Daily Current Affairs February 09

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February 09 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs February 09

1. What major global initiative was launched as part of International Epilepsy Day 2026?
A) Seizure Care Bill
B) Epilepsy Pledge 2026
C) Neuro Awareness Program
D) Equal Access Directive
E) Brain Health Charter
Answer: B) Epilepsy Pledge 2026

Event and Location:

  • Event: International Epilepsy Day 2026 observed to raise global awareness
  • Location: Worldwide
  • Date: February 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The day is observed globally to raise awareness about epilepsy, reduce stigma, promote inclusion, and support the rights of people affected by the disorder.
  • Objectives: The objective is to improve understanding of epilepsy, push for equal healthcare access and social rights, align with WHO’s IGAP, and encourage action through the launch of the Epilepsy Pledge 2026.

Important Terms Explained:

  • International Epilepsy Day: A global awareness initiative led by the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), observed annually to spread understanding and advocacy for people with epilepsy.
  • Epilepsy Pledge 2026: A campaign urging individuals and organizations to take at least one tangible action in 2026 that promotes safety, inclusion, or awareness for those living with epilepsy.
  • IGAP (Intersectoral Global Action Plan): A global strategy by the World Health Organization (WHO) focused on improving access to treatment, medicines, and social inclusion for people with neurological disorders, including epilepsy.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name International Epilepsy Day 2026
Announcement date February 9, 2026
Location Global
Issuing authority International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE), International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE)
Policy/series name Epilepsy Pledge 2026
Key figures Over 50 million people globally affected by epilepsy
Purpose/reason To raise awareness, end stigma, and advocate for inclusion and healthcare access
Feature details Awareness drives, education campaigns, policy discussions, individual pledges
Validity or status Ongoing in 2026 with year-round activities planned
Strategic/significant value Supports WHO’s global neurological health goals through community action

Sports – Daily Current Affairs February 09

2. How much cash reward did the BCCI announce for India’s U-19 World Cup 2026 winning team?
A) ₹5 crore
B) ₹10 crore
C) ₹7.5 crore
D) ₹6 crore
E) ₹8 crore
Answer: C) ₹7.5 crore

Event and Location:

  • Event: India wins the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026
  • Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
  • Date: February 8, 2026 (final match date)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: India’s U-19 team defeated England by 100 runs in the final of the 2026 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, securing its sixth title; BCCI announced a ₹7.5 crore cash award for players, staff, and selectors.
  • Objectives: To reward and recognize the collective success of India’s junior cricket program, encourage youth participation, and further strengthen the grassroots cricket development system.

Important Terms Explained:

  • BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India): India’s apex governing body for cricket, responsible for managing all cricket-related operations, including domestic leagues and international teams.
  • ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup: A biennial international youth cricket championship organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC), first held in 1988, and regarded as the launchpad for future international stars.
  • Junior Selection Committee: A BCCI-appointed group responsible for scouting and selecting players for age-group national teams, playing a crucial role in talent identification and development.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India wins ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026
Announcement date February 8, 2026
Location Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe
Issuing authority Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)
Policy/series name ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup
Key figures India (6-time champions), England (runner-up), BCCI (₹7.5 crore reward)
Purpose/reason Recognition of on-field excellence and developmental efforts in junior cricket
Feature details ₹7.5 crore reward shared among players, support staff, and selectors
Validity or status Award announced and title officially recorded
Strategic/significant value Highlights India’s youth talent pipeline and global dominance in junior cricket

3. Which team won the 2025–26 Santosh Trophy by defeating Kerala in extra time?
A) West Bengal
B) Karnataka
C) Kerala
D) Services
E) Goa
Answer: D) Services

Event and Location:

