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Kotak Mahindra Bank Issues India’s First Fully Digital FPI License

India’s financial markets have taken a major digital leap. Kotak Mahindra Bank has issued the country’s first fully digital Foreign Portfolio Investor licence. The entire process, from application to approval, was completed online using electronic signatures. This move highlights India’s growing focus on ease of doing business, faster onboarding, and attracting global capital through technology-driven reforms in the financial sector.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Digital FPI Licence

  • The development is in news after Kotak Mahindra Bank became the first custodian in India to issue a fully digital FPI licence.
  • The bank completed the entire account-opening and licensing process through digitally signed documents, without any physical paperwork.
  • As per the bank’s statement, two FPI licences have already been issued using this digital route, marking a milestone in India’s capital market infrastructure.

What Is an FPI Licence

  • A Foreign Portfolio Investor (FPI) licence allows overseas investors to invest in Indian equities, bonds, and other securities.
  • FPIs play a crucial role in providing liquidity, improving market depth, and supporting capital formation.
  • Traditionally, FPI onboarding involved extensive documentation and time-consuming processes.
  • The move towards a fully digital FPI licence significantly reduces delays, costs, and compliance burden, making India a more attractive destination for global investors.

Role of SEBI’s Unified Digital Workflow

  • The breakthrough follows reforms by Securities and Exchange Board of India, which operationalized a unified digital workflow in January 2026.
  • This framework allows custodians, depositories, and intermediaries to process FPI applications end-to-end online.
  • Kotak Mahindra Bank is the first institution to fully utilise this system, setting a benchmark for other market participants.

How Digital Onboarding Benefits Foreign Investors

  • The digital FPI onboarding process improves speed, transparency, and compliance.
  • Overseas investors can now complete licensing remotely using electronic signatures, eliminating physical submissions and courier delays.
  • Faster onboarding means quicker access to Indian markets.
  • It also aligns India’s regulatory systems with global best practices, especially in major financial hubs where digital investor onboarding is already standard.

Impact on India’s Capital Markets

  • The launch of a fully digital FPI licence strengthens India’s image as a modern, investor-friendly market.
  • It supports the government’s broader push towards Digital India and ease of doing business.
  • Over time, this reform is expected to increase foreign portfolio inflows, improve operational efficiency for custodians, and enhance India’s competitiveness among emerging markets.

Question

Q1. Which bank issued India’s first fully digital FPI licence?

A. SBI
B. ICICI Bank
C. HDFC Bank
D. Kotak Mahindra Bank

NSO Makes Government Data AI-Ready With New MCP Server

The National Statistics Office (NSO) has taken a major digital leap by launching the beta version of the Model Context Protocol (MCP) Server for the eSankhyiki portal. Announced on 6 February 2026, this move aims to make government data AI-ready. The new system allows users to directly connect official datasets with their own AI tools and applications, without downloading bulky files. The initiative is designed to improve data access, speed up analysis, and strengthen evidence-based decision-making.

What Is the MCP Server

  • The MCP Server is a new technology framework that allows direct querying of datasets using Artificial Intelligence tools.
  • Instead of manually downloading spreadsheets or PDFs, users can now access live government data through a single digital connection.
  • For researchers, analysts, startups, and policymakers, this means less time spent on data handling and more focus on insights.
  • By making official statistics compatible with AI systems, the NSO is modernising how public data is consumed and used across sectors.

Role of eSankhyiki Portal in Official Statistics

  • The eSankhyiki portal is India’s national platform for official statistics.
  • Managed by the National Statistics Office under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, it hosts verified economic and social data.
  • With the launch of the MCP Server, eSankhyiki now moves beyond being a data repository to becoming an AI-integrated data service.
  • This upgrade improves accessibility for citizens, businesses, and government departments alike.

