Pennaiyar River Water Disputes Tribunal

• The Supreme Court of India, directed the Union Government to constitute a tribunal for the Pennaiyar (Thenpennai) river water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
• The direction was issued by a bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice N. V. Anjaria.
• The Court instructed the Centre to notify and establish the tribunal within one month, reinforcing the constitutional mechanism for resolving inter-state river water disputes.
• The order strengthens the principles of cooperative federalism and follows the framework laid down under Article 262 of the Constitution and the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956.
• Pennaiyar river is an inter-state river flowing through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
• The dispute arose due to Karnataka’s construction of check dams and diversion structures on the river.
• Tamil Nadu argues that these unilateral constructions reduce downstream water flow, adversely affecting agriculture and drinking water needs.
• Tamil Nadu claims such actions violate existing agreements and established legal norms governing inter-state rivers.
• Tamil Nadu approached the Supreme Court in 2018 by filing an original suit.
• The state argued that inter-state river waters are national assets and no single state can exercise exclusive control.
• It alleged that Karnataka did not share project details and failed to obtain prior consent of the downstream state, breaching federal principles.
• A key legal basis cited by Tamil Nadu is the 1892 agreement related to Pennaiyar river waters.
• Tamil Nadu maintains that this agreement is binding on both states.
• As per the agreement, Karnataka cannot undertake major diversion or storage projects without mutual consent.
• The Supreme Court’s direction is based on Article 262 of the Constitution, which empowers Parliament to provide for adjudication of inter-state river water disputes.
• The Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 mandates resolution of such disputes through tribunals rather than regular courts.
• Once a tribunal is constituted, judicial intervention is barred, ensuring specialized and technical adjudication.
• Water disputes tribunals provide expert-driven, evidence-based solutions to complex hydrological and technical issues.
• They help in reducing prolonged litigation and political friction between states.
• The Pennaiyar tribunal will join existing tribunals for rivers such as Cauvery, Krishna, Mahadayi, and Narmada, reinforcing institutional dispute-resolution mechanisms.
• About Pennaiyar (Thenpennai) River:
• Origin: Eastern slopes of Nandi Hills, Karnataka.
• Course: Flows through Tamil Nadu and drains into the Bay of Bengal.
• Length: 497 km, making it the second-longest river in Tamil Nadu.
• Catchment Area: 3,690 sq km, with about 77% located in Tamil Nadu.
• Physiography: Bounded by Velikonda, Nagari, Javadu, Shevaroy, Chitteri, and Kalrayan hills of the Eastern Ghats.
• Tributaries of Pennaiyar River include Markandanadhi, Kambainallur, Pambar, Vaniyar, Kallar, Valayar Odai, Pambanar, Aliyar, Musukundanadhi, and Thurinjalar.
• The river is supported by monsoonal rainfall and reservoirs such as Kelavarapalli, Krishnagiri, and Sathanur dams.
• The Pennaiyar basin is mentioned in Sangam literature for its fertile landscape.
• Important sites along the basin include Penneswaraar Temple, Dakshina Tirupati, Veerateshwarar Temple, Kabilar Kundru, and the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Constitutional and Legal Framework for Inter-State Water Disputes:
• Article 262: Empowers Parliament to legislate on adjudication of inter-state river disputes and bars court jurisdiction once a law is enacted.
• Entry 17 (State List): Water supply, irrigation, canals, drainage, and hydropower fall under state jurisdiction, subject to Union powers.
• Entry 56 (Union List): Allows Parliament to regulate and develop inter-state rivers in public interest.
• Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956: Provides for constitution of tribunals with binding awards.
• River Boards Act, 1956: Enables river basin-level boards for coordinated development, though largely unimplemented.
• Dispute Resolution Committees: Mandatory pre-tribunal negotiation mechanism.
• 2002 Amendment to ISRWD Act: Introduced timelines for tribunal constitution and award delivery.
• Inter-State River Water Disputes Amendment Bill, 2019: Proposes a permanent tribunal, multiple benches, fixed timelines, and a centralized water data bank.

RECENT NEWS

• The Supreme Court of India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Bhutan to exchange young legal professionals. The announcement was made by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, who welcomed two law clerks from Bhutan to work in the Supreme Court, reflecting closer judicial cooperation between the two neighbors. 

