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February 17 | Daily Current Affairs 2025
Sports – Daily Current Affairs February 17
1. Who won the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 award for her contribution to India’s Women’s World Cup victory?
A) Harmanpreet Kaur
B) Smriti Mandhana
C) Mithali Raj
D) Preethi Pal
E) Divya Deshmukh
Answer: B) Smriti Mandhana
Event and Location:
- Event: Announcement of BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 Awards
- Location: New Delhi, India
- Date: February 16, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 award was presented to Smriti Mandhana for her outstanding performance in India’s Women’s World Cup triumph, while Divya Deshmukh received the Emerging Player of the Year award for her victory at the FIDE Women’s World Cup
- Objectives: The awards aim to recognize excellence, impact, and inspiration among Indian women athletes across disciplines, promote visibility of women’s sports, and encourage future generations to pursue sports at national and international levels
Important Terms Explained:
- BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year: An annual award recognizing outstanding achievements and contributions of Indian women athletes across sports disciplines
- Women’s World Cup (Cricket): An international tournament organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC) featuring national women’s cricket teams
- FIDE Women’s World Cup: A prestigious global chess tournament organized by FIDE (Fédération Internationale des Échecs) to determine leading women chess players
- Emerging Player of the Year: A category recognizing young athletes who have achieved significant success at an early stage in their careers
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 |
| Announcement date | February 16, 2026 |
| Location | New Delhi, India |
| Issuing authority | BBC |
| Policy/series name | Annual BBC Indian Sportswoman Awards |
| Key figures | Smriti Mandhana, Divya Deshmukh |
| Purpose/reason | To recognize excellence and impact of Indian women athletes |
| Feature details | Mandhana won top honour; Divya won Emerging Player award; multiple categories including Para-Sports and Lifetime Achievement |
| Validity or status | Annual recognition for 2025 achievements |
| Strategic/significant value | Enhances global recognition of Indian women’s sports achievements |
2. Rashid Khan became the first bowler in history to reach 700 wickets in which format during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026?
A) Test cricket
B) One Day Internationals
C) T20 cricket
D) First-class cricket
E) List A cricket
Answer: C) T20 cricket
Event and Location:
- Event: Rashid Khan became the first bowler to take 700 wickets in T20 cricket history
- Location: Delhi, India
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: During the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Rashid Khan achieved the milestone of 700 T20 wickets by dismissing UAE’s Muhammad Arfan, setting a new global record in the shortest format of cricket
- Objectives: The milestone reflects excellence in T20 cricket, highlights long-term consistency across international and franchise leagues, and establishes a new performance benchmark in global T20 bowling records
Important Terms Explained:
- ICC Men’s T20 World Cup: An international cricket tournament organised by the International Cricket Council (ICC) featuring national teams competing in the Twenty20 format
- T20 Cricket: A shortened format of cricket where each team plays 20 overs, emphasizing aggressive batting and strategic bowling
- T20I (Twenty20 International): Official international T20 matches played between member nations of the ICC
- Hat-trick: A bowling achievement in cricket where a bowler takes three wickets in three consecutive deliveries
- LBW (Leg Before Wicket): A mode of dismissal where a batter is out if the ball would have hit the stumps but was intercepted by the batter’s leg
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Rashid Khan 700 T20 Wickets Milestone |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Delhi, India |
| Issuing authority | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Policy/series name | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Key figures | Rashid Khan, Dwayne Bravo |
| Purpose/reason | To mark the first-ever 700 wickets milestone in T20 cricket |
| Feature details | Achieved in 518 matches; 191 T20I wickets; 4 hat-tricks; record bowled and LBW dismissals |
| Validity or status | Active international record |
| Strategic/significant value | Establishes Rashid Khan as the leading wicket-taker in T20 history |
3. Johannes Klaebo became the most decorated Winter Olympic athlete after winning his 9th medal at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics in which event?
