Daily Current Affairs - 20th, 21st and 22nd February 2026
- Kaushal
- Feb 23
- 25 min read
Comprehensive UPSC Current Affairs Summary | Chagos Archipelago & Diego Garcia Dispute, APAC SDG Progress Report 2026, Sudan Conflict & Board of Peace, Pax Silica & IONS Developments, Gender Budget 2026–27, FCI–WFP Agreement, SC on Freebies, Vibrant Village Programme Phase-II, Rajya Sabha Elections 2026, MAHASAGAR, M.A.N.A.V. AI Framework, India–UK Offshore Wind Task force, ISA AI-for-Energy Mission, Sovereign AI Models & Subsea Cable Connectivity, Bio-AI Mulankur Hubs, Zinc-Ion Battery Breakthrough, Lion-Tailed Macaque Status, IEA State of Energy Innovation 2026 and more.
If you missed Monthly Current Affairs Pointers (CAP) | Nov - Dec 2025, read it hereTable of Content
SECURITY / DEFENCE
MISCELLANY
Chagos Archipelago
United States urged United Kingdom to not hand over Diego Garcia over Chagos to Mauritus.
Diego Garcia is the largest island in Chagos archipelago, and is used as joint military base by UK and US.
Following the 2019 ruling by International Court of Justice and building international pressure, UK signed an agreement with Mauritius in 2025 to return Chagos while keeping Diego Garcia military base on a 99-year lease.
About Chagos Archipelago
Location: Indian Ocean in the northeast of Mauritius.
Background: Became a British territory along with Mauritius in 1814 under treaty of Paris.
Designated as British Indian Ocean Territory in 1965 and was detached from Mauritius, which became independent in 1968.
APAC SDG Progress Report 2026
The Report warns the region is on track to fail 103 of 117 measurable targets by 2030.
Key Highlights of the Report
Stalled Progress: Only 14 targets are currently on track, with 88% projected to be missed.
Environmental Crisis: Severe regression in climate action, marine conservation, and biodiversity is undermining economic gains.
Bright Spots: The region performs strongly in industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9).
Conflict In Sudan
A UN mission in Sudan reported indications of genocide in the siege of El-Fasher city by a paramilitary group.
About the Sudan conflict
Military factions: Sudanese Armed Forces (official military) vs Rapid Support Forces (paramilitary group)
Major Places affected
Khartoum (Capital city)
Darfur Region (West Sudan)- El Fasher (capital of North Darfur), El Geneina, Zamzam Displacement Camp etc.
Other regions: Kordofan region(capital- El Obeid), Blue Nile state
Communities affected: Masalit, Zaghawa, Fur
Board of Peace
India attended Trump’s Gaza board meeting as an observer.
About Board of Peace
It was established in January 2026.
It originated from the US President's 20-point peace plan for Gaza (endorsed by UN Security Council through Resolution 2803)
Objective: To transform Gaza into a demilitarized and economically stable territory.
Membership: Chaired by US President with an executive board of select global leaders; invitation-based members, including fixed-term and paid permanent members.
India Joins The Pax Silica Initiative
India joined the Pax Silica initiative by signing the Pax Silica Declaration along with a bilateral Joint Statement on the India–U.S. AI Opportunity Partnership.
The move advances the vision of deeper tech cooperation under the Transforming the Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology (TRUST) initiative in India–U.S. relations.
About Pax Silica Initiative (2025)
Pax is a historical term denoting peace, stability, and prosperity.
It is a US-led initiative on AI and supply chain security, advancing a new economic security consensus among allies and trusted partners.
Core Objectives
Reduce coercive dependencies
Partner to secure global tech supply chains, address AI supply chain opportunities and vulnerabilities, and explore joint investment
Protect sensitive technologies and build trusted digital infrastructure
Long Term Framework
Unite countries hosting advanced tech companies to unleash the economic potential of the new AI age.
Establish a durable economic order to drive AI-powered prosperity across partner nations.
Signatories: Australia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Singapore, UnitedArab Emirates, and United Kingdom.
Strategic Importance of Pax Silica for India
Secures critical supply chain: E.g., Australia is the leading exporter of Lithium (a key component in rechargeable batteries and digital products) and has significant Rare Earth Element (REE) deposits.
