Current Affairs – 22 February 2026

1. India Launches National AI Research Mission 2026

The Government of India has officially launched the National AI Research Mission 2026 to strengthen India’s position in Artificial Intelligence. This mission aims to support research, innovation, and skill development in AI technology.

Under this mission:

• Special AI labs will be set up in top universities.

• Funding will be provided to startups working in AI.

• AI-based solutions will be used in agriculture, healthcare, education, and governance.

The government has also announced partnerships between public institutions and private companies to promote innovation. India wants to become a global leader in responsible and ethical AI development.

This mission is important because AI is the future of technology. It will create job opportunities, improve efficiency in industries, and support Digital India initiatives.

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2. Reserve Bank of India Announces New Digital Banking Guidelines

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released new digital banking security guidelines to improve online transaction safety.

Key highlights:

• Banks must introduce advanced fraud detection systems.

• Two-factor authentication will be mandatory for high-value transactions.

• Customers will get instant SMS and email alerts for suspicious activity.

• New grievance redressal timelines have been set.

The RBI aims to reduce cyber fraud cases, which have increased in recent years. With the rapid growth of UPI, internet banking, and mobile payments, digital security has become a priority.

This move will strengthen public trust in digital banking systems and protect customers from financial losses.

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3. India and Japan Sign Green Energy Partnership Agreement

India and Japan have signed a new Green Energy Cooperation Agreement to boost renewable energy projects.

The agreement focuses on:

• Solar power expansion

• Hydrogen fuel technology

• Wind energy development

• Climate change mitigation

Japan will provide technical support and investment in India’s renewable projects. India has already set ambitious climate targets under global agreements and aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.

This partnership will help India reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable development.

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4. ISRO Successfully Tests Reusable Launch Vehicle Prototype

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully tested its Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Prototype.

This test is significant because:

• It reduces the cost of satellite launches.

• It makes space missions more economical.

• It improves India’s space technology capability.

Reusable rockets can return safely after launch and be used again. Countries like the United States have already developed similar systems. With this achievement, India moves one step closer to cost-effective space missions.

This success strengthens India’s position as a major space power.

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5. Union Budget 2026 Focuses on Rural Development

The government has allocated higher funds for rural infrastructure in the Union Budget 2026.

Key areas include:

• Rural roads construction

• Clean drinking water projects

• Rural healthcare centers

• Digital connectivity in villages

The aim is to improve living standards in rural areas and create employment opportunities. Rural development is crucial because a large part of India’s population lives in villages.

Better infrastructure will boost agricultural productivity and reduce urban migration.

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6. India Wins Big at Asian Athletics Championship 2026

Indian athletes delivered an outstanding performance at the Asian Athletics Championship 2026.

Highlights:

• India secured multiple gold medals in track and field events.

• Young athletes showed exceptional talent.

• India improved its overall medal tally compared to the previous championship.

This performance reflects the improvement in India’s sports training programs and infrastructure.

Sports achievements improve national pride and encourage youth participation in athletics.

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7. WHO Releases Global Health Report 2026

The World Health Organization (WHO) has published its Global Health Report 2026.

Major findings:

• Rise in lifestyle-related diseases.

• Increased awareness about mental health.

• Progress in vaccination programs worldwide.

The report emphasizes the importance of preventive healthcare. Governments are encouraged to invest more in public health systems and awareness campaigns.

Health infrastructure development remains a key global challenge.

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8. Supreme Court Issues Landmark Judgment on Data Privacy

The Supreme Court of India delivered a major judgment strengthening data privacy rights.

The court stated that:

• Citizens’ personal data must be protected strictly.

• Private companies must follow strict data handling guidelines.

• Data misuse will attract heavy penalties.

This judgment reinforces the right to privacy as a fundamental right. In today’s digital era, protecting personal information is very important.

The decision will impact social media companies, fintech firms, and digital platforms operating in India.

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9. India’s GDP Growth Forecast Revised Upward

Economic experts have revised India’s GDP growth forecast for 2026 upward.

Reasons:

• Strong domestic demand.

• Growth in manufacturing and services sectors.

• Stable inflation rate.

India continues to remain one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world. Government reforms, infrastructure projects, and startup growth are contributing to economic expansion.

A strong economy attracts foreign investment and creates job opportunities.

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10. National Education Policy Implementation Phase-II Announced

The government has announced Phase-II implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP).

Focus areas:

• Skill-based education.

• Digital classrooms.

• Multilingual learning.

• Research-based universities.

The aim is to make India’s education system more practical and globally competitive.

Education reform is important for preparing youth for future job markets.

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11. Indian Navy Conducts Major Maritime Exercise

The Indian Navy conducted a large-scale maritime exercise in the Indian Ocean Region.

Objectives:

• Strengthen coastal security.

• Improve coordination with friendly nations.

• Practice emergency response drills.

Such exercises enhance defense preparedness and protect maritime trade routes.

India plays an important role in maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

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12. Global Climate Summit 2026 Begins in Europe

World leaders gathered in Europe for the Global Climate Summit 2026.

Key agenda:

• Reducing carbon emissions.

• Climate finance for developing countries.

• Renewable energy commitments.

Climate change remains one of the biggest global challenges. Countries are discussing stronger cooperation to tackle environmental issues.

India emphasized climate justice and sustainable growth during the summit.