Daily Current Affairs February 16
Table of Contents
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February 16 | Daily Current Affairs 2025
Sports – Daily Current Affairs February 16
1. Lucas Pinheiro Braathen won Brazil’s first-ever Winter Olympics medal in which event at the 2026 Winter Olympics?
A) Slalom
B) Giant Slalom
C) Super-G
D) Downhill
E) Cross-Country Skiing
Answer: B) Giant Slalom
Event and Location:
- Event: Brazil wins its first-ever Winter Olympics medal through Lucas Pinheiro Braathen
- Location: Milano Cortina, Italy
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Winter Olympics 2026 featured alpine skiing competitions where Lucas Pinheiro Braathen secured gold in the giant slalom event, marking Brazil’s first medal in Winter Olympics history.
- Objectives: The event aims to promote global participation in winter sports, recognize excellence in alpine skiing disciplines, and expand representation of non-traditional winter sports nations.
Important Terms Explained:
- Winter Olympics: An international multi-sport event held every four years featuring winter sports such as skiing, skating, and ice hockey, organized by the International Olympic Committee.
- Giant Slalom: An alpine skiing event where athletes race down a snow-covered course marked by widely spaced gates, with combined times from two runs determining the winner.
- Alpine Skiing: A winter sport involving downhill skiing on snow-covered slopes, including disciplines like slalom, giant slalom, Super-G, and downhill.
- Medal Tally: The ranking of countries based on the number of medals won, typically ordered by gold medals.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Winter Olympics 2026 Giant Slalom Gold |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Milano Cortina Italy |
| Issuing authority | International Olympic Committee |
| Policy/series name | Winter Olympics 2026 |
| Key figures | Lucas Pinheiro Braathen Marco Odermatt |
| Purpose/reason | Brazil’s first-ever Winter Olympics medal |
| Feature details | Braathen won giant slalom gold with combined time 2 minutes 25 seconds |
| Validity or status | Medal standings ongoing |
| Strategic/significant value | Historic breakthrough for Brazil and South America in winter sports |
2. Magnus Carlsen won the 2026 FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship by defeating which player in the final?
A) Levon Aronian
B) Nodirbek Abdusattorov
C) Fabiano Caruana
D) Hans Niemann
E) Vincent Keymer
Answer: C) Fabiano Caruana
Event and Location:
- Event: Magnus Carlsen wins the 2026 FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship
- Location: Weissenhaus, Germany
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The International Chess Federation conducted the first official FIDE-recognized Freestyle (Chess960) World Championship, culminating in a final match between Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana.
- Objectives: The championship aimed to formalize Freestyle Chess under FIDE recognition, promote creativity over memorized opening preparation, and crown a world champion in the Chess960 format.
Important Terms Explained:
- FIDE: The International Chess Federation (Fédération Internationale des Échecs), the global governing body for chess responsible for world championships and official ratings.
- Freestyle Chess (Chess960): A chess variant where the starting positions of back-rank pieces are randomized among 960 possible setups, reducing reliance on opening theory.
- Armageddon Game: A tie-break format in chess where White gets more time but must win, while Black advances with a draw.
- Fischer Random Chess: Another name for Chess960, introduced by former World Champion Bobby Fischer to emphasize creativity.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | 2026 FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Weissenhaus Germany |
| Issuing authority | FIDE |
| Policy/series name | FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship |
| Key figures | Magnus Carlsen Fabiano Caruana |
| Purpose/reason | Crown world champion in official Freestyle Chess format |
| Feature details | Final score 2.5–1.5 first official FIDE recognized Chess960 championship |
| Validity or status | Completed |
| Strategic/significant value | Marks Carlsen’s 21st world title across formats |
Obituary – Daily Current Affairs February 16
3. David J. Farber, known as the “Grandfather of the Internet,” was closely associated with the early development and expansion of which network that later evolved into the internet?
A) CSNet
B) NSFNET
C) ARPANET
D) MILNET
E) BITNET
Answer: C) ARPANET
Event and Location:
- Event: Demise of David J. Farber, pioneer of early internet development
- Location: Tokyo, Japan
- Date: 7 February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: David J. Farber contributed to early networking research, expansion of ARPANET, mentorship of Internet Protocol pioneers, and policy development related to digital communication and governance.