Reducing Dependence on China: China has emerged as a principal supplier of REEs and acquired the capability to shape the global flow of these resources.
Boost to Domestic Manufacturing: Membership provides India with the opportunity to lock in billions of dollars in AI and technology investments boosting the domestic manufacturing industry.
Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS)
India assumes chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium.
About IONS
It is a voluntary and inclusive multilateral forum of navies of the Indian Ocean Region, established in 2008.
Initiated by the Indian Navy.
Objective: Enhancing maritime co-operation among littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.
It provides a platform for constructive engagement, enabling navies to address shared challenges and contribute to regional stability.
International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the US President lacked the authority to impose broad import tariffs on trade partners under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), 1977.
After court order, US President has signed a proclamation using an alternative law — Trade Act of 1974 — which would allow him to impose a new 10% temporary tariff on goods from all countries.
About IEEPA
Purpose: Allows the President to act against unusual and extraordinary external threats to National security, Foreign policy, Economy.
Historically used for: Economic sanctions, Freezing foreign assets.
Union Budget 2026–27: Rise in Gender Budget Allocation
The Union Budget 2026–27 witnessed a significant rise in Gender Budget (GB) allocation.
It marked an allocation of ₹5.01 lakh crore, reflecting an 11.55% increase over the previous financial year.
The share of the Gender Budget in the total Union Budget increased to 9.37%.
A total of 53 Ministries/Departments and five Union Territories (UTs) reported Gender Budget allocations this year.
Meaning and Concept of Gender Budget (GB)
Gender Budget (GB) is a mechanism to assess whether the government’s gender equality commitments are reflected in actual budgetary allocations.
It does not create a separate budget exclusively for women.
It examines the entire Government Budget from a gender perspective, meaning it evaluates how public expenditure impacts women and men differently.
Adoption and Institutionalisation in India
India formally adopted Gender Budgeting in 2004–05.
Since adoption, Gender Budgeting has been institutionalized at both national and state levels.
Gender Budget Cells have been established in various ministries and departments.
Gender Budget Cells are dedicated units responsible for planning, monitoring, and reporting gender-related allocations.
Classification of Gender Budget
The Gender Budget is divided into three parts for clarity and transparency.
Part A includes schemes with 100% allocation for women.
Part B includes schemes where at least 30% of the allocation is meant for women.
Part C, introduced in the Union Budget 2024–25, includes schemes where allocation for women is below 30%.
Significance of Gender Budgeting
Gender Budgeting integrates gender concerns into planning and policymaking.
It helps reduce structural inequalities.
Structural inequalities refer to systemic disadvantages faced by women due to social, economic, and institutional barriers.
It promotes inclusive development.
Inclusive development refers to growth that benefits all sections of society equitably.
Key Initiatives Promoting Gender Budgeting in India
The Gender Budgeting Scheme functions under the ‘Samarthya’ sub-scheme of the Mission Shakti Scheme.
The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD).
Mission Shakti is a comprehensive programme focused on women’s empowerment and safety.
The Gender Budgeting Scheme aims for 100% coverage of Gender Budgeting in all central and state Ministries and Departments.
It also seeks to extend coverage to rural and urban local bodies.
Rural and urban local bodies are grassroots-level governance institutions responsible for local administration.
The Gender Budgeting Knowledge Portal (2025) was launched by the MWCD.
It serves as a digital repository of information related to Gender Budgeting practices.
A digital repository is an organized online platform for storing and accessing information.
State-Level Efforts
Odisha adopted Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) in 2004–05.
It implemented GRB through the Women Component Plan.
Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) refers to applying gender analysis in budget formulation and implementation.
Karnataka developed a gender audit manual.
The gender audit manual is used to monitor and strengthen Gender Budget implementation.
A gender audit is a systematic evaluation of whether policies and expenditures effectively promote gender equality.
FCI and WFP Agreement
The Food Corporation of India (FCI) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have signed an agreement for the supply of rice.
The rice will support global humanitarian operations aimed at combating hunger.
The World Food Programme (WFP) was established in 1961.
It is the food-assistance branch of the United Nations (UN).
The WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian organization addressing hunger.
It works to promote food security, which means ensuring that all people have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.
About the Food Corporation of India (FCI)
The Food Corporation of India (FCI) is a statutory body.
A statutory body is an organization created by an Act of Parliament.
