Daily Current Affairs Quiz01 & 02 March, 2026 International Affairs 1. Pakistan–Afghanistan War Context: Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have reportedly escalated into a major military confrontation following Pakistan’s launch of Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, marking one of the most serious crises between the two neighbours in recent years. What is the Conflict About? The present escalation represents a shift from: to a more conventional military confrontation, involving: The fighting is primarily between the Pakistan Armed Forces and the Afghan Taliban authorities. Region of Tension 1. The Durand Line The conflict centres around the Durand Line, a 2,640 km porous border between the two countries.Afghanistan has historically refused to formally recognise it as an international boundary. 2. Key Flashpoints Core Points of Conflict Cross-Border Terrorism Pakistan accuses the Afghan Taliban of providing sanctuary to the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has carried out attacks inside Pakistan. Border Fencing Dispute Pakistan has attempted to fence the Durand Line.The Taliban opposes this, leading to frequent armed clashes. Operation Launched Operation Ghazab lil-Haq Launched by Pakistan with the stated objective of: National Affairs 1. PM Launches Micron ATMP Semiconductor Plant in Gujarat Source: News on Air Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Micron Technology Inc.’s Assembly, Test, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) semiconductor facility in Sanand, Gujarat — a major milestone in India’s semiconductor manufacturing push. What is the ATMP Plant? An ATMP (Assembly, Test, Marking and Packaging) facility: This marks one of India’s first large-scale semiconductor packaging units. Government Support The project has received strong public backing under the India Semiconductor Mission: 2. Government Bank Dashboard & Manual Initiative Source: ET The Controller General of Accounts (CGA), under the Government of India, has launched the Government Bank Dashboard and Government Bank Manual to modernise oversight of government banking operations. What is the Initiative? It is a dual reform measure comprising: Together, they aim to strengthen transparency, efficiency, and accountability in managing public funds. Objective Key Features 1. Real-Time Monitoring The Dashboard tracks critical performance indicators such as: This allows continuous tracking of banks’ performance in handling government funds. 2. Standardised Operational Framework The Government Bank Manual: This reduces ambiguity in government banking operations. 3. Proactive Oversight Instead of detecting irregularities after delays occur, the system enables: 4. Service-Level Tracking Banks’ adherence to service standards in managing government transactions is continuously monitored. 5. Future-Ready Architecture The initiative is designed to support: 3. LCH Prachand — India’s Indigenous Light Combat Helicopter Context: President Droupadi Murmu recently undertook a historic sortie in the LCH Prachand at an Indian Air Force base, highlighting India’s growing indigenous defence capabilities. What is LCH Prachand? LCH Prachand is India’s first indigenously designed and developed dedicated combat helicopter, built for offensive missions in high-altitude and battlefield environments. It is a multi-role light attack helicopter capable of: Developed By Designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under the Light Combat Helicopter programme. Strategic Objective To provide India with a high-altitude combat platform capable of operating effectively in mountainous terrain such as: These areas pose challenges for heavier helicopters due to thin air and extreme conditions. 4. Inland Waterway Projects on National Waterway-2 Context: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated three major inland waterway infrastructure projects on National Waterway 2 (River Brahmaputra) in Dibrugarh, Assam to strengthen logistics, trade, and river tourism in the North Eastern Region. Key Projects 1. Bogibeel Customs & Immigration Complex (CIC) 2. Dhubri Gateway CIC 3. Renovated IWAI Heritage Building, Dibrugarh 5. Tamil Nadu Launches First Dark Sky Park in Kolli Hills Source: TH Context: Tamil Nadu’s first Dark Sky Park has been inaugurated at the Ariyur Shola Reserve Forest in Kolli Hills, Namakkal district by Forest Minister R S Rajakannappan, promoting astro-tourism and scientific awareness. About the Dark Sky Park India’s First Official Dark Sky Park India’s first internationally recognised Dark Sky Park is Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, designated in 2024 under the International Dark-Sky Places programme. Banking/Finance 1. Small, Steady Steps Toward Rupee Internationalisation Source: BS India has begun a gradual, long-term process to make the rupee more widely used in global trade and finance. While progress is modest so far, policymakers view it as the beginning of a multi-decade transformation. Current Status The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) now tracks how much of India’s trade is invoiced and settled in rupees. These numbers are small but signal early movement away from exclusive reliance on hard currencies like the US dollar. Why India Wants Rupee Internationalisation Key Policy Steps Taken 1. Local Currency Trade Arrangements India has signed agreements with countries such as the UAE, Indonesia, Maldives, and Mauritius to settle trade in local currencies. 