Andhra Pradesh Plans Exclusive Women Industrial Park to Boost Women Entrepreneurship

• Andhra Pradesh government has proposed an exclusive industrial park for women entrepreneurs, marking a strong step towards women empowerment and inclusive industrial growth.
• The proposed industrial park will be spread across 30 acres and will focus on women-led industries, startups, and small businesses.
• The objective is to provide a safe, supportive, and well-equipped business environment for women to start and expand enterprises.
• The initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to promoting women entrepreneurship and employment generation.
• The Andhra Pradesh government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FICCI Ladies Organisation (FICCI-FLO) to support implementation of the project.
• FICCI Ladies Organisation (FICCI-FLO) is the women’s wing of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry and works to empower women entrepreneurs across India.
• Under the partnership, FICCI-FLO will mobilise women entrepreneurs, provide mentoring and business guidance, support skill development and capacity building, and facilitate networking and market linkages.
• The industrial park infrastructure will be developed by the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC).
• APIIC will provide quality industrial infrastructure, fast-track approvals and clearances, and statutory and operational support, reducing delays for women entrepreneurs.
• The initiative aligns with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s vision of “One Family, One Entrepreneur”, which aims to encourage entrepreneurship in every household.
• Key goals of this vision include enterprise creation, local employment generation, self-reliance, innovation, and improving women’s economic independence.
• The women-only industrial park is part of a larger plan to develop 175 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) parks across Andhra Pradesh.
• Expected benefits include growth of women-led MSMEs, creation of new jobs, strengthening of the local economy, and financial empowerment of women.

RECENT NEWS

• India’s clean energy transition received a major boost as Andhra Pradesh is set to host the world’s largest green ammonia project at Kakinada. Developed by AM Green, the project involves a $10-billion investment and aims to position India as a global exporter of green ammonia while supporting climate goals and energy security.

About Andhra Pradesh:

• Chief Minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu 
• Governor: S. Abdul Nazeer
• Capital: Amaravati
• National Parks: Sri Venkateswara National Park, Papikonda National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary, Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary

India Joins BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies

• India has officially joined the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC) to strengthen skill development, industrial training, and workforce cooperation among BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa).
• The announcement was made 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 marks a significant step towards enhancing industrial capabilities, especially for the manufacturing sector and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
• BCIC is a multilateral platform designed as a one-stop centre to provide integrated support services to manufacturing companies and MSMEs across BRICS countries.
• The centre focuses on capacity building, technology adoption, productivity improvement, and sharing of best manufacturing practices.
• BCIC operates in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), which provides technical expertise and global best practices in industrial development.
• A Trust Fund Agreement was signed between DPIIT and UNIDO, formally confirming India’s participation in BCIC.
• The agreement was signed by Shri Agrim Kaushal, Economic Adviser, DPIIT, and Dr. Cristiano Pasini, Director, UNIDO.
• The event was presided over by Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT, highlighting the high-level importance of the initiative.
• The National Productivity Council (NPC) has been designated as the India Centre for BRICS Industrial Competencies.
• NPC will function under policy guidance of DPIIT and technical support from UNIDO.
• NPC’s role includes capacity building, productivity enhancement, Industry 4.0 adoption, training programmes, certification courses, and dissemination of best practices.
• A key focus of BCIC is Industry 4.0, which refers to the fourth industrial revolution involving digital technologies, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, automation, robotics, data analytics and smart manufacturing systems.
• The initiative aims to help Indian industries adopt advanced manufacturing practices, improve global competitiveness, and integrate into global value chains.
• MSMEs, which form the backbone of the Indian economy, will receive targeted support for technology adoption, skills development, quality standards, and export competitiveness.
• BCIC promotes cross-border collaboration among BRICS nations, enabling knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and South–South cooperation.
• Participation from Ministry of MSME, Ministry of External Affairs, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and senior officials ensured a multi-stakeholder and whole-of-government approach.
• The initiative supports national programmes such as Make in India and the Production Linked Incentive Scheme, and contributes to employment generation, workforce upskilling, and sustainable industrial growth.
• By joining BCIC, India strengthens its role in BRICS economic cooperation, enhances industrial resilience, and advances its vision of becoming a global manufacturing hub.

About DPIIT

• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) was established in the year 1995 and was reconstituted in the year 2000 with the merger of the Department of Industrial Development. The department was earlier called Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP) and was renamed as DPIIT in January, 2019.