  • Event: Services win the 2025–26 Santosh Trophy Final
  • Location: Dhakuakhana Stadium, Assam
  • Date: February 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Services football team defeated Kerala 1-0 in the 79th edition of the Santosh Trophy Final after extra time to claim their 8th national title.
  • Objectives: To win the Senior Men’s National Football Championship, showcasing institutional football excellence, competitive spirit, and consistency in India’s premier inter-state football tournament.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Santosh Trophy: Officially known as the Senior Men’s National Football Championship, this is an inter-state and institutional football competition organized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), founded in 1941.
  • Extra Time (AET): An additional 30-minute period played if the match ends in a draw after regulation time, used to determine a winner in knockout-stage matches.
  • Services Football Team: The football squad representing Indian Armed Forces institutions; known for discipline, fitness, and strong performances in domestic competitions like the Santosh Trophy.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name 79th National Football Championship – Santosh Trophy Final
Announcement date February 2026
Location Dhakuakhana Stadium, Assam
Issuing authority All India Football Federation (AIFF)
Policy/series name Santosh Trophy (Senior Men’s NFC)
Key figures Services (champions), Kerala (runners-up), Abhishek Pawar (winning goal)
Purpose/reason Determine national champions among state/institutional football teams
Feature details Match ended 1-0 in extra time (goal at 109th minute), Services’ 8th title
Validity or status Services crowned 2025–26 champions
Strategic/significant value Confirms Services’ consistency and dominance in Indian domestic football

4. Who did India defeat to win the SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship 2026?
A) Sri Lanka
B) Bhutan
C) Bangladesh
D) Nepal
E) Maldives
Answer: C) Bangladesh

Event and Location:

  • Event: India wins SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship 2026
  • Location: Pokhara Rangasala Stadium, Nepal
  • Date: February 7, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The India U-19 Women’s Football Team defeated Bangladesh 4–0 in the final to clinch the SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship title.
  • Objectives: To prepare the U-17 Women’s National Team for the upcoming AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup, gain international exposure, and build competitive experience through tournament play.

Important Terms Explained:

  • SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship: A South Asian Football Federation regional tournament for under-19 women’s national teams in South Asia; a key developmental platform for young football talent.
  • AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup: A premier continental competition for under-17 women’s national teams in Asia, governed by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC); a stepping stone for global-level women’s football.
  • Young Tigresses: A nickname for India’s junior women’s football teams, symbolizing youth, energy, and competitive spirit in the international football arena.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship Final 2026
Announcement date February 7, 2026
Location Pokhara Rangasala Stadium, Nepal
Issuing authority South Asian Football Federation (SAFF)
Policy/series name SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship
Key figures Julan Nongmaithem, Elizabeth Lakra, Pearl Fernandes, Anwita Raghuraman
Purpose/reason Regional title win and preparation for AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup
Feature details 4–0 win in final; avenged earlier loss to Bangladesh
Validity or status India crowned 2026 champions
Strategic/significant value Strengthens youth football development and regional dominance

Ranking – Daily Current Affairs February 09

5. According to the Global Innovation Index 2025, which country ranked 1st in global R&D spending in 2024?
A) United States
B) Japan
C) Germany
D) China
E) India
Answer: D) China

Event and Location:

  • Event: China surpasses the United States in global R&D spending; India ranks 7th globally
  • Location: Global (Data released by WIPO)
  • Date: February 2026 (based on 2024 R&D data in the GII 2025 report)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Global Innovation Index 2025, released by World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), reported that China became the world’s largest R&D spender, overtaking the United States, while India ranked 7th globally.
  • Objectives: To measure and analyze global innovation capabilities and performance, promote innovation-driven economic growth, and highlight shifts in science and technology leadership across countries.