- Objectives: His work aimed to connect isolated computer systems into interoperable networks, develop foundational internet protocols, promote academic collaboration, and shape global internet policy and governance frameworks.
Important Terms Explained:
- Internet Protocol (IP): A foundational communication protocol that enables data packets to travel across interconnected networks, forming the backbone of the internet.
- Domain Name System (DNS): A hierarchical naming system that translates human-readable domain names into numerical IP addresses.
- ARPANET: A research network funded by the U.S. Department of Defense in the late 1960s that evolved into the modern internet.
- NSFNET: A National Science Foundation-funded network that expanded academic networking and became a major backbone of the early internet.
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC): The U.S. government agency responsible for regulating interstate and international communications.
- Internet Society (ISOC): An international organization that promotes open development, evolution, and use of the internet.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Death of David J Farber |
| Announcement date | 7 February 2026 |
| Location | Tokyo Japan |
| Issuing authority | Not applicable obituary update |
| Policy/series name | Early Internet Development Contributions |
| Key figures | David J Farber Jonathan Postel Paul Mockapetris |
| Purpose/reason | Recognition of contributions to Internet Protocol ARPANET and internet governance |
| Feature details | Mentored DNS pioneers expanded ARPANET influenced NSFNET and digital policy |
| Validity or status | Historical legacy |
| Strategic/significant value | Foundational role in development of global internet infrastructure |
4. Legendary Odia singer Geeta Patnaik passed away in which city on 15 February 2026?
A) Bhubaneswar
B) Puri
C) Cuttack
D) Sambalpur
E) Rourkela
Answer: C) Cuttack
Event and Location:
- Event: Demise of veteran Odia singer Geeta Patnaik
- Location: Cuttack, Odisha
- Date: 15 February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Geeta Patnaik, a renowned playback singer of the Odia music industry, passed away at the age of 73 after suffering a brain stroke.
- Objectives: The news highlights her contribution to Odia cinema, devotional and modern music, and her lasting cultural impact on Odisha’s musical heritage.
Important Terms Explained:
- Playback Singer: A singer who records songs for films, where actors lip-sync to the pre-recorded track during shooting.
- Brain Stroke: A medical condition caused by interruption or reduction of blood supply to the brain, leading to brain cell damage.
- Odia Cinema: The regional film industry of Odisha, also known as Ollywood, producing films in the Odia language.
- Devotional Music: Religious or spiritually themed songs often associated with temples, rituals, and traditional practices.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Death of Geeta Patnaik |
| Announcement date | 15 February 2026 |
| Location | Cuttack Odisha |
| Issuing authority | Not applicable obituary update |
| Policy/series name | Not applicable |
| Key figures | Geeta Patnaik Akshaya Mohanty |
| Purpose/reason | Inform about demise of legendary Odia playback singer |
| Feature details | Known for Phur Kina Udigala Bani from film Jajabar |
| Validity or status | Passed away at age 73 |
| Strategic/significant value | Major cultural loss to Odia music and cinema |
Ranking – Daily Current Affairs February 16
5. What is India’s rank in the Henley Passport Index 2026 as of February 2026?
A) 70
B) 72
C) 75
D) 80
E) 85
Answer: C) 75
Event and Location:
- Event: Release of Henley Passport Index 2026 showing India’s improved global passport ranking
- Location: Global Index covering 199 passports and 227 destinations
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Henley Passport Index ranks global passports based on the number of destinations accessible without prior visa approval using IATA data.
- Objectives: The index aims to measure global mobility by assessing visa-free access, visa on arrival, and limited Electronic Travel Authorisation access, thereby comparing relative passport strength worldwide.
