Dear Readers, get to know the daily current affairs today covering all the National & International Events provided here in this article. Current Affairs is an important topic in various competitive exams like IBPS/SBI/PO/Clerk and other competitive exams. To score better in this section, be updated with the daily happenings. Check the Daily Current Affairs February 2026 updates here. Revision is very important in remembering current affairs. Candidates after learning the Daily current affairs 26th February 2026, can test their knowledge by attempting Current Affairs Quiz provided with answers. Daily current affairs 26th February 2026 covers current affairs from International & National news, Important Days, State News, Banking & Economy, Business News, Appointments & Resignation, Awards & Honour, Books & Authors, Sports News, etc.,

Daily Current Affairs PDF of 26th February 2026

Get More: Static GK Pdfs

CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launches NMP 2.0 asset monetisation pipeline in New Delhi

• Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister of Finance (MoF), launched the second phase of the National Monetisation Pipeline called National Monetisation Pipeline 2.0 (NMP 2.0) in New Delhi.
• NMP 2.0 focuses on asset monetisation, which means using under-utilised or existing infrastructure assets to generate government revenue and attract fresh investments for economic development.
• The pipeline was formulated by NITI Aayog in consultation with infrastructure ministries, aligned with the Asset Monetisation Plan 2025–30 announced in the Union Budget 2025–26.
• The NMP 2.0 target estimates an aggregate monetisation potential of ₹16.72 lakh crore, including private sector investment of ₹5.8 lakh crore, during FY 2025–26 to FY 2029–30.
• The target under NMP 2.0 is 2.6 times higher than the target under NMP 1.0.
• The Finance Minister stated that NMP 1.0 achieved nearly 90% of its ₹6 lakh crore target, demonstrating successful implementation of asset monetisation reforms.
• The initiative supports the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 by promoting accelerated infrastructure development and economic growth momentum.
• Asset monetisation helps in recycling productive public assets, enabling capital expenditure (CAPEX) funding while reducing budgetary pressure on the government.
• The policy aims to mobilise funds for new infrastructure projects and support sustainable economic expansion through public asset value unlocking.

New India Co-operative Bank Limited removed from Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 from February 2026

• New India Co-operative Bank Limited., Mumbai,Maharashtra has been removed from the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, which lists scheduled banks in India, effective from February 2026.
• Removal from the Second Schedule means the bank loses its status as a scheduled bank, along with privileges such as access to RBI refinance facilities and participation in monetary policy operations and liquidity support mechanisms.
• Scheduled bank status is granted under Section 42 of the RBI Act, 1934, subject to fulfilment of requirements such as minimum capital, reserve maintenance, and regulatory compliance norms.
• Exclusion from the schedule follows the bank's voluntary amalgamation with Saraswat Co-operative Bank Ltd., which was approved in August 2025 to ensure stability after a significant misappropriation scam.
• The action highlights RBI’s strict regulatory supervision to ensure financial system stability and depositors’ protection in the banking sector during institutional transitions.

Recent News :

• In Dec 2025, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) included Mumbai-based Model Co-operative Bank Limited. in the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, granting it “Scheduled Bank” status.

Reserve Bank of India Issues Regulatory Guidelines for Bank Lending to Real Estate Investment Trusts

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released draft amendment directions across five regulatory frameworks covering commercial banks, small finance banks (SFBs), and All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs) regarding credit facilities, concentration risk management, and financial disclosure norms.
• The draft allows regulated entities to provide finance to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) subject to prudential safeguards, risk management standards, and exposure limits.
• Banks may lend to SEBI-registered REITs in India, while overseas branches may lend to foreign REITs only in jurisdictions having a strong insolvency or bankruptcy legal framework.
• Banks can lend only to listed REITs that have been operational for at least 3 years, have positive net distributable cash flows for the last 2 years, and have no adverse regulatory action in the past 3 years.
• Lending is permitted only if Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) under the REIT structure are not under financial stress.
• Banks must follow a Board-approved lending policy, ensure continuous monitoring of end-use of funds, and confirm that trust deeds permit borrowing.
• The aggregate bank exposure to a REIT and its SPVs/holding companies (Holdcos) cannot exceed 49% of the REIT asset value, unless the Board prescribes stricter limits.
• Banks must carefully evaluate cash flow stability and debt servicing capacity before extending credit to REIT entities.
• The framework strengthens prudential regulation, financial stability, and safe infrastructure financing channels in the banking system.

Recent News :

• In Feb 2026, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) allowed banks to lend directly to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) with prudential safeguards to deepen credit access for the real estate sector.

Reserve Bank of India revises Lead Bank Scheme to boost priority sector credit flow at district level

• The Reserve Bank of India issued revised guidelines on the Lead Bank Scheme (LBS), superseding earlier instructions to strengthen credit coordination and financial inclusion
• The scheme was originally introduced in 1969 to promote priority sector lending and inclusive economic growth.
• The Lead Bank Scheme aims to coordinate banks, government agencies, and developmental institutions to improve credit flow to priority sectors and enhance financial inclusion across districts.

