Current Affairs – 16 February 2026

1. India Launches New Digital Agriculture Mission 2026

The Government of India has launched the Digital Agriculture Mission 2026 to modernize the agricultural sector through technology. The mission focuses on using artificial intelligence (AI), satellite mapping, drones, and data analytics to help farmers improve crop production.

Under this initiative:

• Farmers will receive real-time weather updates.

• Soil health data will be digitally recorded.

• Crop insurance claims will be processed faster.

• A national digital farmer database will be created.

The government aims to increase farmers’ income and reduce crop losses caused by unpredictable climate changes.

Why it is important for exams:
Questions related to agriculture reforms, digital India initiatives, and rural development are commonly asked in competitive exams.

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2. ISRO Successfully Tests Reusable Launch Vehicle Prototype

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted another test of its Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) prototype. This step brings India closer to low-cost space missions.

Reusable rockets can:

• Reduce space mission costs

• Increase frequency of satellite launches

• Improve India’s global space competitiveness

India is working toward making space exploration more affordable and sustainable.

Exam Importance:
Space technology, ISRO missions, and scientific developments are important for UPSC, SSC, and defence exams.

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3. RBI Announces New Guidelines for Digital Lending Platforms

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced new rules to regulate digital lending apps. This decision was taken after many complaints about hidden charges and harassment by loan recovery agents.

Key Highlights:

• All digital lending apps must be registered.

• Transparent interest rate disclosure is mandatory.

• Customer consent is required before sharing data.

• Strict action against illegal recovery practices.

This move will protect consumers from fraud and unfair practices.

Exam Relevance:
Banking reforms and RBI policies are important for banking exams and general awareness sections.

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4. India and Japan Strengthen Defence Cooperation

India and Japan have signed a new defence cooperation agreement to enhance maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreement includes:

• Joint naval exercises

• Technology sharing

• Intelligence cooperation

• Defence manufacturing collaboration

This step strengthens strategic ties between the two countries.

Why Important:
International relations and defence agreements are major topics in UPSC and State PCS exams.

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5. India’s Retail Inflation Drops to 4.8%

According to government data, India’s retail inflation has dropped to 4.8% in January 2026. The fall in food prices is one of the main reasons behind this improvement.

Lower inflation means:

• Better purchasing power for citizens

• Relief for middle-class families

• Stability in the economy

However, economists say fuel prices still need monitoring.

Exam Importance:
Inflation, CPI, WPI, and economic indicators are frequently asked in exams.

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6. National Science Day Preparations Begin Across India

Preparations for National Science Day (28 February) have started across educational institutions. The theme for 2026 focuses on “Science for Sustainable Future.”

Schools and colleges are organizing:

• Science exhibitions

• Innovation competitions

• Awareness programs

• Research discussions

The day is celebrated in memory of Sir C.V. Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect.

Exam Relevance:
Important national days and themes are common exam questions.

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7. Supreme Court Issues Guidelines on Social Media Accountability

The Supreme Court has issued new guidelines to increase accountability of social media platforms in India. The Court emphasized:

• Quick removal of harmful content

• Strong grievance redressal systems

• Transparency in content moderation policies

The decision aims to balance freedom of speech and public safety.

Why Important:
Judiciary-related developments are important for law, UPSC, and state-level exams.

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8. India Becomes World’s Third Largest Renewable Energy Producer

India has become the third largest renewable energy producer globally, driven by rapid growth in solar and wind power projects.

Major contributions:

• Large solar parks

• Rooftop solar expansion

• Wind energy corridors

• Government subsidies for clean energy

The country aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.

Exam Relevance:
Environment, climate change, and renewable energy are high-priority topics in competitive exams.

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9. Indian Railways Introduces AI-Based Safety Monitoring System

Indian Railways has introduced an AI-powered safety monitoring system to reduce accidents and improve operational efficiency.

Features include:

• Real-time track monitoring

• Predictive maintenance alerts

• Automatic signaling checks

• CCTV surveillance analysis

This will enhance passenger safety and reduce human errors.

Exam Importance:
Infrastructure and technology developments are important for government exams.

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10. Government Launches Skill Development Program for Youth

The Ministry of Skill Development has launched a new skill training initiative focused on digital skills, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing.

The program aims to:

• Reduce unemployment

• Increase employability

• Prepare youth for global job markets

Special focus is given to rural youth and women empowerment.

Why Important:
Government schemes and employment programs are frequently asked in exams.

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📌 Important One-Liner Current Affairs (16 February 2026)

• India launched Digital Agriculture Mission 2026.

• ISRO tested reusable launch vehicle prototype.

• RBI introduced new digital lending regulations.

• India and Japan signed defence cooperation agreement.

• Retail inflation dropped to 4.8%.

• India became the 3rd largest renewable energy producer.

• AI-based railway safety system introduced.

• New national skill development program launched.