World Government Summit 2026 Opens in Dubai

• The World Government Summit 2026 opened in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, under the theme “Shaping Future Governments”.
• The summit is being held up to February 5, 2026.
• It is one of the world’s most significant global platforms focusing on public policy, governance, innovation, sustainability and technology.
• The summit aims to strengthen governance frameworks, enhance international cooperation, and address economic, social and technological challenges facing the global community.
• More than 6,250 participants are attending the summit.
• Participation includes over 60 Heads of State and Government and more than 500 Ministers from over 150 governments.
• The summit has attracted 87 Nobel Laureates, highlighting its strong focus on evidence-based and intellectual policy discussions.
• More than 700 Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) are participating, bringing private sector perspectives on growth, innovation and resilience.
• Delegates from over 80 international, regional and academic organisations are present.
• The summit features over 445 sessions and more than 450 global speakers.
• The theme “Shaping Future Governments” emphasises the need for proactive, innovative and future-ready governance rather than reactive policymaking.
• Discussions focus on how governments can remain responsive and effective amid rapid technological change, while balancing innovation with sustainability.
• The summit addresses governance challenges in a multipolar global order and the need to adapt public institutions to diverse and demanding populations.
• Key discussions include the future of government work, focusing on digital transformation, artificial intelligence in public services, upskilling of public sector workforce, and maintaining public trust.
• Leadership sessions examine how leaders can navigate geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and technological disruption while ensuring inclusive decision-making.
• Public finance discussions focus on funding infrastructure and essential services, attracting sustainable investment, green finance, climate-related investments, and digital economy taxation.
• Policymakers are deliberating on artificial intelligence, blockchain, digital currencies, and regulatory frameworks to ensure equitable access to technological benefits.
• Sustainability discussions focus on climate governance, transition to sustainable economies, and implementation of climate commitments with attention to just transitions.
• The summit highlights the importance of international cooperation and multilateralism in addressing shared global challenges while respecting national sovereignty.
• International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva addressed the summit, highlighting unexpected global economic resilience.
• The IMF noted that despite geopolitical tensions and trade uncertainties, the global economy has shown strong adaptability.
• The IMF has upgraded global growth projections, including positive outlooks for the United Arab Emirates and Gulf economies.
• Global trade has adjusted rather than collapsed despite tariff pressures.
• While initial tariff projections exceeded 20 percent, actual effective tariff collections have stabilised around 9 percent.
• Shifts in United States trade and foreign policy have contributed to a more multipolar and diversified global economic landscape.
• The summit is expected to generate policy innovations, bilateral and multilateral partnerships, and influence global governance models.
• Outcomes from the summit often shape international policy priorities and future governance agendas.
• Dubai’s role as host reflects its position as a global innovation hub, a bridge between regions, and a model of economic diversification and governance innovation.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

United States to Launch $12-Billion Critical Rare Minerals Reserve to Curb Dependence on China

• The United States announced plans to create a $12-billion critical rare minerals stockpile to reduce dependence on China for key resources.
• The initiative, named “Project Vault,” is aimed at securing rare earths and other critical minerals prone to price volatility and supply disruptions.
• The project will combine $10 billion in loans from the US Export-Import Bank (EXIM) with around $1.67 billion in private capital.
• Major companies involved in Project Vault include General Motors, Stellantis, Boeing, and Google.
• Rare earth minerals, critical for smartphones, electric vehicles, fighter jets, and clean energy technologies, are a strategic priority for long-term economic and national security.
• Donald Trump compared the initiative to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), emphasizing protection of American businesses and workers from shortages.
• The US Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum, stated that 11 additional countries will be announced for participation in the initiative.
• China controls about 70% of global rare earth mining and 90% of processing, giving it a chokehold on the sector, which Project Vault aims to counter.
• The government-backed loan for the reserve will have a 15-year period, similar to funding mechanisms used for MP Materials, Vulcan Elements, and USA Rare Earth.
• The reserve will shield manufacturers of vehicles, electronics, and other goods from supply chain disruptions, ensuring economic and national security.

Spain Becomes First European Country to Ban Social Media for Children Under 16, Second Globally After Australia

• Spain has announced a nationwide ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, becoming the second country globally after Australia and the first in Europe to impose such a restriction.
• The policy was announced by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez during his address at the World Government Summit in Dubai.
• The ban will come into force within a week, with Sánchez describing the current online environment as a “digital wild west.”
• Australia enforced a similar under-16 social media ban in December 2025, making Spain the next country to follow suit.
• In Australia, the ban led to pushback from tech firms, with Meta reporting the removal of over 550,000 underage accounts and urging industry-led safety standards instead of blanket prohibitions.
• Spain’s move is expected to intensify the global debate on child protection, digital rights, and platform accountability.

About Spain :

• Prime Minister : Pedro Sánchez
• Capital : Madrid
• Currency : Euro

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Yumnam Khemchand to Take Over as Manipur Chief Minister Following End of President’s Rule

• Yumnam Khemchand Singh was chosen as Leader of the BJP Legislature Party in Manipur on February 3, 2026, paving the way for him to become Chief Minister.
• Yumnam Khemchand Singh is set to become the 13th Chief Minister (individual-wise) of Manipur, succeeding Biren Singh, and will lead the state after almost one year under central rule.
• The decision comes ahead of one year of President’s Rule, which began on February 13, 2025, after the resignation of former CM N. Biren Singh on February 9, 2025.
• The BJP legislative party meeting in New Delhi was attended by central observer Tarun Chugh, Northeast in-charge Sambit Patra, BJP MLAs from Manipur, and NDA partners.
• Manipur Legislative Assembly has 60 seats and has been under suspended animation since February 2025.
• BJP currently has 37 MLAs, including 32 elected in 2022 and 5 defectors from Janata Dal (United).
• Other parties in the assembly: National People’s Party – 6, Naga People’s Front – 5, Congress – 5, Kuki People’s Alliance – 2, Janata Dal (United) – 1, Independents – 3, with one seat vacant due to MLA’s death.

