Current Affairs 08/02/2026
1. Who won the silver medal in 10m air pistol mixed team at Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship 2026?
Answer : Suruchi Singh & Samrat Rana
Suruchi Singh and Samrat Rana Claim Silver in 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team
Indian shooters Suruchi Singh and Samrat Rana delivered a commendable performance to win the silver medal in the 10 m air pistol mixed team event at the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship 2026. Competing against some of Asia’s strongest shooting pairs, the Indian duo demonstrated consistency, precision, and mental strength across qualification and final rounds.
Their coordinated effort and calm execution under pressure helped them secure a place on the podium, reinforcing India’s growing stature in international shooting sports. The silver medal reflects the effective pairing of Suruchi Singh’s sharp technical control with Samrat Rana’s experience and composure in high-stakes competition.
This achievement added valuable points to India’s overall medal tally at the championship and highlighted the depth of talent emerging from the country’s shooting ecosystem. Performances such as this underline India’s continued progress in pistol events at the continental level and strengthen confidence ahead of future global competitions.
The Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship remains a crucial platform for elite shooters, and the success of Suruchi Singh and Samrat Rana further cements India’s reputation as a strong force in competitive shooting.
2. Who won Global Teacher Prize 2026 at Dubai World Government Summit?
Answer : Rouble Nagi
Rouble Nagi Wins Global Teacher Prize 2026 at Dubai World Government Summit
Indian educator and social reformer Rouble Nagi was awarded the prestigious Global Teacher Prize 2026 at the World Government Summit in Dubai, marking a significant moment for India in the field of global education. Often referred to as the “Nobel Prize for Teaching,” the award carries a prize money of USD 1 million and recognises exceptional educators who have made a transformative impact on society.
Rouble Nagi was honoured for her pioneering efforts in expanding access to education for marginalised and underprivileged children across India. Through her innovative community-driven initiatives, she has established hundreds of learning centres and introduced the concept of “learning walls”—educational murals painted on public walls that teach basic literacy, numeracy, science, and life skills to children in informal settlements.
Selected from thousands of nominations worldwide, Nagi’s work stood out for blending art, education, and social inclusion, enabling children with little or no access to formal schooling to begin their learning journey. Her approach has empowered communities, encouraged school enrolment, and improved learning outcomes at the grassroots level.
The Global Teacher Prize, presented by the Varkey Foundation in partnership with GEMS Education and UNESCO, celebrates teachers who go beyond classrooms to create lasting social change. Rouble Nagi’s recognition at an international platform like the World Government Summit underscores the global relevance of innovative, inclusive education models.
Her achievement not only brings international acclaim to Indian educators but also highlights the critical role of teachers in shaping equitable and sustainable societies worldwide.
3. Which state announced India’s first Senior Citizens Budget?
Answer : Kerala
Kerala Announces India’s First Senior Citizens Budget
Kerala has created history by becoming the first state in India to announce a dedicated Senior Citizens Budget, marking a significant step toward inclusive and age-responsive governance. The initiative reflects the state’s proactive approach in addressing the needs of its rapidly growing elderly population.
The Senior Citizens Budget systematically identifies and consolidates government spending aimed at the welfare of elderly citizens across departments. It focuses on key areas such as healthcare services, social security pensions, old-age homes, palliative care, mental well-being, and community support systems. By presenting these allocations in a structured manner, the government aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective implementation of welfare schemes for senior citizens.
Kerala’s decision is particularly relevant given its advanced demographic transition, with one of the highest proportions of elderly people in the country. The state has long been a leader in social welfare indicators, and this budgetary innovation strengthens policy planning for age-friendly infrastructure and long-term care.
Policy experts have hailed the move as a model for other states, noting that a separate elderly-focused budget enables better monitoring of expenditure and helps align public resources with the specific challenges of an ageing society. The initiative also reinforces Kerala’s commitment to social justice and human development.
With the launch of India’s first Senior Citizens Budget, Kerala has set a new benchmark in public finance and welfare planning, highlighting the importance of targeted policies to ensure dignity, security, and quality of life for senior citizens.
4. When was World Interfaith Harmony Week 2026 observed?
Answer : Feb 1–7
World Interfaith Harmony Week 2026 Observed from February 1 to 7
World Interfaith Harmony Week 2026 was observed globally from February 1 to February 7, reaffirming the international community’s commitment to promoting interreligious dialogue, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and beliefs.