Datasets Included in the Beta Version of MCP Server

  • The current beta release of the MCP Server includes seven key datasets widely used in exams and policymaking.
  • These are the Periodic Labour Force Survey, Consumer Price Index, Annual Survey of Industries, Index of Industrial Production, National Account Statistics, Wholesale Price Index, and Environmental Statistics.
  • These datasets cover employment, inflation, industrial output, GDP, and sustainability indicators. More datasets from the eSankhyiki portal will be added gradually based on feedback and technical readiness.

How MCP Server Benefits Users

  • The MCP Server allows users to automate reports, integrate official data into dashboards, and access multiple datasets through one interface.
  • For policymakers, it enables real-time, data-driven decisions.
  • Businesses can use updated statistics for market planning, while researchers can run AI-based analysis without manual data preparation.
  • The initiative reduces data barriers and makes government statistics technology-agnostic, fitting easily into tools people already use.

Link with Viksit Bharat and AI Impact Summit

  • The MCP Server is a step towards building digital data infrastructure for Viksit Bharat.
  • Its launch ahead of the AI Impact Summit scheduled from 15-20 February 2026 highlights India’s proactive approach to AI governance.
  • The initiative aligns with Working Group 6 on Democratising AI, chaired by Dr. Saurabh Garg, which focuses on making AI accessible and inclusive through open data systems.

About NSO and Data Innovation in India

  • The National Statistics Office is responsible for collecting, compiling, and publishing official statistics in India.
  • In recent years, NSO has focused on data innovation, open access, and digital platforms.
  • Initiatives like eSankhyiki and now the MCP Server reflect a shift from static data dissemination to interactive, AI-enabled data ecosystems, supporting transparency and participatory governance.

Question

Q. The MCP Server launched by NSO is primarily aimed at,

A. Increasing data storage capacity
B. Making government data compatible with AI tools
C. Restricting access to official statistics
D. Promoting private data platforms

Top-7 Countries with the Largest Uranium Reserves in 2026, Check the List

Did you know the fuel that powers many nuclear reactors around the world comes from a metal hidden deep inside rocks beneath deserts, forests and icy lands? Uranium may not be visible to us, but it quietly plays a huge role in global electricity production and energy security.

Countries rich in natural resources often gain strategic importance, and uranium is one of the most valuable among them. Nations that possess large deposits can support long-term nuclear power programs and even export fuel to others.

Some reserves lie in extremely remote areas — hot deserts, frozen plains and deep underground mines. Extracting them requires advanced technology, skilled workers and strict safety rules, making uranium mining both challenging and fascinating.

Because clean energy demand is rising, the importance of uranium is growing every year. Governments closely monitor which nations hold the biggest reserves, as it influences future energy plans and international cooperation.

In this ranking, we explore the countries that hold the largest uranium reserves in 2026 and why their resources matter to the world.

Global Uranium Reserves

According to global estimates, around 6 million tonnes of uranium exist worldwide. However, most of it is not evenly spread across the planet — only a handful of countries control a major share. Because of this, uranium reserves play a big role in international politics, trade, and long-term energy planning.

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Top-7 Countries by Uranium Reserves in 2026

Australia, with an estimated uranium reserves of 1.68-1.95 reserves tonnes, stands as the largest country in terms of Uranium reserves, followed by Kazakhstan, Canada and Russia.

Here is the list of top-7 countries by uranium reserves in 2026:

Rank Country  Estimated Uranium Reserves
1. Australia 1.68 – 1.95 million tonnes
2. Kazakhstan 813,900 – 874,000 tonnes
3. Canada 582,000 – 865,000 tonnes
4. Russia 500,000+ tonnes
5. Namibia 500,000+ tonnes
6. Niger 300,000+ tonnes
7. United States Limited but notable

The World’s Largest Uranium Holder – Australia

Australia has the biggest uranium reserves on Earth, holding roughly about 28% of global resources. Its reserves are estimated between 1.68 and 1.95 million tonnes.

The country contains some of the largest uranium deposits ever discovered, including the famous Olympic Dam mine, which is also rich in copper and gold.