It was established under the Food Corporations Act, 1964.
Core Functions of FCI
Procurement
FCI procures food grains from farmers at Minimum Support Prices (MSPs).
Minimum Support Price (MSP) is a price fixed by the government to ensure farmers receive a guaranteed minimum return for their produce.
Storage
FCI maintains an extensive network of modern warehouses and silos.
Warehouses and silos are storage facilities used to preserve food grains safely for long periods.
Buffer Stock Management
FCI manages the strategic buffer stock of essential food grains.
A buffer stock refers to the reserve stock maintained to ensure food security.
The buffer stock is used to meet unforeseen contingencies such as droughts and floods.
Quality Control
The Quality Control (QC) wing of FCI manages procurement and preservation of food grains.
Quality control ensures that food grains meet prescribed standards of safety and quality during storage and distribution.
Supreme Court on Freebies Culture
The Supreme Court of India criticized the growing freebies culture adopted by State Governments.
The observation was made in the case of ‘Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited v. Union of India’.
The Court stated that providing freebies without drawing any distinction between beneficiaries would hamper long-term economic development.
Long-term economic development refers to sustained growth in income, productivity, and infrastructure over time.
About Freebies
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) defined freebies as “a public welfare measure that is provided free of charge.”
Public welfare measures refer to government schemes intended to improve the well-being of citizens.
The RBI distinguished freebies from public or merit goods.
Merit goods are goods such as education that generate wider and long-term social benefits beyond individual gain.
Concerns Related to Freebies
One major concern is the rising fiscal burden on States.
Fiscal burden refers to pressure on government finances due to increased expenditure or reduced revenue.
The combined gross fiscal deficit of States rose from 2.6% of GDP in FY22 to 3.2% of GDP in FY25.
Gross fiscal deficit refers to the excess of total government expenditure over its total revenue excluding borrowings.
This data was highlighted in the Economic Survey 2025–26.
Another concern is that freebies may derail development priorities.
The Economic Survey 2025–26 noted that instead of investing in infrastructure and job creation, funds are often diverted to short-term gains.
Infrastructure investment refers to spending on physical assets such as roads, power, and transport systems.
There are concerns that freebies undermine sustainability.
Sustainability refers to maintaining resources and finances in a manner that does not compromise future generations.
A CAG report flagged that free electricity contributed to groundwater depletion in Punjab.
The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) is the constitutional authority responsible for auditing government accounts.
Free electricity encourages excessive groundwater extraction.
Freebies may also weaken institutions.
Loan waivers weaken the financial stability of banks.
Free power affects the financial health of DISCOMs.
DISCOMs are power distribution companies responsible for supplying electricity to consumers.
Way Forward
In Subramaniam Balaji v. State of Tamil Nadu (2013), the Supreme Court suggested that States should create avenues for employment instead of offering non-merit freebies.
Employment generation is considered a welfare measure with sustainable long-term benefits.
The judgment clarified that freebies cannot be considered bribery or corruption.
The judgment also stated that courts cannot direct the government on how to spend public money.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued orders in 2014 and 2022 regarding election promises.
The ECI required political parties to explain the rationale behind their promised freebies.
The ECI also required disclosure of funding mechanisms for such promises.
The Economic Survey 2025–26 recommended delivering more durable gains in incomes and productivity instead of expanding open-ended transfers.
Open-ended transfers refer to recurring financial benefits without clear time limits or performance conditions.
The Survey cited examples of conditional cash transfer programmes.
Conditional cash transfers link financial support to specific outcomes.
Examples include Mexico’s Progresa programme.
Another example is Brazil’s Bolsa Família programme.
These programmes link cash transfers to school attendance and health check-ups.
Vibrant Village Programme (VVP)
The Phase-II of the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) will be launched on February 20, 2025.
The launch will take place from Cachar district of Assam.
The programme will be launched by the Union Minister of Home Affairs.
About Vibrant Village Programme (VVP)
The Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) aims to saturate all villages in identified blocks across four thematic areas.
Saturation means ensuring complete coverage of eligible villages under the scheme.
The first thematic area is all-weather road connectivity.
All-weather road connectivity refers to roads that remain functional throughout the year, including during adverse climatic conditions.
The second thematic area is telecom connectivity.
Telecom connectivity ensures access to mobile and internet communication services.
The third thematic area is television connectivity.
