Current Affairs: 12 February 2026 – National and International News for Competitive Exams
Staying updated with daily current affairs is crucial for success in competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway, and State PSC examinations. Today's compilation covers the most important national and international developments from 12 February 2026, designed specifically for exam aspirants across India.
India – National Current Affairs
1. Union Budget 2026-27 Implementation Updates The Ministry of Finance released detailed guidelines for implementing key Budget 2026-27 announcements, with special focus on infrastructure spending and rural development schemes. The allocation framework for the ₹11.11 lakh crore capital expenditure has been distributed across ministries, marking a 15% increase from the previous fiscal year.
2. Supreme Court Verdict on Electoral Bonds The Supreme Court issued further directions regarding the disclosure of electoral bond data, asking the Election Commission to submit a comprehensive report on political funding transparency by March 2026. This follows ongoing scrutiny of political party finances ahead of upcoming state elections.
3. NITI Aayog Report on Digital India Progress NITI Aayog released its annual assessment showing that 78% of Indian villages now have 4G connectivity, up from 62% in 2024. The report highlights the success of the BharatNet project in connecting rural India and its impact on digital service delivery.
4. Ministry of Education's New Curriculum Framework The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) unveiled revised textbooks for classes 6-12, incorporating updated content on Indian history, science, and environmental studies. The new books will be implemented from the 2026-27 academic session across CBSE-affiliated schools.
5. Defence Acquisition Council Approves Major Procurement The Defence Acquisition Council approved defence purchases worth ₹85,000 crore, including indigenous fighter aircraft components and naval vessels under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The decision prioritizes domestic manufacturing with 70% sourcing from Indian companies.
6. National Health Mission Expands Ayushman Bharat Coverage The government announced expansion of Ayushman Bharat coverage to include an additional 5 crore families, bringing the total beneficiary count to approximately 55 crore citizens. The enhanced coverage will include specialized treatments for critical illnesses.
7. Ministry of Railways Announces Vande Bharat Expansion Indian Railways revealed plans to manufacture 50 new Vande Bharat trains in 2026, connecting tier-2 and tier-3 cities. The new routes will prioritize tourist circuits and pilgrim destinations, with manufacturing to be completed at Integral Coach Factory, Chennai.
8. Agricultural Reforms and MSP Announcement The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices recommended new Minimum Support Prices for Kharif crops 2026, with suggested increases ranging from 6-8% across major crops including paddy, cotton, and pulses. The final decision awaits Cabinet approval expected by mid-March.
9. Smart Cities Mission Progress Review The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs reported that 85 of the 100 designated smart cities have completed over 75% of their planned projects, with total investment reaching ₹1.8 lakh crore. Focus areas include sustainable transport, waste management, and digital governance.
10. National Education Policy 2020 Assessment Report The Ministry of Education released a two-year impact assessment of NEP 2020 implementation, showing 42% of higher education institutions have adopted flexible curriculum structures and multidisciplinary programs. Teacher training programs have reached 8.5 lakh educators nationwide.
International Current Affairs
1. United Nations Climate Summit Preparations The UN announced that COP31, scheduled for November 2026 in Brazil, will focus on climate finance mechanisms for developing nations. Pre-summit negotiations emphasized the $100 billion annual climate fund commitment and technology transfer frameworks.
2. G20 Finance Ministers Meeting Outcomes Finance ministers from G20 nations concluded their meeting in Sydney, Australia, agreeing on coordinated measures to address global inflation and supply chain disruptions. The joint communiqué emphasized digital currency regulation and cross-border payment systems.
3. European Union Digital Services Act Implementation The EU completed the full rollout of its Digital Services Act, requiring all major tech platforms operating in Europe to comply with strict content moderation and transparency requirements. The regulation affects how global technology companies manage user data and algorithmic content.
4. Middle East Peace Initiative Developments The United States and regional partners announced a renewed diplomatic framework for Middle East stability, focusing on economic cooperation and security arrangements. The initiative involves participation from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, and Jordan.
5. ASEAN Economic Community Integration Progress The Association of Southeast Asian Nations reported significant progress in regional economic integration, with intra-ASEAN trade reaching $420 billion in 2025. New agreements on digital economy cooperation and sustainable supply chains were signed by member states.
6. International Space Station Collaboration Extension NASA, ESA, Roscosmos, and other space agencies announced an agreement to extend International Space Station operations until 2035, with enhanced focus on commercial partnerships and lunar gateway development. India's ISRO is expected to participate in expanded cooperation frameworks.
7. World Health Organization Pandemic Preparedness Treaty WHO member states advanced negotiations on a global pandemic preparedness treaty, addressing vaccine equity, early warning systems, and coordinated response mechanisms. The treaty aims for adoption at the World Health Assembly in May 2026.
8. African Union Trade Agreement Implementation The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) reported that 48 of 54 member countries have now ratified the agreement, creating the world's largest free trade zone by number of participating countries. The agreement eliminates tariffs on 90% of goods traded among African nations.
