Contents
23rd February 2026 Daily Current Affairs
🇮🇳 National News (India)
1. Launch of India’s First Namo Bharat RRTS (Delhi–Meerut Corridor)
• Prime Minister inaugurated the integrated corridor — India’s first rapid rail + metro system linking Delhi and Meerut.
2. New National Counter-Terrorism Policy: ‘Prahaar’
• The Centre unveiled a zero-tolerance counter-terrorism strategy focusing on intelligence, tech, and community engagement.
3. UGC Declares 32 Fake Universities
• The University Grants Commission has flagged 32 unrecognised institutions; students warned against invalid degrees.
4. Constitution Now Available in Tamil & Gujarati
• VP Radhakrishnan released regional language editions to boost constitutional awareness.
5. Punjab ‘Meri Rasoi’ Free Food Kit Scheme
• Over 40 lakh economically weaker families to get free essential food kits.
6. Bank Holiday in Some States on Municipal Poll Day
• Certain Indian states have declared February 23 a bank holiday due to local elections.
7. Panchang & Auspicious Day Info (23 Feb)
• Falgun Shashthi tithi, auspicious for religious work and planning.
🌍 International News
8. India–Israel Relations & Palestine Coverage
• Analysis suggests shifting diplomatic dynamics in South Asia.
9. Mexico Violence & Indian Advisory
• Following cartel violence after “El Mencho” killing, India issued safety guidance for its citizens.
📈 Economy & Business
10. Markets & Stocks to Watch (23 Feb)
• Key corporate developments include fraud probe at IDFC First Bank branch and Sebi action against Zee Ent.
• NHPC approves hydroelectric projects in Jammu & Kashmir (Uri-I Stage-II & Dulhasti Stage-II).
11. India’s Forex Reserves Hit Record High
• RBI data shows reserves at a historic peak, driven by currency assets and gold.
12. PhonePe Launches AI Natural Language Search
• New feature simplifies app navigation using voice/text AI.
🪖 Defence & Strategic Affairs
13. Exercise Vajra Prahar 2026 Begins (India–US)
• 16th edition of elite forces exercise began in Himachal Pradesh.
14. Defence Procurements & Exercises Updates
• India preparing for joint exercises with Japan and advancing military modernisation.
🧪 Science & Tech / Environment
15. Palamu Tiger Reserve Launches ‘Vanjeevi Didi’ Initiative
• Community conservation effort empowering women in wildlife protection.
16. Rare Planetary Parade Visible End of February
• Six planets — Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune — align in the night sky in a rare event.
17. Karnataka Weighs Mobile Phone Ban for Under-16s
• Proposal under consideration due to concerns about digital addiction.
🎭 Culture & Awards
18. BAFTA 2026 Highlights
• One Battle After Another wins top honours; Manipuri film Boong wins Best Children’s Film — major wins for Indian cinema.
19. Cultural Festival Featuring Maldives Group in India
• 11th India International Dance & Music Festival event celebrates cultural exchange.
🏏 Sports
20. T20 World Cup 2026 Updates
• West Indies defeat Zimbabwe; competitive pressure rising.
21. ODI Women’s Cricket News (Australia vs India)
• Series continuation with key player injury concerns.
📌 Important Observances
22. World Peace & Understanding Day
• Commemorates Rotary International’s founding and global harmony efforts.