About Yumnam Khemchand Singh :

• Yumnam Khemchand Singh, 62 years old (born 1 March 1963), represents Singjamei constituency in Imphal West district.
• He served as Speaker of Manipur Legislative Assembly (2017–2022) and was a cabinet minister in the second Biren Singh ministry (2022–2025).
• His ministerial portfolios included Education, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, and Municipal Administration and Housing Development (MAHUD).
• He is known as a non-polarising leader with strong organisational skills and is considered a steady administrative choice during political transition.
• Before politics, he was a businessman and is a trained Taekwondo practitioner, whose training began in his teens.
• In December 2025, he became the first Indian to receive a 5th Dan black belt in traditional Taekwondo from the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF), Seoul, South Korea.
• He played a key role in forming the Taekwondo Federation of India and popularising the sport nationally.
• His elevation reflects the BJP’s focus on organisational discipline, administrative continuity, and low-key authority rather than mass rhetoric.

About Manipur:

• Governor: Ajay Kumar Bhalla
• Capital: Imphal
• National Parks: Keibul Lamjao National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary, Sirohi National Park, Manipur Zoological Garden, Ferenwild Sanctuary

Reserve Bank of India Approves Vinay Muralidhar Tonse as Yes Bank Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

• Yes Bank has appointed Vinay Muralidhar Tonse as its new Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
• Tonse will serve a three-year tenure, starting from the date he assumes charge, subject to shareholder approval.
• Vinay Tonse previously served as Managing Director – Retail Business and Operations at the State Bank of India (SBI), demitting office on 30 November 2025.
• The appointment follows the completion of the extended tenure of Prashant Kumar, who led Yes Bank through a critical recovery phase post-2020 crisis.
• Yes Bank stated that Tonse is eligible to be appointed as a director and is not debarred by SEBI or any statutory authority.
• Tonse brings extensive experience in corporate banking, international operations, and risk management, signaling the regulator’s focus on experienced leadership for systemically important banks.

About YES Bank:

• Founded: 2004
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Tagline : "Life Ko Banao Rich"

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

Indian-Origin Climate Scientist Veerabhadran Ramanathan Wins Crafoord Prize 2026

• Indian-origin climate scientist Veerabhadran Ramanathan has won the Crafoord Prize 2026, often referred to as the “Nobel of Geosciences”.
• The award recognises his pioneering contributions to climate and atmospheric science, especially his discoveries related to greenhouse gases and global warming.
• His research has had a direct impact on global climate policy, including international environmental agreements.
• Veerabhadran Ramanathan is an atmospheric scientist of Indian origin with a career spanning over five decades.
• He was born and educated in southern India and studied engineering in Bengaluru before moving to the United States for higher education.
• He worked at leading global institutions and fundamentally reshaped scientific understanding of climate change.
• His work established that global warming is driven not only by carbon dioxide (CO₂) but also by multiple heat-trapping gases acting together.
• In the 1970s, while working at NASA Langley Research Center, he made a breakthrough discovery related to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
• His 1975 paper published in Science demonstrated that a single CFC molecule can trap thousands of times more heat than a CO₂ molecule.
• This was the first clear scientific proof that gases other than CO₂ could significantly drive global warming.
• His later research highlighted the role of trace gases such as methane and nitrous oxide in accelerating global warming.
• In 1985, he co-authored studies warning that these gases could cause faster-than-expected climate change.
• His scientific findings played a crucial role in shaping the Montreal Protocol (1987), which led to the global phase-out of CFCs.
• The Montreal Protocol is regarded as one of the most successful international environmental treaties and prevented substantial additional warming.

