Contents
26th February 2026 Daily Current Affairs
🇮🇳 National News (India)
1) Strategic & Diplomatic Milestones
Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian leader to receive Israel’s top parliamentary honour (Knesset Medal), highlighting strengthened India–Israel ties.
India continues to maintain a balanced foreign policy with recognition from both Israel and Palestine.
2) Major Government Initiatives
The Central Government approved three multi-tracking railway projects (~₹9,072 crore) to expand key connectivity corridors in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar & Jharkhand.
Upgraded RAJMARG PRAVESH portal launched to streamline NOC approvals for national highways projects.
CBDC-based food subsidy pilot launched under PMGKAY in Puducherry to enhance digital delivery of public benefits.
South Central Railway introduced the Rail Parcel App for digital freight bookings with doorstep pickup and tracking.
3) Policy & Governance
CBIC to launch SWIFT 2.0, an upgraded Atithi App, and Digital Travellers Guide to boost trade and customs clearance.
India–Sweden cooperation deepened through an AI partnership under the SITAC framework to foster tech innovation.
4) Environment & Awards
India launched “Zero Prize”, an incentive-based environment award with ₹5 crore corpus for verified pollution reduction projects.
5) Digital & Social Trends
PM Narendra Modi crossed 100 million Instagram followers, reinforcing India’s growing digital influence.
🌎 International News
1) Global Security & Conflict
Continued violence in the Russia–Ukraine war: Russian reports say a Ukrainian drone strike killed several people at a fertiliser plant in Smolensk region.
2) Strategic Visits & Cooperation
PM Modi arrived in Tel Aviv for a two-day state visit aimed at enhancing IS-India cooperation in defence, tech, and innovation.
China & Germany pledge stronger economic ties amid global geopolitical shifts during high-level meetings in Beijing.
3) Cultural & Community Events
Major community and cultural events reported globally — e.g., exhibitions, arts, and regional celebrations (e.g., in Texas & Abu Dhabi).
🏅 Sports & Entertainment
1) Cricket
South Africa defeated West Indies by 9 wickets in the T20 World Cup Super 8 match, advancing strongly toward semis.
2) Entertainment Highlights
WWE’s Elimination Chamber 2026 set for February 28 in Chicago with major global broadcast details released.
Celebrity and entertainment updates featured issues like backlash over racial incidents on live broadcasts and new film casting news.
📌 Important Contextual & Exam-Relevant Updates
1) Solar & Digital Regulation
TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) marked its 29th Foundation Day with discussions on TV accessibility, network slicing, net neutrality and 6G landscape.
2) Major US Event
A national time capsule will be buried in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026, for the 250th anniversary of US independence, to stay sealed until 2276.