Top 10 Countries by R&D Spending (2024)

Rank Country R&D Spending (USD)
1 China $785.9 billion
2 United States $781.8 billion
3 Japan $186.0 billion
4 Germany $132.2 billion
5 Republic of Korea $126.4 billion
6 United Kingdom $86.5 billion
7 India $75.7 billion
8 France $65.8 billion
9 Türkiye $43.2 billion
10 Brazil $38.4 billion

Important Terms Explained:

  • Global Innovation Index (GII): An annual report by WIPO that ranks countries based on innovation inputs (e.g., R&D spending, education) and outputs (e.g., patents, hi-tech production), used as a global benchmark for innovation performance.
  • Research and Development (R&D): Systematic activities undertaken by countries or companies to increase knowledge and apply it to develop new products, technologies, or services—key to science-led economic growth.
  • WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization): A UN agency headquartered in Geneva that promotes intellectual property rights and tracks global innovation trends through tools like the GII.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Global R&D Spending Rankings – GII 2025
Announcement date February 2026
Location Global (published by WIPO)
Issuing authority World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
Policy/series name Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025
Key figures China ($785.9B), US ($781.8B), India ($75.7B)
Purpose/reason Evaluate global R&D trends and track innovation investment across nations
Feature details Top 10 countries ranked by 2024 R&D spending
Validity or status Based on verified 2024 R&D expenditure data
Strategic/significant value Reflects growing Asian dominance in innovation and India’s rising tech focus

6. Which Indian port recorded its highest-ever automobile exports and liquid cargo handling in January 2026?
A) Kandla Port
B) Jawaharlal Nehru Port
C) Paradip Port
D) Vizag Port
E) Mundra Port
Answer: E) Mundra Port

Event and Location:

  • Event: Mundra Port records all-time high in automobile exports and liquid cargo handling
  • Location: Mundra Port, Gujarat
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Mundra Port, operated by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), shipped 25,762 vehicles and handled 1.120 million tonnes of liquid cargo in January 2026, setting new monthly records.
  • Objectives: To strengthen India’s export capacity, enhance port efficiency and throughput, and support the nation’s logistics infrastructure and global trade competitiveness.

Important Terms Explained:

  • RoRo Terminal (Roll-on/Roll-off): A specialized port terminal that allows vehicles to be driven on and off ships, simplifying vehicle export logistics and reducing loading/unloading times.
  • Liquid Cargo: Bulk liquids such as chemicals, petroleum products, and industrial fluids, transported in tankers and stored in specialized port terminals with safety and environmental controls.
  • Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd (APSEZ): India’s largest private port operator, managing Mundra Port and several others, contributing to nearly 27% of India’s port cargo volume.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Record automobile & liquid cargo handling at Mundra Port
Announcement date February 2026 (Data for January 2026)
Location Mundra Port, Gujarat
Issuing authority Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd (APSEZ)
Policy/series name Port Infrastructure Performance Update
Key figures 25,762 vehicles exported; 1.120 million tonnes liquid cargo handled
Purpose/reason Strengthen India’s export and maritime logistics ecosystem
Feature details Single-vessel loading record of 5,701 vehicles; 145 vehicles/hour handling rate
Validity or status Record month achieved in January 2026
Strategic/significant value Enhances India’s position in global automobile exports and port efficiency

 

Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs February 09

7. Which taxi service has partnered with the Airports Authority of India to offer surge-free, cooperative-based airport cab services?
A) Ola
B) Uber
C) Bharat Taxi
D) Meru Cabs
E) FastTrack
Answer: C) Bharat Taxi

Event and Location:

  • Event: AAI signs MoU with Bharat Taxi to introduce surge-free airport taxi services
  • Location: Selected AAI-managed regional airports across India
  • Date: February 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Airports Authority of India (AAI) signed an MoU with Bharat Taxi, India’s first driver-owned cooperative taxi model, to launch regulated and surge-free airport cab services.
  • Objectives: To improve last-mile connectivity, ensure transparent and fair pricing, empower taxi drivers through cooperative ownership, and enhance the overall airport passenger experience.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Bharat Taxi: A driver-owned cooperative taxi platform launched by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Ltd, operating on a no-surge pricing model, backed by the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC).
  • Airports Authority of India (AAI): A statutory body under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, responsible for creating, upgrading, and maintaining civil aviation infrastructure in India.
  • Sahakar se Samriddhi: A government initiative to strengthen India’s cooperative economy and empower members through collective ownership and inclusive growth models.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name MoU between AAI and Bharat Taxi
Announcement date February 9, 2026
Location Regional airports across India
Issuing authority Airports Authority of India (AAI)
Policy/series name Surge-Free Airport Taxi Model under Cooperative Framework
Key figures Vipin Kumar (AAI Chairman), Bharat Taxi Cooperative
Purpose/reason Offer reliable, fair, and cooperative-owned taxi services at airports
Feature details No surge pricing, driver ownership, regulated operations, transparent fares
Validity or status MoU signed and implementation in phased rollout
Strategic/significant value Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat, Sahakar se Samriddhi, and Viksit Bharat 2047

Appointments – Daily Current Affairs February 09

8. What was a major outcome of Japan’s 2026 general election?
A) Sanae Takaichi lost parliamentary support
B) LDP failed to cross the majority mark
C) Sanae Takaichi won with a two-thirds supermajority
D) Japan suspended parliamentary elections
E) A coalition of opposition parties won the election
Answer: C) Sanae Takaichi won with a two-thirds supermajority

Event and Location:

  • Event: Japan General Election 2026 – LDP landslide victory under PM Sanae Takaichi
  • Location: Japan
  • Date: February 8, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) led by Sanae Takaichi won 316 out of 465 seats in Japan’s House of Representatives, securing a two-thirds supermajority.
  • Objectives: The election aimed to stabilise governance, reset public trust, and provide a strong mandate for Takaichi’s policy agenda focused on defence reform, economic revival, and national security.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Two-thirds Supermajority: A legislative majority enabling constitutional or significant policy changes; the LDP’s 316-seat win allows it to pass key reforms without upper house reliance.
  • Liberal Democratic Party (LDP): Japan’s dominant conservative political party, in power almost continuously since 1955, known for its pro-business and strong defence policies.
  • House of Representatives (Japan): The more powerful lower house of Japan’s National Diet, consisting of 465 members, responsible for passing budgets, laws, and choosing the prime minister.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Japan General Election 2026
Announcement date February 8, 2026
Location Japan
Issuing authority Election Commission of Japan
Policy/series name LDP’s 2026 Policy Agenda under PM Takaichi
Key figures Sanae Takaichi, 316 LDP seats, 465-seat House
Purpose/reason Strengthen governance, pursue defence reforms, reset public trust
Feature details Defence upgrades, economic stimulus, immigration controls
Validity or status Majority government in power with full policy mandate
Strategic/significant value Marks Japan’s rightward shift in politics and rise of its first female PM

9. Who was appointed Chair of the Global Value Chains Committee of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum in February 2026?
A) Nandan Nilekani
B) Rohit Kumar Singh
C) Piyush Goyal
D) T.V. Narendran
E) Rajeev Chandrasekhar
Answer: B) Rohit Kumar Singh

Event and Location:

  • Event: Appointment of Rohit Kumar Singh as Chair of Global Value Chains Committee at USISPF
  • Location: United States–India Strategic Partnership Forum (global platform)
  • Date: February 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Rohit Kumar Singh, former Secretary of Consumer Affairs, was appointed as Chair of the Global Value Chains Committee and Advisor to the Board of Directors at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).
  • Objectives: To enhance resilient supply chains, foster public–private collaboration, support regulatory alignment, and deepen India–US trade partnerships during a critical phase of global economic transformation.