A) Men’s 50km Classic
B) Men’s Individual Sprint
C) Men’s 4×7.5km Relay
D) Men’s Team Sprint
E) Nordic Combined Individual
Answer: C) Men’s 4×7.5km Relay
Event and Location:
- Event: Norway won gold in the Men’s 4×7.5km relay, where Johannes Klaebo secured his 9th Winter Olympic medal
- Location: Tesero, Italy
- Date: February 15, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, organized under the supervision of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), conducted the men’s 4×7.5km cross-country skiing relay event in which national teams competed for Olympic medals
- Objectives: The event aimed to promote excellence in winter sports, encourage international competition and sportsmanship, and uphold the legacy of cross-country skiing at the global Olympic platform
Important Terms Explained:
- Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: The 2026 edition of the Winter Olympic Games hosted by Italy, featuring international winter sports competitions held across multiple Italian venues
- International Olympic Committee (IOC): The global governing body responsible for organizing the Summer and Winter Olympic Games and overseeing the Olympic Movement
- 4×7.5km Relay (Cross-Country Skiing): A team event in which four athletes from each country ski 7.5 kilometers each, combining endurance and teamwork for a total distance of 30 kilometers
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Men’s 4×7.5km Relay at Milano Cortina 2026 |
| Announcement date | February 15, 2026 |
| Location | Tesero, Italy |
| Issuing authority | International Olympic Committee |
| Policy/series name | Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics |
| Key figures | Johannes Klaebo, Emil Iversen, Martin Loewstroem Nyenget, Einar Hedegart |
| Purpose/reason | To compete for Olympic medals in cross-country skiing |
| Feature details | Norway won gold in 1:04:24.5, finishing ahead of France and Italy |
| Validity or status | Completed event at the 2026 Winter Olympics |
| Strategic/significant value | Klaebo became the most decorated Winter Olympic athlete with nine medals |
4. Paras Dogra became the fastest batter to reach 10,000 runs in Ranji Trophy history by achieving the milestone in how many innings?
A) 147 innings
B) 160 innings
C) 175 innings
D) 196 innings
E) 200 innings
Answer: A) 147 innings
Event and Location:
- Event: Paras Dogra became the fastest batter to score 10,000 runs in Ranji Trophy history
- Location: Ranji Trophy Semi-final – Jammu & Kashmir vs Bengal
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: During the Ranji Trophy semi-final, Jammu & Kashmir captain Paras Dogra scored 58 runs to reach the milestone of 10,000 runs in first-class domestic competition, becoming the fastest to do so in tournament history
- Objectives: The milestone highlights excellence and longevity in Indian domestic cricket, strengthens the prestige of the Ranji Trophy as a platform for talent recognition, and inspires aspiring cricketers to achieve sustained performance in domestic formats
Important Terms Explained:
- Ranji Trophy: India’s premier domestic first-class cricket tournament, established in 1934-35 and named after Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji
- First-Class Cricket: The highest standard of domestic cricket played over multiple days with two innings per side
- Semi-final: The penultimate stage of a tournament where teams compete for a place in the final
- First-Class Debut: The first appearance of a player in an officially recognized multi-day domestic cricket match
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Paras Dogra 10,000 Runs Milestone |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Ranji Trophy Semi-final (J&K vs Bengal) |
| Issuing authority | Board of Control for Cricket in India |
| Policy/series name | Ranji Trophy 2025-26 |
| Key figures | Paras Dogra, Wasim Jaffer |
| Purpose/reason | To mark the fastest achievement of 10,000 runs in Ranji Trophy history |
| Feature details | Reached 10,000 runs in 147 innings; scored 58 in semi-final; second player to cross 10,000 runs |
| Validity or status | Active record in domestic cricket |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens prestige of Indian domestic cricket and highlights long-term consistency |
Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs February 17
5. According to the SBI report, what was the total Currency in Circulation (CiC) in India in January 2026?
A) ₹35 lakh crore
B) ₹37.5 lakh crore
C) ₹38 lakh crore
D) ₹40 lakh crore
E) ₹42 lakh crore
Answer: D) ₹40 lakh crore
Event and Location:
- Event: SBI report highlights record rise in Currency in Circulation (CiC)
- Location: India
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The State Bank of India (SBI) released a research report stating that Currency in Circulation (CiC) reached a record ₹40 lakh crore in January 2026, registering 11.1% year-on-year growth despite rapid expansion of UPI and digital payments
- Objectives: The report aims to analyse trends in cash demand, assess the coexistence of digital and cash transactions, evaluate the impact of ₹2000 note withdrawal and lower interest rates, and understand consumption-driven money demand in the Indian economy
Important Terms Explained:
- Currency in Circulation (CiC): The total value of physical currency notes and coins circulating in the economy and held by the public
- Unified Payments Interface (UPI): A real-time digital payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) that enables instant bank-to-bank transfers via mobile platforms
- Digital Rupee (e₹): A Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in digital form as a legal tender
- Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC): A digital form of a country’s official currency issued and regulated by the central bank
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | SBI Report on Record Currency in Circulation |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | State Bank of India |
| Policy/series name | Economic Research Report on Currency Trends |
| Key figures | ₹40 lakh crore CiC; 11.1% YoY growth |
| Purpose/reason | To analyse rising cash demand despite digital payment growth |
| Feature details | CiC rose by ₹2.76 lakh crore; ₹2000 note replacement; lower interest rates and higher consumption |
| Validity or status | Data as of January 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Shows coexistence of digital payments and strong cash demand in a growing economy |
Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs February 17
6. What was the primary reason for the sharp widening of India’s trade deficit to $34.68 billion in January 2026?
A) Decline in services exports
B) Fall in crude oil production
C) Surge in gold and silver imports
D) Increase in remittances
E) Reduction in foreign direct investment
Answer: C) Surge in gold and silver imports
Event and Location:
- Event: India’s trade deficit widened to $34.68 billion due to a sharp rise in imports
- Location: India
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry released official trade data showing that imports increased by 19% year-on-year to $71.24 billion, while exports rose marginally by 0.6% to $36.56 billion, leading to a widening of the trade deficit
- Objectives: The trade data aims to monitor external sector performance, assess the impact of rising imports such as gold and silver on the current account balance, and evaluate overall export competitiveness amid global economic uncertainties
Important Terms Explained:
- Trade Deficit: A situation where a country’s imports exceed its exports, resulting in a negative balance of trade and potential pressure on foreign exchange reserves
- Merchandise Exports: Exports of physical goods such as petroleum products, engineering goods, textiles, and agricultural products
- Current Account Balance: A component of the balance of payments that records trade in goods and services, income, and current transfers, reflecting a country’s external economic position
- Foreign Exchange Outflow: The movement of foreign currency out of a country due to payments for imports, debt servicing, or overseas investments
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | India Trade Deficit January 2026 |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Commerce and Industry |
| Policy/series name | Monthly Trade Data Release |
| Key figures | Rajesh Agrawal |
| Purpose/reason | To assess India’s export-import performance and external sector health |
| Feature details | Imports rose 19% to $71.24 billion while exports grew 0.6% to $36.56 billion |
| Validity or status | Monthly data for January 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Highlights pressure on trade balance due to rising gold and silver imports |
7. According to AISTA, which country emerged as the top buyer of Indian sugar exports in the 2025-26 marketing year till February?
A) Afghanistan
B) Djibouti
C) United Arab Emirates
D) Bhutan
E) Saudi Arabia
Answer: C) United Arab Emirates
Event and Location:
- Event: India’s sugar exports crossed 2.01 lakh tonnes in the 2025-26 marketing year
- Location: India (Major export destination: United Arab Emirates)
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA) reported that India exported 2,01,547 tonnes of sugar till February in the 2025-26 marketing year, while the Government of India approved a total export quota of 2 million tonnes under a regulated system
- Objectives: The export quota system aims to balance domestic sugar availability, ensure price stability, promote foreign exchange earnings, support sugar mills and farmers, and maintain India’s competitiveness in global sugar markets
Important Terms Explained:
- Marketing Year (Sugar): The annual accounting period for sugar production and trade in India running from October to September
- Export Quota: A government-imposed limit on the quantity of goods that can be exported during a specific period to regulate supply and stabilize domestic prices
- All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA): An industry body established in 2016 to represent stakeholders across India’s sugar value chain including traders, millers, refiners, and farmers
- Ethanol Diversion: The process of diverting sugarcane or sugar for ethanol production under blending programmes, which influences overall sugar output
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | India Sugar Exports 2025-26 Marketing Year Update |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA) |
| Policy/series name | Sugar Export Quota 2025-26 |
| Key figures | Praful Vithalani |
| Purpose/reason | To regulate exports while ensuring domestic supply stability |
| Feature details | 2,01,547 tonnes exported till February; 2 million tonnes export quota approved |
| Validity or status | October 2025 – September 2026 marketing year |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens foreign exchange earnings and supports higher sugar production outlook |
Appointments – Daily Current Affairs February 17
8. Tarique Rahman became the Prime Minister of Bangladesh after his party secured how many seats in the 13th Parliamentary Elections?