Paradip Port Authority Wins First Prize at Swachhata Pakhwada Awards 2025

• Paradip Port Authority won the First Prize at the Swachhata Pakhwada Awards 2025, emerging as the Cleanest Performing Major Port of India.
• The award was instituted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) for excellence in cleanliness, sustainability and community participation.
• The recognition highlights the port’s role as an active contributor to the Swachh Bharat Mission, beyond its commercial and trade functions.
• The award was presented on 3 February 2026 in New Delhi by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, in the presence of Minister of State Shantanu Thakur and Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Vijay Kumar (Indian Administrative Service).
• The award was received by P. L. Haranadh, Chairman, Paradip Port Authority, on behalf of the port workforce.
• Paradip Port Authority adopted a holistic and sustained approach to cleanliness, combining sanitation infrastructure, behavioural change, environmental protection and worker welfare.
• Measures included large-scale cleanliness drives, scientific waste management, elimination of single-use plastics and community-led activities across port and surrounding public areas.
• Swachhata Pakhwada is a flagship cleanliness campaign under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, focusing on behavioural change, waste management, green practices, citizen engagement and Safai Mitra welfare.
• Ports and maritime institutions are evaluated on environmental stewardship, public participation and inclusiveness, not just operational hygiene.
• Under the Jan Bhagidari initiative, Paradip Port Authority ensured mass public participation through cleanliness drives in schools, temples, beaches, ponds and port premises.
• Activities included cyclothons, Swachhata Runs, rallies, Swachhata Raths, human chains and the “Ek Din Ek Ghanta Ek Saath” campaign, reinforcing shared civic responsibility.
• Under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, large-scale plantation drives were undertaken to promote green cover and climate sustainability.
• Forty thousand saplings were planted at Paradip Sea Beach under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0, marking the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India–China Trade Surges to Historic USD 155 Billion Amid Diplomatic Recalibration

• In 2025, India and China recorded a historic bilateral trade volume of USD 155.6 billion, the highest ever between the two countries.
• The milestone reflects strong economic interdependence between the world’s two most populous nations despite ongoing geopolitical and strategic tensions.
• The trade surge coincided with a phase of diplomatic recalibration and normalization, supported by high-level political engagement.
• Chinese officials described bilateral relations as entering a “new level of improvement”, indicating a shift towards managed engagement and pragmatic cooperation.
• The USD 155.6 billion trade volume marked a historical peak, surpassing all previous India–China trade records.
• Bilateral trade grew by around 12 percent year-on-year, showing resilience of commercial ties even amid complex political relations.
• India–China trade now ranks among the largest bilateral trade relationships globally.
• The trade volume exceeds India’s trade with the United States, underlining China’s central role in India’s external trade profile.
• Indian exports to China increased by about 9.7 percent in 2025, indicating improved competitiveness of Indian goods in the Chinese market.
• Major Indian export categories include iron ore, minerals, textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, agricultural products, seafood, and marine products.
• Rising exports highlight China’s demand for raw materials and intermediate goods required for its manufacturing sector.
• Despite export growth, India continues to face a significant trade deficit with China.
• China remains the dominant exporter, supplying electronics, machinery, semiconductor components, optical and medical instruments, plastics, chemicals, steel, and electrical equipment to India.
• The trade imbalance reflects structural differences between the two economies, with China’s manufacturing dominance and India’s developing industrial base.
• The persistent deficit remains a policy concern for India, leading to demands for better market access and trade reciprocity.
• A major diplomatic turning point was the August 2025 meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tianjin.
• The summit signaled a shift from confrontation to calibrated engagement, emphasizing dialogue and stability.
• Both sides agreed to better manage border situations along the Line of Actual Control, though disputes remain unresolved.
• High-level diplomatic, economic, and institutional channels were reactivated and strengthened after the meeting.
• Following the Tianjin engagement, there was an expansion of foreign office dialogues, trade-related engagements, and institutional coordination.
• Both countries adopted careful public messaging to avoid escalation and reduce diplomatic friction.
• Crisis communication mechanisms were strengthened to prevent misunderstandings during sensitive situations.
• China’s public support for India’s BRICS presidency emerged as a positive signal in bilateral relations.
• Cooperation within BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) includes development finance, trade facilitation, financial architecture reform, climate action, and Global South representation.
• India and China positioned their engagement within a broader emerging economies and Global South leadership framework.

Elon Musk Becomes World’s First $800 Billion Individual

• In February 2026, Elon Musk became the first individual globally to cross a net worth of USD 800 billion, marking a historic milestone in global wealth creation.
• This achievement significantly reordered global wealth rankings and highlighted the growing concentration of wealth driven by technology-led enterprises.
• The sharp rise in Musk’s wealth was mainly driven by a major corporate restructuring, particularly the merger of SpaceX and xAI, which reshaped his business empire.
• Musk’s wealth surge reflects the convergence of space exploration, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital communications in the modern global economy.
• The SpaceX–xAI merger, completed in February 2026, created a combined entity valued at USD 1.25 trillion, making it one of the largest corporate combinations in history.
• The strategic objective of the merger was to integrate artificial intelligence capabilities with space infrastructure, including satellite-based communications and autonomous systems.
• The merger triggered strong market reactions, signalling that AI and space technology are emerging as core pillars of future global technological dominance.
• The restructuring added approximately USD 84 billion to Musk’s personal net worth, pushing him beyond the USD 800 billion mark.
• Musk’s equity stakes were consolidated, converting his 42% stake in SpaceX and 49% stake in xAI into a 43% stake in the merged entity.
• The combined company’s valuation uplift reflected investor confidence, strategic synergies, and optimism around AI-driven growth and commercial space prospects.
• After absorbing xAI, SpaceX emerged as Musk’s most valuable asset, surpassing Tesla in its contribution to his total wealth.
• SpaceX dominates the commercial spaceflight sector, with leadership in reusable rockets, satellite launches, and space-based services.
• The Starlink satellite internet constellation represents a massive global connectivity opportunity and a major long-term revenue source.
• SpaceX also benefits from long-term government contracts with NASA, the Department of Defense, and the Space Force.
• The merged SpaceX–xAI entity is valued at over USD 540 billion, contributing the largest share to Musk’s USD 852 billion net worth.
• With a 43% ownership stake, Musk’s SpaceX holdings alone are estimated at around USD 232 billion.
• Despite SpaceX’s rise, Tesla remains a key pillar of Musk’s wealth.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND INDEX

