Daily Current Affairs Quiz14 February, 2026 National Affairs 1. Henley Passport Index (HPI) February 2026 Source: TH Why in News? Henley & Partners released the Henley Passport Index (HPI) – February 2026, ranking passports worldwide based on travel freedom. About Henley Passport Index (HPI) Purpose → Measures global mobility and travel freedom of citizens. India’s Position Top Countries — HPI 2026 Rank Country / Countries Visa-Free Access 1 Singapore 192 destinations 2 Japan, South Korea 187 4 Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland 185 5 Austria, Greece, Malta, Portugal 184 Lowest Ranked Country 2. Cabinet Approves ₹10,000 Crore Startup India Fund 2.0 Source: TH Why in News? The Union Cabinet has approved the second tranche of the Startup India Fund of Funds Scheme (FFS 2.0) with a corpus of ₹10,000 crore to support startups, especially in manufacturing and high-technology sectors. Key Highlights: About Fund of Funds Scheme (FFS) 3. Privilege Notice Against Leader of Opposition Source: News on Air Why in News? The Union Government has announced that it will move a Privilege Notice against the Leader of Opposition for allegedly making baseless and misleading statements during the Budget discussion in the Lok Sabha. What is a Privilege Notice? Constitutional Basis When Can It Be Moved? The Speaker (Lok Sabha) or Chairman (Rajya Sabha) decides whether to admit the notice. 4. Dal Lake Conservation Plan Revised in Jammu & Kashmir Source: TH Why in News? The Jammu & Kashmir government has shelved the ₹416.72-crore Dal Lake restoration plan and proposed an in-situ conservation strategy, allowing residents to remain within the lake ecosystem. About Dal Lake Location Origin & Formation 5. India to Procure Dornier 228 Aircraft for Indian Coast Guard Source: IE Why in News? The Ministry of Defence has signed a ₹2,312 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to procure eight Dornier 228 aircraft for the Indian Coast Guard. What is the Dornier 228? Manufacturing Major Variants Banking/Finance 1. RBI to Revamp Lead Bank Scheme (LBS) Source: ET Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued draft revised guidelines to overhaul the Lead Bank Scheme (LBS) to improve district-level credit delivery, coordination, and financial inclusion across the country. Objective of the Revamp Key Proposed Reforms About the Lead Bank Scheme (LBS) 2. RBI Allows Bank Loans for Takeovers of Listed and Unlisted Companies Source: BS Why in News?The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued final norms permitting banks to finance acquisitions (takeovers) of both listed and unlisted non-financial companies, with safeguards to ensure prudent lending and long-term value creation. Key Provisions Eligibility Criteria for Acquiring Companies Control and Ownership Rules Financial Safeguards Bridge Financing Change from Draft Proposal 3. 60% Credit-Deposit Ratio for Rural & Semi-Urban Branches Source: BS Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its draft revised guidelines for the Lead Bank Scheme (LBS), has proposed that banks maintain a 60% credit-deposit (C/D) ratio for rural and semi-urban branches to improve credit flow and financial inclusion. Key Proposal Monitoring Based on C/D Ratio Expansion of Banking Infrastructure Credit–Deposit Ratio (C/D Ratio) Credit–Deposit Ratio (CDR) measures how much of the deposits collected by banks are used for lending. It is the percentage of total bank deposits that are given out as loans (credit). Formula Credit–Deposit Ratio = {Total Loans (Credit)​×100} / Total Deposits 4. RBI Proposes to Allow Bank Loans to REITs from July 1 Source: TOI Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued draft regulations proposing to allow banks to lend to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), with safeguards to manage risk and ensure proper use of funds. Key Provisions Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are companies or trusts that own, operate, or finance income-generating real estate and allow investors to earn returns from real estate without directly buying property. A REIT pools money from many investors and invests it in commercial real estate, such as: 5. SEBI Proposes Easing Reporting Norms for Stockbrokers Source: Mint Why in News? The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued a consultation paper proposing to ease reporting requirements for stockbrokers, especially those that also function as primary dealers, to improve ease of doing business. Key Proposal Background What Will Change? Facts To Remember 1. BNP secures landslide victory in Bangladesh The Bangladesh Nationalist Party, led by chairman Tarique Rahman, is set to return to power in Dhaka after two decades, following a landslide victory in the February 12 parliamentary election, winning an absolute majority of seats, according to the Election Commission of Bangladesh. 