Even though Australia has strict environmental rules and limited domestic nuclear power plants, it exports uranium to many countries. Because of its huge resources, it will remain important for nuclear fuel supply for decades.

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan ranks second in reserves but is actually the largest uranium producer in the world.

It has between 813,900 and 874,000 tonnes of uranium. The country mainly uses a special mining method called in-situ recovery (ISR), which is cheaper and less damaging to the land than traditional mining.

Due to its low-cost extraction, Kazakhstan plays a critical role in keeping global nuclear fuel prices stable.

Canada

Canada possesses around 582,000 to 865,000 tonnes of uranium reserves. Most of this lies in the Athabasca Basin in Saskatchewan.

This region contains some of the richest uranium ore in the world, meaning smaller quantities can produce more fuel. Because of its quality and political stability, Canadian uranium is considered highly reliable in international markets.

Russia

Russia holds more than 500,000 tonnes of uranium resources. Many of these deposits are not fully developed yet, giving the country strong long-term supply potential.

In addition to mining, Russia is also a major player in:

  • Uranium enrichment
  • Nuclear reactor technology
  • Nuclear fuel exports

This makes Russia influential not only in reserves but also in the overall nuclear energy industry.

Namibia

Namibia is one of the most important uranium producers in Africa, with over 500,000 tonnes of reserves.

Major mines include:

  • Rossing Mine
  • Husab Mine

Mining contributes heavily to Namibia’s economy, and global demand for nuclear energy keeps the country relevant in energy markets.

Niger

Niger holds more than 300,000 tonnes of uranium resources. Despite being a developing nation, uranium exports form a large part of its income.

For many years, Niger has been a major uranium supplier to European nuclear power plants, especially France.

United States

The United States does not have the largest reserves compared to others, but it still possesses important domestic deposits.

Because the US operates many nuclear reactors, it imports a significant amount of uranium while maintaining strategic reserves for energy security.

Why Uranium Reserves Matter?

Uranium reserves influence more than electricity production. They affect:

Energy independence of countries

  • Electricity prices
  • Climate change goals
  • Global political relations

Countries with large reserves often gain strategic importance because nuclear energy produces low-carbon electricity.

Six Months, 50 Lakh Users: FASTag Annual Pass Success Story

The FASTag Annual Pass has crossed a major milestone within just six months of its launch. The FASTag Annual Pass crossing 50 lakh users within six months of its launch on 15 August 2025. According to data released by National Highways Authority of India, the pass has recorded over 26.55 crore toll transactions so far. Designed to make highway travel easier and more affordable, the pass has quickly gained popularity among private vehicle owners. With rising adoption across states and toll plazas, the FASTag Annual Pass is emerging as a key reform in India’s road transport ecosystem.

Growing Popularity of FASTag Annual Pass Among Commuters

  • The FASTag Annual Pass is increasingly becoming the preferred option for frequent highway users.
  • Nearly 28% of total car transactions on the National Highway network are now carried out using the Annual Pass.
  • This shows that private vehicle owners are shifting towards prepaid, hassle-free toll solutions.
  • The FASTag Annual Pass reduces waiting time, lowers travel stress, and ensures uninterrupted movement, especially for daily commuters and inter-city travellers.

Top Toll Plazas Using FASTag Annual Pass

  • Certain toll plazas have shown exceptionally high adoption of the FASTag Annual Pass.
  • Bijwasan Fee Plaza in Delhi NCR leads with around 57% of total car crossings using the Annual Pass.
  • It is followed by Mundaka Fee Plaza in Delhi NCR and Jhinjholi Fee Plaza in Sonipat, both recording nearly 53% usage among non-commercial vehicles.
  • These figures highlight how urban and high-traffic corridors are benefiting most from the FASTag Annual Pass system.

State-Wise Usage Trends of FASTag Annual Pass

  • Region-wise data shows widespread adoption of the FASTag Annual Pass across India.
  • Chandigarh tops the list, contributing 14% of total Annual Pass transactions nationwide.
  • Tamil Nadu follows with 12.3%, while Delhi accounts for 11.5%.
  • This spread indicates that the FASTag Annual Pass is not limited to one region but is gaining acceptance across northern, southern, and urban centres alike.