Key Highlights :

• The revised framework introduces a three-tier structure consisting of:
• Block Level Bankers’ Committee (BLBC)
• District Consultative Committee (DCC)
• District Level Review Committee (DLRC)
• State Level Bankers’ Committee (SLBC / UTLBC) at the apex level.
• The RBI will designate one commercial bank as Lead Bank in each district to coordinate credit delivery and development initiatives.
• Each district will have:
• Lead District Manager (LDM) appointed by the Lead Bank.
• District Development Manager (DDM) appointed by NABARD.
• Lead District Officer (LDO) appointed by RBI.
• BLBC meetings must be held at least twice annually, including planning for Block Credit Plans based on credit potential.
• DCC meetings are chaired by the District Collector / District Magistrate and include banks, RBI representatives, NABARD officials, and government departments.
• SLBC meetings include state government officials, RBI, NABARD, banks, and other stakeholders to resolve regional banking and credit issues.
• Banks must maintain a Credit-Deposit (CD) Ratio of 60% for rural and semi-urban branches (All-India basis).
• CD Ratio monitoring norms:
• 40–60% CD Ratio → monitored by DCC.
• Below 40% or declining credit → reviewed by DCC sub-committee with corrective action plans.
• Below 20% CD Ratio → classified as special category districts, requiring state government infrastructure and credit support.
• Banks must prioritise opening Core Banking Solution (CBS)-enabled outlets in Tier-V (population >5,000) and Tier-VI unbanked rural areas. At least 25% of new banking outlets must be established in such regions.
• The revised guidelines aim to streamline operations, strengthen institutional accountability, and improve district-level economic development planning.
• The draft guidelines were released for public comments, with the last date for submission being 6 March 2026.
• The framework strengthens lead bank coordination, enhances state-level monitoring, and supports sustainable financial inclusion growth in India.

Reserve Bank of India proposes stricter norms for loan recovery agents to protect borrowers from harassment

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued draft amendment directions to standardize loan recovery practices and regulate the conduct of recovery agents across regulated financial entities.
• The guidelines aim to ensure fair recovery practices, borrower protection, and ethical conduct standards for lender staff and recovery agents.
• Recovery agents must complete certification training from the Indian Institute of Banking and Finance (IIBF) or equivalent accredited institutions.
• Banks must publicly display updated lists of recovery agents at branches and digital platforms to ensure transparency and accountability.
• Recovery agents must carry valid identity cards, authorization letters, and loan recovery notices while visiting borrowers.
• Agents are permitted to contact borrowers only between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM, respecting borrower privacy and preferred communication timings.
• Legal action cannot be the first step in recovery; recovery must follow due process, with authorized representatives only allowed to visit borrower premises.
• Recovery agents must provide official receipts for all collections to maintain financial transaction transparency.
• The guidelines mandate due diligence checks, formal code of conduct compliance, and proper training requirements for recovery personnel.
• The new recovery framework will become effective from 1 July 2026, replacing earlier recovery conduct provisions.
• The initiative strengthens consumer protection, ethical banking practices, and regulatory supervision of loan recovery operations in India.

Reserve Bank of India issues revised Kisan Credit Card guidelines to boost agricultural credit access

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued draft revised guidelines for Kisan Credit Card (KCC) to expand coverage, improve agricultural financing, and streamline loan operations.
• The revised KCC framework applies to commercial banks, Small Finance Banks (SFBs), Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), and rural cooperative banks to ensure uniform implementation across India.
• The guidelines apply to new KCC loans and existing loans during renewal or review cycles.
• Crop seasons have been standardized as 12 months for short-duration crops and 18 months for long-duration crops to ensure uniform repayment and loan planning cycles.
• Marginal farmers are defined as farmers owning up to 1 hectare of land, while small farmers own more than 1 hectare but up to 2 hectares of land.
• The KCC loan tenure has been extended to 6 years to better match long agricultural crop cycles.
• Drawing limits will now be based on scale of finance per crop season, ensuring credit reflects actual cultivation and input costs.
• Farmers can use an additional 20% credit limit for technology-driven agriculture practices such as soil testing, weather forecasting, and organic certification.
• A flexible KCC credit limit of ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 is available for marginal farmers based on landholding size and crop type.
• Eligible borrowers include owner cultivators, tenant farmers, sharecroppers, Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Joint Liability Groups (JLGs).
• Farmers engaged in animal husbandry, fisheries, and allied agricultural activities are also eligible for working capital credit.
• Banks shall waive collateral security and margin requirements for agricultural loans up to ₹2 lakh per borrower.
• Voluntary pledge of gold or silver as collateral is allowed but requires explicit borrower declaration, without violating collateral-free lending norms.
• For KCC loans under crop hypothecation or stock tie-up arrangements, banks may waive collateral security for loans up to ₹3 lakh.
• Banks must submit KCC loan data reports quarterly within 15 working days after quarter-end using the prescribed RBI reporting format.
• The initiative strengthens agricultural credit accessibility, financial inclusion, and modernisation of rural farming finance systems.

