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

Daily Current Affairs Quiz11 February, 2026 National Affairs 1. Amendment on Information Technology Act, 2021 Source: TH Why in News? The Union Government has notified amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, mandating prominent labelling of photorealistic AI-generated content. The amended provisions will come into force on February 20, 2026. Key Provisions of the Amendment Rules, 2026 1. Mandatory Labelling of AI-Generated Content 2. Definition of Synthetic Media The amended rules define synthetically generated content as: The final definition is narrower than the draft version released in October 2025. 3. Reduced Takedown Timelines The amendments significantly shorten the timeline for removal of unlawful content: Earlier, platforms were given 24–36 hours for content removal. 4. Safe Harbour Implications 2. Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE)-III Why in News? The proposal to relax emission targets for small cars under the upcoming Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE)-III norms is still under discussion, according to the Power Ministry Secretary. What are CAFE Norms? CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency) norms mandate automobile manufacturers to maintain a prescribed average fuel efficiency across their fleet of vehicles sold in a given year. Background 3. Mangrove Clam (Geloina erosa) Source: BL Why in News? The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has successfully achieved induced breeding of the mangrove clam under captive conditions, marking a rare global scientific breakthrough in molluscan aquaculture. About Mangrove Clam Habitat 4. Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2025 Source: PIB Why in News? India improved its rank to 45th globally (up 4 places) in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2025, with its score rising to 54.43/100, reflecting stronger digital and network preparedness. About Network Readiness Index (NRI) The Network Readiness Index (NRI) is a global index that assesses how effectively countries leverage information and communication technologies (ICTs) to promote: Published by Prepared by the Portulans Institute, an independent non-profit research and educational institution based in Washington, DC. Aim of the Index India’s Performance in NRI 2025 Rank & Score Areas of Global Leadership India ranked 1st globally in: Strong Infrastructure & Usage India secured 2nd rank globally in: Market Scale Income-Level Performance 5. Form 7 Controversy Source: TH Why in News? Form 7 has become controversial during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls following allegations of bulk and fraudulent deletion requests targeting eligible voters. What is Form 7? Form 7 is a statutory form used to object to the inclusion of a name in the electoral roll. It can be used to: Legal Basis Aim of Form 7 6. Lyriothemis keralensis Source: TOI Why in News? Researchers have discovered and formally described a new dragonfly species from Kerala, named Lyriothemis keralensis, highlighting the State’s rich but underexplored biodiversity. About Lyriothemis keralensis The species name keralensis reflects its geographical origin. About Odonata Banking/Finance 1. Sebi May Tighten Scrutiny of IPO and QIP Proceeds Why in News? The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is considering tightening oversight norms for utilisation of funds raised through public and institutional issuances. At the same time, Gold ETFs have, for the first time, recorded higher net inflows than active equity mutual funds. Part I: Sebi Proposes Stricter Monitoring of IPO, QIP and Rights Issue Proceeds Proposed Changes Part II: Gold ETFs Surpass Equity Funds in Inflows For the first time, Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) attracted higher net inflows than active equity mutual funds. 2. RBI Proposes Higher Unsecured Loan Cap for UCBs Source: News on Air Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued draft norms proposing changes in the unsecured loan exposure limits for Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs). Higher Unsecured Loan Limit for Urban Cooperative Banks Key Proposal Individual Exposure Limits Within the overall ceiling, individual unsecured loan limits will be: What are Unsecured Loans? Unsecured loans are loans that are not backed by collateral or security. The lender does not have any claim over a specific asset if the borrower defaults. Examples of Unsecured Loans 3. Surplus Liquidity Fuels Record Parking in RBI’s SDF Source: ET Why in News? Banks have parked a record ₹4.52 lakh crore in the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) window of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), amid surplus liquidity in the banking system. What is the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)? Current LAF corridor structure: Why Was SDF Introduced? 4. RBI Proposes Exempting Smaller NBFCs from Registration Requirement Source: Mint Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued draft directions proposing to exempt certain small non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) from mandatory registration, citing their lower risk profile and limited systemic impact. The draft norms are open for public comments until 4 March and are proposed to take effect from 1 April. Key Proposal NBFCs meeting the following criteria may be exempted from registration with RBI: These entities will be categorised as “Unregistered Type I NBFCs.” Rationale According to RBI: The move is intended to reduce compliance burden and improve ease of doing business. Scale-Based Regulation (SBR) Framework In October 2021, RBI introduced the Scale-Based Regulatory Framework (SBR) for NBFCs, classifying them into: Type I NBFCs (base layer) were recognised as low-risk entities deserving lighter regulation. The present draft operationalises this distinction by offering exemption from registration to eligible entities. Definitions Clarified by RBI Public Funds Includes: Customer Interface Includes: Exception: Agriculture 1. Centre Set to Increase MSP for Minor Forest Produce Source: ET Why in News? For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, the Union Government is set to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 87 Minor Forest Produce (MFP) items collected by forest dwellers. The revision is likely to be implemented from the next financial year. Background The guidelines mandate revision of MSP every three years, but no revision has taken place in the last six years. The last hike occurred in May 2020 during the pandemic. Key Developments About Minor Forest Produce (MFP) Minor Forest Produce includes: These are critical sources of livelihood for forest-dwelling tribal communities. Facts To Remember 1. Sofiya