Cost, Validity and Coverage of FASTag Annual Pass

  • The FASTag Annual Pass is available for a one-time payment of ₹3,000.
  • It offers one year validity or 200 toll crossings, whichever is earlier.
  • The pass is applicable on around 1,150 fee plazas on National Highways and National Expressways.
  • It is valid only for non-commercial vehicles with an active FASTag.
  • After payment via the Rajmargyatra App or NHAI website, the Annual Pass is activated within two hours on the existing FASTag.

Why FASTag Annual Pass Improves Ease of Commuting

  • The success of the FASTag Annual Pass lies in its simplicity and economic value.
  • It removes the need for frequent recharges, reduces cash handling, and speeds up toll collection.
  • For regular highway users, it significantly lowers travel costs and improves predictability.
  • The growing uptake confirms that the FASTag Annual Pass is an effective step towards seamless, digital, and commuter-friendly highway travel in India.

About What Is FASTag

  • FASTag is an electronic toll collection system based on RFID technology.
  • It enables automatic toll payments directly from a linked bank account or wallet.
  • Introduced to reduce congestion and promote digital payments, FASTag is mandatory for most vehicles on National Highways.
  • The Annual Pass is an extension of this system aimed at frequent private vehicle users.

Question

Q. What is the one-time fee for the FASTag Annual Pass?

A. ₹2,000
B. ₹2,500
C. ₹3,000
D. ₹3,500

India’s Wool Production 2026: Rajasthan Leads, Know the Full Top 10 List

Wool remains a vital natural fibre for India’s textile and handicraft industries. From carpets and blankets to shawls and industrial use, wool supports livelihoods across rural India. In 2026, India continues to be among the world’s leading sheep-rearing nations. A closer look at state-wise data shows clear leaders in wool output, growth trends, and regional specialization.

Top Wool Producing States in India

  • The ranking of top wool producing states in India has gained attention as updated data highlights Rajasthan’s clear leadership in production.
  • India has the second-largest sheep population globally, with 77.4 million sheep, and ranks ninth in global wool production.
  • In FY24, total wool production stood at 33.69 million kg, spread across organized and unorganized sectors. The latest rankings also show notable growth trends, with Punjab recording the highest annual growth rate.

Top 10 Wool Producing States in India (2026)

Rank State Production (Thousand kg)
1 Rajasthan 16,013.50
2 Jammu & Kashmir 7,770
3 Karnataka 6,472
4 Telangana 4,422
5 Gujarat 2,083
6 Maharashtra 1,601.28
7 Himachal Pradesh 1,422.69
8 Uttar Pradesh 942
9 Andhra Pradesh 778.23
10 Haryana 674.61

Rajasthan: India’s Largest Wool Producer

  • Rajasthan ranks first among the top wool producing states in India, producing 16,013.50 thousand kg, which is 47.53% of India’s total wool output.
  • The arid climate and wide grasslands make Rajasthan ideal for sheep rearing.
  • Indigenous breeds like Marwari and Chokla yield coarse wool, mainly used in carpets, rugs, and blankets.
  • Rajasthan’s dominance makes it the backbone of India’s wool industry.

Jammu & Kashmir: Hub of Fine Quality Wool

  • At second place among the top wool producing states in India is Jammu and Kashmir, producing 7,770 thousand kg (23.06%).
  • The cold climate supports fine wool breeds like Changthangi and Merino.
  • Wool from this region is famous for shawls, apparel, and handicrafts. Quality, rather than quantity alone, gives Jammu & Kashmir a special position in India’s wool sector.

Karnataka and Telangana: Rising Wool Producers

  • Karnataka ranks third with 6,472 thousand kg, producing mainly medium to coarse wool used for rugs and durries.
  • Telangana follows at fourth with 4,422 thousand kg. Telangana’s rise is linked to organized sheep-rearing schemes and government support for shepherd communities, making it one of the fastest-growing wool producing states in India.