Reserve Bank of India tightens norms to curb mis-selling of financial products through new draft marketing and sales rules

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued draft Responsible Business Conduct Amendment Directions, 2026 under Section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, to strengthen customer protection in financial product marketing and sales.
• The proposed Commercial Banks – Responsible Business Conduct Directions, 2026 require banks to ensure customers clearly understand financial products and obtain explicit customer consent, while establishing a mechanism to seek customer feedback within 30 days of a product sale.
• In cases of mis-selling, banks must refund the full amount paid and provide additional compensation for financial losses incurred by customers, in accordance with the bank’s approved policy.
• A Direct Selling Agent (DSA) / Direct Marketing Agent (DMA) is defined as an agent or agency engaged by banks to market or sell banking or third-party financial products and services, and banks must maintain an up-to-date list of these agents.
• Banks must use separate application forms for each financial product, clearly specifying the product type—such as insurance, mutual funds, pension schemes, or hybrid financial products—along with their key features and risks.
• The guidelines aim to prevent mis-selling practices (including forced bundling and dark patterns), enhance transparency in financial product distribution, and strengthen ethical banking conduct.
• The new regulatory framework will come into force from 1 July 2026.
• The initiative supports consumer financial protection, responsible banking practices, and trust-based financial services delivery in India.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

AI Impact Summit 2026 Concludes with Adoption of New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact

• The AI Impact Summit 2026 concluded in New Delhi with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact, endorsed by 89 countries and international organizations
• The summit marked a significant step in global artificial intelligence governance and cooperation.
• India led the call for “Artificial Intelligence for All” rooted in equity, accessibility, and shared global progress.
• The declaration outlines seven pillars of action and introduces new global platforms to ensure that artificial intelligence remains collaborative, trusted, resilient, and efficient for humanity.

Key Highlights

• The summit focused on building a shared global framework for responsible, inclusive, and sustainable artificial intelligence growth.
• Guided by the Sanskrit principle “Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya” meaning welfare for all and happiness for all, the declaration stresses that benefits of artificial intelligence must be equitably distributed across nations and communities.
• The declaration is voluntary and non binding, but it sets a strategic direction for global artificial intelligence governance and multilateral cooperation.
• It emphasizes:
  • International cooperation and multi stakeholder engagement
  • Respect for national sovereignty in artificial intelligence regulation
  • Development of trustworthy, accessible, secure, and energy efficient artificial intelligence systems
• The New Delhi Declaration is structured around seven pillars forming the backbone of global cooperation:
  • Democratizing artificial intelligence resources to ensure affordable access to infrastructure
  • Promoting economic growth and social good through scalable artificial intelligence solutions
  • Ensuring secure and trusted artificial intelligence through safety standards and transparency benchmarks
  • Advancing artificial intelligence for scientific research and global collaboration
  • Expanding access for social empowerment and inclusive adoption
  • Strengthening human capital development through skilling and artificial intelligence literacy
  • Building resilient and energy efficient artificial intelligence systems and infrastructure
• Participation from countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, along with international organizations such as the European Union and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, reflects broad global consensus on responsible artificial intelligence development.

RECENT NEWS

• Delhi government has approved the Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme to support artisans linked with khadi, handloom, and cottage industries. Announcing the decision, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said artisans are the real custodians of Delhi’s cultural heritage and must be connected to modern markets.

Jharkhand Presents ₹1.58 Lakh Crore ‘Abua Dishom Budget’ for FY 2026–27

• The Government of Jharkhand presented a ₹1.58 lakh crore Budget for the Financial Year 2026–27 in the State Assembly.
• The Budget was tabled by Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore under the leadership of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha-led government.
• The Budget has been termed the “Abua Dishom Budget”, reflecting the government’s emphasis on regional identity, inclusive governance and welfare-oriented development.

Key Highlights

• The total proposed outlay for Financial Year 2026–27 is ₹1.58 lakh crore, indicating a significant expansion in public expenditure to support development and social welfare programmes across the state.
• The allocation marks an increase of ₹13,000 crore compared to the previous Financial Year 2025–26 Budget of ₹1.45 lakh crore, showing enhanced fiscal commitment and broader spending priorities.
• The term “Abua Dishom”, meaning “Our Land” in a local tribal dialect, underlines the government’s focus on tribal identity, grassroots empowerment and region-centric development.
• The Budget aims to address the aspirations of poor and economically weaker sections, with targeted welfare measures intended to improve living standards and social security coverage.
• Farmers and rural communities are key focus groups, with expected emphasis on agricultural support, rural infrastructure development and livelihood enhancement initiatives.
• Given Jharkhand’s significant tribal population, the fiscal plan prioritizes tribal welfare, social justice and equitable distribution of resources across districts.
• The Budget also places importance on women’s empowerment, aiming to strengthen schemes that promote financial inclusion, social protection and economic participation of women.
• The enhanced allocation is expected to support improvements in infrastructure, health, education and public service delivery, contributing to overall socio-economic development.
• The higher outlay reflects the government’s strategy to stimulate economic activity, expand development initiatives and maintain fiscal discipline while pursuing inclusive growth.

RECENT NEWS

• Jharkhand has delivered a proud sporting moment at the national level. At the Para Throwball National Federation Cup 2026, the state’s women’s team produced a disciplined and confident performance to win the gold medal.