Economy & Banking
Reserve Bank of India Monetary Policy Stance The RBI maintained its policy repo rate at 6.25% in its February 2026 meeting, citing balanced inflation outlook and steady economic growth. The central bank projected GDP growth at 6.8% for FY 2026-27 and CPI inflation at 4.3%.
Government Securities Market Updates The 10-year government bond yield settled at 6.85%, reflecting investor confidence in India's fiscal management. The government's borrowing program for the fourth quarter totals ₹3.5 lakh crore through dated securities.
Banking Sector Performance Q3 FY26 Public sector banks reported aggregate net profits of ₹42,000 crore for Q3 FY26, showing 18% year-on-year growth. Gross NPA ratios declined to 3.2%, the lowest in a decade, while credit growth remained robust at 14.5%.
Foreign Exchange Reserves Position India's foreign exchange reserves reached $675 billion as of February 7, 2026, sufficient to cover 11 months of imports. The rupee traded in the range of ₹83.20-83.40 against the US dollar during the week.
Global Market Developments International crude oil prices (Brent) stabilized around $82 per barrel amid balanced supply-demand dynamics. Gold prices touched $2,050 per ounce on safe-haven demand, while global equity markets showed mixed performance.
Insurance Sector Regulatory Updates The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) announced new guidelines for unit-linked insurance products, emphasizing transparency in charges and fund performance disclosure. The regulations take effect from April 1, 2026.
Science, Technology & Environment
ISRO's Gaganyaan Mission Preparations The Indian Space Research Organisation successfully completed the third unmanned test flight for the Gaganyaan program, validating critical life-support systems. The human spaceflight mission is scheduled for late 2026, with four astronaut-designates undergoing final training.
National Green Hydrogen Mission Progress The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy reported that 15 green hydrogen production facilities have become operational under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, with combined capacity of 500,000 tonnes annually. The target is to reach 5 million tonnes by 2030.
Artificial Intelligence Research Breakthrough Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore announced development of an AI-based early detection system for crop diseases, achieving 94% accuracy in identifying 20 common agricultural pests and pathogens. The technology will be integrated into the Kisan e-Mitra platform.
Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Expansion The Bureau of Energy Efficiency reported installation of 12,000 public EV charging stations across India, with Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi leading in infrastructure deployment. The target is to establish 50,000 charging points by December 2026.
Antarctic Research Station Development India's third research station in Antarctica, 'Maitri-2', is under construction and expected to be operational by early 2027. The facility will accommodate 100 scientists year-round and focus on climate research and glaciology.
Biotechnology Innovation Fund Launch The Department of Biotechnology launched a ₹500 crore innovation fund to support startups in genomics, biopharmaceuticals, and agricultural biotechnology. The fund prioritizes indigenous vaccine development and precision medicine research.
Sports & Important Days
India's Performance in International Cricket The Indian cricket team secured a 3-1 series victory in the recently concluded Test series, with notable performances from emerging players strengthening the squad depth ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2026.
National Sports Development Initiatives The Sports Authority of India announced selection of 150 athletes for the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with enhanced financial support and training facilities.
Khelo India Youth Games 2026 The fourth edition of Khelo India Youth Games commenced in Punjab, featuring 8,500 athletes competing across 27 sporting disciplines. The event serves as a talent identification platform for future national teams.
Important Days – February 12, 2026 February 12 is observed as Darwin Day internationally, commemorating the birth anniversary of Charles Darwin and celebrating science and scientific thinking. While not an official Indian observance, it holds significance for competitive exam general awareness sections.
Upcoming Sports Calendar The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction is scheduled for February 18-19 in Mumbai, with 10 franchises competing to build their squads. The tournament is expected to begin in late March.
Quick Revision Points for MCQ Preparation
- Capital Expenditure in Budget 2026-27: ₹11.11 lakh crore, representing 15% increase from previous year
- BharatNet 4G Coverage: 78% of Indian villages now connected, up from 62% in 2024
- Ayushman Bharat Expansion: Coverage extended to 5 crore additional families, total beneficiaries approximately 55 crore
- Vande Bharat Train Expansion: 50 new trains planned for 2026, manufactured at ICF Chennai
- Smart Cities Mission: 85 of 100 cities completed 75% of projects, total investment ₹1.8 lakh crore
- RBI Repo Rate: Maintained at 6.25% in February 2026 policy
- PSB Net Profit Q3 FY26: ₹42,000 crore aggregate, 18% YoY growth; Gross NPA at 3.2%
- Foreign Exchange Reserves: $675 billion as of February 7, 2026, covering 11 months of imports
- ISRO Gaganyaan: Third unmanned test flight completed successfully, human mission planned late 2026
- Green Hydrogen Capacity: 15 facilities operational producing 500,000 tonnes annually
- EV Charging Stations: 12,000 public charging points installed across India
- Khelo India Youth Games 2026: Hosted in Punjab with 8,500 athletes across 27 disciplines
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