Gujarat, Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh

  • Gujarat produced 2,083.50 thousand kg, mainly coarse wool from semi-arid regions.
  • Maharashtra follows with 1,601.28 thousand kg, largely from drought-prone areas.
  • Himachal Pradesh produced 1,422.69 thousand kg, benefiting from cold climates and high-altitude grazing, with wool used for warm clothing and handicrafts.

Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Haryana

  • Among the remaining top wool producing states in India, Uttar Pradesh produced 942 thousand kg, mainly for local use.
  • Andhra Pradesh recorded 778.23 thousand kg, with coarse wool used for mats and carpets.
  • Haryana ranks tenth with 674.61 thousand kg, where sheep rearing is practiced alongside agriculture.

Growth Rate and Types of Wool in India

  • In terms of annual growth rate, Punjab recorded the highest growth at 22.04%, followed by Tamil Nadu at 17.19%.
  • India produces three main types of wool Carpet Grade (85%), Apparel Grade (5%), and Coarser Grade (10%).
  • Ewes contribute over 71% of total wool output, making them central to production.

Question

Q. Which state is the largest wool producer in India?

A. Jammu & Kashmir
B. Karnataka
C. Rajasthan
D. Gujarat

Andhra Pradesh Set to Launch Amaravati Quantum Valley Project

The Andhra Pradesh government is set to launch the ambitious Amaravati Quantum Valley (AQV) project on February 7, 2026, marking a major step in India’s quantum technology journey. The project aims to position Andhra Pradesh as a global hub for quantum research, innovation, talent development, and industry collaboration. Construction work will officially begin with a foundation stone laying ceremony at Amaravati, signalling the state’s intent to lead in next-generation technologies critical for national and economic security.

Amaravati Quantum Valley Project: Vision and Objectives

  • The Amaravati Quantum Valley project is designed to build a comprehensive quantum ecosystem that brings together research institutions, industry players, startups, and skilled talent.
  • The focus is on quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum-safe technologies.
  • By creating dedicated infrastructure and encouraging public–private partnerships, the project aims to accelerate innovation and translate research into real-world applications.
  • This initiative aligns with India’s broader push towards emerging technologies and digital leadership.

Who Will Attend the Foundation Stone Ceremony?

  • The foundation stone laying ceremony will be attended by N. Chandrababu Naidu, highlighting the political importance of the project.
  • He will be joined by Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, and Nara Lokesh, the state’s IT and Electronics Minister.
  • Their presence reflects strong coordination between the Centre and the State in advancing high-end technology initiatives.

Industry and Academic Partnerships in Amaravati Quantum Valley Project

  • A key highlight of the AQV launch is the signing of multiple agreements with companies and academic institutions to build a robust quantum ecosystem.
  • The event will witness the launch of the AQV logo and quantum initiatives by IBM and Tata Consultancy Services.
  • These collaborations are expected to bring global expertise, advanced infrastructure, and industry-ready solutions to Amaravati.

Quantum Facilities Planned Under Amaravati Quantum Valley Project

  • The AQV will house several specialised facilities, including the IBM–TCS Quantum Innovation Centre (QIC), a Quantum Talent Hub, and a Quantum Reference Facility supported by SRM University.
  • These centres will focus on research, skill development, and testing of quantum technologies.
  • Additionally, a Quantum-Safe Application developed by QClairvoyance Quantum Labs will be launched, highlighting the project’s emphasis on cybersecurity and future-ready digital systems.

Private Sector Participation and MoUs

  • According to the state government, MoUs with nine leading companies will be signed during the event, signalling strong private sector participation.
  • This involvement is crucial for scaling quantum research into commercial products and services.
  • Industry collaboration will also help bridge the gap between academia and real-world applications, ensuring that quantum innovations emerging from Amaravati are globally competitive and commercially viable.

