Daily Current Affairs February 24

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February 24 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs February 24

1. Central Excise Day is observed every year on 24 February to commemorate which legislation?
A) Goods and Services Tax Act 2017
B) Customs Act 1962
C) Central Excise and Salt Act 1944
D) Finance Act 1991
E) Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002
Answer: C) Central Excise and Salt Act 1944

Event and Location:

  • Event: Celebration of Central Excise Day 2026 commemorating the enactment of the Central Excise law
  • Location: India
  • Date: 24 February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Observance of the day by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to recognize the implementation of the Central Excise Act, 1944, administer excise duty on select goods, and promote awareness regarding indirect tax compliance.
  • Objectives: To acknowledge the contribution of tax officers in revenue collection, promote transparency and integrity in tax administration, and highlight the evolution of India’s indirect taxation system in the GST era.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Central Excise Act, 1944: A legislation enacted on 24 February 1944 (originally as the Central Excise and Salt Act) that consolidated 11 different excise laws and provided a structured framework for levy and collection of excise duty in India.
  • Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC): A statutory body under the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, responsible for administering customs, central excise, CGST, and IGST and preventing smuggling.
  • Central Excise Duty: An indirect tax levied on goods manufactured within India, currently applicable mainly to petroleum products, tobacco products, and certain specified items after the introduction of GST.
  • Goods and Services Tax (GST): A comprehensive indirect tax introduced in 2017 that subsumed multiple indirect taxes into a unified tax structure including CGST, SGST, and IGST.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Central Excise Day 2026
Announcement date 24 February 2026
Location India
Issuing authority Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
Policy/series name Central Excise Act 1944
Key figures Officers of CBIC
Purpose/reason To commemorate the enactment of the Central Excise law and recognize tax administration efforts
Feature details Awareness programmes, seminars, workshops, and recognition of officers
Validity or status Observed annually on 24 February
Strategic/significant value Highlights the historical foundation of India’s indirect tax system and its transition into the GST regime

Sports – Daily Current Affairs February 24

2. Who won the men’s singles title at the Delhi Open 2026?
A) Oliver Crawford
B) Siddhant Banthia
C) Stefanos Sakellaridis
D) Alexander Donski
E) Somdev Devvarman
Answer: C) Stefanos Sakellaridis

Event and Location:

  • Event: Stefanos Sakellaridis wins men’s singles title at Delhi Open 2026
  • Location: New Delhi, India
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: आयोजन of the Delhi Open 2026 under the ATP Challenger Tour, featuring singles and doubles competitions for international professional tennis players.
  • Objectives: To provide ranking opportunities for emerging players, promote competitive tennis in India, and strengthen Delhi’s position on the international tennis calendar.

Important Terms Explained:

  • ATP Challenger Tour: The second-tier international men’s professional tennis circuit below the ATP Tour, allowing players to earn ranking points and progress to higher-level tournaments.
  • Maiden Title: The first professional title won by a player in a particular category or tournament level.
  • Tie-Break: A special game played at 6-6 in a set to decide the winner, usually played to 7 points (with a 2-point margin).
  • Delhi Open: An international professional tennis tournament held in New Delhi as part of the ATP Challenger circuit.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Delhi Open 2026
Announcement date February 2026
Location New Delhi, India
Issuing authority ATP Challenger Tour
Policy/series name ATP Challenger Tour Tournament
Key figures Stefanos Sakellaridis, Oliver Crawford
Purpose/reason To provide ranking points and competitive exposure to emerging players
Feature details Sakellaridis won singles 7-5, 5-6, 7-6; Banthia & Donski won doubles
Validity or status Completed tournament
Strategic/significant value Boosts global ranking for winner and strengthens India’s tennis profile

Ranking – Daily Current Affairs February 24

3. According to OAG data, what rank did Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport achieve among Asia Pacific airports in 2025?
A) 3rd
B) 4th
C) 5th
D) 6th
E) 9th
Answer: C) 5th

Event and Location:

  • Event: Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport ranked 5th busiest in the Asia Pacific region
  • Location: New Delhi, India
  • Date: 2025 (as per latest OAG data release)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Publication of airport traffic rankings by OAG (Official Airline Guide) based on one-way departing seat capacity across Asia Pacific airports.
  • Objectives: To assess and compare airline seat capacity across major airports, track aviation growth trends, and reflect structural changes in regional air connectivity and demand.