About Jharkhand:

• Capital: Ranchi
  • Chief Minister: Hemant Soren
  • Governor: Santosh Gangwar
  • National Parks: Betla National Park
  • Wildlife Sanctuaries: Palamau Wildlife Sanctuary, Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary, Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, Koderma Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary, Topchanchi Wildlife Sanctuary

Delhi Approves 20% Quota for Ex-Agniveers in Police Constable Recruitment

• Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved a 20 per cent reservation for former Agniveers in Delhi Police constable (executive) posts.
• The decision follows amendments to the Delhi Police (Appointment and Recruitment) Rules, 1980.
• The move is aimed at providing structured employment opportunities to ex-Agniveers after completion of their four-year military service and strengthening the police force with trained and disciplined personnel.

Key Highlights

• A 20 per cent quota has been introduced for former Agniveers in male constable (executive) posts in Delhi Police, ensuring dedicated recruitment space for defence-trained youth.
• Former Agniveers will be granted three-year relaxation in the upper age limit beyond the existing eligibility bracket of 18 to 25 years. For the first batch of Agniveers, the age relaxation has been extended to five years, providing additional flexibility during the transition phase.
• Eligible ex-Agniveers will be exempted from the Physical Efficiency Test, recognising the rigorous physical and military training they undergo during their four-year service period.
• The reform aims to ensure smooth absorption of trained military personnel into civilian policing roles, thereby reducing retraining requirements and enhancing operational readiness.
• The Agniveer recruitment system was introduced under the Indian Armed Forces in 2022, where youth aged 17.5 to 21 years are inducted for a four-year tenure, with only a portion retained for permanent service and the rest exiting with financial and skill-based benefits.
• Delhi Police currently has a sanctioned strength of 42,452 male constables (executive category), who are primarily responsible for law enforcement, crime prevention, patrolling duties and maintenance of public order. The new quota is expected to enhance efficiency and discipline within the force.
• The decision also addresses concerns regarding post-service employment pathways for Agniveers under the Agnipath framework and reflects a broader policy direction of integrating defence-trained youth into civilian security and law enforcement sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Address Israeli Parliament During Historic Israel Visit 2026

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the plenary session of the Knesset during his two-day official visit to Israel.
• The visit has been described as historic by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and marks a significant milestone in India Israel bilateral relations.
• Prime Minister Modi will also hold high-level discussions with President Isaac Herzog.

Key Highlights

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Knesset plenary session becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so. Addressing the Israeli Parliament is regarded as a high diplomatic honour and reflects the elevation of bilateral ties.
• This will be his second visit to Israel, following his landmark 2017 visit that strengthened cooperation and elevated India Israel relations to a strategic partnership level.
• During the visit, he will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog, focusing on defence cooperation, innovation, security collaboration, agricultural technology, water management and regional stability.
• The official programme at the Israeli Parliament will begin with a ceremonial welcome at the Weil Courtyard, followed by signing of the guestbook in the Chagall State Hall and a joint photograph session.
• A special plenary session will be held in honour of the visiting Prime Minister, where key Israeli leaders including the Speaker and Opposition representatives will deliver remarks.
• The Knesset is the unicameral legislature of Israel comprising 120 members, responsible for law-making and government formation. Plenary sessions are formal sittings where important debates, speeches and decisions take place.
• Diplomatic relations between India and Israel were established in 1992, and cooperation has since expanded in defence, agriculture, water management, science and technology. India is one of Israel’s major defence partners, while Israel supports India with advanced agricultural and irrigation technologies.
• The visit highlights India’s balanced West Asia policy, maintaining strong relations with Israel while also engaging constructively with Arab nations. It further strengthens political trust and strategic collaboration between the two democracies.

About Delhi:

• Chief Minister: Rekha Gupta
• Lieutenant Governor: Vinai Kumar Saxena
• Capital: New Delhi
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, Yamuna Biodiversity Park, Aravalli Biodiversity Park

“Badhna Hai Toh Yahan Judna Hai” Campaign Launched to Strengthen Digital Skilling Ecosystem

• The Government of India launched a nationwide awareness campaign titled “Badhna Hai Toh Yahan Judna Hai” to expand participation in the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH).
• The campaign was launched by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary on the sidelines of the India AI Impact Summit 2026.

Key Points

• The campaign aims to accelerate progress towards Viksit Bharat by strengthening India’s digital skilling ecosystem.
• Legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan has been roped in to promote awareness and boost nationwide participation in SIDH.
• Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) is India’s integrated digital platform for skilling, employment and lifelong learning.
• SIDH has onboarded over 1.5 crore registered candidates, making it one of the country’s largest unified digital skilling platforms.
• The platform is mobile-first and AI-enabled, offering industry-aligned and future-ready courses with personalised recommendations.
• SIDH integrates multiple government skilling initiatives into a single digital ecosystem, reducing fragmentation and improving access.
• Key features include LMS-enabled central learning hub, digitally verified credentials, QR-code enabled digital CVs, Aadhaar-based eKYC registration and OTP-enabled mobile access.
• The platform is available in more than 21 Indian languages, ensuring inclusivity and wide accessibility.
• SIDH caters to students, graduates, working professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs, supporting upskilling and reskilling needs.
• The campaign will be rolled out across digital platforms, social media and QR-enabled touchpoints to enable seamless registration.
• The initiative promotes the vision of “Lifelong Learning for Prosperity – for anyone, anytime, anywhere”, aligning with India’s goal of becoming a global skill capital.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

President of the Federative Republic of Brazil Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s State Visit to India from 18–22 February 2026

• Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, undertook a State Visit to India from 18–22 February 2026 at the invitation of Narendra Modi.