A) 168 seats
B) 180 seats
C) 209 seats
D) 225 seats
E) 250 seats
Answer: C) 209 seats
Event and Location:
- Event: Swearing-in of Tarique Rahman as Prime Minister of Bangladesh
- Location: South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Date: February 17, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: BNP chief Tarique Rahman was sworn in as Prime Minister after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) won 209 out of 297 seats in the 13th Parliamentary Elections, with the oath administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin
- Objectives: The formation of the new government aims to establish political stability, address economic and institutional challenges, and initiate national reconciliation following the transition from the interim government
Important Terms Explained:
- Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP): A major political party in Bangladesh founded by former President Ziaur Rahman, advocating nationalism and democratic governance
- Jatiya Sangsad: The unicameral national parliament of Bangladesh, consisting of elected representatives
- 13th Parliamentary Elections: The latest general elections held in Bangladesh to elect members of the Jatiya Sangsad
- Interim Government: A temporary administration formed to oversee governance during political transitions or crises
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Swearing-in of Bangladesh Prime Minister 2026 |
| Announcement date | February 17, 2026 |
| Location | South Plaza, Jatiya Sangsad, Dhaka |
| Issuing authority | Office of the President of Bangladesh |
| Policy/series name | 13th Parliamentary Elections |
| Key figures | Tarique Rahman, Mohammed Shahabuddin |
| Purpose/reason | Formation of new government after parliamentary majority |
| Feature details | BNP won 209 of 297 seats; ceremony held outside Bangabhaban |
| Validity or status | Newly formed government |
| Strategic/significant value | Marks major political shift in Bangladesh after Awami League era |
Awards – Daily Current Affairs February 17
9. The Bhavya Bharat Bhushan Award, launched during Mahashivaratri 2026, was instituted by which organization?
A) Ministry of Culture
B) Indian Council for Cultural Relations
C) Isha Foundation
D) NITI Aayog
E) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh
Answer: C) Isha Foundation
Event and Location:
- Event: Launch of the Bhavya Bharat Bhushan Award during Mahashivaratri celebrations
- Location: Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Spiritual leader Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev inaugurated the Bhavya Bharat Bhushan Award under the aegis of the Isha Foundation, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attending as chief guest and honouring distinguished personalities from various fields
- Objectives: The award aims to recognize outstanding contributions in national security, science and technology, sports, arts, literature, business, and community welfare, while promoting leadership, innovation, and nation-building aligned with cultural values
Important Terms Explained:
- Bhavya Bharat Bhushan Award: A newly instituted national honour launched by the Isha Foundation to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to India’s progress across diverse sectors
- Isha Foundation: A spiritual and social organization founded by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, headquartered in Coimbatore, working in yoga, education, rural development, and environmental initiatives
- Mahashivaratri: A major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated annually with large spiritual gatherings, including the flagship event at the Isha Yoga Center
- Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO): India’s national space agency responsible for space research and missions such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Bhavya Bharat Bhushan Award Launch |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu |
| Issuing authority | Isha Foundation |
| Policy/series name | Bhavya Bharat Bhushan Award |
| Key figures | Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, Rajnath Singh |
| Purpose/reason | To recognize excellence and nation-building contributions |
| Feature details | Honours achievements in national security, science, sports, arts, business, literature, and social service |
| Validity or status | Newly instituted national honour |
| Strategic/significant value | Promotes leadership and holistic nation-building through public recognition |
Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs February 17
10. Which organization reported that the Aadhaar App crossed 14 million downloads with over 1 million mobile number updates in 2026?