2. Tissa Vitarana, Sri Lanka’s LSSP leader, dies at 91 Tissa Vitarana, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) and a key figure in the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) formed in 2006 to develop a political solution to the island’s civil war, died in Colombo early Friday. He was 91. 3. India ends Asian championship on a high, tops table India topped the standings in commanding fashion in the Asian rifle/pistol championship, securing a total of 94 medals, including 51 gold, 23 silver and 20 bronze, as the event concluded at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range. 4. MoES Signs MoU with Puducherry for Marine Cooperation The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) signed an MoU with the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Government of Puducherry, on 12 February 2026 to strengthen marine research, coastal development, and Blue Economy activities in Puducherry. 5. PM Inaugurates Seva Teerth Complex in New Delhi Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the ‘Seva Teerth Complex’ in New Delhi on 13 February 2026. The integrated complex will house the Prime Minister’s Office, National Security Council Secretariat, and Cabinet Secretariat, which were earlier located separately, and reflects administrative integration and citizen-centric governance with the motto “Nagrik Devo Bhava”. 6. NITI Aayog Releases 10-Year Roadmap on Technology Services NITI Aayog’s Frontier Tech Hub released a 10-year roadmap titled “Technology Services – Reimagination Ahead” to scale India’s USD 265

Daily Current Affairs Quiz13 February, 2026 National Affairs 1. Govt. Unveils New CPI Series Source: TH Why in News? The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released a new Consumer Price Index (CPI) series with 2024 as the base year, replacing the earlier 2012 base year. Under this revised series, retail inflation for January 2026 is recorded at 2.75%. Key Highlights: What is CPI (Consumer Price Index)? CPI (Consumer Price Index) is a measure that tracks the average change in prices of goods and services that people commonly buy over time. It is the most widely used indicator to measure inflation at the retail (consumer) level. What is a Base Year? A base year is a specific reference year used for comparison when measuring changes in economic indicators over time, such as inflation, GDP, or price levels. In that year, the value of the index is usually set to 100, and all future values are compared with it. How it Works (Example – CPI) If 2024 is the base year for the Consumer Price Index (CPI): So, the base year helps measure how much prices or economic activity have increased or decreased compared to that reference year. Reason for Revision 2. The States and the 16th Finance Commission Subject: TH Why in News? The 16th Finance Commission has submitted its recommendations for the 2026–31 period, introducing important fiscal reforms such as a new “Contribution to GDP” criterion for tax distribution and stricter fiscal discipline norms for States. What is the Finance Commission? The Finance Commission of India is a constitutional body under Article 280 that recommends: Taxes in the divisible pool include: Major Demands of the States Major Recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission Vertical Devolution New Horizontal Criterion Fiscal Discipline Measures Power Sector Reform Local Government Funding Environmental Incentives 3. Industrial Relations Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026 Source: TOI Why in News? The Lok Sabha has passed the Industrial Relations Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026 to remove legal ambiguity regarding the repeal and continuity of laws replaced by the Industrial Relations Code, 2020. Key Objective Background The Industrial Relations Code, 2020 replaced three major labour laws: These laws dealt with: 4. DAC Approves ₹3.6 Lakh Crore Defence Acquisitions Source: FE Why in News? The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for major defence procurement proposals worth about ₹3.6 lakh crore, including 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and six P-8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft for the Indian Navy. Major Defence Approvals 1. Rafale Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) 2. S-400 Air Defence Missiles 5. Ayushman Sahakar Scheme Source: PIB Why in News? The Union Minister for Home and Cooperation informed the Rajya Sabha about the implementation status and funding framework of the Ayushman Sahakar Scheme, highlighting its role in expanding cooperative-led healthcare infrastructure. What is the Ayushman Sahakar Scheme? The Ayushman Sahakar Scheme is a dedicated financial assistance programme of the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) to support cooperative societies in establishing, modernising and expanding healthcare infrastructure across India. Launch and Administrative Control Objectives Key Features 1. Eligible Institutions 2. Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage Financial support for: 3. Financial Assistance Structure 4. Incentive for Women-led Cooperatives 5. Funding Mechanism 6. Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) Source: BS Why in News? The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has approved new guidelines for the injection of Compressed Biogas (CBG) into Natural Gas Pipeline (NGPL) and City Gas Distribution (CGD) networks.This step supports the expansion of clean energy and integration of biofuels into India’s gas infrastructure. What is PNGRB? PNGRB is a statutory regulatory authority responsible for regulating the downstream petroleum and natural gas sector in India. Establishment and Structure Objectives 7. India to Establish Two New Advanced Telescopes in Ladakh Source: Indian Express Why in News? The Union Budget 2026 has approved the establishment of two major ground-based astronomical telescopes in Ladakh and the upgrade of the Himalayan Chandra Telescope, significantly strengthening India’s observational astronomy capabilities. Overview of the Initiative India will develop advanced observatories to study the Sun and deep space, taking advantage of Ladakh’s: These facilities will enhance research in: National Large Solar Telescope (NLST) A 2-metre aperture ground-based solar telescope to observe the Sun in visible and near-infrared wavelengths.Location: Merak region near Pangong Tso, Ladakh. Key Features National Large Optical–Near Infrared Telescope (NLOT) A 13.7-metre segmented mirror optical–infrared telescope, among the largest of its kind globally.Location: Hanle, Ladakh. Key Features 8. Dolphin Census in Odisha Source: TNIE Why in News? Odisha has recorded 765 marine dolphins in the 2026 state-wide dolphin census, the highest count in the last five years, indicating improving conservation outcomes. What is the Dolphin Census? The Dolphin Census is an annual scientific survey conducted to estimate the population, distribution and diversity of dolphins and other cetaceans in Odisha’s marine and estuarine ecosystems. Conducted by:Wildlife Wing of the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha, with participation from forest officials, marine scientists and field teams using boat- and shore-based surveys. Key Findings of the 2026 Census Total Dolphins Recorded: 765 Species-wise Distribution: Major Conservation Zones Chilika Lake Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary Overall trends suggest stable or improving populations due to habitat protection and community-based conservation. About Dolphins Conservation Status and Legal Protection Species Found in Odisha 6. Tamil Brahmi Inscriptions Discovered in Egypt Source: The New Times of India Why in News? Researchers have identified nearly 30 ancient Indian inscriptions — including Tamil Brahmi, Prakrit and Sanskrit — inside tombs in the Valley of the Kings, dating to the 1st–3rd centuries CE, indicating the presence of Indians in Roman-era Egypt. What is the Discovery? Ancient inscriptions, mainly in Tamil Brahmi script, have been found in Egyptian tombs. These likely represent names or markings left by Indian traders or visitors, showing direct contact between South India and Egypt during early historical times. Key Findings About the Valley of the Kings Banking/Finance 1. RBI Tightens Rules on Loan Recovery Agents Source: ET Why in News? The

Daily Current Affairs Quiz12 February, 2026 International Affairs 1. Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025 Why in News? In February 2026, Transparency International (TI) released the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025, ranking countries based on perceived levels of public sector corruption. India’s Performance Global Highlights Top Performing Countries About the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) National Affairs 1. PLASTINDIA 2026 Held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi Source: PIB Why in News? The 12th International Plastics Exhibition, Conference & Convention — PLASTINDIA 2026 — was held from February 5 to 10, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event was inaugurated by Rekha Gupta, Chief Minister of Delhi. About PLASTINDIA 2026 Organisers Key Highlights Major Announcements & Releases Plastic Industry Status Report 2025 Startup Search Initiative Awards 2. AIIA Signs MoU with GIC to Enable Cashless Ayush Treatment Across 32 Insurers Source: News on Air Why in News? In February 2026, the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the General Insurance Council (GIC) to introduce cashless treatment facilities for eligible Ayurveda healthcare services. Key Highlights of the MoU Coverage and Benefits Ayush Health Insurance Helpline About AIIA About General Insurance Council (GIC) 3. Union MoS Jitin Prasada Launches STQC Lab Automation Portal ‘SATYA’ Source: News on Air Why in News? In February 2026, Union Minister of State Jitin Prasada (Ministry of Electronics & IT and Ministry of Commerce & Industry) inaugurated the STQC Lab Automation Portal ‘SATYA’ in New Delhi. About SATYA Portal Development Purpose Key