About Quantum Technology Push in India

  • Quantum technology is a strategic area for India, with applications in defense, secure communication, healthcare, finance, and artificial intelligence.
  • Both the Centre and states are investing in quantum missions, research hubs, and skill development.
  • The Amaravati Quantum Valley complements national efforts by creating a regional innovation cluster, similar to global quantum hubs, and strengthens India’s long-term technology sovereignty.

Question

Q1. The Amaravati Quantum Valley project aims to develop Andhra Pradesh as a hub for:
A. Semiconductor manufacturing
B. Biotechnology research
C. Quantum research and innovation
D. Space technology

Which Country is the Largest Sweet Potato Producing Country in the World?

Did you know a humble root vegetable feeds millions of people across the world every single day? Sweet potato is not just tasty, it is also packed with energy, vitamins and fibre, making it a favorite in many kitchens.

From street snacks to traditional meals, this crop is cooked in many creative ways. In some places it is roasted, in others it becomes desserts, soups, chips or even baby food.

Farmers love growing it because it can survive in warm climates and poor soils. It grows fast, needs less care, and still gives a good harvest.

Because of these qualities, certain parts of the world grow it on a massive scale. One country, in particular, produces far more than the rest, leading global production by a wide margin.

In the next section, we will discover which nation grows the most sweet potatoes and why it dominates the world supply.

Largest Sweet Potato Producing Country in the World

China is the largest producer of sweet potato in the world. It grows far more sweet potatoes than any other country and contributes the biggest share to global supply. For decades, the country has remained at the top due to its large farming area, strong agricultural research, and traditional dependence on root crops.

Sweet potato has been a part of Chinese diets for centuries, especially in rural regions where rice or wheat may not grow easily. Its ability to grow with less water makes it a dependable crop for farmers.

Check This: Which Country is known as the Britain of the South?

Why China Produces So Much Sweet Potato?

Several reasons explain China’s dominance in sweet potato farming.

1. Vast Agricultural Land

China has enormous cultivable land spread across different climate zones. From cool temperate areas to warm subtropical regions, sweet potato adapts easily and grows successfully.

2. Climate Adaptability

The crop tolerates heat, irregular rainfall, and even poor soil fertility. Many regions unsuitable for other crops can still produce good sweet potato yields.

3. Government Support

Chinese agricultural institutions invest heavily in:

  • Improved seed varieties
  • Disease-resistant plants
  • Farmer training programs
  • Modern farming techniques

These measures significantly increase productivity.

4. Traditional Food Crop

In several provinces, sweet potato is not just a vegetable — it is a staple food. This constant demand encourages large-scale cultivation.

Major Sweet Potato Growing Regions in China

Sweet potato is cultivated throughout the country, but some provinces produce particularly high quantities:

  • Hunan
  • Henan
  • Shandong
  • Hebei
  • Guangxi

These areas provide suitable temperature, fertile soil, and adequate rainfall. In places like Hunan, the crop is grown both for eating and for starch industries.

Uses of Sweet Potato in China

Sweet potato is extremely versatile and used in many ways.

Food Consumption

People consume it as:

  • Boiled or steamed vegetable
  • Roasted street food
  • Flour and noodles
  • Desserts and snacks

Industrial Uses

The crop is processed into:

  • Starch
  • Alcohol
  • Vermicelli
  • Processed foods

Animal Feed

Leaves and tubers are fed to livestock because they provide high energy.

Other Major Sweet Potato Producing Countries

Although China leads by a large margin, several other nations grow significant amounts of sweet potato:

  • Nigeria
  • Tanzania
  • Indonesia
  • Vietnam

These countries rely on sweet potato mainly for food security and rural nutrition.

US Lifts Additional 25% Tariff After India’s Russian Oil Commitment

United States has lifted the additional 25% tariff on Indian goods that was imposed over India’s purchases of Russian oil. The decision, announced on February 7, 2026, follows a trade agreement between the two countries. The move not only eases months of trade tensions but also signals a reset in India–US economic relations, with commitments on energy, defense cooperation, and reduced tariffs.