Henley Passport Index 2026
| Rank | Country/Countries | Visa-Free Score |
| 1 | Singapore | 192 |
| 2 | Japan, South Korea | 187 |
| 3 | Sweden, United Arab Emirates | 186 |
| 4 | Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland | 185 |
| 5 | Austria, Greece, Malta, Portugal | 184 |
| 6 | Hungary, Malaysia, New Zealand, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia | 183 |
| 7 | Australia, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Latvia, United Kingdom | 182 |
| 8 | Canada, Liechtenstein, Lithuania | 181 |
| 9 | Iceland | 180 |
| 10 | United States | 179 |
| 75 | India | 56 |
| 91 | Libya, Palestinian Territory, Sri Lanka | 39 |
| 92 | Eritrea | 38 |
| 93 | Bangladesh | 37 |
| 94 | North Korea | 36 |
| 95 | Nepal | 35 |
| 96 | Somalia | 33 |
| 97 | Pakistan | 32 |
| 98 | Yemen | 31 |
| 99 | Iraq | 29 |
| 100 | Syria | 26 |
| 101 | Afghanistan | 24 |
Important Terms Explained:
- Henley Passport Index: A global ranking system by Henley & Partners that evaluates 199 passports based on access to 227 travel destinations.
- International Air Transport Association (IATA): A global trade association of airlines that provides official travel and visa data used for passport ranking calculations.
- Visa-Free Access: Entry into a country without requiring prior visa approval before departure.
- Visa on Arrival: A facility allowing travellers to obtain a visa upon reaching the destination country.
- Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): A digital travel permit that does not require full embassy approval prior to departure and qualifies under mobility scoring.
- E-Visa (Pre-approved): A visa that requires advance online approval before travel and does not qualify as visa-free under the Henley methodology.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Henley Passport Index 2026 Update |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Global Ranking |
| Issuing authority | Henley and Partners using IATA data |
| Policy/series name | Henley Passport Index |
| Key figures | Indian passport holders global mobility score |
| Purpose/reason | Measure comparative global passport strength |
| Feature details | India ranked 75 with access to 56 destinations including visa on arrival and limited ETA |
| Validity or status | February 2026 rankings |
| Strategic/significant value | Reflects India’s relative improvement in global mobility despite fewer destinations |
Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs February 16
6. The newly launched CBDC-based Public Distribution System (PDS) uses which instrument for secure ration distribution transactions?
A) Unified Payments Interface
B) Aadhaar Enabled Payment System
C) Central Bank Digital Currency
D) National Electronic Funds Transfer
E) Bharat Bill Payment System
Answer: C) Central Bank Digital Currency
Event and Location:
- Event: Launch of CBDC-based Public Distribution System (PDS)
- Location: Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The government launched a Central Bank Digital Currency-based Public Distribution System to digitize ration distribution, eliminate leakages, and ensure secure and transparent transactions under the Digital India framework.
- Objectives: The initiative aims to strengthen food security for 80 crore beneficiaries, reduce corruption and duplication, promote financial inclusion, and align welfare delivery with the vision of ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance’.
Important Terms Explained:
- Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC): A digital form of legal tender issued by a central bank and recorded as a liability on its balance sheet, designed for secure and transparent digital transactions.
- Public Distribution System (PDS): A government-run food security system that distributes essential commodities such as rice and wheat at subsidized rates to eligible beneficiaries.
- Digital India: A flagship initiative launched in 2015 to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): A system that transfers government subsidies and benefits directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts to eliminate intermediaries and reduce leakages.
- Annapurna Machine: A digital grain dispensing machine capable of distributing 25 kg of food grains in 35 seconds with improved accuracy and quality control.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Launch of CBDC-based Public Distribution System |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Gandhinagar Gujarat |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Home Affairs Government of India |
| Policy/series name | CBDC-based Digital PDS |
| Key figures | Amit Shah |
| Purpose/reason | Ensure transparent and cashless food grain distribution |
| Feature details | Use of CBDC integration with Digital India 5 kg free grain per person Annapurna dispensing machine |
| Validity or status | Pilot launched nationwide expansion planned in 3 to 4 years |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens food security reduces corruption and promotes digital governance |
Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs February 16
7. India’s Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation stood at what level in January 2026?
A) 0.83%
B) 1.25%
C) 1.81%
D) 2.75%
E) 2.86%
Answer: C) 1.81%
Event and Location:
- Event: Release of January 2026 WPI Inflation data
- Location: India
- Date: February 2026 (Data for January 2026)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry released Wholesale Price Index data showing inflation at 1.81% in January 2026, marking a 10-month high driven by food, non-food articles, and manufacturing prices.
- Objectives: The data aims to measure producer-level price pressures, assess cost trends in primary articles and manufacturing, and provide inputs for economic analysis and policy formulation.