Television connectivity ensures access to information and broadcasting services.
The fourth thematic area is electrification.
Electrification refers to the provision of reliable electricity supply to households and public infrastructure.
The implementation of these components will be ensured through scheme convergence.
Scheme convergence refers to the coordinated use of multiple government schemes to achieve common objectives efficiently.
Phases of the Programme
VVP-I, was launched in 2023, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
A Centrally Sponsored Scheme is a scheme where expenditure is shared between the Centre and the States.
VVP-I covers select villages adjoining the northern border.
VVP-II, was approved in 2025, is a Central Sector Scheme.
A Central Sector Scheme is fully funded and implemented by the Central Government.
VVP-II covers identified villages adjoining international land borders of 15 States and 2 Union Territories (UTs).
These areas are other than the northern border already covered under VVP-I.
Objectives of the Programme
The programme seeks to ensure prosperous and safe borders.
Prosperous borders refer to economically developed and well-connected border regions.
The programme aims to control trans-border crime.
Trans-border crime refers to illegal activities such as smuggling and infiltration across international borders.
The programme aims to assimilate the border population with the nation.
Assimilation refers to integrating border communities into the mainstream national development process.
The programme seeks to inculcate in them the role of being the ‘eyes and ears of the border guarding forces’.
Border guarding forces are security forces deployed to protect India’s international borders.
This role is considered crucial for strengthening internal security.
Internal security refers to protection against threats within the country, including infiltration and unlawful cross-border activities.
Rajya Sabha Elections
Election Commission announced biennial elections for 37 seats of Rajya Sabha in 10 states.
About Rajya Sabha Elections
Nature of Rajya Sabha: Permanent House, not subject to dissolution.
However, one-third Members retire after every second year, with tenure of each member being six years.
Manner of Election: Indirect, in accordance with system of proportional representation by means of single transferable vote (Article 80(4)).
Electoral College: Representatives of each State and three Union territories are elected by elected members of Legislative Assembly of that State.
For 3 UTs (NCT of Delhi, Puducherry, and Jammu & Kashmir), it consists of elected members of respective Legislative Assemblies.
Evolving Maritime Challenges
During Exercise MILAN, Defence Minister of India has called upon the international community to effectively tackle evolving complex & interconnected challenges at sea.
Evolving Challenges in Maritime Security
Geopolitical Tensions and Territorial Disputes: E.g., contests for ownership of straits/ channels, increasing international attention to underwater resources like rare-earth minerals etc.
Piracy, Terrorism and Smuggling: In hotspots like the Gulf of Aden and the Malacca Strait.
Environmental Challenges: Rising sea level, severe cyclones etc.
Cyber Vulnerabilities: Threat to undersea optical cable network; Cyberattacks to disrupt port facilities, navigation networks, critical supply chains etc.
Significance of Maritime Security for India
India’s vast coastline: Spanning over 11000 km.
Trade and Economic Lifelines: Oceanic routes handle over 95% of India’s total trade volume.
Valuable Marine Resources: Massive Exclusive Economic Zone (~ 2 million square km) is source of valuable hydrocarbons and rare earth minerals.
Regional Stability and Diplomacy: India’s image as a trusted "Vishwa-Mitra" (global friend) and net security provider in India Ocean Region.
India’s Initiative to address evolving Challenges
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M.A.N.A.V. Roadmap for Human-centric AI
At India AI Impact Summit, Prime Minister gave the human-centric vision of AI models in the form of M.A.N.A.V. Framework.
These principles are to be translated into actionable outcomes across various sectors such as education, healthcare while developing AI models.
About M.A.N.A.V. framework
M (Moral and Ethical system): includes fairness, transparency, and human oversight.
E.g. National Education Policy 2020 prioritises digital and AI literacy, ensuring early exposure to data-driven decision-making and ethical AI principles.
A (Accountable Governance): includes transparent rules and robust oversight and clear institutional responsibility.
E.g. IndiaAI Mission institutionalises standards for responsible development and monitoring AI systems.
N (National Sovereignty): securing critical datasets, strengthening domestic compute capacity, and fostering indigenous AI model development.
E.g. India Semiconductor Mission to reduced import dependence in semiconductors.
A (Accessible and Inclusive AI): AI must serve as a multiplier for society, not a monopoly of a privileged few.