What Was the 25% Tariff and Why Was It Imposed

  • The additional 25% tariff was imposed by Donald Trump in response to India’s continued purchases of Russian oil during the Ukraine conflict.
  • Washington argued that such purchases indirectly funded the war. As a result, Indian goods faced significantly higher duties in the US market.
  • With the latest executive order, this additional tariff will be removed from 12:01 am Eastern Time, restoring normal trade conditions for affected Indian exports.

Key Conditions Behind the 25% Tariff Removal

  • According to the executive order, India has committed to stop importing Russian Federation oil, either directly or indirectly.
  • In return, the US agreed to roll back the punitive tariff.
  • The order also noted that India has agreed to expand defense cooperation with the United States over the next 10 years, reflecting deeper strategic alignment beyond trade alone.

Reduction in Reciprocal Tariffs: A Bigger Trade Reset

  • Beyond lifting the extra 25% duty, the trade pact includes a reduction in so-called reciprocal tariffs on Indian products.
  • These tariffs will be cut to 18% from the earlier 25%, once implementation is completed.
  • This marks a sharp fall from the nearly 50% tariff level that Indian goods faced late last year, significantly improving India’s competitiveness in the US market.

India’s $500 Billion Purchase Commitment

  • A major highlight of the deal is India’s commitment to purchase $500 billion worth of US products over the next five years.
  • This includes energy products, aircraft and aircraft parts, precious metals, technology items, and coking coal.
  • The agreement also includes the removal of tariffs on certain aircraft and aviation components, benefiting both countries’ aerospace and energy sectors.

Impact on Indian Exporters and Global Trade

  • Trade experts say the 18% tariff rate gives Indian exporters a slight competitive edge over regional rivals facing duties of around 19-20%.
  • The decision is expected to boost Indian exports, stabilise trade flows, and reduce uncertainty for businesses.
  • It also restores close ties between Narendra Modi and President Trump, signalling renewed momentum in bilateral relations.

Question

Q. Why did the US lift the additional 25% tariff on Indian goods?

A. WTO ruling
B. Change in US Congress law
C. India’s commitment to stop importing Russian oil
D. Global oil price fall

From Odisha to Orbit-Ready Precision: Agni-III Passes Key Test

India has successfully test-fired the Agni-III intermediate-range ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha. The test was carried out on 6 February 2026 as part of a routine training exercise. Defense officials confirmed that the missile met all mission objectives and validated critical technical and operational parameters. The launch highlights India’s focus on maintaining a high level of preparedness in its strategic missile forces and ensuring the reliability of its deterrence capabilities.

Agni-III Missile Test: What Exactly Was Tested?

  • The Agni-III test launch was conducted under the supervision of the Strategic Forces Command, which manages India’s nuclear assets.
  • The purpose was not development but operational validation, ensuring that the missile system remains fully ready for deployment.
  • All subsystems, including propulsion, guidance, and control, performed as expected.
  • Such tests are crucial to confirm that missiles inducted into service continue to meet required performance standards under real operational conditions.

Technical Features of Agni-III Missile

  • Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, the Agni-III is a two-stage,solid-fuelled ballistic missile.
  • It has a strike range of over 3,000 kilometres, placing it in the intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) category.
  • The missile is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads, giving India flexible response options.
  • Its solid-fuel design allows for faster launch readiness and easier storage compared to liquid-fuel missiles.

Role of Integrated Test Range, Chandipur

  • The launch took place at the Integrated Test Range Chandipur, one of India’s most important missile testing facilities.
  • Located along the Odisha coast, ITR provides the necessary infrastructure for testing advanced missile systems, radars, and weapon platforms.
  • Over the years, it has supported the development and validation of several key missile systems under India’s strategic and tactical weapons programmes.