Important Terms Explained:

  • OAG (Official Airline Guide): A global travel data provider that publishes aviation analytics, including airport rankings based on scheduled airline seat capacity.
  • One-Way Departing Seat Capacity: A measurement of total scheduled airline seats departing from an airport, used to assess traffic volume and connectivity strength.
  • Asia Pacific (Apac) Region: A geographical region covering East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania, representing one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally.
  • Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA): The primary international airport serving New Delhi, ranked 5th busiest in Apac in 2025 with 46.18 million departing seats.
  • IndiGo: India’s largest airline by market share, operating a low-cost carrier model and significantly contributing to seat capacity growth at Delhi Airport.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Delhi Airport ranked 5th busiest in Apac 2025
Announcement date 2025
Location New Delhi, India
Issuing authority OAG (Official Airline Guide)
Policy/series name Apac Airport Seat Capacity Rankings
Key figures 46.18 million departing seats
Purpose/reason To measure and compare airport traffic based on scheduled seat capacity
Feature details Jump from 9th in 2019 to 5th in 2025; overtook Singapore, Bangkok, and Seoul airports
Validity or status Based on 2025 scheduled airline data
Strategic/significant value Highlights India’s aviation growth and rising domestic air travel demand

4. Which state ranked as the richest state in India by GSDP in FY 2025 (at current prices)?
A) Tamil Nadu
B) Uttar Pradesh
C) Karnataka
D) Maharashtra
E) West Bengal
Answer: D) Maharashtra

Event and Location:

  • Event: Release of rankings for India’s richest and poorest States & UTs by Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) for FY 2025
  • Location: India
  • Date: FY 2024–25 (Estimates released in 2026)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Compilation and publication of state-wise economic output data based on GSDP at current prices, reflecting the total economic production of States and Union Territories.
  • Objectives: To assess state-level economic performance, compare regional economic strength, and evaluate contributions to India’s overall GDP growth projected at 7.4% in FY 2024–25.

Top 10 Richest States/UTs by GSDP – FY 2025

Rank State / UT GSDP (₹ Lakh Crore) Key Economic Drivers
1 Maharashtra 45.32 Finance, Manufacturing, Services
2 Tamil Nadu 31.19 Automobiles, Manufacturing, IT
3 Uttar Pradesh 29.78 Infrastructure, Agriculture, Industry
4 Karnataka 28.84 IT, Startups, Biotechnology
5 West Bengal 18.15 Agriculture, Manufacturing, Trade
6 Rajasthan 17.04 Mining, Tourism, Renewable Energy
7 Telangana 16.41 IT, Pharma, Services
8 Andhra Pradesh 15.93 Agriculture, Ports, Industry
9 Madhya Pradesh 15.03 Agriculture, Manufacturing
10 Delhi 12.15 Services, Trade, Administration

States & UTs with the Smallest GSDP – FY 2025

Rank (Lowest) State / UT GSDP (₹ Crore)
1 Arunachal Pradesh 4,423
2 Tripura 8,968
3 Himachal Pradesh 23,169
4 Jammu and Kashmir 26,246
5 Uttarakhand 37,824
6 Jharkhand 51,626
7 Chhattisgarh 56,788
8 Assam 64,367
9 Punjab 83,864
10 Odisha 89,004

Important Terms Explained:

  • Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP): The total monetary value of all goods and services produced within a state or Union Territory during a financial year, measured at current or constant prices.
  • Gross Domestic Product (GDP): The total economic output of a country, representing the aggregate of goods and services produced within national boundaries.
  • Current Prices: Economic data calculated using prevailing market prices during the year of measurement, without adjusting for inflation.
  • Real GDP Growth: The growth rate of GDP adjusted for inflation, indicating actual increase in economic output.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Ranking of Richest and Poorest States/UTs by GSDP FY 2025
Announcement date FY 2024–25 Estimates (Released 2026)
Location India
Issuing authority Official state economic estimates
Policy/series name GSDP at Current Prices FY 2025
Key figures Maharashtra ₹45.32 lakh crore; Real GDP growth 7.4%
Purpose/reason To measure state-level economic output and compare regional performance
Feature details Top 10 richest and lowest GSDP states/UTs listed
Validity or status FY 2025 provisional/official estimates
Strategic/significant value Reflects regional economic disparities and India’s strong growth trajectory

5. According to CREA data, which position did India hold among buyers of Russian fossil fuels in January 2026?
A) First
B) Second
C) Third
D) Fourth
E) Fifth
Answer: B) Second

Event and Location:

  • Event: India remains the second-largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels in January 2026
  • Location: India (Global energy trade context)
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Analysis and reporting of fossil fuel import data by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) highlighting India’s purchases of Russian crude oil, coal, and oil products.
  • Objectives: To assess global energy trade patterns, evaluate the impact of sanctions and EU price caps, and understand India’s evolving energy strategy amid geopolitical developments.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA): An independent research organization that tracks global fossil fuel trade flows, emissions, and the impact of sanctions on energy markets.
  • Urals Crude: A major Russian crude oil blend exported globally, widely purchased by India and China due to discounted pricing.
  • OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control): A U.S. Treasury Department agency responsible for enforcing economic and trade sanctions, including those affecting Russian energy companies like Rosneft.
  • EU-UK Price Cap: A coordinated price ceiling mechanism set by the European Union and the United Kingdom to limit the price of Russian oil exports, aimed at restricting Russia’s revenue.
  • Barrels Per Day (bpd): A standard unit of measurement in the oil industry indicating the volume of oil produced or imported daily.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India remains 2nd largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels
Announcement date January 2026 data release
Location Global energy trade context
Issuing authority Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air
Policy/series name Russian Fossil Fuel Trade Monitoring
Key figures €2.2 billion ($2.59 billion); 1.2 million bpd imports
Purpose/reason Assess impact of sanctions and global trade shifts
Feature details 78% crude oil share; decline since November; China largest buyer
Validity or status January 2026 trade data
Strategic/significant value Reflects India’s energy security strategy amid sanctions

Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs February 24

6. According to the SBI report, what is the projected GDP growth rate for India in Q3FY26?
A) 6.8%
B) 7.4%
C) 7.8%
D) 8.1%
E) 8.5%
Answer: D) 8.1%

Event and Location:

  • Event: SBI report projects India’s GDP growth at 8.1% for Q3FY26
  • Location: India
  • Date: February 2026 (Q3FY26 Projection)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Publication of an economic assessment report by State Bank of India (SBI) projecting GDP growth trends for FY26, incorporating high-frequency indicators and revised statistical base years.
  • Objectives: To evaluate India’s economic momentum, assess domestic demand trends, and analyse the impact of revised GDP and CPI base years on growth and inflation estimates.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Gross Domestic Product (GDP): The total monetary value of goods and services produced within a country during a specific period, used as a key indicator of economic performance.
  • Q3FY26: Refers to the third quarter of Financial Year 2025–26 (October–December 2025).
  • GDP Base Year (2022–23): The revised reference year used for calculating real GDP, reflecting updated economic structure, digital economy growth, and sectoral changes.
  • Consumer Price Index (CPI) Base Year (2024): The updated reference year for measuring inflation, incorporating a revised consumption basket for more accurate price tracking.
  • High-Frequency Indicators: Short-term economic data such as industrial output, GST collections, and purchasing activity used to estimate near-term economic growth trends.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name SBI projects India’s GDP at 8.1% in Q3FY26
Announcement date February 2026
Location India
Issuing authority State Bank of India
Policy/series name FY26 GDP Projection Report
Key figures Q3FY26 GDP 8.1%; FY26 estimate 7.4%
Purpose/reason To assess economic growth momentum amid global uncertainties
Feature details Strong domestic demand, rural resilience, urban consumption recovery
Validity or status Projection based on high-frequency indicators
Strategic/significant value Indicates strong economic resilience and internal demand-driven growth

Appointments – Daily Current Affairs February 24

7. Rob Jetten, who became the youngest Prime Minister of the Netherlands in 2026, belongs to which political party?
A) VVD
B) CDA
C) Democrats 66
D) Labour Party
E) Party for Freedom
Answer: C) Democrats 66

Event and Location:

  • Event: Rob Jetten sworn in as the youngest and first openly gay Prime Minister of the Netherlands
  • Location: The Hague, Netherlands
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Formation of a minority coalition government led by the Democrats 66 (D66) party along with VVD and CDA, requiring parliamentary negotiations to pass legislation in the 150-seat House of Representatives.
  • Objectives: To provide stable governance through coalition-building, address key policy areas including defence spending, asylum policy, healthcare reforms, and economic restructuring, and represent progressive leadership at the national and international level.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Democrats 66 (D66): A centrist and pro-European political party in the Netherlands known for its progressive and reform-oriented policies.
  • Minority Government: A government formed by a party or coalition that does not hold a majority of seats in the legislature and must rely on support from opposition parties to pass laws.
  • House of Representatives (Netherlands): The lower house of the Dutch Parliament consisting of 150 seats, responsible for legislative approval and government accountability.
  • Same-Sex Marriage Legalisation (2001): The Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage in 2001, marking a landmark moment in LGBTQ+ rights globally.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Rob Jetten sworn in as Prime Minister of the Netherlands
Announcement date February 2026
Location The Hague, Netherlands
Issuing authority Government of the Netherlands
Policy/series name Minority coalition government formation
Key figures Rob Jetten, Geert Wilders
Purpose/reason Formation of a new government after a closely contested election
Feature details Youngest PM at 38 and first openly gay Prime Minister
Validity or status Serving Prime Minister leading a minority coalition
Strategic/significant value Symbolic milestone for LGBTQ+ representation and generational political shift