Important Terms Explained:
- Wholesale Price Index (WPI): An index that measures changes in prices of goods at the wholesale or producer level before they reach consumers.
- Consumer Price Index (CPI): An index measuring retail-level inflation based on changes in prices paid by consumers; it is the primary inflation target of the RBI.
- Deflation: A sustained decline in price levels, reflected by negative inflation rates.
- Basis Points (bps): A unit equal to one-hundredth of a percentage point, commonly used in interest rate changes.
- Repo Rate: The rate at which the Reserve Bank of India lends money to commercial banks, used as a key monetary policy tool.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | January 2026 WPI Inflation Data Release |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Commerce and Industry |
| Policy/series name | Wholesale Price Index Inflation |
| Key figures | WPI 1.81% CPI 2.75% |
| Purpose/reason | Measure wholesale price trends and producer-level inflation |
| Feature details | Rise driven by food non-food articles and manufacturing prices fuel and power in deflation |
| Validity or status | January 2026 data |
| Strategic/significant value | Influences economic outlook and RBI monetary policy assessment |
Schemes – Daily Current Affairs February 16
8. Under the PM RAHAT scheme, what is the maximum amount of cashless treatment provided to a road accident victim?
A) ₹50,000
B) ₹1 lakh
C) ₹1.5 lakh
D) ₹2 lakh
E) ₹5 lakh
Answer: C) ₹1.5 lakh
Event and Location:
- Event: Launch of the PM RAHAT (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment) Scheme
- Location: India
- Date: 14 February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Union Cabinet approved PM RAHAT to provide cashless hospitalization up to ₹1.5 lakh for 7 days to eligible road accident victims, integrated with emergency and digital platforms for seamless treatment and reimbursement.
- Objectives: The scheme aims to reduce preventable road accident deaths by ensuring treatment during the Golden Hour, eliminate financial barriers to emergency care, and strengthen structured emergency response coordination.
Important Terms Explained:
- PM RAHAT (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment): A central government scheme that provides up to ₹1.5 lakh cashless treatment for 7 days to road accident victims to ensure immediate and uninterrupted emergency medical care.
- Golden Hour: The first hour after a traumatic injury during which prompt medical treatment significantly increases the chances of survival.
- Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 112: A nationwide emergency helpline integrating police, fire, and ambulance services to provide immediate assistance.
- eDAR (Electronic Detailed Accident Report): A digital platform of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways used for reporting and processing accident data and claims.
- Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF): A statutory fund used to provide compensation and cover treatment costs for road accident victims, especially in uninsured or hit-and-run cases.
- TMS 2.0: A digital transaction management system of the National Health Authority used for claim processing and settlement.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Launch of PM RAHAT Scheme |
| Announcement date | 14 February 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Union Cabinet Government of India |
| Policy/series name | PM RAHAT |
| Key figures | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Purpose/reason | To ensure immediate cashless treatment for road accident victims |
| Feature details | ₹1.5 lakh coverage for 7 days integrated with ERSS 112 eDAR and TMS 2.0 |
| Validity or status | Approved and implemented from February 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens Golden Hour emergency care and reduces preventable fatalities |
9. Under the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF), what is the minimum percentage of project cost that must be raised through market financing?
A) 25%
B) 40%
C) 50%
D) 60%
E) 75%
Answer: C) 50%
Event and Location:
- Event: Approval of the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) by the Union Cabinet
- Location: India
- Date: February 2026 (For implementation from FY 2025–26 to FY 2030–31)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Union Cabinet approved a ₹1 lakh crore centrally sponsored Urban Challenge Fund that mandates 50% market financing for projects, promotes PPP participation, and links fund release to reform implementation and performance milestones.
- Objectives: The scheme aims to transform India’s urban development model from grant-based funding to market-driven growth, strengthen Urban Local Bodies, enhance creditworthiness, mobilise ₹4 lakh crore in total investment, and develop cities as economic growth hubs.
Important Terms Explained:
- Urban Challenge Fund (UCF): A centrally sponsored scheme providing ₹1 lakh crore Central Assistance to promote reform-linked, market-based urban infrastructure development.
- Central Assistance (CA): Financial support provided by the Central Government to States or implementing agencies for specific schemes.
