Current Affairs – 13 February 2026

1. India Launches New Digital Agriculture Mission 2026

The Government of India has officially launched the Digital Agriculture Mission 2026 to improve farming using modern technology. The mission aims to help farmers increase crop production, reduce losses, and get better prices in the market.

Under this scheme:

• Farmers will receive satellite-based crop monitoring.

• Soil health data will be digitized.

• AI-based weather alerts will be provided.

• Digital farmer ID cards will be introduced.

The mission will connect farmers directly to markets through online platforms, reducing the role of middlemen. This initiative is expected to benefit small and marginal farmers across India.

This step shows India’s focus on combining agriculture with technology to increase productivity and income.

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2. Reserve Bank of India Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged

Reserve Bank of India has decided to keep the repo rate unchanged in its latest monetary policy meeting held in February 2026.

The repo rate remains stable to control inflation while supporting economic growth. The RBI stated that:

• Inflation is gradually stabilizing.

• GDP growth is showing positive signs.

• Global economic conditions remain uncertain.

By keeping the rate unchanged, RBI aims to maintain balance in the economy. This decision affects home loans, business loans, and overall borrowing costs in the country.

For banking and finance exam aspirants, this is an important update.

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3. ISRO Successfully Tests Reusable Launch Vehicle

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted a major test of its Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) technology.

The reusable launch vehicle is designed to reduce the cost of satellite launches. Instead of using rockets only once, this technology allows them to return safely and be reused.

This test marks a major step toward affordable space missions. India aims to compete with leading space agencies worldwide by developing cost-effective launch systems.

The development will also support India’s future Gaganyaan missions and private satellite launches.

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4. India and Japan Sign Defence Cooperation Agreement

India and Japan have signed a new defence cooperation agreement to strengthen their strategic partnership.

The agreement includes:

• Joint military exercises.

• Technology sharing.

• Maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

This step reflects growing security cooperation between the two countries. It also highlights India’s role in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The agreement is seen as important in the current global geopolitical environment.

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5. World Radio Day Observed on 13 February

Every year, 13 February is celebrated as World Radio Day to recognize the importance of radio in communication.

UNESCO declared 13 February as World Radio Day to celebrate radio as a powerful medium of information.

The theme for 2026 focuses on “Radio and Climate Awareness.” Radio continues to be a trusted source of information, especially in rural and remote areas where internet access is limited.

Radio plays a major role during emergencies, disasters, and awareness campaigns.

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6. India’s Retail Inflation Falls to 5.1% in January 2026

According to the latest government data, India’s retail inflation has decreased to 5.1% in January 2026.

This decline is mainly due to:

• Lower vegetable prices.

• Stable fuel costs.

• Improved supply chain management.

Lower inflation is good news for consumers as it reduces the cost of daily goods. It also helps the government manage economic growth more effectively.

For competitive exams, remember inflation data is released monthly and is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

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7. Supreme Court Issues Guidelines on Online Safety

Supreme Court of India has issued new guidelines regarding online safety and cybercrime protection.

The court emphasized:

• Stronger action against online fraud.

• Protection of children from harmful content.

• Responsibility of social media platforms.

With increasing digital usage, cybercrime cases have risen. These guidelines aim to create a safer digital environment for citizens.

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8. Global Climate Summit 2026 Begins in Germany

The Global Climate Summit 2026 has started in Berlin, Germany. Leaders from over 100 countries are participating.

The summit focuses on:

• Reducing carbon emissions.

• Renewable energy transition.

• Climate financing for developing countries.

India emphasized its commitment to renewable energy and green hydrogen projects.

Climate change continues to be a major global challenge, and such summits help nations collaborate for sustainable solutions.

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9. Indian Railways Introduces Hydrogen-Powered Train

Indian Railways has introduced its first hydrogen-powered train on a trial basis.

Hydrogen trains are environmentally friendly because they emit only water vapor instead of harmful gases. This initiative supports India’s goal of reducing carbon emissions.

The trial run was conducted successfully, and if proven efficient, more hydrogen trains will be introduced in the coming years.

This step is part of India’s green transport initiative.

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10. National Women’s Entrepreneurship Program Launched

The Ministry of MSME has launched a new Women’s Entrepreneurship Support Program to encourage women-led startups.

The program includes:

• Financial assistance.

• Skill development training.

• Easy loan approvals.

• Mentorship support.

The initiative aims to increase women participation in business and strengthen India’s startup ecosystem.

Women empowerment remains a key focus of government policies.

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11. India’s GDP Growth Estimated at 6.8% for FY 2025-26

According to recent economic projections, India’s GDP growth is estimated at 6.8% for the financial year 2025-26.

This growth is supported by:

• Strong domestic demand.

• Infrastructure development.

• Rising exports.

• Government spending.

India continues to be one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world.

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12. International News: UK Announces AI Regulation Framework

The United Kingdom has announced a new Artificial Intelligence regulation framework to ensure safe and ethical use of AI technologies.

The framework focuses on:

• Data privacy.

• Algorithm transparency.

• Responsible AI development.

Countries worldwide are now working to regulate AI as its usage rapidly increases across industries.