Daily Current Affairs and GK Updates (23rd February 2026)

National News

PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Namo Bharat RRTS Launched On This Corridor

• Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first Namo Bharat RRTS and dedicated the Delhi–Meerut Corridor on 22 February 2026, marking a major leap in world-class infrastructure.
• The project is India’s first system where rapid rail and metro run on the same track and station, enabling seamless intra-city and inter-city connectivity.
• Key stations like Sarai Kale Khan, Anand Vihar, Ghaziabad, and Meerut strengthen the NCR Twin Cities vision with faster, integrated travel.
• The corridor boosts employment, supports infrastructure growth, and highlights Nari Shakti, with many women train operators and station staff leading operations.

UGC Flags 32 Fake Universities Across India, This State Tops the List

• The University Grants Commission (UGC) has declared 32 institutions across India as fake universities as of February 2026, warning that their degrees are invalid for jobs and higher education.
• Under Sections 2(f) and 3 of the UGC Act, only recognised or deemed universities can legally award degrees.
• Delhi tops the list with 12 fake universities, followed by Uttar Pradesh (4), and several other states reporting multiple cases.
• UGC has urged students to verify recognition status on its official website before taking admission to avoid academic and career risks.

Vice-President Launches Tamil & Gujarati Versions of Constitution

• On International Mother Language Day, C. P. Radhakrishnan released the Tamil and Gujarati editions of the Constitution of India and the 8th Legal Glossary (English–Hindi) at Uprashtrapati Bhavan.
• The initiative strengthens multilingual governance, promotes constitutional awareness, and enhances access to rights in regional languages.
• Highlighting India’s linguistic diversity (22 Eighth Schedule languages), he said the Constitution reflects unity through multilingualism.
• The move, supported by Narendra Modi’s government, reinforces democratic participation and cultural preservation through mother tongues.

India Launches ‘Prahaar’: New National Counter-Terrorism Policy Sets Zero-Tolerance Framework

• India’s Ministry of Home Affairs has launched ‘Prahaar’, a new national counter-terrorism policy outlining a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism.
• Announced on February 23, 2026, the strategy focuses on prevention, intelligence-led coordination, swift response, technological upgrades, and adherence to the rule of law.
• It addresses evolving threats such as cross-border terrorism, drone misuse, cyber-attacks, online radicalisation, and terror financing through crypto and the dark web.
• Key agencies including the National Investigation Agency, National Security Guard, Multi Agency Centre (MAC), and Joint Task Force on Intelligence (JTFI) will strengthen coordinated action. Prahaar also emphasizes de-radicalisation, community engagement, and protecting human rights while enhancing national security.

State news

Punjab Launches ‘Meri Rasoi’ Scheme: Free Food Kits for 40 Lakh Poor Families Ahead of Budget Session

• The Punjab government has launched the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme to provide free food kits to nearly 40 lakh blue card holder families. Announced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in Chandigarh, the initiative aims to improve nutrition among economically weaker households.
• In the first phase (April–June 2026), each family will receive 2 kg chana dal, 2 kg sugar, 1 kg iodized salt, 200 grams turmeric powder, and 1 litre mustard oil, in addition to subsidised wheat.
• The scheme focuses on reducing malnutrition, supporting children’s health, and strengthening food security, with quality checks ensured by the state government.

475 Year Old Vasai Cathedral Wins UNESCO Award: Community-Led Conservation Earns Global Recognition

• The 475-year-old Our Lady of Grace Cathedral in Maharashtra won the Award of Merit at the 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation, announced in Bangkok.
• Built in the 16th century using stone and mud (without cement), the Portuguese-era cathedral in Papdy village was restored through a ₹4.5 crore community-funded conservation project led by architect Ainsley Lewis.
• The jury praised its use of traditional craftsmanship, sustainability, and revival as a living place of worship.
• Top honours at the awards went to the Iwami Ginzan Library in Japan and the Sihang Warehouse in China.