2. Incentives for Rupee Invoicing Exporters receive equal benefits whether they invoice trade in rupees or dollars. 3. Expanding Offshore Rupee Use 4. Integration into Global Financial Markets Indian government bonds are being added to major global emerging-market indices — a key step toward wider rupee acceptance. Risks and Concerns Some fear wider rupee use could cause: 2. Govt Launches eSushrut@Clinic — A “BHIM UPI Moment” for Healthcare Digitisation Source: Mint India’s National Health Authority (NHA) has introduced eSushrut@Clinic, a free digital platform aimed at small and mid-sized clinics, seeking to replicate the transformational impact of BHIM UPI in digital payments within the healthcare sector. The platform has been developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) and is integrated with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). What is eSushrut@Clinic? It is a SaaS-based (Software-as-a-Service) lightweight digital system, designed as a simpler alternative to expensive and complex Hospital Information Management Systems (HIMS). It enables clinics to: Clinics can use it via a simple web browser, without investing in heavy IT infrastructure. Key Feature: Smart Assistant (CDSS) The platform includes a Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) that: Agriculture 1. Suspension of Fortified Rice Rollout Source: TOI Context: The Central Government has temporarily halted the distribution of fortified rice under major welfare schemes due to concerns over nutrient stability during long storage periods. What is Fortified Rice? Fortified rice is regular

Daily Current Affairs Quiz28 February, 2026 National Affairs 1. INS Anjadip Commissioned Source: TOI Why in News? The Indian Navy commissioned INS Anjadip, the fourth indigenously designed Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at Chennai Port. Key Details Capabilities and Features 2. Rail Tech Policy Source: TOI Why in News? The Ministry of Railways launched the Rail Tech Policy along with a dedicated Rail Tech Portal. The initiative aims to involve startups and innovators in solving railway challenges through technology. About Rail Tech Policy Ministry: Ministry of Railways, Government of India. Objectives Key Features Rail Tech Portal Innovation Challenges Focus on emerging technological solutions such as: Safety Priority 3. ASTraM – Actionable Intelligence for Sustainable Traffic Management Source: The Hindu Why in News? Former Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof visited the Bengaluru Traffic Management Centre to study the ASTraM system, which has drawn global attention for its AI-based traffic prediction and management capabilities. About ASTraM Developed By Objective 4. India’s Young Adults Rank 60th in Global Mental Health Report Source: IE In February 2026, US-based NGO Sapien Labs released its report titled“Global Mind Health in 2025: Mind Health – The Ability to Navigate Life’s Challenges and Function Productively.” India’s Ranking Observation: Older Indians perform significantly better in mental health indicators compared to young adults. About the Global Mind Health 2025 Report Methodology Countries are ranked using the Mind Health Quotient (MHQ), which measures: Global Findings Top Performing Countries Youth (18–34 years) Adults (55+ years) 5. India’s First State Innovation Mission (SIM) Launched in Tripura Source: PIB Context: Launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Science & Technology. About State Innovation Mission (SIM) Other Key Launches in Tripura Banking/Finance 1. New GDP Series (Base Year FY23) Source: IE Why in News? The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has revised India’s national accounts. GDP base year shifted from 2011–12 to 2022–23 to improve accuracy and align with global statistical standards. What is GDP Base Year? New Base Year Objective of the Revision Key Methodological Changes Advanced Inflation Adjustment (Deflation) Better Measurement of Informal & Household Sector Integration of Big Data & Administrative Sources Improved Structural Consistency Refined Consumption Estimation Improved Quarterly Estimates 2. New GDP Series Upgrades FY26 Growth to 7.6% Source: TOI Why in News? The Government released Second Advance Estimates of GDP based on the new national accounts series. India’s GDP growth for FY 2025–26 is now estimated at 7.6%, higher than earlier projections. Key Highlights: Revisions to Previous Years Nominal GDP Impact 3. MSME Ministry Upgrades NSIC to Schedule ‘A’ Category CPSE Source: PIB Why in News? About Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) Governing Framework History of Categorisation Four Schedules of CPSEs Schedule A Schedule B Schedule C Schedule D Basis of Categorisation Quantitative Criteria Qualitative Criteria Implications of Schedule ‘A’ Status Agriculture 1. Women’s Role in Agriculture Shifting from Drudgery to Systematic Work Source: TH Why in News? At the 5th Agri and Commodity Summit in New Delhi, the Agriculture Secretary highlighted that women’s role in agriculture is evolving from manual labour to more organised and systematic participation. Key Observations Structural Challenges Economic Role of Women Policy and Institutional Suggestions Facts To Remember 1. Fiscal deficit at 63% of full-year target: CGA The Centre’s fiscal deficit at the end of January stood at ₹9.8 lakh crore, or 63% of the annual budget target for 2025-26, compared with 74.5% in the year-ago period, government data released on Friday showed. 