Key Highlights :

• During the visit, President Lula participated in the 2nd India Artificial Intelligence (AI) Impact Summit 2026 held in New Delhi and held high-level bilateral meetings to strengthen the India–Brazil strategic partnership.
• The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, received President Lula at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosted a state banquet in his honour.
• PM Narendra Modi and President Lula held bilateral talks at Hyderabad House, New Delhi, focusing on trade, technology, and strategic cooperation.
• President Lula announced a target to increase bilateral trade to USD 30 billion by 2030 from the current USD 15.21 billion, where India maintains a trade surplus of about USD 1.5 billion.
• The visit witnessed the inauguration of the ApexBrasil office in New Delhi to promote trade and investment cooperation between the two countries.
• The India–Brazil Economic Forum discussed cooperation in defence, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, technology, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Both countries also discussed expanding the India–Mercosur Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) to enhance economic integration.
• Multiple MoUs were signed in sectors including MSMEs, postal services, pharmaceuticals, trade promotion, R&D, rare earths and critical minerals, steel, digital trade (e-COO), education, cinema, and heritage preservation.
• Both countries agreed to extend multiple-entry tourist and business visas from 5 years to 10 years, strengthening people-to-people connectivity and tourism growth.
• The visit reinforced India–Brazil cooperation in emerging technologies, AI development, and global south partnerships.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

79th British Academy Film Awards 2026 Held in London

• The 79th British Academy Film Awards 2026 were held at the Royal Festival Hall in
• The ceremony was organized by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts and hosted by Alan Cumming.
• The night was dominated by One Battle After Another, which won six awards including Best Film. India recorded a historic achievement as Boong won Best Children’s and Family Film.

Key Highlights

• One Battle After Another emerged as the top winner with six awards, including:
  • Best Film
  • Best Director – Paul Thomas Anderson (first Best Director BAFTA win)
  • Adapted Screenplay – Paul Thomas Anderson
  • Supporting Actor – Sean Penn
  • Cinematography – Michael Bauman
  • Editing – Andy Jurgensen
• Sinners secured three awards:
  • Original Screenplay – Ryan Coogler
  • Supporting Actress – Wunmi Mosaku
  • Original Score – Ludwig Göransson
• Hamnet won two major awards:
  • Outstanding British Film
  • Leading Actress – Jessie Buckley
• Major Acting Awards:
  • Leading Actor – Robert Aramayo for I Swear**
  • Supporting Actor – Sean Penn
  • Supporting Actress – Wunmi Mosaku
  • EE Rising Star Award – Robert Aramayo
• India’s Historic Win:
  • Boong won Best Children’s and Family Film, marking a significant milestone for Indian cinema at the BAFTA Awards 2026.
• Other Major Category Winners:
  • Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer – My Father’s Shadow
  • Film Not in the English Language – Sentimental Value
  • Documentary – Mr. Nobody Against Putin
  • Animated Film – Zootropolis 2 also known as Zootopia 2
  • Casting – I Swear (Lauren Evans)
  • Costume Design – Frankenstein (Kate Hawley)
  • Make Up and Hair – Frankenstein
  • Production Design – Frankenstein
  • Sound – F1
  • Special Visual Effects – Avatar Fire and Ash
  • British Short Animation – Two Black Boys In Paradise
  • British Short Film – This Is Endometriosis
• Special Honours:
  • BAFTA Fellowship – Donna Langley
  • Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema – Clare Binns

About BAFTA

• The awards are presented annually by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts to honour excellence in British and international cinema.
• First held on 29 May 1949 in the United Kingdom.
• Officially known as the EE British Academy Film Awards since 2013.
• Broadcast by the BBC since 1956.

Our Lady of Grace Cathedral Wins UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award of Merit 2025

• The 475-year-old Our Lady of Grace Cathedral in Vasai, Maharashtra received the Award of Merit at the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2025.
• It became the only religious site from India to receive recognition in the 2025 edition of the awards.
• The announcement was made in Bangkok, Thailand, during the 25th anniversary ceremony of the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation.
• A total of 10 projects from six countries were recognised in 2025, namely China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal and Vanuatu.
• The awards are presented under four categories:
• Award of Distinction (Highest Honour)
• Award of Merit
• Award for New Design in Heritage Contexts
• Special Recognition for Sustainable Development
• The Award of Distinction (2025) was jointly conferred on:
• Sihang Warehouse Conservation Project (China)
• Iwami Ginzan Library Conservation Project (Japan)
• Nepal secured two Awards of Merit in the 2025 edition.
• A total of 90 entries from 16 countries were evaluated by a seven member international jury, marking the highest number of submissions in the award’s history.
• The recognition highlights India’s growing global presence in cultural heritage conservation and restoration efforts under international platforms.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Rob Jetten sworn in as youngest Prime Minister of the Netherlands

• Rob Jetten (Rob Arnoldus Andreas Jetten) was sworn in as the youngest-ever Prime Minister of the Netherlands at the age of 38, becoming the first openly gay head of government in Dutch history.
• He succeeded Dick Schoof, who had served as Prime Minister since 2024 and continued in a caretaker role after the government collapse in June 2025.
• The oath ceremony was administered by King Willem-Alexander at Huis ten Bosch Palace, located in The Hague.
• Rob Jetten leads a minority coalition government formed after the October 2025 general election.
• His party, Democrats 66 (D66), a centrist and pro-European party, performed strongly in the election, securing 26 seats.
• The coalition government includes the Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) and the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD).
• The coalition holds 66 out of 150 seats in the lower house of the Dutch Parliament (Tweede Kamer), requiring continuous support from opposition parties to pass legislation.
• His appointment marks a historic milestone in inclusive leadership and Dutch politics.