- Public–Private Partnership (PPP): A collaborative model where government and private sector entities jointly finance, build, and operate infrastructure projects.
- Urban Local Bodies (ULBs): Local government institutions such as municipal corporations, municipalities, and nagar panchayats responsible for urban governance.
- Credit Repayment Guarantee Scheme: A mechanism where the Central Government provides partial guarantees on loans taken by smaller cities to enhance their creditworthiness.
- Municipal Bonds: Debt instruments issued by ULBs to raise funds from the market for infrastructure development.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Approval of Urban Challenge Fund |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Union Cabinet Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Urban Challenge Fund |
| Key figures | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Purpose/reason | Shift from grant-based to market-led urban development |
| Feature details | ₹1 lakh crore corpus 25% Central Assistance 50% mandatory market finance PPP and reform-linked funding |
| Validity or status | FY 2025–26 to FY 2030–31 extendable to FY 2033–34 |
| Strategic/significant value | Mobilises ₹4 lakh crore investment strengthens ULB creditworthiness and promotes resilient cities |
10. Under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, what is the maximum subsidy provided for installing a 3 kW rooftop solar system?
A) ₹50,000
B) ₹60,000
C) ₹75,000
D) ₹78,000
E) ₹1,00,000
Answer: D) ₹78,000
Event and Location:
- Event: Completion of two years of PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana
- Location: India
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The scheme promotes residential rooftop solar installations by providing financial subsidies and enabling households to generate decentralized clean energy.
- Objectives: It aims to cover one crore households, provide up to 300 units of free electricity per month, reduce electricity bills, accelerate renewable energy adoption, and support India’s clean energy transition.
Important Terms Explained:
- PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana: A centrally sponsored rooftop solar scheme with an outlay of ₹75,021 crore that provides subsidies up to ₹78,000 for 3 kW systems and up to 300 units of free electricity monthly.
- Rooftop Solar System: A solar photovoltaic installation mounted on residential rooftops that generates electricity for household consumption.
- DISCOM: Distribution Company responsible for electricity distribution and grid connectivity approvals at the state level.
- Renewable Energy Transition: The shift from fossil fuel-based energy sources to sustainable sources like solar, wind, and hydro power.
- Grid Connectivity: The process of linking rooftop solar systems to the electricity distribution network for net metering and energy flow management.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Two Years of PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Government of India |
| Policy/series name | PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana |
| Key figures | Government of India |
| Purpose/reason | Promote rooftop solar adoption and provide free electricity benefits |
| Feature details | ₹75,021 crore outlay subsidy up to ₹78,000 for 3 kW system 300 units free power monthly |
| Validity or status | Ongoing scheme completed two years |
| Strategic/significant value | Supports renewable energy goals reduces carbon emissions and strengthens energy security |
National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs February 16
11. The AI Impact Summit 2026, hosted by India, is structured around three foundational pillars known as the Sutras. Which of the following correctly represents these Sutras?
A) Peace Planet Partnership
B) People Planet Progress
C) Policy Protection Participation
D) Privacy Power Progress
E) Prosperity Platform Performance
Answer: B) People Planet Progress
Event and Location:
- Event: India hosts the AI Impact Summit 2026, the first global AI summit held in the Global South
- Location: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India
- Date: 16 February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: India convened world leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and international organisations to deliberate on global AI governance through three Sutras and seven thematic Chakras.
- Objectives: The summit aims to shape responsible and inclusive AI frameworks, strengthen cooperation between developed and developing nations, and position India as a bridge in global digital governance discussions.
Important Terms Explained:
- AI Impact Summit 2026: A five-day global summit hosted by India to deliberate on Artificial Intelligence governance, innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development, marking the first such event in the Global South.
- Global South: A collective term referring to developing and emerging economies in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceania that seek equitable representation in global governance systems.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance: A framework of policies, regulations, and ethical standards designed to ensure the safe, transparent, and responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.
- Sutras (People, Planet, Progress): The three guiding pillars of the summit focusing on human-centric AI, sustainable AI systems, and innovation-driven equitable growth.