Why Agni-III Is Central to India’s Nuclear Doctrine

  • Agni-III is a core pillar of India’s credible minimum deterrence posture.
  • Inducted into the Strategic Forces Command in 2011, the missile strengthens India’s ability to deter adversaries by ensuring assured retaliation capability.
  • Its range allows coverage of key strategic targets, while its reliability ensures confidence in second-strike capability.
  • Regular tests like this reinforce deterrence by demonstrating readiness without escalating tensions.

Strategic Significance of the Test

  • This successful test underscores India’s emphasis on operational readiness rather than expansion.
  • Conducted as a training exercise, it signals continuity and stability in India’s strategic posture.
  • Defence officials clarified that the test was routine and not aimed at any specific country.
  • Such launches help maintain trained crews, validate command-and-control systems, and reassure policymakers of the effectiveness of India’s missile forces.

India’s Agni Missile Series

  • The Agni series forms the backbone of India’s strategic missile programme.
  • Starting from Agni-I to Agni-V, these missiles cover short to intercontinental ranges.
  • Agni-III fills the crucial intermediate-range segment and complements longer-range systems
  • . Together, they support India’s declared No First Use policy while ensuring credible deterrence through survivable and reliable delivery systems.

Question

Q. The Agni-III missile successfully tested by India belongs to which category?

A. Short-range ballistic missile
B. Intermediate-range ballistic missile
C. Intercontinental ballistic missile
D. Cruise missile

Check The Full List of Under-19 World Cup Winners List

The ICC Under-19 Men’s World Cup has been the launching pad for many international cricket legends. From its first edition in 1988 to the latest tournament in 2026, the competition has showcased young talent from across the globe. The 2026 U19 World Cup, held in Zimbabwe and Namibia, concluded with India defeating England by 100 runs in the final at Harare Sports Club, securing their sixth U19 World Cup title and reaffirming their dominance in youth cricket.

ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026: India’s Sixth Crown

  • The 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup marked the 16th edition of the tournament.
  • India delivered a commanding performance in the final, posting a massive total of 412 runs and defending it comfortably against England.
  • A historic 175-run knock by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became one of the standout moments of U19 World Cup history.
  • With this victory, India moved ahead as the most successful team in the tournament, underlining their strong grassroots and youth development system.

India’s Dominance in Under-19 World Cup History

  • India has consistently performed at the highest level in the ICC Under-19 World Cup, winning titles in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, 2022, and 2026.
  • The team has also finished runner-up multiple times, reflecting sustained excellence over nearly four decades.
  • Many Indian U19 captains and players later became senior international stars.
  • This consistency makes India the benchmark nation in U19 cricket and a key topic in sports-related current affairs for competitive exams.

Other Successful Teams and Global Competition

  • Apart from India, Australia and Pakistan have been strong forces in the Under-19 World Cup.
  • Australia has won the title multiple times, including in 1988, 2002, and 2024, while Pakistan claimed back-to-back titles in 2004 and 2006.
  • England, despite being competitive, has won only once in 1998 and finished runner-up several times, including in 2022 and 2026.
  • The tournament reflects the global spread of cricketing talent.

Complete List of ICC Under-19 World Cup Winners and Runners-Up (1988-2026)

Year Winner Runner-Up
2026 India England
2024 Australia India
2022 India England
2020 Bangladesh India
2018 India Australia
2016 West Indies India
2014 South Africa Pakistan
2012 India Australia
2010 Australia Pakistan
2008 India South Africa
2006 Pakistan India
2004 Pakistan West Indies
2002 Australia South Africa
2000 India Sri Lanka
1998 England New Zealand
1988 Australia Pakistan

About the ICC Under-19 World Cup

  • The ICC Under 19 Men’s World Cup is organised by the International Cricket Council.
  • Held every two years, the tournament focuses on players under the age of 19 and plays a crucial role in identifying future international cricketers.
  • Performance in this tournament often predicts long-term success at the senior level.

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Welcome to the Current Affairs Section of Adda247. If you are preparing for Government Job Exams, then it is very important for you to read the Daily Current Affairs. All the important updates based on current affairs are included in this Daily Current Affairs 2026 article.

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