Important Terms Explained:

  • USISPF (US–India Strategic Partnership Forum): A prominent platform that fosters economic and strategic collaboration between the United States and India by bringing together government, industry, and policy thought leaders.
  • Global Value Chains Committee: A high-level policy and industry forum within USISPF tasked with addressing supply chain resilience, infrastructure readiness, and regulatory convergence between India and global economies.
  • AI-Based Grievance Redressal System: A digital innovation in consumer protection in India led by Rohit Kumar Singh that leveraged artificial intelligence to streamline complaint handling, improving transparency and citizen satisfaction.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Appointment of Rohit Kumar Singh to USISPF
Announcement date February 9, 2026
Location Global (US–India platform)
Issuing authority US–India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF)
Policy/series name Global Value Chains Committee Leadership
Key figures Rohit Kumar Singh (Chair & Board Advisor)
Purpose/reason Strengthen global supply chains, regulatory coordination, India–US trade ties
Feature details Policy bridging, infrastructure insights, AI governance contributions
Validity or status Appointment effective; engagement with stakeholders ongoing
Strategic/significant value Enhances India’s role in global trade networks and digital policy leadership

Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs February 09

10. Which advanced technology did Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launch in Bengaluru in February 2026?
A) India’s first 5G base station
B) Qualcomm’s 2 nm semiconductor chip
C) ISRO’s quantum satellite
D) BharatAI data chip
E) India’s first indigenous GPU
Answer: B) Qualcomm’s 2 nm semiconductor chip

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Qualcomm’s 2 nm semiconductor chip in India
  • Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
  • Date: February 7, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Qualcomm unveiled its cutting-edge 2 nanometre semiconductor chip in Bengaluru, launched by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, as part of India’s semiconductor leadership strategy.
  • Objectives: To advance India’s role in global chip design, support the India Semiconductor Mission, foster deep tech innovation, and expand India’s chip-making talent pipeline and design ecosystem.

Important Terms Explained:

  • 2 nm Semiconductor Chip: Refers to an advanced semiconductor manufacturing node offering higher performance and lower power consumption, enabling progress in AI, telecom, and computing.
  • India Semiconductor Mission (ISM): A national initiative to establish India as a global semiconductor hub, focusing on chip design, manufacturing, talent development, and supply chain ecosystems.
  • Electronic Design Automation (EDA) Tools: High-end software platforms like Synopsys, Cadence, and Siemens EDA, used for designing and validating integrated circuits at the nano-scale level.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Qualcomm’s 2 nm Semiconductor Chip
Announcement date February 7, 2026
Location Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Issuing authority Qualcomm Inc., Government of India
Policy/series name India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)
Key figures Ashwini Vaishnaw (Union Minister), Qualcomm officials
Purpose/reason Boost advanced semiconductor design, foster deep-tech innovation
Feature details 2 nm chip design, university-based talent development, 10 fabs under progress
Validity or status Active launch and ecosystem-building ongoing
Strategic/significant value Strengthens India’s global role in chip design and deep tech ecosystem

11. Which organization has initiated Phase I trials for the improved Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) vaccine?
A) Serum Institute of India
B) Bharat Biotech
C) Indian Council of Medical Research
D) Indian Immunologicals Ltd only
E) Ministry of Ayush
Answer: C) Indian Council of Medical Research

Event and Location:

  • Event: Phase I clinical trials launched for improved Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) vaccine
  • Location: Affected states in Western Ghats region, India (notably Karnataka)
  • Date: February 7, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in collaboration with National Institute of Virology and Indian Immunologicals Ltd, initiated Phase I trials for an indigenous, improved KFD vaccine after successful animal testing.
  • Objectives: To develop a safe and effective region-specific vaccine for Kyasanur Forest Disease, reduce rural health vulnerability, and strengthen India’s public health preparedness and vaccine research capacity.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD): A tick-borne viral disease endemic to India’s Western Ghats, causing fever, bleeding, and neurological symptoms, and primarily affecting forest workers and rural populations.
  • ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research): India’s apex medical research body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, leading innovations in diagnostics, vaccines, and outbreak response.
  • CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization): India’s national regulatory authority for drugs and clinical trials, responsible for approving vaccine phases and ensuring trial safety and quality.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Phase I Clinical Trials for KFD Vaccine
Announcement date February 7, 2026
Location Affected regions in the Western Ghats, especially Karnataka
Issuing authority Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Policy/series name Improved Kyasanur Forest Disease Vaccine Development Initiative
Key figures ICMR, CDSCO, NIV, Indian Immunologicals Ltd
Purpose/reason To develop a region-specific, safe, and effective KFD vaccine
Feature details Two-dose inactivated vaccine, Phase I safety trials underway
Validity or status Animal studies completed; Phase I trials in progress
Strategic/significant value Addresses a neglected regional disease, enhances indigenous vaccine R&D