- Chakras: Seven thematic working groups of the summit, namely Human Capital, Inclusion for Social Empowerment, Safe and Trusted AI, Science, Resilience, Innovation and Efficiency, and Democratizing AI Resources & AI for Economic Development.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | AI Impact Summit 2026 |
| Announcement date | 16 February 2026 |
| Location | Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi |
| Issuing authority | Government of India |
| Policy/series name | AI Impact Summit |
| Key figures | Emmanuel Macron, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Pedro Sánchez, UN Secretary-General |
| Purpose/reason | To shape global AI governance and strengthen Global South representation |
| Feature details | Based on three Sutras and seven Chakras covering AI ethics, sustainability, and innovation |
| Validity or status | Five-day summit underway from 16 February 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Positions India as a leader in global AI and digital diplomacy |
12. What is the total corpus approved by the Union Cabinet for the Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 (FoF 2.0)?
A) ₹5,000 crore
B) ₹7,500 crore
C) ₹10,000 crore
D) ₹15,000 crore
E) ₹20,000 crore
Answer: C) ₹10,000 crore
Event and Location:
- Event: Approval of Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 (FoF 2.0) by the Union Cabinet
- Location: India
- Date: 14 February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Union Cabinet approved a ₹10,000 crore corpus under FoF 2.0 to channel long-term capital into startups through Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) instead of direct government funding.
- Objectives: The scheme aims to strengthen India’s domestic venture capital ecosystem, promote deep tech and innovative manufacturing, address early-stage funding gaps, and support the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
Important Terms Explained:
- Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 (FoF 2.0): A government-backed fund with a ₹10,000 crore corpus that invests in SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds, which in turn invest in startups.
- Fund of Funds (FoF): An investment strategy where funds are invested in other investment funds rather than directly in companies.
- Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs): Privately pooled investment vehicles regulated by SEBI that invest in startups, SMEs, infrastructure, and other high-growth sectors.
- Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS 1.0): The original fund launched in 2016 with a ₹10,000 crore corpus that supported over 1,370 startups through 145 AIFs.
- Viksit Bharat @ 2047: India’s long-term development vision aimed at transforming the country into a developed nation by 2047.
- DPIIT: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, which recognises eligible startups under the Startup India initiative.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Approval of Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 |
| Announcement date | 14 February 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Union Cabinet Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 |
| Key figures | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Purpose/reason | To mobilise venture capital for deep tech and early-stage startups |
| Feature details | ₹10,000 crore corpus invested through AIFs focusing on deep tech and manufacturing |
| Validity or status | Newly approved continuation of FFS 1.0 |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens domestic VC ecosystem and supports Viksit Bharat 2047 |
13. The Northeast’s first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) inaugurated in Assam is located on which bypass?
A) Silchar Bypass
B) Moran Bypass
C) Tezpur Bypass
D) Jorhat Bypass
E) Tinsukia Bypass
Answer: B) Moran Bypass
Event and Location:
- Event: Inauguration of Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu and Northeast’s first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF)
- Location: Guwahati and Dibrugarh district, Assam
- Date: 16 February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Prime Minister inaugurated infrastructure projects worth ₹5,450 crore, including a 2.86-km six-lane extradosed bridge over the Brahmaputra and a 4.2-km highway-based Emergency Landing Facility developed in coordination with the Indian Air Force.
- Objectives: The projects aim to improve regional connectivity, enhance strategic military preparedness near the India–China border, reduce travel time, strengthen disaster response capability, and promote economic growth in the Northeast.
Important Terms Explained:
- Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu: A 2.86-km-long six-lane extradosed Prestressed Concrete bridge built over the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati at a cost of approximately ₹3,030 crore, reducing travel time between Guwahati and North Guwahati to seven minutes.
- Extradosed Bridge: A hybrid bridge design combining features of girder and cable-stayed bridges, allowing longer spans with enhanced load-bearing capacity and cost efficiency.
- Emergency Landing Facility (ELF): A specially designed stretch of highway that can function as a temporary runway for military and civilian aircraft during emergencies.
- Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS): A real-time structural monitoring system that tracks the safety and durability of bridges using sensors and digital technology.