8. Who has taken additional charge as the Chief Executive Officer of NITI Aayog in February 2026?
A) BVR Subrahmanyam
B) Amitabh Kant
C) Nidhi Chhibber
D) Rajiv Kumar
E) Arvind Panagariya
Answer: C) Nidhi Chhibber

Event and Location:

  • Event: Nidhi Chhibber takes additional charge as CEO of NITI Aayog after completion of BVR Subrahmanyam’s tenure
  • Location: New Delhi, India
  • Date: 24 February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Appointment of Nidhi Chhibber, a 1994-batch IAS officer, as additional Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog, following the completion of BVR Subrahmanyam’s three-year tenure.
  • Objectives: To ensure continuity in policy formulation, monitoring and evaluation of flagship government schemes, strengthen cooperative federalism, and enhance data-driven governance under the leadership transition in 2026.

Important Terms Explained:

  • NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India): The Government of India’s premier policy think tank established on 1 January 2015 to replace the Planning Commission, focusing on strategic policy planning and cooperative federalism.
  • Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office (DMEO): A unit under NITI Aayog responsible for monitoring and evaluating government programmes through data-driven impact assessment and evidence-based analysis.
  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog: The executive head responsible for operational management, policy coordination, and implementation oversight within NITI Aayog.
  • Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE): A national-level board of education in India responsible for conducting examinations and regulating affiliated schools.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Nidhi Chhibber takes additional charge as NITI Aayog CEO
Announcement date 24 February 2026
Location New Delhi, India
Issuing authority Government of India
Policy/series name Leadership transition at NITI Aayog
Key figures Nidhi Chhibber, BVR Subrahmanyam
Purpose/reason Completion of three-year tenure of previous CEO
Feature details 1994-batch IAS officer; currently DG of DMEO; former CBSE Chairperson
Validity or status Additional charge assumed
Strategic/significant value Ensures continuity in monitoring, evaluation, and policy coordination

Awards – Daily Current Affairs February 24

9. Which Indian film won the Best Children’s and Family Film award at the BAFTA Awards 2026?
A) Lilo & Stitch
B) Zootopia 2
C) Arco
D) Boong
E) The Elephant Whisperers
Answer: D) Boong

Event and Location:

  • Event: Manipuri film Boong wins Best Children’s and Family Film at the BAFTA Awards 2026
  • Location: London, United Kingdom
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Recognition of excellence in global cinema at the 79th British Academy Film Awards, where the Manipuri-language film Boong, directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, was awarded in the Best Children’s and Family Film category.
  • Objectives: To honour outstanding achievements in film and promote international storytelling, with Boong’s victory highlighting regional Indian cinema on a global platform.

Important Terms Explained:

  • BAFTA Awards: Annual film and television awards presented by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), considered the UK’s equivalent of the Oscars and among the most prestigious global film honours.
  • Best Children’s and Family Film Category: A BAFTA award category that recognises films made specifically for children and family audiences, focusing on storytelling, creativity, and cultural impact.
  • Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF): A major international film festival held annually in Toronto, Canada, where films from across the world premiere and compete in various sections including Discovery.
  • International Film Festival of India (IFFI): India’s premier international film festival, organised annually by the Government of India to showcase global cinema.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name BAFTA Awards 2026 – Best Children’s and Family Film
Announcement date February 2026
Location London, United Kingdom
Issuing authority British Academy of Film and Television Arts
Policy/series name BAFTA Awards (79th Edition)
Key figures Lakshmipriya Devi, Farhan Akhtar, Ritesh Sidhwani
Purpose/reason To recognise excellence in children’s and family cinema globally
Feature details Manipuri-language debut film competing against international titles
Validity or status First-ever Indian winner in this category
Strategic/significant value Enhances global recognition of regional Indian cinema

Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs February 24

10. Tirumala temple is deploying which technologies at its new ₹25-crore food testing lab to detect adulteration in prasadam ingredients?
A) DNA Sequencing and PCR
B) E-Nose and E-Tongue
C) Blockchain and RFID
D) Spectroscopy and X-Ray
E) IoT and GPS Tracking
Answer: B) E-Nose and E-Tongue

Event and Location:

  • Event: Deployment of E-Nose and E-Tongue technologies at Tirumala temple’s new food testing laboratory
  • Location: Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, India
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Installation of AI-driven sensor-based food analysis systems at a ₹25-crore laboratory to monitor the quality of prasadam and ingredients such as ghee, dry fruits, and spices under the supervision of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
  • Objectives: To detect adulteration, ensure food safety, restore public trust after the 2024 ghee controversy, and strengthen quality monitoring through rapid and non-destructive testing methods.