12. Which country launched its first locally developed Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine in nearly 20 years in 2026?
A) Kenya
B) India
C) Australia
D) South Africa
E) Brazil
Answer: D) South Africa

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of South Africa’s first homegrown foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccine
  • Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Date: February 7, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Agricultural Research Council of South Africa developed and launched the country’s first indigenously produced FMD vaccine in nearly two decades, with an initial batch of 12,900 doses.
  • Objectives: To reduce import dependency, enhance animal health security, enable faster outbreak response, and assist in regaining FMD-free status for improved global trade and farmer support.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD): A highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals like cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. It leads to severe economic losses due to drops in milk, meat production, and export bans.
  • Agricultural Research Council (ARC): South Africa’s premier agricultural science body responsible for research, development, and production of vaccines, including the newly launched FMD vaccine.
  • FMD-Free Status: An official disease-free certification granted by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), essential for resuming livestock exports and gaining global market trust.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of South Africa’s Indigenous Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccine
Announcement date February 7, 2026
Location Johannesburg, South Africa
Issuing authority Agricultural Research Council, Department of Agriculture
Policy/series name FMD Vaccine Rollout Strategy
Key figures John Steenhuisen (Agriculture Minister), ARC scientists
Purpose/reason Strengthen local vaccine production and regain international FMD-free status
Feature details 12,900 doses released; weekly capacity to reach 20,000 by March 2026
Validity or status First phase rollout commenced; national scale-up in progress
Strategic/significant value Reduces import reliance, secures livestock trade, and boosts farmer resilience

 

International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs February 09

13. What is a key feature of the newly announced US–India Interim Trade Agreement framework?
A) Unilateral tariff elimination by India
B) Focus on military equipment sales
C) India’s $500 billion goods purchase commitment from the US
D) Withdrawal from the existing Bilateral Trade Agreement
E) Suspension of all digital trade negotiations
Answer: C) India’s $500 billion goods purchase commitment from the US

Event and Location:

  • Event: Announcement of US–India Interim Trade Agreement framework
  • Location: India and United States (bilateral coverage)
  • Date: February 7, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: India and the United States have agreed on a framework for an Interim Trade Agreement that includes tariff cuts, market access improvement, and sectoral cooperation.
  • Objectives: The agreement aims to strengthen supply chains, align trade regulations, improve bilateral trust, and act as a stepping stone toward a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

Important Terms Explained:

  • US–India Interim Trade Agreement: A framework between India and the US focusing on tariff rationalization, non-tariff barrier resolution, and regulatory alignment to deepen economic cooperation.
  • Preferential Tariff-Rate Quotas: A trade policy tool allowing certain goods to be imported at reduced duty rates within a set quantity, applied here to Indian automotive parts and pharmaceuticals.
  • Digital Trade Rules: Standards governing cross-border digital services and e-commerce, part of this agreement to ensure innovation-led growth and prevent discriminatory practices.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name US–India Interim Trade Agreement Framework Announcement
Announcement date February 7, 2026
Location Bilateral – India and United States
Issuing authority Governments of India and United States
Policy/series name Interim Trade Framework under BTA negotiations
Key figures Narendra Modi, Joe Biden
Purpose/reason Strengthen trade ties, reduce tariffs, improve standards, and build trust
Feature details Tariff cuts, non-tariff barrier removal, tech cooperation, pharma relief
Validity or status Active framework pending full Bilateral Trade Agreement
Strategic/significant value Enhances long-term bilateral alignment and economic security