E.g. India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (such as MeghRaj GI Cloud) is enabling AI solutions to scale affordably across sectors by democratising access to shared computing resources.
V (Valid and Legitimate Systems): AI must include Trust, Safety, and Legality esp. at a time when deepfake pose risk to social trust.
E.g. Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2026 formally define synthetically generated content.
New Delhi Frontier AI Impact Commitments
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Successful Qualification Test for Gaganyaan Drogue Parachute
A successful qualification test was conducted for the Gaganyaan Drogue Parachute.
The test was conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The test was carried out in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
The test also involved the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE).
The successful test demonstrates India’s expertise in designing and manufacturing high-strength ribbon parachutes.
High-strength ribbon parachutes are specialized parachutes designed to withstand extreme aerodynamic forces during spacecraft descent.
The drogue parachute is part of the Crew Escape System (CES).
The Crew Escape System (CES) is a safety mechanism designed to save astronauts’ lives if something goes wrong during launch.
The CES enables rapid separation of the crew module from the launch vehicle in case of emergency.
About Gaganyaan Mission
The Gaganyaan Mission aims to demonstrate India’s human spaceflight capability.
Human spaceflight capability refers to the ability to send humans safely into space and bring them back.
The mission plans to launch a crew of three members.
The crew will be sent to a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) of 400 km.
Low Earth Orbit refers to an orbit relatively close to Earth, typically within 2,000 km above the surface.
The mission duration will be three days.
The crew will be brought back safely to Earth.
The landing will take place in Indian sea waters.
Components of the Mission
Human Rated Launch Vehicle (HLVM-3)
The mission will use the Human Rated Launch Vehicle (HLVM-3).
HLVM-3 was formerly known as the GSLV Mk-III.
A human-rated launch vehicle is a rocket modified to meet safety standards required for carrying astronauts.
HLVM-3 is a three-stage rocket.
The first stage consists of two solid-fuel boosters strapped to the rocket core.
Solid-fuel boosters provide high thrust during the initial phase of launch.
The second stage is powered by two liquid-fuelled clustered Vikas 2 engines.
Liquid-fuel engines allow controlled and sustained propulsion.
The third stage is equipped with the CE-20 indigenous cryogenic engine.
A cryogenic engine uses super-cooled fuels for high efficiency propulsion.
The CE-20 engine uses liquid hydrogen as fuel.
The CE-20 engine uses liquid oxygen as oxidiser.
Orbital Module
The Orbital Module consists of two main parts.
The first part is the Crew Module.
The Crew Module houses the astronauts during the mission.
It includes the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS).
ECLSS maintains breathable air, temperature, and pressure inside the spacecraft.
The Crew Module also includes parachutes for safe descent and landing.
The second part is the Service Module.
The Service Module is an unpressurised bus structure.
It carries propulsion systems for orbital maneuvers.
It carries power systems to supply electricity.
It includes thermal radiators to regulate temperature.
It carries water and oxygen tanks required for the mission.
Significance of the Gaganyaan Mission for India
The mission strengthens India’s space diplomacy.
Space diplomacy refers to the use of space capabilities to enhance international cooperation and strategic partnerships.
India will become the fourth nation to possess independent human spaceflight capability.
The other three nations are the United States, Russia, and China.
Independent capability means the ability to conduct human space missions without external assistance.
The mission will open avenues for international space collaborations.
The mission will drive technological innovation.
The technologies developed will benefit sectors such as telecommunications.
The technologies will strengthen remote sensing capabilities.
Remote sensing refers to gathering information about Earth through satellites.
The technologies will improve weather forecasting systems.
The technologies will support advancements in agriculture.
The technologies will contribute to improvements in healthcare.
The mission will promote economic growth.
It will generate employment opportunities in the space and allied sectors.
The mission will pave the way for future endeavors such as the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
The Bharatiya Antariksh Station refers to India’s proposed indigenous space station.
VoicERA and Bhashini
VoicERA launched on BHASHINI National Language Infrastructure at India AI Impact Summit 2026.
About VoicERA
An open source, end to end Voice AI stack
Developed by: Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD) under Digital India Corporation (DIC), MeitY.
Function: As a national execution layer for multilingual Voice & Language AI.