Important Terms Explained:

  • E-Nose (Electronic Nose): A sensor-based device that detects volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by food and uses AI-based pattern recognition to identify spoilage, contamination, or adulteration through odour fingerprints.
  • E-Tongue (Electronic Tongue): A multisensor electrochemical system that analyses dissolved chemical components in liquids to evaluate taste profiles such as sweet, salty, sour, and bitter using machine-learning models.
  • Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): India’s apex food regulatory body responsible for setting food safety standards, regulating food businesses, and ensuring safe food consumption.
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Chemical compounds that easily vaporize and contribute to the aroma profile of food, often used as indicators of freshness or spoilage.
  • Prasadam: Sanctified food offered to devotees in Hindu temples, prepared under regulated quality and ritual standards.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Deployment of E-Nose and E-Tongue at Tirumala Temple
Announcement date February 2026
Location Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh
Issuing authority Tirumala Temple Administration with FSSAI backing
Policy/series name ₹25-crore Food Testing Laboratory Initiative
Key figures N Chandrababu Naidu
Purpose/reason To prevent adulteration in ghee and prasadam ingredients
Feature details AI-driven sensor analysis, rapid screening, non-destructive testing
Validity or status Approved and set for deployment
Strategic/significant value Enhances food safety, transparency, and public trust in temple offerings

Defence – Daily Current Affairs February 24

11. INS Anjadip, commissioned on February 27, 2026, is part of which Indian Navy project?
A) Project 75 Scorpene
B) Aircraft Carrier Programme
C) ASW Shallow Water Craft Project
D) Project Nilgiri Frigates
E) Indigenous Destroyer Programme
Answer: C) ASW Shallow Water Craft Project

Event and Location:

  • Event: Commissioning of INS Anjadip, third vessel under the ASW-SWC project
  • Location: Chennai Port, Tamil Nadu, India
  • Date: 27 February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Induction of INS Anjadip into the Indian Navy to enhance Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capabilities in coastal and shallow waters under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
  • Objectives: To strengthen maritime security in littoral regions, improve submarine detection and neutralization capability, promote indigenous defense manufacturing, and boost coastal defense under the Eastern Naval Command.

Important Terms Explained:

  • INS Anjadip: The third vessel of the eight-ship Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) project, designed for operations in shallow and coastal waters.
  • ASW-SWC (Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft): A naval project aimed at building specialized warships capable of detecting and neutralizing submarines in littoral waters.
  • Aatmanirbhar Bharat: A Government of India initiative promoting self-reliance and indigenous manufacturing across sectors, including defense production.
  • Hull Mounted Sonar Abhay: An indigenous sonar system installed on naval ships to detect underwater threats, especially submarines.
  • Littoral Waters: Coastal and shallow maritime zones that are strategically important but challenging for submarine detection due to complex seabed and traffic conditions.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Commissioning of INS Anjadip
Announcement date 27 February 2026
Location Chennai Port, Tamil Nadu
Issuing authority Indian Navy
Policy/series name ASW Shallow Water Craft Project
Key figures Dinesh K Tripathi
Purpose/reason Strengthen Anti-Submarine Warfare in littoral waters
Feature details 77 metres long, 25 knots speed, Hull Mounted Sonar Abhay, torpedoes, ASW rockets
Validity or status Third vessel commissioned under eight-ship project
Strategic/significant value Enhances coastal security and promotes indigenous defense manufacturing

International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs February 24

12. India recently removed the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) clause from its tax treaty with which country?
A) Germany
B) United Kingdom
C) United States
D) France
E) Australia
Answer: D) France

Event and Location:

  • Event: Removal of the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) clause from the India–France tax treaty
  • Location: India and France
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Revision of the India–France Double Taxation Avoidance Convention (DTAC) to remove the MFN clause, revise dividend taxation and capital gains rules, and incorporate BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) provisions.
  • Objectives: To reduce tax disputes, prevent automatic extension of treaty benefits, protect India’s taxation rights, and enhance transparency and clarity in cross-border taxation between India and France.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Most Favoured Nation (MFN) Clause: A treaty provision that allowed France to automatically claim any lower tax rate or benefit that India granted to another country in a future tax treaty without separate negotiations.
  • Double Taxation Avoidance Convention (DTAC): A bilateral agreement between two countries to prevent the same income from being taxed twice and to define taxing rights between jurisdictions.
  • Capital Gains Taxation Rule (Revised): Under the updated treaty, capital gains arising from the sale of shares will be taxed in the country where the company is located, giving India full taxing rights over gains from Indian company shares.
  • BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting): A global framework developed by the OECD to prevent multinational companies from shifting profits to low-tax jurisdictions and eroding the tax base of countries.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Removal of MFN clause from India–France Tax Treaty
Announcement date February 2026
Location India and France
Issuing authority Governments of India and France
Policy/series name India–France Double Taxation Avoidance Convention
Key figures Narendra Modi, Emmanuel Macron
Purpose/reason To remove automatic treaty benefits and reduce tax disputes
Feature details Revised dividend tax rules, capital gains taxed at source country, inclusion of BEPS provisions
Validity or status To take effect after ratification by both countries
Strategic/significant value Strengthens India’s taxation rights and enhances clarity in cross-border taxation

13. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will become the first Indian Prime Minister to address which of the following in February 2026?
A) United Nations General Assembly
B) U.S. Congress
C) European Parliament
D) Israeli Knesset Plenum
E) Arab League Summit
Answer: D) Israeli Knesset Plenum

Event and Location:

  • Event: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the Knesset Plenum during his Israel visit
  • Location: Jerusalem, Israel
  • Date: 25 February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Official two-day visit of the Prime Minister of India to Israel, including a historic address to the Knesset, and bilateral meetings with Israeli leadership.
  • Objectives: To strengthen India–Israel strategic partnership, expand cooperation in defence, security, innovation, agriculture, and regional stability, and reinforce diplomatic engagement between the two democracies.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Knesset: The unicameral parliament of Israel consisting of 120 members, responsible for legislation, government formation, and national policymaking.
  • Knesset Plenum: The formal full session of the Knesset where debates, speeches, and legislative voting take place, and where visiting world leaders may deliver addresses.
  • India–Israel Strategic Partnership: A bilateral relationship formally elevated in 2017, focusing on defence cooperation, technology transfer, agriculture, water management, and trade.
  • Unicameral Legislature: A legislative body with a single chamber, unlike bicameral systems that have two houses.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name PM Modi addresses Israeli Knesset
Announcement date 25 February 2026
Location Jerusalem, Israel
Issuing authority Government of Israel & Government of India
Policy/series name India–Israel Strategic Engagement
Key figures Narendra Modi, Benjamin Netanyahu, Isaac Herzog
Purpose/reason Strengthen bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership
Feature details First Indian PM to address Knesset Plenum; high-level bilateral talks
Validity or status Official state visit
Strategic/significant value Symbolic milestone in India–Israel diplomatic relations

Schemes – Daily Current Affairs February 24

14. What is the primary objective of Rajasthan’s Homestay Scheme 2026?
A) Promote luxury hotel chains in metro cities
B) Encourage foreign direct investment in tourism
C) Boost rural tourism and community-based income
D) Privatise state tourism properties
E) Introduce online-only tourism services
Answer: C) Boost rural tourism and community-based income

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of the Rajasthan Homestay Scheme 2026 to promote rural and community-based tourism
  • Location: Rajasthan, India
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Implementation of the Rajasthan Homestay Scheme 2026, allowing homeowners to convert part of their residences into registered tourist accommodations through a simplified online process with defined quality standards and training support.
  • Objectives: To promote rural tourism, create self-employment opportunities, increase tourist stay duration, preserve traditional culture, and ensure inclusive and sustainable tourism development across villages and heritage towns of Rajasthan.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Rajasthan Homestay Scheme 2026: A state government tourism initiative enabling local families to legally host domestic and international tourists in their homes, promoting affordable stays and cultural exchange.
  • Community-Based Tourism: A tourism model where local communities directly participate in and benefit economically from tourism activities while preserving cultural and environmental resources.
  • Rural Tourism: Tourism activities conducted in villages and non-urban areas, focusing on local traditions, crafts, heritage, and lifestyle experiences.
  • Sustainable Tourism: A form of tourism that minimizes environmental impact, supports local communities, and ensures long-term economic and cultural benefits.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Rajasthan Homestay Scheme 2026
Announcement date February 2026
Location Rajasthan, India
Issuing authority Government of Rajasthan
Policy/series name Homestay Scheme 2026
Key figures Rajasthan State Government
Purpose/reason To promote rural tourism and generate income for local families
Feature details Online registration, hygiene standards, hospitality training, promotional support
Validity or status Newly launched state tourism initiative
Strategic/significant value Strengthens community-based tourism and ensures inclusive growth in rural areas

15. What percentage of reservation has been approved for former Agniveers in Delhi Police constable posts?
A) 10%
B) 15%
C) 20%
D) 25%
E) 30%
Answer: C) 20%