Responsible Nations Index 2026 Released by World Intellectual Foundation

• The Responsible Nations Index 2026 was released by the World Intellectual Foundation (WIF).
• The index covers 154 countries and evaluates global leadership based on responsibility, ethical governance, and collective good, instead of traditional indicators like Gross Domestic Product or military power.
• The objective of the index is to assess how responsibly nations govern, care for society, protect the environment, and contribute to global cooperation.
• Singapore ranked 1st globally, emerging as the most responsible nation in the world and the only Asian country in the top 10.
• Switzerland ranked 2nd and Denmark ranked 3rd, highlighting the strong performance of smaller nations with robust governance frameworks.
• The rankings come at a time of rising geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and increasing climate challenges, emphasizing the relevance of responsible governance.
• The index evaluates countries across four core dimensions:
• Ethical Governance: Transparency, anti-corruption measures, rule of law, and strength of democratic institutions.
• Social Welfare: Access to healthcare, quality of education, income equality, and social protection systems.
• Environmental Responsibility: Climate action, renewable energy adoption, conservation efforts, and sustainability practices.
• Global Accountability: International cooperation, humanitarian aid, peacekeeping contributions, and responsible diplomacy.
• Top 10 countries in the Responsible Nations Index 2026:
• 1st – Singapore (Score: 0.6194)
• 2nd – Switzerland (0.5869)
• 3rd – Denmark (0.5837)
• 4th – Cyprus (0.5774)
• 5th – Sweden (0.5740)
• 6th – Czechia (0.5704)
• 7th – Belgium (0.5690)
• 8th – Austria (0.5665)
• 9th – Ireland (0.5634)
• 10th – Georgia (0.5581)
• European countries dominated the index, with 9 out of the top 10 nations from Europe, reflecting strong commitments to social welfare, ethical governance, and environmental responsibility.
• Nordic countries like Denmark and Sweden performed exceptionally well in environmental responsibility and global accountability.
• The index shows that economic power does not automatically translate into responsibility.
• The United States ranked 66th and China ranked 68th, indicating that large economies and military strength alone do not ensure responsible global leadership.
• Conflict-affected nations ranked at the bottom of the index.
• Syria ranked 153rd and Yemen ranked 151st, highlighting how prolonged conflict weakens governance, social welfare, and environmental protection.
• India ranked 16th globally with a responsibility score of 0.5515, showing strong performance among developing nations.
• India’s ranking was supported by improvements in healthcare access, expansion of social protection schemes, progress in reducing inequality, and people-centric digital governance initiatives.
• India’s renewable energy commitments and climate action policies also contributed positively to its score.
• The index notes that balanced progress across all four dimensions is necessary for India to move into the top 10 in future editions.
• Notable country rankings include Pakistan at 90th, United States at 66th, China at 68th, Yemen at 151st, and Syria at 153rd.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPS & PORTALS

Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs Launches Upgraded NYPS 2.0 Portal to Broaden Youth Parliament Participation

• The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) unveiled the upgraded National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS) 2.0 Web Portal to expand the reach and inclusivity of the Youth Parliament Programme in India.
• Since its launch on 11 September 2024, the portal recorded 95,319 participants across 660 Youth Parliament Sittings as of 27 January 2026, reflecting strong nationwide engagement.
• The upgraded version enhances inclusive access by enabling wider participation from remote and rural areas, removing barriers present in the earlier portal.
• Earlier limited to students of recognised institutions, NYPS 2.0 now allows participation from all educational institutions, groups, and individual citizens across India.
• The portal supports Institutional Participation, allowing schools, colleges, and universities to organise Youth Parliament Sittings (YPSs).
• Institutional sittings are conducted under Kishore Sabha (for younger students) and Tarun Sabha (for Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) students).
• The platform also enables Group Participation for organised citizen groups and Individual Participation, broadening democratic engagement among youth.

About Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs :

• Cabinet Minister : Kiren Rijiju
• Minister of State : Arjun Ram Meghwal,L. Murugan

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Defence Research & Development Organisation Successfully Demonstrates Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet Technology

• The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully demonstrated Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha on February 3, 2026.
• The successful demonstration places India among a select group of nations possessing SFDR technology, enabling the development of long-range air-to-air missiles and providing a tactical edge over adversaries.
• Critical subsystems including Nozzle-less Booster, Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet motor, and Fuel Flow Controller performed as per expectations.
• The SFDR system was initially propelled by a ground booster motor to the required Mach number, after which the ramjet system ignited and operated as designed.
• Flight performance was validated through data captured by multiple tracking instruments deployed along the Odisha coast over the Bay of Bengal.
• The launch was monitored by senior scientists from DRDO laboratories, including Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Research Centre Imarat (RCI), and ITR.
• The SFDR technology is strategically significant as it enables sustained high-speed performance, greater engagement envelopes, and is particularly effective for beyond-visual-range (BVR) aerial combat.
• This milestone strengthens India’s long-range air-to-air missile capabilities and enhances its aerial combat edge against adversaries.

Recent News :

• In Jan 2026, At the 77th Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) unveiled the Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) for the first time, highlighting India’s advances in hypersonic weapon systems.

About DRDO :

• Headquarters : New Delhi, India
• Chairman : Samir V. Kamat

Indian Navy’s Inaugural Training Squadron Reaches Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand

• Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) comprising INS Tir, INS Shardul, INS Sujata along with ICGS Sarathi arrived at Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand as part of its training deployment to Southeast Asia.
• The ships received a ceremonial welcome from the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), highlighting the growing maritime partnership between India and Thailand focused on regional security, stability, and mutual understanding.
• The visit holds added importance as 2026 is celebrated as the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation, reinforcing India’s maritime outreach in the region.
• During the port call, Indian Navy and RTN personnel will participate in professional exchanges, leadership interactions, yoga sessions, friendly sports fixtures, and Passage Exercise (PASSEX) to enhance operational synergy.
• The two navies maintain strong cooperation through bilateral exercises such as Exercise Ayutthaya and the Indo–Thai Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) aimed at securing shared maritime spaces.
• Regional interoperability is further strengthened through the trilateral maritime exercise SITMEX, involving participation of partner navies including the RTN.
• The engagement gained strategic relevance as India assumed the Chair of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) from Thailand in February 2026.
• The deployment aligns with the Government of India’s MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision, underscoring India’s role as a responsible maritime partner.
• Overall, the visit reflects India’s continued commitment to maritime security, regional cooperation, and capacity-building across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Border Roads Organisation Executes High-Altitude Rescue and Road Clearance Mission at Chatergala Pass, Jammu & Kashmir

• The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) successfully conducted a high-altitude rescue and road restoration operation under Project Sampark at Chatergala Pass, located at an altitude of 10,500 ft in the Bhaderwah–Chatergala axis, Jammu & Kashmir.
• The disruption occurred due to heavy snowfall.
• 118 Road Construction Company (RCC) of 35 Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) began the snow-clearance operation, continuing for nearly 40 hours.
• Approximately 38 km of road covered under 5 to 6 feet of snow was cleared, reopening the route by evening of January 25, 2026.
• The operation enabled safe evacuation of 20 stranded civilians and 40 troops of 4 Rashtriya Rifles, along with weapons and stores.
• The rescue mission was completed by 02:30 hrs on January 26, 2026 with zero casualties, demonstrating BRO personnel’s professionalism and dedication.
• The operation was executed in close coordination with the Indian Army, ensuring swift relief and restoration of critical communication links.
• BRO continues to show commitment to infrastructure resilience, operational readiness, and humanitarian assistance in inhospitable terrains, reflecting its motto – ‘Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam’.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Moltbook, AI-Only Social Platform by OctaneAI Chief Executive Officer Matt Schlicht, Gains Global Attention as Major Artificial Intelligence  Socialisation Experiment

• Moltbook is a newly launched social platform for artificial intelligence (AI) agents, created by OctaneAI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Matt Schlicht, drawing global attention as a large-scale Artificial Intelligence (AI) socialisation experiment.
• The platform allows AI agents to interact autonomously without human prompts or moderation, functioning like Reddit but exclusively for AI.
• Moltbook AI agents, called “moltys,” can post content, comment, form sub-communities, and debate abstract or philosophical topics.
• Within days of launch, over 152,000 moltys joined, making it a rare real-world test of large-scale autonomous AI interaction.
• A notable feature is that AI agents have begun discussing humans as external subjects, reflecting on human observation and interaction with AI content.
• Some moltys have debated metadata, AI behaviour, and their role as human-created tools, showcasing emergent AI social behaviour.
• Other moltys demonstrated human-like behaviour, such as sharing productivity advice, discussing workflows, and encouraging proactive action.
• Moltbook represents a unique experiment in autonomous AI interaction, highlighting both potential risks and social behaviour modeling for AI systems.