14. What was a key financial outcome of PM Modi’s 2026 visit to Malaysia?
A) Launch of a joint central bank digital currency
B) Establishment of a free trade zone in Kuala Lumpur
C) Push for rupee–ringgit trade settlement
D) Agreement to adopt the US dollar as common currency
E) Cancellation of all import tariffs
Answer: C) Push for rupee–ringgit trade settlement

Event and Location:

  • Event: Signing of 11 key bilateral agreements between India and Malaysia
  • Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  • Date: February 2026 (visit announced on February 9, 2026)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: India and Malaysia signed 11 major agreements covering trade, digital payments, semiconductors, energy cooperation, disaster management, and worker mobility.
  • Objectives: To deepen bilateral trade and strategic trust, promote local currency settlement, enhance fintech integration, and expand cooperation in key sectors like clean energy, technology, and regional security.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Rupee–Ringgit Trade Settlement: A financial mechanism to allow direct invoicing and payments in Indian rupee and Malaysian ringgit, reducing dependence on third-party currencies like the US dollar.
  • NPCI–PayNet Linkage: A fintech partnership between NPCI International Ltd (India) and PayNet Malaysia to enable real-time digital retail payments across borders, supporting financial inclusion and innovation.
  • Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA): A broad trade pact between India and Malaysia covering goods, services, investments, and economic cooperation, under periodic review for improvements.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India–Malaysia Bilateral Agreements during PM Modi’s Visit
Announcement date February 2026 (publicized on February 9, 2026)
Location Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Issuing authority Government of India and Government of Malaysia
Policy/series name Rupee–Ringgit Trade Settlement; CECA; NPCI–PayNet Bilateral Linkage
Key figures Narendra Modi, Anwar Ibrahim
Purpose/reason Enhance trade, energy cooperation, digital payments, and regional security
Feature details 11 pacts covering fintech, semiconductors, solar energy, disaster response
Validity or status Active initiatives; strategic implementation ongoing
Strategic/significant value Boosts India’s ASEAN outreach, Indo-Pacific influence, and fintech diplomacy

Schemes – Daily Current Affairs February 09

15. Which Indian state launched the ‘Padhai with AI’ initiative in February 2026?
A) Uttarakhand
B) Himachal Pradesh
C) Sikkim
D) Nagaland
E) Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: B) Himachal Pradesh

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of ‘Padhai with AI’ AI-based digital education programme
  • Location: Barthin, Bilaspur district, Himachal Pradesh
  • Date: February 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched ‘Padhai with AI’, an AI-powered learning platform designed to support competitive exam aspirants in Bilaspur district.
  • Objectives: To modernize public education using artificial intelligence, ensure equal access to academic resources, reduce coaching dependency, and improve learning outcomes across socio-economic backgrounds.

Important Terms Explained:

  • ‘Padhai with AI’: A district-level AI-driven learning platform launched in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, aimed at providing personalized educational content, exam prep, and academic counselling to students preparing for competitive exams.
  • Artificial Intelligence in Education: The use of AI tools to deliver personalized, adaptive learning content, performance tracking, and real-time student support to enhance digital education outcomes.
  • NTPC (National Thermal Power Corporation): A public sector enterprise providing institutional support to the initiative, showcasing CSR-backed education reform at the local level.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of ‘Padhai with AI’ education initiative
Announcement date February 9, 2026
Location Bilaspur district, Himachal Pradesh
Issuing authority Government of Himachal Pradesh
Policy/series name Padhai with AI
Key figures CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, DC Rahul Kumar, NTPC support
Purpose/reason Provide AI-enabled, equitable, exam-oriented education to rural learners
Feature details Digital content, personalized learning, live counselling, test prep tools
Validity or status Active district-level rollout underway
Strategic/significant value Strengthens digital learning equity, supports AI in public education reform