Amit Shah Lays Foundation of 10th Assam Police Battalion HQ

• Amit Shah laid the foundation stone of the 10th Battalion headquarters of the Assam Police in Kamrup, reaffirming strict action against infiltration and strengthening internal security.
• The new campus, built on 124 bighas, will include barracks, hospital, training centre, firing range, and sports complex, enhancing operational readiness.
• Shah, alongside Himanta Biswa Sarma and Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, highlighted a ₹27,000 crore semiconductor plant and large-scale job creation initiatives.
• He asserted that under Narendra Modi’s leadership, Assam will emerge as the industrial hub of eastern and North-East India within five years.

International News

AI Impact Summit 2026 Concluded As 89 Nations Back New Delhi Declaration

• AI Impact Summit 2026 concluded in New Delhi on 19 February 2026. New Delhi Declaration adopted.
• Endorsed by 89 countries and international organisations.
• Focus on AI for All vision. Seven pillars form cooperation framework.
• Launch of Global AI Impact Commons and Trusted AI Commons.
• Emphasis on energy-efficient AI systems. Strong push for global AI governance and inclusive access.
• Workforce development playbook introduced. India leads equitable AI growth agenda.

India-Brazil Seal 10 Big Deals: A New Power Axis in the Global South Emerges

• Narendra Modi and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed 10 key agreements in 2026 to strengthen the India–Brazil Strategic Partnership, targeting $20 billion bilateral trade within five years.
• The deals span critical minerals, defence cooperation, digital technology, health & pharmaceuticals, MSMEs, and rare earth supply chains, reinforcing economic and strategic collaboration.
• Both nations will advance Digital Public Infrastructure, AI, semiconductors, and innovation, including a proposed Centre of Excellence in Brazil.
• India and Brazil also reaffirmed cooperation in BRICS, G20, UN reforms, climate action, and strengthening the Global South voice in a multipolar world order.

Geneva to Host AI Summit 2027 & UAE in 2028: Switzerland Deepens AI & Trade Ties with India

• Switzerland will host the AI Summit 2027 in Geneva, as announced by President Guy Parmelin during the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, positioning Geneva as a key global AI diplomacy hub.
• The United Arab Emirates will host the AI Summit 2028, ensuring continuity in international AI governance efforts beyond Europe.
• The announcement, later confirmed by Narendra Modi, highlights strengthening India–Switzerland cooperation in artificial intelligence, trade, research, and multilateral engagement.
• The development also aligns with the India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), boosting investment, innovation, and ethical, inclusive AI governance globally.

Banking News

PhonePe Launches AI-Powered Natural Language Search with Microsoft Foundry

• PhonePe has launched an AI-powered natural language search feature built using Microsoft Foundry, enabling users to navigate the app through simple voice or text commands.
• The feature understands conversational prompts like sending money, recharging FASTag, checking gold prices, or tracking transactions, and directs users to the relevant section instantly.
• Powered by intent-based routing and a mix of on-device and cloud processing, it aims to enhance speed, personalization, and data privacy.
• The phased rollout across India reflects PhonePe’s push to make digital payments more intuitive, accessible, and AI-driven for millions of users.

Economy News

Forex Reserves of India Hit Record High With $725.727 Billion

• India’s forex reserves surged to a record $725.727 billion for the week ended February 13, according to data from the Reserve Bank of India, marking a major boost to external stability.
• The rise of $8.663 billion was driven mainly by gains in Foreign Currency Assets (FCA) at $573.603 billion and gold reserves at $128.466 billion.
• Higher reserves reflect strong currency management, improved liquidity buffers, and resilience amid global volatility.
• The increase in Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) also adds flexibility, reinforcing India’s robust macroeconomic position and investor confidence.