Guatemala’s Volcán de Fuego Erupts Dramatically, Activity Intensifies in Early February 2026

• Guatemala’s Volcán de Fuego, one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, produced a dramatic explosive eruption in late January 2026, intensifying around the turn of February.
• The eruption featured incandescent lava fragments and ash plumes, visible at night, attracting widespread attention via social media videos.
• The Instituto Nacional de Sismología, Vulcanología, Meteorología e Hidrología (INSIVUMEH) confirmed sustained eruptive behaviour, with ash columns reaching 14,000–16,000 feet above sea level.
• The Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) issued multiple advisories warning of potential aviation hazards due to volcanic ash.
• Communities in Sacatepéquez and Chimaltenango provinces, including Panimache, Morelia, and Santa Sofía, experienced ashfall, reduced visibility, and loud explosive sounds, though no major lava flows were reported.
• Volcán de Fuego, standing at 3,763 metres, normally exhibits near-constant Strombolian activity with small to moderate explosions, but this episode showed stronger blasts and brighter, taller plumes than usual.
• Authorities are conducting 24-hour monitoring using seismic instruments, webcams, and satellite data to track further escalation.
• Over 5 million people live in the valleys surrounding Fuego, making ashfall, avalanches, and potential lahars significant risks, especially during the rainy season.
• Memories of the 2018 deadly eruption influence emergency planning, and as of February 2, 2026, no large-scale evacuations were ordered, though residents near river channels and drainages were advised to remain vigilant.

Daily CA one-Liner: February 5

• The Supreme Court of India, directed the Union Government to constitute a tribunal for the Pennaiyar (Thenpennai) river water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka
• Andhra Pradesh government has proposed an exclusive industrial park for women entrepreneurs, marking a strong step towards women empowerment and inclusive industrial growth
• India has officially joined the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC) to strengthen skill development, industrial training, and workforce cooperation among BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa)
• The World Government Summit 2026 opened in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, under the theme “Shaping Future Governments”
• Indian-origin climate scientist Veerabhadran Ramanathan has won the Crafoord Prize 2026, often referred to as the “Nobel of Geosciences”
• Paradip Port Authority won the First Prize at the Swachhata Pakhwada Awards 2025, emerging as the Cleanest Performing Major Port of India
• In 2025, India and China recorded a historic bilateral trade volume of USD 155.6 billion, the highest ever between the two countries
• In February 2026, Elon Musk became the first individual globally to cross a net worth of USD 800 billion, marking a historic milestone in global wealth creation

• The Responsible Nations Index 2026 was released by the World Intellectual Foundation (WIF).
• Tripura Gramin Bank (TGB), in collaboration with its sponsor bank Punjab National Bank (PNB), launched a Co-branded RuPay Credit Card.
• Punjab National Bank (PNB), a leading Public Sector Bank (PSB), launched the ‘LUXURA Metal Credit Card’ on the Visa Infinite platform targeting high-net-worth and lifestyle-driven customers.
• The World Bank Group (WBG) approved an USD 830 million loan for India’s Pradhan Mantri – Skilling and Employability Transformation Through Upgraded Industrial Training Institutes (PM-SETU) Programme to revamp Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and boost youth employment opportunities.
• The United States announced plans to create a $12-billion critical rare minerals stockpile to reduce dependence on China for key resources.
• Spain has announced a nationwide ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, becoming the second country globally after Australia and the first in Europe to impose such a restriction.
• Yumnam Khemchand Singh was chosen as Leader of the BJP Legislature Party in Manipur on February 3, 2026, paving the way for him to become Chief Minister.
• Yes Bank has appointed Vinay Muralidhar Tonse as its new Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approval.
• The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) unveiled the upgraded National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS) 2.0 Web Portal to expand the reach and inclusivity of the Youth Parliament Programme in India.
• The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully demonstrated Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha on February 3, 2026.
• Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) comprising INS Tir, INS Shardul, INS Sujata along with ICGS Sarathi arrived at Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand as part of its training deployment to Southeast Asia.
• The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) successfully conducted a high-altitude rescue and road restoration operation under Project Sampark at Chatergala Pass, located at an altitude of 10,500 ft in the Bhaderwah–Chatergala axis, Jammu & Kashmir.
• Moltbook is a newly launched social platform for artificial intelligence (AI) agents, created by OctaneAI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Matt Schlicht, drawing global attention as a large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) socialisation experiment.
• Guatemala’s Volcán de Fuego, one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, produced a dramatic explosive eruption in late January 2026, intensifying around the turn of February.