A) National Informatics Centre
B) Ministry of Electronics and IT
C) Unique Identification Authority of India
D) Reserve Bank of India
E) Telecom Regulatory Authority of India
Answer: C) Unique Identification Authority of India
Event and Location:
- Event: Aadhaar App crosses 14 million downloads with over 1 million mobile number updates
- Location: India
- Date: January 28, 2026 (App dedicated to the nation)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) launched and promoted the Aadhaar App as a privacy-first, mobile-based digital identity solution enabling services such as biometric lock/unlock, face verification, e-Aadhaar download, QR-based sharing, and mobile number updates
- Objectives: The initiative aims to enhance secure digital identity management, promote consent-based data sharing, reduce dependence on physical Aadhaar centres, and strengthen India’s digital governance framework under the Digital India vision
Important Terms Explained:
- Aadhaar App: A next-generation mobile application launched by UIDAI that allows Aadhaar Number Holders (ANH) to securely manage and share their digital identity using features such as face authentication, biometric locking, and QR code verification
- Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI): A statutory authority established under the Aadhaar Act, 2016, responsible for issuing and managing Aadhaar numbers to residents of India
- e-Aadhaar: A digitally signed electronic copy of the Aadhaar card that can be downloaded and used as valid proof of identity
- Biometric Lock/Unlock: A security feature that allows Aadhaar holders to lock their biometric data to prevent misuse and unlock it temporarily when authentication is required
- Digital India: A Government of India initiative launched in 2015 to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Aadhaar App Growth Milestone |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Unique Identification Authority of India |
| Policy/series name | Aadhaar App Initiative |
| Key figures | Neelkanth Mishra |
| Purpose/reason | To provide secure, privacy-first digital identity services via mobile platform |
| Feature details | 14 million downloads, 1 million mobile updates, biometric lock, face verification, e-Aadhaar download, QR sharing |
| Validity or status | Active and expanding with regular updates |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens digital identity ecosystem and supports Digital India mission |
Defence – Daily Current Affairs February 17
11. The Akash missile system, whose 3rd and 4th regiments were flagged off by Rajnath Singh in February 2026, is primarily a:
A) Surface-to-surface ballistic missile
B) Air-to-air missile
C) Surface-to-air missile
D) Anti-ship cruise missile
E) Submarine-launched missile
Answer: C) Surface-to-air missile
Event and Location:
- Event: Inauguration of Missile Integration Facility, flagging off of Akash 3rd and 4th Regiments, and launch of BEL’s AI initiatives
- Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka (AI Centre remotely inaugurated in Pune, Maharashtra)
- Date: February 16, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new Missile Integration Facility at Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), flagged off the Akash 3rd and 4th Regiment Combat Systems, unveiled the Mountain Fire Control Radar, and launched BEL’s AI Policy along with a Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence
- Objectives: The initiatives aim to strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing, enhance India’s air defence capabilities, promote AI-driven warfare technologies, boost self-reliance under the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, and improve network-centric and real-time operational capabilities
Important Terms Explained:
- Akash Missile System: An indigenously developed medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) designed to intercept and neutralize aerial threats such as aircraft, drones, and missiles
- Missile Integration Facility: A specialized defence infrastructure unit for assembling, integrating, and testing missile systems to enhance production efficiency and operational readiness
- Mountain Fire Control Radar: An advanced radar system designed for high-altitude and mountainous terrain operations to track and guide missile systems effectively
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Defence: The application of AI technologies in threat prediction, autonomous systems, surveillance, and real-time battlefield decision-making
- Viksit Bharat 2047: The Government of India’s long-term vision to transform India into a developed nation by 2047, emphasizing self-reliance and technological advancement
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | BEL Missile Integration Facility & AI Initiative Launch |
| Announcement date | February 16, 2026 |
| Location | Bengaluru, Karnataka (AI Centre in Pune) |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Defence, Government of India |
| Policy/series name | BEL AI Policy & Indigenous Defence Expansion |
| Key figures | Rajnath Singh |
| Purpose/reason | To enhance indigenous missile production and AI-based defence capabilities |
| Feature details | Inauguration of Missile Integration Facility, flag-off of Akash 3rd & 4th Regiments, unveiling of Mountain Fire Control Radar, AI Centre launch |
| Validity or status | Operational and implemented |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens India’s air defence network and promotes self-reliant defence manufacturing |
12. Exercise MILAN 2026, inaugurated with the opening of MILAN Village in Visakhapatnam, is primarily associated with which domain?
A) Air combat training
B) Space surveillance cooperation
C) Multilateral naval exercise
D) Cyber security drill
E) Joint land warfare exercise
Answer: C) Multilateral naval exercise
Event and Location:
- Event: Inauguration of MILAN Village marking the commencement of Exercise MILAN 2026
- Location: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
- Date: February 15, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Indian Navy inaugurated the MILAN Village at the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam as part of Exercise MILAN 2026, with participation from over 70 countries, featuring both Harbour and Sea Phase operations
- Objectives: The exercise aims to enhance maritime cooperation, strengthen interoperability among navies, promote collective maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, and advance India’s MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision
Important Terms Explained:
- Exercise MILAN: A biennial multilateral naval exercise initiated in 1995 by the Indian Navy to promote maritime cooperation and interoperability among friendly foreign navies
- MILAN Village: A cultural and interaction zone established during Exercise MILAN to foster camaraderie, cultural exchange, and diplomatic engagement among participating naval delegations
- International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026: A ceremonial gathering of naval ships from various countries to showcase maritime strength and cooperation
- Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS): A forum that enhances maritime cooperation among Indian Ocean littoral states through dialogue and collaboration
- MAHASAGAR Vision: India’s maritime strategy focused on mutual and holistic advancement for security and growth across regions, promoting a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Exercise MILAN 2026 |
| Announcement date | February 15, 2026 |
| Location | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh |
| Issuing authority | Indian Navy |
| Policy/series name | MILAN Biennial Naval Exercise |
| Key figures | Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla |
| Purpose/reason | To enhance multilateral maritime cooperation and interoperability |
| Feature details | Participation of 70+ countries, Harbour & Sea Phases, MILAN Village cultural hub |
| Validity or status | Conducted from 15–25 February 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens India’s maritime leadership in the Indo-Pacific region |
