Current Affairs – 20 February 2026

🇮🇳 National News

1. Government Launches “Digital Gram 2.0” Mission for Rural Development

The Government of India has launched the Digital Gram 2.0 Mission to improve digital infrastructure in villages. The main goal of this scheme is to provide high-speed internet, online services, digital banking, and e-health facilities in rural areas.

Under this mission:

• Every village will have Wi-Fi connectivity.

• Online government services will be easily available.

• Digital literacy training will be provided to villagers.

• Farmers will get online market access and weather updates.

The government believes that digital access can change rural life by creating job opportunities and improving education and healthcare services. This scheme is expected to benefit more than 6 lakh villages across India.

This initiative is also linked with the larger vision of Digital India and aims to reduce the gap between urban and rural areas.

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2. Ministry of Education Introduces AI-Based Learning System in Government Schools

The Ministry of Education has started using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in selected government schools. This system will help teachers understand students’ strengths and weaknesses.

The AI system will:

• Track students’ performance.

• Suggest personalized study plans.

• Help teachers identify slow learners.

• Improve exam results.

This is an important step toward modern education in India. If successful, the program may expand across all states in the coming years.

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3. India Conducts Successful Test of Indigenous Defence System

India successfully tested a new indigenous air defence system developed by DRDO. The system is capable of detecting and destroying enemy drones and missiles at long range.

This achievement strengthens India’s defence system and reduces dependency on foreign technology. Experts say this development will improve national security and boost India’s defence manufacturing sector.

The test was conducted at a defence testing range under strict safety measures.

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🌍 International News

4. Global Climate Summit 2026 Concludes with Strong Environmental Commitments

The Global Climate Summit 2026 concluded today with several countries agreeing to reduce carbon emissions by 40% by 2035.

Major highlights of the summit:

• Investment in renewable energy.

• Ban on certain plastic products.

• Funding support for developing nations.

• Protection of forests and wildlife.

Leaders emphasized that climate change is a global issue and needs collective action. Many developing countries demanded financial assistance to shift toward green energy.

India also reaffirmed its commitment to clean energy and sustainable development.

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5. New Trade Agreement Signed Between Asian Nations

Several Asian countries signed a new trade agreement aimed at improving economic cooperation. The agreement focuses on:

• Reducing import-export taxes.

• Increasing regional trade.

• Strengthening supply chains.

• Promoting digital trade.

Economists believe this deal will increase economic growth and create employment opportunities in the region.

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💰 Economy & Banking

6. RBI Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided to keep the repo rate unchanged in its latest monetary policy meeting. The decision was taken to maintain balance between inflation control and economic growth.

Current repo rate remains stable, giving relief to borrowers and businesses.

RBI Governor stated that inflation is under control but global uncertainties remain. Therefore, a cautious approach is necessary.

This decision is important for:

• Home loan borrowers

• Business owners

• Investors

• Banking sector

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7. India’s GDP Growth Forecast Revised to 7.2%

According to new economic data, India’s GDP growth forecast for the financial year has been revised to 7.2%.

Strong performance in:

• Manufacturing sector

• Agriculture

• Services sector

has contributed to this growth.

Experts say India remains one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world.

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🔬 Science & Technology

8. ISRO Announces New Satellite Mission for Agriculture Monitoring

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced a new satellite mission focused on agriculture monitoring.

The satellite will:

• Track crop health.

• Predict weather patterns.

• Monitor water resources.

• Help farmers with accurate data.

This mission aims to support farmers and improve food security in India. Satellite technology plays a big role in modern farming.

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9. Scientists Develop New Battery Technology with Faster Charging

Researchers have developed a new battery technology that can charge electric vehicles within 10 minutes.

This innovation may:

• Boost electric vehicle adoption.

• Reduce pollution.

• Improve renewable energy storage.

Experts believe this breakthrough can transform the automobile industry.

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🏆 Sports News

10. India Wins T20 Series Against Australia

India defeated Australia in the final match of the T20 series and won the series 3-2.

The match was thrilling, with strong performances from both teams. Indian bowlers showed excellent control in the final overs.

This victory boosts India’s confidence ahead of upcoming international tournaments.

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11. National Games 2026 Medal Tally Update

The National Games 2026 continue with exciting performances from athletes across the country. Maharashtra is leading the medal tally, followed by Haryana and Services.

Young athletes are breaking records and showing great talent in athletics, wrestling, and swimming.

The event is helping promote sports culture at the national level.

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🏅 Awards & Honours

12. Padma Award Ceremony Announced

The government announced that the Padma Awards ceremony will be held next month in New Delhi.

These awards are given in three categories:

• Padma Vibhushan

• Padma Bhushan

• Padma Shri

The awards honor individuals for excellence in fields such as art, science, social work, sports, and public affairs.

This year, many unsung heroes from rural areas have been selected.

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🌱 Environment News

13. India Launches Mega Tree Plantation Drive

A nationwide tree plantation campaign has been launched to combat pollution and climate change.

The target is to plant 10 crore trees in one year.

Schools, colleges, NGOs, and government offices are participating in this campaign.

Plantation drives help in:

• Reducing pollution

• Improving air quality

• Conserving biodiversity

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📅 Important Day – 20 February

World Social Justice Day

20 February is observed as World Day of Social Justice.

The day focuses on:

• Equal opportunities

• Gender equality

• Fair wages

• Human rights

The theme for 2026 highlights inclusive growth and equal access to resources.

Governments and organizations worldwide conduct awareness programs to promote social justice.