Features Beneficiaries 4. IAF and Royal Thai Air Force Conduct Joint In-Situ Air Exercise Source: TOI Why in News? On February 10, 2026, the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) conducted a joint in-situ air exercise to enhance operational coordination and interoperability between the two forces. About the India–Thailand In-Situ Exercise Assets Deployed Indian Air Force (IAF) Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) 5. IAF’s Vayu Shakti 2026 Source: PIB Why in News? The Indian Air Force (IAF) will conduct its biennial firepower exercise Vayu Shakti 2026 on February 27 at the Pokhran air-to-ground range in Rajasthan. The exercise will prominently feature frontline fighter aircraft and highlight the operational success of Operation Sindoor. About Vayu Shakti Major Platforms Participating Banking/Finance 1. CPI Base Revision from 2012 to 2024 Why in News? The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is undertaking a base revision of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) from 2012 to 2024, aligning the index with changing consumption patterns and improving data collection methods. What is CPI? Why Base Revision is Needed Key Features of CPI 2024 Series 2. RBI Proposes Ban on Third-Party Sales Incentives Source: BS Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued draft amendment directions to curb mis-selling of financial products by banks. The proposals include banning third-party sales incentives and introducing stricter consumer protection norms. Public comments have been invited until March 4, 2026. The norms are proposed to come into effect from July 1, 2026. Background What are Third-Party Sales Incentives? Third-party sales incentives are rewards or payments given to bank employees (or agents) by external financial companies—such as insurance companies, mutual fund houses, or NBFCs—for selling their products through the bank. Key Proposals Ban on Third-Party Incentives No Bundling or Forced Sales Explicit Customer Consent Refund and Compensation Customer Protection Measures Feedback Mechanism Suitability Assessment Conduct Norms for Agents 3. SEBI Mandates 2x Peak Load Capacity for Commodity Exchanges Source: ET Why in News? The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced a new infrastructure planning and real-time performance monitoring framework for exchanges and clearing corporations in the commodity derivatives segment. Key Provisions Capacity Requirement Earlier Norm (2016 Guidelines) Objective of the New Framework Background Agriculture 1. BIOFACH 2026 Source: BS Why in News? India has been designated as the ‘Country of the Year’ at BIOFACH 2026, the world’s leading trade fair for organic food and agriculture, held annually in Nuremberg, Germany. What is BIOFACH? Organising Authority Aim Significance of ‘Country of the Year’ Status Strengthening India’s Global Organic Leadership Boost to Agricultural Exports Promotion of GI-Tagged Products Empowerment of FPOs and Regional Producers Soft Power & Culinary Diplomacy Products Showcased Organic rice (including basmati), Oilseeds, Herbs and spices, Pulses, Cashew, Ginger, Turmeric, Large cardamom, Cinnamon, Mango puree, Essential oils Facts To Remember 1. Bhanwala wins bronze in 25m rapid-fire pistol Anish Bhanwala clinched bronze in the men’s 25m rapid-fire pistol event of the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range. It is his third Asian Championship medal. 2. FDI Inflow in Banking Sector Declines in FY25 The Ministry of Finance informed the Rajya Sabha that FDI equity inflows into the banking sector fell to USD 115 million in FY25 from USD 898 million in FY23. SBI recorded the highest foreign shareholding among PSBs at 11.07%, and over 56.31 crore Mudra loans worth Rs 37.31 lakh crore have been sanctioned since PMMY’s launch. 3. BOBCARD Launches Braille-Enabled Premier Credit Card BOBCARD introduced a Braille-enabled Premier Credit Card to enhance accessibility for visually impaired users. The card combines inclusive design with premium benefits such as travel rewards and lounge access. 4. PB Pay Receives RBI Authorisation as Payment Aggregator PB Pay Private Limited received RBI’s Certificate of Authorisation to operate as a Payment Aggregator under the PSS Act, 2007. The approval allows it to onboard merchants and process digital payments including UPI and card transactions. 5. Safer Internet Day – February 10 Safer Internet Day 2026 was observed on 10 February under the theme “Smart Tech, Safe Choices.” India ranked first in the 2026 Digital Well-Being Index, marking its fourth consecutive year at the top. 6. World Unani Day – February 11 World Unani Day is observed annually on 11 February to mark the birth anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan. The 2026 theme was “Innovation and Evidence in Unani Practice,” highlighting integration of traditional medicine with modern research. 7. Delhi Launches Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana The Delhi Government announced the