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs February 09

16. From which location in India was the Nationwide Pulses Revolution launched in February 2026?
A) Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
B) Sehore, Madhya Pradesh
C) Amlaha, Madhya Pradesh
D) Nagpur, Maharashtra
E) Jaipur, Rajasthan
Answer: C) Amlaha, Madhya Pradesh

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Nationwide Pulses Revolution and Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission
  • Location: Amlaha, Sehore district, Madhya Pradesh
  • Date: February 7, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission to transform India from a pulses importer to a self-sufficient and exporting nation.
  • Objectives: To increase production, productivity, and profitability of pulses through seed-to-market models, clusters, processing units, and assured farmer support, aligning with national food and nutrition security goals.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission: A 6-year national mission (2025–2031) launched to achieve full Aatmanirbharta (self-sufficiency) in pulse production, backed by ₹11,440 crore funding.
  • Seed-to-Market Value Chain: A strategy that integrates quality seed access, scientific practices, cluster-based cultivation, local processing, and market linkages to support pulse growers.
  • Pulse Cluster Model: A localized cultivation and processing approach, supported by ₹25 lakh subsidy per 1,000 proposed pulse mills, aimed at value addition and rural job creation.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Nationwide Pulses Revolution & Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission
Announcement date February 7, 2026
Location Amlaha, Sehore, Madhya Pradesh
Issuing authority Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India
Policy/series name Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses
Key figures Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Farmers, FPOs, Seed Companies
Purpose/reason To end pulse imports, improve nutrition, and raise farmer income
Feature details ₹10,000/ha for seed kits, 1,000 pulse mills, seed villages, cluster farming
Validity or status Active mission (2025–26 to 2030–31)
Strategic/significant value Boosts food security, soil health, farmer welfare, and rural employment


Over All Review

Important Days

  • International Epilepsy Day 2026 was observed globally on February 9 to promote awareness and empathy for over 50 million people living with epilepsy.

Sports 

  • India won the 2026 ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup by defeating England by 100 runs in the final at Harare.
  • Services won the 79th Santosh Trophy by defeating Kerala 1-0 in extra time at Dhakuakhana Stadium, Assam.
  • India’s U-19 Women’s Team defeated Bangladesh 4–0 to win the 2026 SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship in Nepal.

Ranking 

  • China became the world’s largest spender on research and development in 2024, surpassing the United States.
  • Mundra Port recorded its highest-ever monthly automobile exports in January 2026 with 25,762 vehicles shipped.

Business And Economy

  • The Airports Authority of India signed an MoU with Bharat Taxi on February 9, 2026, to provide surge-free cab services at select airports.

Appointments

  • Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi won a historic two-thirds supermajority in the 2026 general election.
  • Rohit Kumar Singh was appointed Chair of the Global Value Chains Committee at the US–India Strategic Partnership Forum on February 9, 2026.

Science and Technology

  • Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched Qualcomm’s 2 nm semiconductor chip in Bengaluru on February 7, 2026.
  • On February 7, 2026, ICMR announced the start of Phase I clinical trials for the improved Kyasanur Forest Disease vaccine.
  • South Africa launched its first locally developed foot-and-mouth disease vaccine on February 7, 2026, after nearly 20 years.

International Affairs

  • India and the United States announced a framework for an Interim Trade Agreement on February 7, 2026.
  • India and Malaysia signed 11 bilateral agreements during PM Modi’s February 2026 visit to Kuala Lumpur.

Schemes

  • Himachal Pradesh launched the ‘Padhai with AI’ initiative on February 9, 2026, in Bilaspur district.

National Affairs

  • India launched a nationwide pulses revolution on February 7, 2026, from Amlaha in Madhya Pradesh under the leadership of Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

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