- Prestressed Concrete (PSC): A construction technique in which concrete is reinforced with tensioned steel tendons to improve strength and load-bearing capacity.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Inauguration of Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu and Emergency Landing Facility |
| Announcement date | 16 February 2026 |
| Location | Guwahati and Moran Bypass Dibrugarh Assam |
| Issuing authority | Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Northeast Infrastructure Development Projects |
| Key figures | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Purpose/reason | Improve connectivity and strengthen strategic preparedness |
| Feature details | 2.86 km six-lane extradosed bridge and 4.2 km highway runway for aircraft up to 74 tonnes |
| Validity or status | Inaugurated and operational |
| Strategic/significant value | Enhances military readiness near India China border and boosts regional growth |
14. The recently approved twin-tube TBM underwater road-cum-rail tunnel under the Brahmaputra River will connect which two National Highways?
A) NH-27 and NH-37
B) NH-44 and NH-715
C) NH-15 and NH-715
D) NH-52 and NH-37
E) NH-16 and NH-27
Answer: C) NH-15 and NH-715
Event and Location:
- Event: Approval of twin-tube TBM underwater road-cum-rail tunnel under the Brahmaputra River
- Location: Assam connecting Gohpur and Numaligarh
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved a ₹18,662 crore 33.7 km greenfield 4-lane access-controlled corridor including a 15.79 km twin-tube underwater tunnel under the Brahmaputra to be executed under the EPC model.
- Objectives: The project aims to reduce travel time, enhance strategic connectivity in the North East, integrate road and rail networks, lower logistics costs, and promote regional economic growth without disturbing ecologically sensitive zones like Kaziranga National Park.
Important Terms Explained:
- Twin Tube TBM Tunnel: A tunnel system consisting of two parallel tubes constructed using a Tunnel Boring Machine, allowing separate traffic flows and improved safety.
- Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM): An advanced mechanised equipment used for excavating underground or underwater tunnels with high precision and minimal environmental disruption.
- Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) Model: A project delivery model where the contractor is responsible for design, procurement of materials, construction, and handover of the project at a fixed cost.
- Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA): A high-level committee of the Union Cabinet responsible for approving major economic and infrastructure projects.
- Greenfield Project: A project developed from scratch on previously undeveloped land without modifying existing infrastructure.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Approval of Brahmaputra Twin Tube Road Rail Tunnel Project |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Assam connecting Gohpur NH 15 and Numaligarh NH 715 |
| Issuing authority | Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs |
| Policy/series name | Brahmaputra Underwater Road Cum Rail Corridor |
| Key figures | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Purpose/reason | Reduce travel time and strengthen strategic connectivity in North East |
| Feature details | 33.7 km corridor including 15.79 km underwater twin tube tunnel built under EPC model costing ₹18,662 crore |
| Validity or status | Approved for implementation |
| Strategic/significant value | Enhances defence logistics economic integration and multimodal connectivity |
15. The proposed underground railway line in the Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck) will have a total length of:
A) 22 km
B) 30.50 km
C) 33.40 km
D) 35.76 km
E) 40.20 km
Answer: D) 35.76 km
Event and Location:
- Event: Announcement of 35.76 km underground railway line through the Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck)
- Location: West Bengal and Bihar under Northeast Frontier Railway
- Date: February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Indian Railways announced the construction of a 35.76 km underground tunnel-based railway alignment connecting Tinmile Hat, Rangapani and Bagdogra using advanced TBM and NATM technologies with modern electrification and signalling systems.
- Objectives: The project aims to strengthen Northeast connectivity, enhance defence logistics, improve disaster resilience, secure India’s narrow land link to the Northeast, and integrate rail infrastructure with air and military bases in a strategically sensitive region.
Important Terms Explained:
- Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck): A narrow 22 km wide land strip in West Bengal that connects mainland India with the North-eastern States and is strategically sensitive due to its proximity to Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh.
- Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR): One of the 18 railway zones of Indian Railways responsible for rail operations in the Northeastern states and parts of West Bengal and Bihar.
- Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM): A mechanised system used for constructing underground tunnels with precision, safety and minimal surface disruption.
- New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM): A tunnelling technique that uses the surrounding rock mass for structural support during excavation.
- 2×25 kV AC Electrification: A high-capacity railway electrification system designed to support heavy and high-speed train operations.