It will expand BHASHINI’s capabilities from translation and language technologies to real time speech systems, conversational AI, and multilingual telephony at population scale
About BHASHINI
BHASHINI is an AI powered language translation platform, bridging literacy, language, and digital divides, enhancing workforce participation, particularly for those in non-English speaking regions.
Aim: To make language and technology accessible to everyone.
India–UK Offshore Wind Taskforce Launched
The Taskforce has been constituted under Vision 2035 (India–UK Roadmap) and Fourth India–UK Energy Dialogue
Objective: Strategic leadership & coordination for India’s offshore wind ecosystem.
About Offshore Wind Energy
It refers to the use of wind turbines to generate electricity in bodies of water such as oceans or large lakes.
Advantages of Offshore Wind over Onshore Wind Energy
Generates more energy: Offshore turbines generate 1MW more energy than onshore turbines due to larger turbines.
Efficiency: winds at sea are stronger and blow in the same direction more often than winds on land.
No land requirement: Land acquisition issue absent with no discomfort to locals.
Challenges of Offshore Wind Energy
High Capital Costs for installation
Exposure to harsh marine conditions like saltwater corrosion increases wear and tear, requiring more frequent and specialized maintenance.
Underwater operational noise can affect marine fauna and ecosystems.
In India, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is the Nodal Ministry for offshore wind development.
Potential: Gujarat (36GW), Tamil Nadu (35GW) (according to National Institute of Wind Energy).
Key Projects & International Cooperation
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ISA launched a global AI-for-Energy mission at India AI Impact Summit 2026
The mission will fast-track the adoption of AI in clean energy systems across its 120+ member countries, placing digital infrastructure and citizen-centric platforms at the centre of the energy transition.
Role of AI in energy systems
Energy Savings: AI applications in the energy sector globally has a potential to save over 13 exajoules (EJ) of energy by 2035.
Affordability: AI platform from Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has enabled 15-20% lower operational costs in an offgrid pilot project in Uttar Pradesh.
Grid optimisation: An AI-native decision support engine developed by Pravah (startup) digitises the grid, forecasts demand and simulates power flows to localise losses.
Predictive maintenance: Kazam’s AI enabled energy management system (EMS) applies predictive analytics to optimise charging and enable demand flexibility at electric bus depots
Mineral mining sector: AI can be used to process geophysical data to improve anomaly detection and orebody prediction.
Potential Challenges in adopting AI for energy sector
Emissions: AI-driven data centres could account for nearly 3% of global electricity demand by 2030, raising concerns about meeting this surge alongside global net-zero goals.
Strain on Grid Infrastructure: The speed of AI adoption poses significant challenges for long-term grid planning and policy frameworks, which are slower to adapt.
International Solar Alliance (HQ: Gurugram)
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India unveiled three Sovereign AI models at the AI Impact Summit
Launched in the backdrop of IndiaAI Mission, these models highlight towards a clear push for India-first, Sovereign AI.
Further, announcement on adding 20, 000 Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), beyond existing 38, 000 GPUs under the IndiaAI mission was also made.
Sovereign AI
Meaning: Ability to develop AI technologies on domestically based infrastructure, using local data and human talent, free from dependency on foreign platforms or corporations.
It implies control over full AI lifecycle, data collection and training of models to deployment and governance of AI systems.
About IndiaAI Mission
Launched: In 2024 with budget outlay of ₹10,371.92 crore over five years.
Target: Initial target of 10,000 GPUs, India has achieved 38,000 GPUs.
Ministry: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY)
Key Pillars: IndiaAI Compute Capacity, IndiaAI Application Development Initiative, IndiaAI Datasets Platform (AIKosh), IndiaAI FutureSkills, IndiaAI Startup Financing, and Safe & Trusted AI.
Models Launched
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America–India Connect Announced at India AI Summit
The America–India Connect was announced at the India AI Summit.
It is a collaborative infrastructure initiative.
The initiative aims to establish a new international subsea gateway in Visakhapatnam (Vizag).
A subsea gateway refers to a landing and interconnection point for international undersea communication cables.
The project is anchored by a five-year investment of $15 billion in AI infrastructure.
Key Highlights of the Initiative
Connecting India’s East Coast
The initiative proposes a direct fibre-optic path between Vizag and Chennai on India’s east coast.
Fibre-optic cables transmit data using light signals through thin strands of glass or plastic.