2. Rail Tech Policy and e-RCT System Launched by Ashwini Vaishnaw Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the Rail Tech Policy and full digitisation of the Railway Claims Tribunal under the ‘52 Reforms in 52 Weeks’ initiative.The policy aims to promote innovation by engaging startups, industry, and research institutions in railway technology.A dedicated RailTech Portal will enable end-to-end digital proposal submission.Indian Railways will fund up to 50% of development costs and support large-scale adoption of successful solutions. 3. India’s First State Innovation Mission Launched in Tripura Union Minister Jitendra Singh launched India’s first State Innovation Mission (SIM) in Tripura under Atal Innovation Mission 2.0.The mission aims to build inclusive and state-specific innovation ecosystems across states and UTs.It will support startups, grassroots innovators, and research-driven development.The initiative also aligns with strengthening innovation capacity in the Northeast region. 4. NSIC Upgraded to Schedule ‘A’ CPSE by MoMSME The Ministry of MSME upgraded National Small Industries Corporation from Schedule ‘B’ to Schedule ‘A’ CPSE status in February 2026.The upgrade provides greater financial and operational autonomy to support MSMEs.NSIC plays a key role in credit facilitation, marketing support, and enterprise development.The move recognises its strong performance and contribution to the MSME ecosystem. 5. India–Sweden Sign SoI to Strengthen AI and Digital Cooperation India AI Mission signed a Statement of Intent with Business Sweden at the India AI Impact Summit 2026.The partnership will promote responsible AI development and deployment.Both countries will launch the Sweden-India Technology and AI Corridor (SITAC) programme.It will enhance collaboration among governments, startups, academia, and industries. 6. NMDC and IIT Hyderabad Sign MoU for Indigenous Mining Technologies NMDC Limited signed an MoU with IIT Hyderabad to boost research in mining and metallurgical technologies.The collaboration focuses on green steelmaking, iron ore beneficiation, and Mining 4.0 solutions.It will promote AI, IoT, autonomous vehicles, and drone-based mining systems.The initiative supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and sustainable mining development. 7. Ministry of Culture Signs MoU with FICCI for Cultural & Creative Economy The Ministry of Culture signed an MoU with FICCI to develop a national strategy for the Cultural and Creative Economy.The agreement aims to integrate culture with economic policy and promote entrepreneurship.It will enhance global market access and employment opportunities for artists and artisans.The collaboration covers sectors like crafts, media, design, tourism, and heritage. 8. UIDAI Partners with Google to Show Verified Aadhaar Centres on Maps UIDAI collaborated with Google to display authorised Aadhaar Centres on Google Maps.The initiative will improve accessibility and transparency in Aadhaar services.Over 60,000 Aadhaar Centres, including Aadhaar Seva Kendras, will be covered in phases.It

Daily Current Affairs Quiz27 February, 2026 National Affairs 1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transforming Rural India Source: PIB Why in News? Government highlights the expanding role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in rural development. Emphasis on inclusive, people-centric AI aligned with Viksit Bharat@2047. India–AI Impact Summit 2026 signals transition from pilot projects to system-wide AI deployment. Key Takeaways National AI Policy & Governance Framework National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence (2018) – “AI for All” India AI Governance Guidelines (2025) Launched by Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY). Core Features Focus Areas AI in Rural Governance AI in Panchayati Raj Institutions SabhaSaar eGramSwaraj Gram Manchitra AIKosh AI Infrastructure in Rural Development BhuPRAHARI Digital ShramSetu Mission AI in Agriculture AI in Education & Skilling DIKSHA (NCERT) YUVAI (Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI) Suman Sakhi (Madhya Pradesh) AI for Multilingual Inclusion BHASHINI BharatGen Adi Vaani 2. 