- RDSO: Research Designs and Standards Organisation, the technical body of Indian Railways responsible for setting engineering standards.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Siliguri Corridor Underground Railway Project |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | West Bengal and Bihar under Northeast Frontier Railway |
| Issuing authority | Indian Railways |
| Policy/series name | Strategic Underground Rail Connectivity Initiative |
| Key figures | Ministry of Railways Government of India |
| Purpose/reason | Strengthen Northeast connectivity and defence logistics |
| Feature details | 35.76 km underground alignment using TBM and NATM with 2×25 kV AC electrification |
| Validity or status | Announced and under planning stage |
| Strategic/significant value | Secures India’s only land link to Northeast and enhances disaster resilience |
16. India’s first National Cow Culture Museum will be established at which institution?
A) Banaras Hindu University
B) Indian Veterinary Research Institute
C) Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Veterinary Science University
D) Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture
E) National Dairy Research Institute
Answer: C) Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Veterinary Science University
Event and Location:
- Event: Establishment of India’s first National Cow Culture Museum
- Location: Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
- Date: February 2026 (Announcement)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Uttar Pradesh government approved the establishment of a National Cow Culture Museum within the campus of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Veterinary Science University to showcase indigenous cattle breeds, dairy economy, and conservation practices.
- Objectives: The museum aims to highlight the cultural significance of cows, promote scientific awareness about cattle conservation, support sustainable agriculture, and strengthen rural and dairy-based economic development.
Important Terms Explained:
- National Cow Culture Museum: A proposed museum dedicated to presenting the cultural, economic, and scientific importance of cattle in India through digital and physical exhibits.
- Indigenous Cattle Breeds: Native Indian breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal, and Tharparkar known for adaptability, milk productivity, and resilience to local climatic conditions.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Farming practices that maintain soil fertility, reduce chemical dependency, and promote long-term ecological balance, including the use of organic manure from cattle.
- Dairy Economy: The sector involving milk production, processing, and distribution, which provides livelihood support to millions of rural households in India.
- Organic Manure: Natural fertilizer derived from animal waste, improving soil health and reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Establishment of National Cow Culture Museum |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | Mathura Uttar Pradesh |
| Issuing authority | Government of Uttar Pradesh |
| Policy/series name | National Cow Culture Museum Initiative |
| Key figures | Uttar Pradesh Government Officials |
| Purpose/reason | Promote cultural and scientific awareness about cattle |
| Feature details | 100 digital and physical exhibits showcasing indigenous breeds dairy economy and conservation |
| Validity or status | Announced and under development |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens rural economy awareness sustainable agriculture and tourism |
17. The Union Cabinet approved the conversion of North and South Blocks into which proposed national museum?
A) Bharat Heritage Museum
B) Rashtriya Itihas Sangrahalaya
C) Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum
D) National Civilisation Museum of India
E) Kartavya Bharat Museum
Answer: C) Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum
Event and Location:
- Event: Approval for conversion of North and South Blocks into Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum
- Location: New Delhi, India
- Date: February 2026 (After PM dedicated Seva Teerth on 13 February 2026)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Union Cabinet approved the transition of the historic North Block and South Block from administrative use to become part of the Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum, following the relocation of the Prime Minister’s Office to Seva Teerth.
- Objectives: The move aims to repurpose colonial-era administrative buildings into a museum celebrating India’s civilisational journey, modernise governance infrastructure, and reflect a shift toward citizen-centric and service-oriented administration under the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Important Terms Explained:
- Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum: A proposed national museum that will showcase India’s civilisational heritage, freedom struggle, post-independence development, and modern global aspirations.
- Seva Teerth: The newly inaugurated Prime Minister’s Office complex dedicated to modern, technology-enabled, and efficient governance.
- Kartavya Bhavans: Newly developed administrative buildings designed to promote integrated, sustainable, and digitally enabled governance.
- Viksit Bharat: India’s long-term vision to become a developed nation through economic growth, governance reforms, and infrastructure modernisation.
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): A system of transferring government subsidies directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts to ensure transparency and reduce leakages.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Conversion of North and South Blocks into Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum |
| Announcement date | February 2026 |
| Location | New Delhi |
| Issuing authority | Union Cabinet Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum Initiative |
| Key figures | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Purpose/reason | Transform colonial administrative buildings into national museum |
| Feature details | Integration of North and South Blocks relocation of PMO to Seva Teerth |
| Validity or status | Approved by Union Cabinet |
| Strategic/significant value | Symbolic shift from colonial governance to modern citizen-centric administration |
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