The route will extend from Chennai to South Africa.
This connection links the American East Coast to Vizag around Africa.
An additional direct path will be created between Vizag and Singapore.
This route will offer a South Pacific pathway.
The South Pacific pathway will connect the American West Coast to Vizag through Australia.
Connecting India’s West Coast
The initiative also proposes a direct fibre-optic path between Mumbai and Western Australia.
This route will strengthen connectivity between India and the Indo-Pacific region.
The project complements existing subsea cables such as Blue, Raman, and Sol.
These cables together form a data corridor.
A data corridor refers to a high-capacity digital transmission route linking major global regions.
The corridor connects the American East Coast through the Red Sea to Mumbai.
Significance of the Initiative
The initiative will establish Vizag as a major international subsea gateway.
It will transform maritime merchant shipping routes between the “New World” and India into digital trade routes.
The “New World” refers to the Americas.
The project will strengthen India’s position in global digital infrastructure and AI ecosystems.
About Undersea or Submarine Communication Cables
Undersea or submarine communication cables are fibre-optic cables laid on the ocean floor.
They transmit data between continents.
These cables serve as the backbone of the global internet.
More than 95% of global data traffic passes through these cables.
They are capable of transmitting multiple terabits of data per second.
A terabit refers to one trillion bits of data.
Technical Features of Submarine Cables
Submarine cables contain multiple optical fibres.
Optical fibres are thin strands of glass or plastic that carry data as light signals.
These cables use light signals to ensure minimal transmission loss.
They are protected by steel armour.
They have waterproof insulation to prevent damage from seawater.
They include repeaters, which act as signal amplifiers.
Repeaters strengthen signals over long distances to prevent data loss.
Vulnerabilities of Submarine Cables
Submarine cables are vulnerable to accidental damage.
Fishing trawlers can damage cables during deep-sea operations.
Ship anchors can also sever or disturb cables.
They face risks of sabotage and geopolitical tensions.
Attacks on Red Sea subsea cables in 2024 highlighted such vulnerabilities.
Indian Initiatives in Submarine Cable Connectivity
India has laid submarine optical fibre cables between Chennai and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
This project enhanced digital connectivity for the Andaman & Nicobar region.
India has also laid submarine optical fibre cables between Kochi and Lakshadweep.
This initiative improved telecom connectivity in Lakshadweep.
Report on Soil Health Degradation in India
‘Healing Soils in India: For Better Crop Health and Human Nutrition’ Report has been released by Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER).
Primary Causes of Soil Degradation
Distorted Fertilizer Policy: Highly subsidized urea (a source of N) receives over 80% subsidy, while subsidies for P and K are significantly lower. This price distortion encourages farmers to overuse N.
Faulty Farming Practices: Intensive tillage, prolonged water stagnation in rice cultivation, heavy reliance on monocropping (e.g. cereal-cereal rotations), and burning of crop residues accelerate native carbon loss and damage soil structure.
Massive Soil Erosion: India loses about 5.3 billion tonnes of topsoil annually to water and wind erosion. This strips away 5.4–8.4 million tonnes of primary nutrients every year.
Negative Impact on Crop and Human Health
Dropping Crop Efficiency: Plants can no longer absorb nutrients well. This reduces the efficiency of crop production.
Loss of Nutritional Quality: Weak soils produce crops deficient in essential micro nutrients such as zinc and iron.
Rise of Hidden Hunger: Nutrient deficient crops cause stunting, wasting, malnutrition in children.
Water Contamination: Over-dose of fertilizer leaches out in groundwater making it unsafe for drinking.
Way Forward
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Edge Computing
Recently, at India AI summit, Reliance chairperson committed investment to fund nationwide edge computing network.
About Edge Computing
Edge computing lets devices process data locally (on the device or a nearby server).
Only essential data is sent to the central data center, thus, reducing latency.
E.g. A security camera in a remote warehouse uses AI to detect suspicious activity and sends only relevant clips to the main data center, instead of streaming footage 24/7.
Difference from
Fog Computing: Fog computing stores and processes data between the cloud and edge when edge devices lack enough computing power.
Cloud computing: Cloud computing uses centralized data centers (more latency).
“Bio-AI Mulankur” hubs
The Science and Technology Minister announced that the government will establish Bio-AI Mulankur hubs.