International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs February 17
13. HAMMER, which India and France will jointly manufacture, is primarily classified as which type of weapon system?
A) Surface-to-air missile
B) Precision-guided air-to-surface munition
C) Anti-ship ballistic missile
D) Unmanned combat aerial vehicle
E) Long-range cruise missile
Answer: B) Precision-guided air-to-surface munition
Event and Location:
- Event: India and France to sign an MoU for joint manufacturing of the HAMMER precision-guided weapon in India
- Location: Bengaluru, India
- Date: February 16, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: India and France agreed to locally produce the HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) weapon under a Memorandum of Understanding signed during the 6th India-France Annual Defence Dialogue, with production led by a joint venture between Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Safran Electronics and Defence
- Objectives: The agreement aims to strengthen India’s stand-off strike capability, promote defence indigenisation under the Make in India initiative, enhance operational readiness of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy, and deepen strategic defence cooperation between India and France
Important Terms Explained:
- HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range): A French-developed precision-guided air-to-surface weapon system, also known as AASM (Armement Air-Sol Modulaire), that converts conventional gravity bombs into smart munitions using modular guidance and propulsion kits
- AASM (Armement Air-Sol Modulaire): A modular precision-guided bomb kit equipped with Inertial Navigation System (INS), Global Positioning System (GPS), and optional Infrared or Laser guidance, offering strike accuracy of 1–10 metres CEP
- Stand-Off Strike Capability: The ability of an aircraft to attack enemy targets from a safe distance outside hostile air defence range, improving survivability and mission flexibility
- Make in India: A Government of India initiative launched in 2014 to promote domestic manufacturing, including defence production, and reduce dependency on imports
- Defence Acquisition Council (DAC): India’s apex body responsible for approving major capital defence procurements for the armed forces
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | India-France HAMMER Joint Manufacturing Agreement |
| Announcement date | February 16, 2026 |
| Location | Bengaluru, India |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Defence, India and Government of France |
| Policy/series name | 6th India-France Annual Defence Dialogue |
| Key figures | Rajnath Singh, Catherine Vautrin |
| Purpose/reason | To enhance India’s precision strike and stand-off combat capability |
| Feature details | Joint production of HAMMER weapon with up to 60% indigenisation and 50:50 BEL-Safran joint venture |
| Validity or status | MoU signed; local production to commence |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens India-France defence ties and boosts indigenous defence manufacturing |
National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs February 17
14. The Ol Chiki script, whose centenary celebrations were inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu in February 2026, was invented in 1925 by whom?
A) Birsa Munda
B) Pandit Raghunath Murmu
C) Jaipal Singh Munda
D) Sidhu Murmu
E) Kanhu Murmu
Answer: B) Pandit Raghunath Murmu
Event and Location:
- Event: Inauguration of the centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script marking 100 years of its creation
- Location: New Delhi, India
- Date: February 16, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Ministry of Culture organised the centenary celebration of the Ol Chiki script, during which President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the event, released a commemorative coin and postage stamp, and felicitated 10 achievers from the Santal community
- Objectives: The event aimed to commemorate 100 years of the Ol Chiki script, promote the Santhali language, strengthen Santal cultural identity, and encourage younger generations to learn and use the script for language preservation
Important Terms Explained:
- Ol Chiki Script: A fully phonetic script invented in 1925 by Pandit Raghunath Murmu for writing the Santhali language, consisting of 30 letters where each letter represents a distinct sound
- Santhali Language: A language belonging to the Munda branch of the Austroasiatic language family, spoken mainly in Jharkhand and West Bengal, and recognized in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003
- Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution: A constitutional provision that lists officially recognized languages of India, granting them government recognition and support
- Ministry of Culture: A Government of India ministry responsible for preservation and promotion of India’s art, heritage, and cultural diversity
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Ol Chiki Script Centenary Celebrations |
| Announcement date | February 16, 2026 |
| Location | New Delhi, India |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Culture |
| Policy/series name | 100 Years of Ol Chiki Script |
| Key figures | President Droupadi Murmu, Pandit Raghunath Murmu |
| Purpose/reason | To commemorate 100 years of the Ol Chiki script and promote Santhali language |
| Feature details | Release of commemorative coin and postage stamp; felicitation of 10 Santal achievers |
| Validity or status | Centenary celebration marking 1925–2025 milestone observed in 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens tribal language preservation and cultural identity of the Santal community |