Event and Location:

  • Event: Approval of 20% reservation for ex-Agniveers in Delhi Police constable (executive) posts
  • Location: Delhi, India
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Amendment of the Delhi Police (Appointment and Recruitment) Rules, 1980 to provide 20% quota for former Agniveers, age relaxation up to five years for the first batch, and exemption from the Physical Efficiency Test (PET).
  • Objectives: To facilitate smooth transition of ex-Agniveers into civilian law enforcement, strengthen Delhi Police with trained and disciplined personnel, and provide structured post-service employment opportunities under the Agniveer framework.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Agniveer Scheme: A recruitment model launched in 2022 under the Agnipath Scheme, allowing youth aged 17.5 to 21 years to serve in the armed forces for four years, with only a portion retained for permanent service.
  • Delhi Police (Appointment and Recruitment) Rules, 1980: The legal framework governing recruitment, eligibility, and appointment procedures for Delhi Police personnel.
  • Physical Efficiency Test (PET): A mandatory physical fitness test conducted during police recruitment to assess endurance, speed, and physical capability of candidates.
  • Constable (Executive): A frontline police personnel category responsible for law enforcement, patrolling, crime prevention, and maintaining public order.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name 20% Quota for Ex-Agniveers in Delhi Police
Announcement date February 2026
Location Delhi, India
Issuing authority Lieutenant Governor of Delhi
Policy/series name Amendment to Delhi Police Recruitment Rules 1980
Key figures Vinai Kumar Saxena
Purpose/reason Provide employment continuity for former Agniveers
Feature details 20% quota, 3-year age relaxation, 5-year relaxation for first batch, PET exemption
Validity or status Approved amendment
Strategic/significant value Strengthens law enforcement with trained military personnel

16. The Vanjeevi Didi Initiative (VDI), launched at Palamu Tiger Reserve, aims to empower rural women for which purpose?
A) Promote urban tourism
B) Expand mining activities
C) Strengthen forest and wildlife protection
D) Increase industrial plantations
E) Develop smart city infrastructure
Answer: C) Strengthen forest and wildlife protection

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Vanjeevi Didi Initiative (VDI) for community-based wildlife conservation
  • Location: Palamu Tiger Reserve, Jharkhand, India
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Implementation of the Vanjeevi Didi Initiative by the Jharkhand Forest Department across 17 forest-fringe villages, forming a 306-member women-led conservation network with a monthly honorarium of ₹3,000.
  • Objectives: To prevent poaching and illegal timber felling, reduce habitat destruction, promote eco-friendly livelihoods, strengthen forest surveillance, and enhance grassroots environmental governance.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Vanjeevi Didi Initiative (VDI): A community-based conservation programme empowering rural women to act as forest protectors and environmental ambassadors in Palamu Tiger Reserve.
  • Palamu Tiger Reserve: A tiger reserve in Jharkhand established under Project Tiger in 1974, known for its dry deciduous forests and diverse wildlife.
  • Project Tiger: A centrally sponsored scheme launched in 1973 to conserve India’s tiger population and protect critical habitats.
  • Forest-Fringe Villages: Villages located on the boundary of forest areas, whose residents directly interact with forest ecosystems.
  • Community-Based Conservation: A conservation model where local communities actively participate in protecting biodiversity and natural resources.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Vanjeevi Didi Initiative
Announcement date February 2026
Location Palamu Tiger Reserve, Jharkhand
Issuing authority Jharkhand Forest Department
Policy/series name Community-Based Wildlife Conservation Programme
Key figures 306 rural women from 17 villages
Purpose/reason Prevent poaching and habitat loss
Feature details ₹3,000 monthly honorarium; forest surveillance and eco-livelihood promotion
Validity or status Pilot programme launched
Strategic/significant value Strengthens grassroots conservation and tiger habitat protection