About “Bio-AI Mulankur” hubs
Aim: To create integrated, closed-loop research platforms where AI-based predictions and laboratory validation operate in a unified framework.
The hubs will focus on genomics diagnostics, biomolecular design, synthetic biology and Ayurveda-based research, aligned with BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Environment, Economy and Employment).
Implementing agency: Department of Biotechnology (DBT) along with the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).
Bharat GI
Recently, ‘Bharat GI’ was unveiled at India AI impact summit.
About Bharat GI
It is a national umbrella initiative toshowcase India’s unique GI products to the globe.
Launched by: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of commerce.
Benefits: provides stronger international recognition, premium positioning, and market access for Indian artisans and farmers.
Zinc Ion Battery
Scientists unlocked a new cathode material enabling Zinc-Ion Batteries for grid storage
About Zinc Ion Battery
It is a type of metal-ion battery, similar in some ways to the widely known lithium-ion batteries.
Significance: Zinc ion battery is comparatively cheaper, more environment friendly and safer as compared to lithium ion battery
Basic Components of batteries
Cathode: Common materials used- Nickel, cobalt, manganese, aluminium etc.
Anode: Common materials used- Graphite, zinc, silicon, lithium etc.
Electrolyte: A solution that facilitates the flow of ions between the anode and cathode.
Kuno National Park
Three cubs born to a South African cheetah in Kuno National Park.
Cheetah Gamini has given birth to three cubs taking the total number of the cheetahs in India to 38.
This is the ninth successful cheetah litter in Kuno.
About the Kuno National Park
Houses Project Cheetah: India’s exclusive home for cheetahs.
Location: lies in Madhya Pradesh’s Sheopur-Shivpuri region, in the Vindhyan landscape, named after the Kuno River.
Area: Spread across ~74,200 hectares (around 748 sq km), known for dry deciduous forests and open grasslands.
Biodiversity: Flora like Kardhai, Salai, Khair and diverse; fauna including deer, hyena, reptiles and over 200 bird species.
Lion Tailed Macaque
Recent scientific analysis of lion-tailed macaques shows steady primates population and, in some locations, even increasing within plantation-dominated terrains.
About the Lion tailed macaque
Conservation status
IUCN Status: Endangered
CITES Listing: Appendix I
WPA Status: Schedule I and IV
Characteristics: Sometimes called bearded monkeys due to grey mane around their face.; tail resembles a lion’s tail.
Habitat: Evergreen rainforests of southern Western Ghats (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka).
Nilgiri-Silent Valley landscape, the Anamalai-Parambikulam complex, the Sharavathi Valley in Karnataka and the Agasthyamalai ranges spanning southern Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Two genetically distinct subpopulations of the species have been identified north and south of Palghat Gap.
Threats: Extensive agriculture, Urbanization and Mining, Hunting & trapping terrestrial animals Logging & wood harvesting etc.
State of Energy Innovation 2026
Recently the International Energy Agency (IEA) released the State of Energy Innovation 2026 report.
Key highlights
Strategic Shift: Geopolitics and supply chain security are now the primary engines of innovation, alongside climate goals.
Uneven Spending: While R&D spending is rising, public funding intensity hasn't returned to the peaks of the 1980s
Valley of Death: Many technologies are "mature" but fail at the scale-up stage due to a lack of early-stage funding.
About IEA (HQ: Paris, France)
Genesis: Founded in 1974 following the 1973 oil crisis within the OECD framework
Aim: Provides analysis, data, policy recommendations, and solutions to help countries provide secure and sustainable energy for all.
Membership: 32 Member countries and 13 Association countries (India is an associate member)
To become a member of IEA, a country must be a member of OECD in addition to other requirements.
Municipal Bonds
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) organised a high-level consultation towards deepening Municipal Bond Market.
About Municipal Bonds
Marketable debt instruments issued by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) either directly or through any intermediate (Corporate Municipal entity/statutory body/special purpose distinct entity).
First issued by Bengaluru in 1997.
Objective: Finance ULBs’ capital projects, refinance existing loans, meeting working capital requirements, etc.
Regulation: Under Securities and Exchange Board of India ([Issue and Listing of Municipal Debt Securities]) Regulations, 2015.
As of September 2025, 26 municipal bond issuances have been completed under SEBI’s framework, towards mobilising ₹3783.90 crore.
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