Awards News

‘One Battle After Another’ Dominates 2026 BAFTAs with Six Wins: Check Full List of Winners

• The 79th British Academy Film Awards were held at Royal Festival Hall, where One Battle After Another dominated with six awards, including Best Film and Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson.
• Sinners and Hamnet also shone, with Wunmi Mosaku winning Supporting Actress and Jessie Buckley taking Leading Actress.
• Robert Aramayo won Leading Actor and the EE Rising Star Award, while Frankenstein led technical categories.
• The ceremony, hosted by Alan Cumming, celebrated excellence across global cinema.

Books & Authors News

VP C. P. Radhakrishnan Unveils ‘Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The Eternal Statesman’ in New Delhi

• C. P. Radhakrishnan released the book Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The Eternal Statesman in New Delhi, paying tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee and his enduring democratic legacy.
• The book highlights Vajpayee’s journey from parliamentarian to Prime Minister, showcasing his commitment to dialogue, consensus-building, and Indian democracy.
• It recalls landmark decisions like the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests, which strengthened national security, and the launch of the Delhi Metro initiative as part of his infrastructure vision.
• Described as more than a photo collection, the publication celebrates Vajpayee’s leadership, statesmanship, and Bharat Ratna legacy.

Defense News

India-US Vajra Prahar 2026: Special Forces Gear Up for 16th Joint Exercise in Himachal

• India and the United States will hold the 16th edition of Exercise Vajra Prahar from February 23 to March 15, 2026 at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, strengthening bilateral defence ties.
• Vajra Prahar 2026 will enhance interoperability, counter-terror capabilities, and joint operational readiness, with participation from the Indian Army and the United States Army, including elite Green Berets.
• The drill reflects the expanding India–US strategic partnership, complementing exercises like Yudh Abhyas, Malabar, and Cope India.
• Separately, the Indian Air Force will conduct Exercise Vayushakti-26 at Pokhran, showcasing advanced fighter, transport, and helicopter combat capabilities.

Important Days News

World Peace and Understanding Day 2026: Why February 23 Matters for Global Harmony

• World Peace and Understanding Day 2026 will be observed on 23 February 2026, marking the 1905 founding of Rotary International in Chicago by Paul P. Harris.
• The day commemorates Rotary’s first meeting and promotes global peace, ethical leadership, dialogue, and international cooperation during World Understanding Month.
• Now active in over 200 countries and regions, Rotary advances peace through initiatives in education, health, water, economic development, and conflict resolution.
• Its long-standing collaboration with the United Nations and Rotary Peace Fellowships reflects a sustained commitment to sustainable peace and humanitarian service worldwide.

Miscellaneous News

Shashi Tharoor Conferred Honorary D.Litt by St Xavier’s University, Kolkata

• Shashi Tharoor was awarded an honorary D.Litt (Honoris Causa) by St Xavier’s University, Kolkata at its 7th convocation on 21 February 2026, calling it his first honorary doctorate in India.
• The ceremony at Biswa Bangla Convention Centre saw over 1,000 students graduate, with 25 PhDs and 17 gold medallists honoured, most of them women.
• A former Xaverian, Tharoor described the recognition as deeply personal and meaningful.
• He urged students to blend education with conscience, service, intellectual curiosity, and civic responsibility to shape India’s future.

Obituaries News

Who Was Mukul Roy? ‘Chanakya of Bengal Politics’ Dies at 73 After Cardiac Arrest

• Senior West Bengal leader Mukul Roy passed away at 73 in Kolkata due to a cardiac arrest at Apollo Hospital. A founding member of the All India Trinamool Congress, he was known as the “Chanakya of Bengal politics” and served as India’s 32nd Railway Minister under Manmohan Singh.
• He played a key role in the 2011 West Bengal Assembly victory that ended 34 years of Left Front rule.
• Roy later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2017 before returning to TMC in 2021.
• Battling dementia and Parkinson’s disease in recent years, his declining health kept him away from active politics since 2022.

Current Affairs Today | 22-23 February 2026 Current Affairs | Daily Current Affairs By Ashish Gautam