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs February 24

17. Which ministry has launched Mobile Quality Control Vans to monitor National Highway standards?
A) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
B) Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
C) Ministry of Heavy Industries
D) Ministry of Railways
E) Ministry of Rural Development
Answer: B) Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Mobile Quality Control Vans (MQCVs) to monitor National Highway construction quality
  • Location: Pilot states – Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Odisha, India
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Deployment of Mobile Quality Control Vans equipped with non-destructive testing tools to conduct on-site inspections of National Highway projects, along with development of a National Highway Quality Monitoring Portal featuring real-time GPS tracking.
  • Objectives: To improve highway construction quality, ensure durability and safety standards, enhance transparency in inspections, enable quick corrective actions, and strengthen accountability through digital monitoring systems.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Mobile Quality Control Vans (MQCVs): On-the-move laboratories equipped with advanced non-destructive testing equipment used to assess road strength and construction quality without damaging the structure.
  • Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): A scientific method used to evaluate the properties and integrity of materials or structures without causing damage, ensuring accurate and safe quality assessment.
  • National Highway Quality Monitoring Portal: A digital platform being developed to upload inspection reports, track MQCV movements via GPS, and monitor quality checks in real time for improved transparency.
  • Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Meter: A device used to measure the quality and uniformity of concrete by assessing the speed of ultrasonic waves passing through it.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Mobile Quality Control Vans for National Highways
Announcement date February 2026
Location Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, Odisha
Issuing authority Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
Policy/series name National Highway Quality Monitoring Initiative
Key figures Nitin Gadkari
Purpose/reason To ensure quality, safety, and durability of highway construction
Feature details NDT tools, GPS tracking, real-time monitoring portal
Validity or status Pilot phase underway
Strategic/significant value Strengthens transparency and scientific quality assurance in infrastructure projects

18. What is the total outlay of the Jharkhand Budget for FY 2026-27 presented in the State Assembly?
A) ₹1.45 lakh crore
B) ₹1.52 lakh crore
C) ₹1.58 lakh crore
D) ₹1.63 lakh crore
E) ₹1.70 lakh crore
Answer: C) ₹1.58 lakh crore

Event and Location:

  • Event: Presentation of Jharkhand Budget 2026-27 (‘Abua Dishom Budget’) in the State Assembly
  • Location: Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
  • Date: 24 February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Tabling of a ₹1.58 lakh crore state budget for FY 2026-27 by Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore in the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly.
  • Objectives: To support poor families, farmers, tribal communities, and women through increased public expenditure, strengthen social welfare schemes, promote rural and infrastructure development, and ensure inclusive economic growth.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Abua Dishom Budget: The official name given to the Jharkhand Budget 2026-27, where “Abua Dishom” means “Our Land” in the local tribal dialect, symbolising regional identity and tribal welfare focus.
  • State Budget: An annual financial statement presented by a state government outlining estimated revenue and expenditure for the upcoming financial year.
  • Financial Year (FY 2026-27): The fiscal period from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027.
    Budget Outlay: The total planned expenditure proposed by the government for a financial year.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Jharkhand Budget 2026-27
Announcement date 24 February 2026
Location Ranchi, Jharkhand
Issuing authority Government of Jharkhand
Policy/series name Abua Dishom Budget
Key figures ₹1.58 lakh crore total outlay
Purpose/reason Inclusive development for poor, farmers, tribals and women
Feature details ₹13,000 crore increase over FY 2025-26
Validity or status Budget for FY 2026-27
Strategic/significant value Expands public expenditure and emphasizes tribal-focused development


Over All Review

Important Days

  • Central Excise Day 2026 is observed on 24 February to commemorate the enactment of the Central Excise and Salt Act, 1944.

Sports 

  • Stefanos Sakellaridis won the Delhi Open 2026 men’s singles title after defeating Oliver Crawford.

Ranking 

  • Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport ranked 5th busiest in the Asia Pacific region in 2025.
  • Maharashtra ranked as India’s richest state by GSDP in FY 2025 with ₹45.32 lakh crore.
  • India imported €2.2 billion worth of Russian fossil fuels in January 2026.

Business And Economy

  • India’s GDP growth is projected at 8.1% for Q3FY26 according to an SBI report.

Appointments

  • Rob Jetten became the youngest Prime Minister in Dutch history at the age of 38.
  • Nidhi Chhibber assumed additional charge as CEO of NITI Aayog on 24 February 2026.

Awards 

  • Boong became the first Indian film to win the Best Children’s and Family Film award at the BAFTA Awards 2026.

Science and Technology

  • Tirumala temple will deploy E-Nose and E-Tongue technologies at a new ₹25-crore food testing laboratory.

Defence

  • INS Anjadip will be commissioned on 27 February 2026 at Chennai Port.

International Affairs

  • India removed the Most Favoured Nation clause from its tax treaty with France in February 2026.
  • Narendra Modi will become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset plenum on 25 February 2026.

Schemes

  • The Rajasthan government launched the Rajasthan Homestay Scheme 2026 to promote rural tourism across the state.
  • Delhi has approved a 20% reservation for former Agniveers in constable (executive) posts.
  • Palamu Tiger Reserve launched the Vanjeevi Didi Initiative to empower rural women in wildlife protection.

National Affairs

  • The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways launched Mobile Quality Control Vans to monitor National Highway standards.
  • Jharkhand presented a ₹1.58 lakh crore Budget for FY 2026-27 in the State Assembly.

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