About Netherlands :

• Capital : Amsterdam
• Currency : Euro

Abhinav Bindra completes term on International Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission

• Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist, completed his eight-year tenure (2018–2026) as Vice-Chair of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission on February 23, 2026.
• He was succeeded by Humphrey Kayange (Kenya, rugby) as Second Vice-Chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.

About Abhinav Bindra :

• Abhinav Bindra won India’s first individual Olympic gold medal in Men’s 10-metre Air Rifle at the 2008 Summer Olympics held in Beijing, China.
• He became the first Indian to simultaneously hold both the World Championship title (2006) and the Olympic title in the same event.
• His major achievements include seven medals at the Commonwealth Games (CWG) and three medals at the Asian Games (AG).
• He received prestigious honours including the Arjuna Award (2000), Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (2002), and Padma Bhushan (2009) for his contribution to sports.
• He authored the book "A Shot at History", published in 2011 by HarperCollins India.
• He was elected as an IOC Member in 2018, elevated to Vice-Chair in 2024, and his current IOC membership term continues until 2028.

About IOC’s Athletes’ Commission:

• The IOC Athletes’ Commission, established in 1981, is chaired by Pau Gasol and includes Vice-Chairs Maja Włoszczowska, Humphrey Kayange, and Oluseyi Smith, along with 10 elected and 7 appointed

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

7th Edition of Joint Military Exercise 'Dharma Guardian' Begins in Chaubattia, Uttarakhand

• Dharma Guardian, the 7th edition of the India–Japan Joint Military Exercise, began at Chaubattia, Uttarakhand, from 24 February to 9 March 2026.
• The exercise strengthens defence cooperation between India and Japan, particularly in semi-urban warfare and tactical coordination.
• The exercise involves 120 personnel from each side, with Japan represented by the 32nd Infantry Regiment and India represented by the Ladakh Scouts.
• The exercise is conducted alternately in India and Japan and serves as a key pillar of bilateral defence cooperation.
• The main objective is to enhance interoperability, jointness, and synchronized tactical procedures for joint military operations in semi-urban environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
• Training modules focus on high physical fitness, joint operational planning, and modern combat tactical drills using advanced technology.
• Tactical activities include establishing Temporary Operating Bases, developing Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) grids, and setting up Mobile Vehicle Check Posts (VCPs).
• Specialized mission training includes cordon and search operations, heliborne missions, and house intervention drills in hostile environments.
• The exercise also focuses on physical conditioning and operational readiness in challenging terrains.
• Previous editions: 6th edition held at East Fuji Training Area, Japan (2025) and 5th edition at Rajasthan, India (2024).
• Exercise Dharma Guardian is an annual exercise between the Indian Army and the Japanese Ground Self Defence Force conducted in 2018.
• The exercise reflects a shared vision of a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific”, strengthening regional stability, security cooperation, and rules-based international order.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

Tata Consumer Products Limited acquires advanced food and nutrition technologies from CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology

• Tata Consumer Products Limited (TCPL) formalised the transfer of indigenously developed food and nutrition technologies from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) to promote national goals in health, nutrition, and food security.
• The collaboration highlights science-led innovation, industry–research partnership, and alignment with the Government of India’s priority to translate scientific research into real-world solutions.
• Under the agreement, CSIR-NIIST transferred two key technologies to TCPL for large-scale deployment and consumer applications.
• The first technology, “Smarter Rice”, is a nutritionally enhanced rice formulation with higher protein content, lower Glycaemic Index (GI), and improved micronutrient availability, while maintaining regular rice consumption patterns.
• The second technology, “Coffee Crema Technology”, enhances crema stability, texture, aroma retention, and overall sensory experience in brewed coffee, strengthening TCPL’s coffee portfolio.
• TCPL and CSIR-NIIST also signed a sponsored research agreement to develop Low-Sodium Salt Technology.
• The Low-Sodium Salt Innovation aims to reduce sodium intake without compromising taste, supporting India’s public health objectives and wellness-driven consumer trends.
• The initiative strengthens domestic innovation, scalable food technologies, and nutrition security, reinforcing India’s food and public-health ecosystem.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPS & PORTALS

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launches AI-integrated Teacher App 2.0 for education sector

• Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Education (MoE), launched Teacher App 2.0, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), in New Delhi, Delhi.
• The app was developed by Bharti Airtel Foundation in collaboration with CK-12 Foundation, a California-based global nonprofit organisation.
• The initiative aims to accelerate AI adoption in India’s K–12 (Kindergarten to Class 12) ecosystem, aligned with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and Viksit Bharat @2047.
• Teacher App 2.0 integrates 45+ AI-enabled tools for lesson planning, personalised learning, pedagogy, and classroom management.
• The platform provides 2,500+ hours of training modules, including Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN), and offers collaborative spaces like the Teachers’ Lounge.
• The app currently supports over two lakh educators across India as a free-for-life digital platform, helping enhance classroom teaching, reduce preparation time, and improve learning outcomes.
• The platform draws insights from Satya Bharti Schools and plans integration with Indian Large Language Models (LLMs) such as BharatGen and Sarvam, launched at the Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit 2026.
• Teacher App Version 1.0, launched in November 2024, was a one-stop platform for pedagogy guidance and lesson planning resources.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

North Atlantic Treaty Organization launches Arctic Sentry mission to enhance Arctic security and surveillance

• North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) launched the “Arctic Sentry” mission, to strengthen security, surveillance, and military coordination in the Arctic and High North.
• The mission aims to integrate ongoing operations of member nations into multi-domain defence operations covering land, sea, air, cyber, and intelligence surveillance domains, under the leadership of Joint Force Command Norfolk.
• The initiative comes amid geopolitical tensions following the Greenland strategic crisis and concerns raised by Donald Trump regarding Arctic strategic dominance and security interests.
• The Arctic Sentry mission strengthens collective defence capabilities, enhances maritime and aerial monitoring, and improves strategic preparedness in polar regions against rising Russian and Chinese activity.

About NATO :

• NATO is an intergovernmental military alliance formed to promote peace, collective defence, and security cooperation among member nations.
• NATO was established on 4 April 1949 through the signing of the North Atlantic Treaty, also known as the Washington Treaty.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

NIPER Raebareli Signs MoU with Boehringer Ingelheim India;

• The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Raebareli (Uttar Pradesh), including its Centre of Excellence for Novel Drug Delivery Systems, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Boehringer Ingelheim India Private Limited to strengthen pharmaceutical education, research collaboration and innovation.
• The objective of the MoU is to align academic curriculum with industry requirements, thereby improving employability and practical competencies of students in the pharmaceutical sector.
• The partnership will facilitate guest lectures, expert interactions, short term training programmes and workshops, enhancing hands-on learning and industry exposure.
• During the event, Cohort 2 of the Alliance for Medical Research, Innovation, Translation and Value Acceleration (AMRITVA) was launched to further promote research commercialization and innovation.
• Under AMRITVA Cohort 2, five innovators have been selected for grant support, including three faculty-led projects and two research scholar-led projects, to help translate research into market-ready solutions.
• The AMRITVA programme is implemented by the Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre IIT Kanpur, functioning under the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, in partnership with NIPER Raebareli.
• The initiative aims to strengthen India’s pharmaceutical innovation ecosystem, promote academia-industry collaboration and accelerate value-driven research translation.

India’s First Quantum and Artificial Intelligence University Campus to be Set Up in Amaravati

• The National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Andhra Pradesh on at the India Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit to establish India’s first dedicated Quantum and Artificial Intelligence University campus in Amaravati.
• The initiative aligns with Andhra Pradesh’s proposed Andhra Quantum Mission and aims to develop Amaravati as the nucleus of the Quantum Valley initiative, positioning the state as a global quantum innovation hub.
• The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in the presence of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Krishnan (Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology), Dr. M. M. Tripathi (Director General, NIELIT) and C. V. Sridhar (Mission Director, Amaravati Quantum Valley).
• The upcoming campus will function as a specialised Quantum and Artificial Intelligence focused university, anchored within NIELIT’s Deemed-to-be University framework, making it the first institution in India exclusively dedicated to Quantum and Artificial Intelligence domains.
• The campus will focus on frontier areas including Quantum Computing and Quantum Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Quantum Communication and Cybersecurity, Quantum Hardware and Systems Engineering, High Performance Computing, and Artificial Intelligence–Quantum Convergence Research.
• Academic and research integration at the campus will include Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Doctor of Philosophy programmes, advanced research laboratories, industry linked Centres of Excellence, deep technology incubation and entrepreneurship support, and global academic and research collaborations.
• The initiative is expected to strengthen India’s deep technology ecosystem, build next generation talent, and enhance national capabilities in quantum technologies and artificial intelligence, supporting India’s ambition to become a global leader in emerging technologies.
• NIELIT is an Autonomous Scientific Society under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, mandated to promote education, skilling, research and capacity building in Electronics and Information and Communication Technology domains.
• NIELIT has been granted Deemed-to-be University status by the Ministry of Education, with its main campus at Ropar (Punjab) and eleven constituent campuses across India, along with an extensive network of 56 centres, over 750 accredited institutes and more than 9,000 facilitation centres supporting digital skilling and certification nationwide.