7th Edition of India–Japan Joint Military Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN Source: News on Air Why in News? The 7th edition of Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN, the annual joint military exercise between India and Japan, began on February 24, 2026 at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubattia, Uttarakhand. The exercise will continue till March 9, 2026. About Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN 2026 Nature of Exercise Participating Forces Indian Contingent Japanese Contingent 3. South Central Railway Launches Next-Generation ‘Rail Parcel App’ Source: News on Air Why in News? South Central Railway (SCR) launched a next-generation ‘Rail Parcel App’ at Rail Nilayam, Secunderabad. The app is designed as a digital e-marketplace for freight and parcel services. About the Rail Parcel App Pilot Rollout 4. International Climate Initiative (IKI) Source: NIE Why in News? Germany and India have launched a €20 million (approx. ₹180 crore) Large Grant project under the International Climate Initiative (IKI). The project aims to strengthen India’s climate resilience, especially in ecologically vulnerable regions. About International Climate Initiative (IKI) The International Climate Initiative (IKI) is a key financial mechanism of the German Government that funds international projects focused on: It supports developing and emerging economies in achieving global climate goals. Established: 2008 Countries Involved Aim Banking/Finance 1. SEBI Broadens Mutual Fund Categories Source: TH Context: India’s market regulator, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has expanded mutual fund (MF) categories to better reflect changing investor needs and evolving market dynamics. Key Regulatory Changes 1. Introduction of Lifecycle Funds 2. Sectoral Debt Funds Allowed Asset Management Companies (AMCs) can now launch schemes that invest in debt instruments of specific sectors. Key conditions: This enables targeted exposure to specific industries through relatively safer, high-rated debt. 3. Investment Flexibility in Long-Duration Funds 2. New GDP Data Series to Capture Economy More Accurately Source: ET Why in News? India is releasing a new series of national accounts incorporating methodological and statistical upgrades. The revision aims to make GDP and GVA estimates more accurate, granular, and reflective of the present economic structure. Key Changes in the New GDP Series 1. Base Year Revision 2. Improved Measurement of Private Corporate Sector 3. Changes in Government Sector Estimation 4. Better Estimation of Household Sector 5. More Accurate Consumption Measurement 3. RBI Gives Compliance Relief for Small Merchant UPI Transactions Source: Business Standard Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has clarified regulatory norms for small merchant UPI transactions (P2PM). The move eases compliance requirements for fintech firms like PhonePe and Paytm, especially in the unorganised retail segment. Key RBI Clarifications Background What are P2PM Transactions? Difference: P2PM vs P2M 3. Sixteenth Finance Commission and Fiscal Challenges for States Why in News? Key Concepts Vertical Devolution Horizontal Devolution Major Changes in the 16th Finance Commission Award Vertical Devolution Horizontal Devolution States with Increased Share States with Reduced Share Debt and Devolution Concerns Additional Concern: Shift in Central Funding Pattern Implication Fiscal Consolidation Targets (16th Finance Commission) 4. Sebi Broadens Scope for Equity Mutual Funds Source: Business Standard Why in News? Key Regulatory Changes 1. Gold and Silver Exposure in Equity Funds 2. Discontinuation of Solution-Oriented Schemes 3. Introduction of Life Cycle Funds 4. Expansion in Equity and Hybrid Categories 5. Introduction of Sectoral Debt Funds 6. Restrictions on Portfolio Overlap 7. Rationalisation of Fund of Funds (FoF) 5. Sebi Shifts Gold and Silver Valuation Norms for Mutual Funds to Domestic Spot Prices Source: Business Standard Why in News? Key Change Earlier Practice Reason for the Change 6. RBI Prop Trading Curbs May Give Edge to Foreign Firms Source: Mint Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has tightened bank lending norms for proprietary (prop) traders. Market participants say the move may unintentionally favour foreign trading firms. What Has RBI Changed? Eligible Non-Cash Collateral (Banks apply haircuts before issuing guarantees.) Stand-By Letters of Credit (SBLCs) What is an SBLC? 7. NSE IX Launches ‘Global Access’ Platform for Overseas Investing Source: TOI Why in News? About NSE IX Global Access Platform Market Coverage Investment Framework Operational Mechanism Regulation 8. RBI Reports 10.1% Sales Growth for Private Non-Financial Companies Source: News on Air Why in News? Coverage of the Report Sector-wise Performance Manufacturing Information Technology (IT) Non-IT Services Overall Trends 9. RBI Approves SBI Mutual Fund’s Stake Purchase in Bandhan Bank Source: ET Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved a proposal by SBI Mutual Fund to acquire up to 9.99% stake in Bandhan Bank. Key Details Regulatory Conditions The acquisition must comply with: Agriculture 1. Sebi Working Groups on Agricultural Commodities Submit Reports Source: Mint Why in News? The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has received reports from working groups reviewing the delivery and settlement framework in agricultural commodity markets. Key Developments Agri Commodity Derivatives Non-Agricultural Commodity Derivatives 2. AgroTech 2026 Source: Indian Express Why in News? A three-day AgroTech 2026 event has been inaugurated in Lucknow to promote innovation, investment, and growth in the agricultural sector. Key Highlights: Focus Areas 3. AgriStack Source: Business Standard Why in News? The Union Finance Minister described AgriStack as the “next UPI” at Business Standard Manthan. The government is building a digital public