Established by the United Nations General Assembly, World Interfaith Harmony Week encourages cooperation and respect across religious, spiritual, and cultural traditions. The observance emphasizes the shared values of peace, compassion, and human dignity, highlighting the role of faith communities in addressing global challenges such as conflict, intolerance, and social division.
During the week, governments, educational institutions, civil society organisations, and religious groups worldwide organised dialogues, conferences, cultural programs, and community service activities aimed at strengthening harmony and social cohesion. Special focus was placed on youth engagement and grassroots initiatives to foster long-term peace-building efforts.
The 2026 observance once again underscored the importance of unity in diversity, reminding societies that sustainable peace is built through understanding, respect, and collaboration across faiths. World Interfaith Harmony Week continues to serve as a vital platform for encouraging inclusive dialogue and promoting a culture of peace at local, national, and global levels.
5. Who received 22nd Upendra Nath Brahma “Soldier of Humanity” Award?
Answer : Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk
Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk Receives 22nd Upendra Nath Brahma “Soldier of Humanity” Award
Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, was conferred with the 22nd Upendra Nath Brahma “Soldier of Humanity” Award in recognition of her outstanding humanitarian service and lifelong commitment to social development. The award ceremony was held in Kokrajhar, Assam, paying tribute to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to humanity beyond national and cultural boundaries.
The honour acknowledges Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk’s pioneering work through the Tarayana Foundation, which she founded to uplift marginalised and rural communities in Bhutan. Under her leadership, the foundation has played a transformative role in areas such as women’s empowerment, education, healthcare, rural livelihoods, and preservation of indigenous culture. Her initiatives have focused on enabling self-reliance while ensuring dignity and social inclusion for vulnerable populations.
The Upendra Nath Brahma Award, named after the revered Bodo leader and social reformer, celebrates values of humanism, peace, and service to society. Bestowed annually, it recognises individuals whose work reflects compassion, ethical leadership, and a commitment to social harmony.
Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk’s selection for the 22nd edition of the award highlights the shared humanitarian values between India and Bhutan and underscores the global relevance of inclusive and community-centric development models. Her recognition stands as an inspiration for sustained efforts toward social justice, cultural preservation, and human welfare.
6. Which became world’s first retail company to reach $1 trillion valuation?
Answer : Walmart
Walmart Becomes World’s First Retail Company to Reach $1 Trillion Valuation
Walmart has made global corporate history by becoming the world’s first retail company to reach a market valuation of $1 trillion. This landmark achievement underscores the retail giant’s unmatched scale, operational strength, and successful adaptation to changing consumer and market dynamics.
Founded in 1962, Walmart has evolved from a traditional brick-and-mortar retailer into a diversified global enterprise with strong capabilities in e-commerce, supply chain management, digital payments, and data-driven retailing. Its strategic investments in online platforms, automation, and omnichannel services have played a crucial role in driving sustained growth and investor confidence.
The $1 trillion valuation reflects Walmart’s consistent revenue performance, expansive global footprint, and ability to remain competitive amid rapid transformation in the retail sector. The company’s focus on affordability, efficiency, and technological innovation has enabled it to serve hundreds of millions of customers worldwide while maintaining strong financial fundamentals.
Industry analysts view this milestone as a defining moment for the global retail industry, demonstrating that large-scale retail businesses can achieve technology-era valuations traditionally associated with software and innovation-led firms. Walmart’s achievement sets a new benchmark and highlights the increasing convergence of retail, technology, and digital commerce in the global economy.
7. Who became first Iranian woman appointed to IOC?
Answer : Soraya Aghaie Hajiagha
Soraya Aghaie Hajiagha Becomes First Iranian Woman Appointed to the IOC
Soraya Aghaie Hajiagha has created history by becoming the first Iranian woman to be appointed as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Her appointment marks a significant milestone for Iran and represents a major step forward for gender representation and inclusivity within the global Olympic movement.
A former international badminton player, Soraya Aghaie Hajiagha represented Iran at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, gaining recognition not only for her athletic achievements but also for her role as a trailblazer for women in Iranian sports. Her elevation to the IOC reflects her growing influence in sports administration and international athletics governance.
As an IOC member, she will participate in shaping key policies of the Olympic Movement, including decisions related to future Olympic Games, athlete welfare, global sports development, and international cooperation. Her appointment is particularly symbolic in encouraging greater participation of women from traditionally underrepresented regions in global sports leadership.
Sports analysts and officials have described her inclusion as a historic and inspirational moment, highlighting the IOC’s ongoing commitment to diversity, youth representation, and gender equality. Soraya Aghaie Hajiagha’s achievement is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes and sports leaders, especially women, across Iran and beyond.