15. The India AI Impact Expo 2026, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was held at which venue?
A) Vigyan Bhawan
B) Bharat Mandapam
C) India Habitat Centre
D) Hyderabad International Convention Centre
E) Yashobhoomi Convention Centre
Answer: B) Bharat Mandapam
Event and Location:
- Event: Inauguration of India AI Impact Expo 2026
- Location: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India
- Date: February 17, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the India AI Impact Expo 2026, bringing together policymakers, startups, researchers, and global technology leaders to showcase AI-driven innovations across sectors
- Objectives: The Expo aims to promote responsible and inclusive Artificial Intelligence (AI) development, strengthen India’s AI ecosystem, encourage ethical AI practices, and position India as a global leader in AI for public welfare and global good under the Digital India vision
Important Terms Explained:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): A branch of computer science that enables machines to perform tasks requiring human intelligence such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making
- Digital India: A Government of India initiative launched in 2015 to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy through technology-driven governance
- Responsible AI: The development and deployment of AI systems that ensure ethical standards, transparency, fairness, data protection, and accountability
- Bharat Mandapam: A world-class international convention and exhibition centre located in New Delhi, used for major national and global events
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | India AI Impact Expo 2026 |
| Announcement date | February 17, 2026 |
| Location | Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi |
| Issuing authority | Government of India |
| Policy/series name | India AI Impact Initiative |
| Key figures | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Purpose/reason | To promote responsible and inclusive AI innovation |
| Feature details | Participation of startups, policymakers, researchers; AI applications for governance and public services |
| Validity or status | Ongoing national AI promotion initiative |
| Strategic/significant value | Positions India as a global hub for ethical and scalable AI solutions |
16. BODH, launched at the India AI Summit 2026, has been developed in collaboration with which institution?
A) IIT Delhi
B) IIT Kanpur
C) AIIMS New Delhi
D) National Informatics Centre
E) NITI Aayog
Answer: B) IIT Kanpur
Event and Location:
- Event: Launch of SAHI and BODH initiatives for AI in healthcare
- Location: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Union Health Minister JP Nadda launched SAHI (Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare for India) and BODH (Benchmarking Open Data Platform for Health AI) at the India AI Summit 2026 to guide responsible AI adoption and create a benchmarking framework for health AI systems
- Objectives: The initiatives aim to promote safe, ethical, and evidence-based AI deployment in healthcare, ensure privacy-preserving evaluation of AI models, strengthen governance standards, and support India’s digital health transformation under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM)
Important Terms Explained:
- SAHI (Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare for India): A national guidance framework that provides governance principles, ethical standards, validation mechanisms, and data stewardship norms for responsible AI adoption in India’s healthcare sector
- BODH (Benchmarking Open Data Platform for Health AI): A privacy-preserving digital platform developed by IIT Kanpur in collaboration with the National Health Authority (NHA) to evaluate AI models using real-world health data without sharing underlying datasets
- Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM): A Government of India initiative aimed at creating an integrated digital health infrastructure, including digital health IDs, health records, and interoperable data systems
- National Health Authority (NHA): The apex body responsible for implementing flagship health schemes such as Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and ABDM
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Launch of SAHI and BODH at India AI Summit 2026 |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Health and Family Welfare |
| Policy/series name | SAHI & BODH under Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission |
| Key figures | JP Nadda |
| Purpose/reason | To promote safe and ethical AI adoption in healthcare |
| Feature details | SAHI provides governance framework; BODH benchmarks AI models using privacy-preserving real-world data |
| Validity or status | National-level initiative launched |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens India’s Health AI ecosystem and global digital health leadership |
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