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

NDMA Signs MoU with AcSIR and CSIR-NIScPR to Strengthen Disaster Management Research & Response

• The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) and the CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) to enhance collaborative efforts in Disaster Management Research and Response (DMRR).
• The agreement aims to strengthen research, capacity building, policy support and knowledge sharing to improve national disaster risk reduction mechanisms and build long term resilience.
• The MoU integrates science, technology and policy frameworks to enhance disaster preparedness, promote interdisciplinary academic research, and strengthen science communication related to disaster risks across India.
• As part of the collaboration, a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme will be launched by AcSIR at CSIR-NIScPR with institutional support from NDMA to promote specialised research in disaster management.
• The three institutions will undertake joint research projects, policy studies and structured capacity building programmes focused on disaster risk reduction and response systems.
• The partnership is expected to improve evidence based policy formulation, enhance institutional preparedness and strengthen India’s overall disaster resilience framework.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Delhi Open 2026: Stefanos Sakellaridis Clinches Maiden ATP Challenger Singles Title

• The Delhi Open 2026 concluded with an exciting finish as Greece’s Stefanos Sakellaridis won the men’s singles title after defeating Great Britain’s Oliver Crawford in a closely contested final.
• The 21-year-old secured his first singles title on the ATP Challenger Tour, marking a significant milestone in his professional career.

Key Highlights

• Stefanos Sakellaridis defeated Oliver Crawford with a scoreline of 7-5, 5-6, 7-6 in a thrilling three set final.
• The decisive set was decided through a tie break, where the Greek player demonstrated strong mental resilience.
• Sakellaridis won the final tie break 8-6 on his second match point, completing a determined comeback in the deciding set and lifting his maiden ATP Challenger singles trophy.
• In the doubles category, India’s Siddhant Banthia partnered with Bulgaria’s Alexander Donski to win the title.
• They defeated India’s Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha and Thailand’s Pruchya Isaro in the final.
• The Delhi Open has witnessed notable Indian achievements in previous editions. Saketh Myneni and Sanam Singh won the doubles title in 2015, while Yuki Bhambri and Mahesh Bhupathi emerged as doubles champions in 2016.
• Somdev Devvarman remains the only Indian to win the singles title at the Delhi Open, achieving back to back victories in 2014 and 2015.
• Since then, no Indian player has secured the singles crown.
• The Delhi Open forms part of the ATP Challenger Tour, which is the second highest tier of international men’s professional tennis after the ATP Tour.

Daily CA One- Liner: February 26

• The AI Impact Summit 2026 concluded in New Delhi with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact, endorsed by 89 countries and international organizations worldwide
• The Government of Jharkhand presented a ₹1.58 lakh crore Budget for the Financial Year 2026–27 in the State Assembly
• Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved a 20 per cent reservation for former Agniveers in Delhi Police constable (executive) posts
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the plenary session of the Knesset during his two-day official visit to Israel
• The Government of India launched a nationwide awareness campaign titled “Badhna Hai Toh Yahan Judna Hai” to expand participation in the Skill India Digital Hub
• The 79th British Academy Film Awards 2026 were held at the Royal Festival Hall in London
• The 475-year-old Our Lady of Grace Cathedral in Vasai, Maharashtra received the Award of Merit at the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2025
• The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Raebareli (Uttar Pradesh), including its Centre of Excellence for Novel Drug Delivery Systems, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Boehringer Ingelheim India Private Limited to strengthen pharmaceutical education, research collaboration and innovation
• The National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Andhra Pradesh on at the India Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit to establish India’s first dedicated Quantum and Artificial Intelligence University campus in Amaravati
• The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) and the CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) to enhance collaborative efforts in Disaster Management Research and Response
• The Delhi Open 2026 concluded with an exciting finish as Greece’s Stefanos Sakellaridis won the men’s singles title after defeating Great Britain’s Oliver Crawford in a closely contested final
• Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister of Finance (MoF), launched the second phase of the National Monetisation Pipeline called National Monetisation Pipeline 2.0 (NMP 2.0) in New Delhi.
• New India Co-operative Bank Limited., Mumbai,Maharashtra has been removed from the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, which lists scheduled banks in India, effective from February 2026.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released draft amendment directions across five regulatory frameworks covering commercial banks, small finance banks (SFBs), and All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs) regarding credit facilities, concentration risk management, and financial disclosure norms.
• The Reserve Bank of India issued revised guidelines on the Lead Bank Scheme (LBS), superseding earlier instructions to strengthen credit coordination and financial inclusion
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued draft amendment directions to standardize loan recovery practices and regulate the conduct of recovery agents across regulated financial entities.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued draft revised guidelines for Kisan Credit Card (KCC) to expand coverage, improve agricultural financing, and streamline loan operations.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued draft Responsible Business Conduct Amendment Directions, 2026 under Section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, to strengthen customer protection in financial product marketing and sales.
• Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, undertook a State Visit to India from 18–22 February 2026 at the invitation of Narendra Modi.
• Rob Jetten (Rob Arnoldus Andreas Jetten) was sworn in as the youngest-ever Prime Minister of the Netherlands at the age of 38, becoming the first openly gay head of government in Dutch history.
• Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist, completed his eight-year tenure (2018–2026) as Vice-Chair of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission on February 23, 2026.
• Dharma Guardian, the 7th edition of the India–Japan Joint Military Exercise, began at Chaubattia, Uttarakhand, from 24 February to 9 March 2026.
• Tata Consumer Products Limited (TCPL) formalised the transfer of indigenously developed food and nutrition technologies from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) to promote national goals in health, nutrition, and food security.
• Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Education (MoE), launched Teacher App 2.0, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), in New Delhi, Delhi.
• North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) launched the “Arctic Sentry” mission, to strengthen security, surveillance, and military coordination in the Arctic and High North.