Current Affairs 12/02/2026
1. Who has been appointed as the first visually challenged woman judge of Kerala?
Answer : Thanya C. Nathan
Thanya C. Nathan: Kerala’s First Visually Challenged Woman Judge
In a landmark achievement for inclusivity in India’s judicial system, Thanya C. Nathan has been appointed as the first visually challenged woman judge in Kerala. Her accomplishment marks a significant milestone not only for the state judiciary but also for the broader movement toward equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in the legal profession.
Hailing from Kannur district, Thanya has been visually impaired since birth. Despite the challenges associated with her condition, she demonstrated remarkable academic excellence from an early age. After completing her schooling, she pursued a degree in law from Kannur University, where she distinguished herself through consistent academic performance and determination.
Following her graduation, Thanya enrolled as an advocate and began practicing law in the district courts. During this period, she prepared for the Kerala Judicial Service Examination (Civil Judge – Junior Division). Utilizing assistive technologies such as screen-reading software and digital learning tools, she successfully navigated the rigorous preparation process.
Her appointment gained further significance in light of evolving judicial policies that emphasize equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for persons with benchmark disabilities. A progressive shift in recruitment norms enabled visually impaired candidates to compete fairly in judicial service examinations, reflecting constitutional values of equality and non-discrimination.
By securing a top position in the disability merit category of the judicial service examination, Thanya C. Nathan not only earned her place in history but also became a symbol of resilience and empowerment. Her journey underscores the importance of accessibility, institutional support, and technological advancement in creating inclusive professional environments.
Legal experts and social advocates have widely welcomed her appointment, viewing it as a transformative step toward greater diversity within the Indian judiciary. Thanya’s achievement serves as an inspiration for aspiring legal professionals across the country, reinforcing the principle that dedication and merit transcend physical limitations.
Her historic entry into the judiciary stands as a testament to the evolving and inclusive nature of India’s democratic institutions, paving the way for future generations of differently-abled professionals to pursue leadership roles in public service.
2. Where did India begin its BRICS 2026 presidency with the first Sherpa meeting?
Answer : New Delhi
India Begins BRICS 2026 Presidency with First Sherpa Meeting in New Delhi
India officially commenced its BRICS 2026 Presidency by hosting the first Sherpa and Sous-Sherpa Meeting in New Delhi, marking the beginning of its year-long leadership of the influential multilateral grouping. The meeting served as the foundational diplomatic engagement to outline priorities, coordinate strategies, and strengthen cooperation among member nations.
The Sherpa meeting brought together senior representatives from BRICS countries — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — along with newly admitted and partner nations. Sherpas play a crucial role in shaping the agenda for leaders’ summits, coordinating negotiations, and ensuring consensus on key policy matters before they reach the ministerial or summit level.
Under its 2026 presidency, India has emphasized a forward-looking agenda centered on resilience, innovation, sustainable development, and strengthened Global South cooperation. Discussions during the New Delhi meeting focused on economic collaboration, climate action, health security, digital transformation, and reforms in global governance institutions.
India’s decision to begin its presidency in New Delhi reflects its commitment to active and inclusive multilateral diplomacy. As one of the founding members of BRICS, India aims to leverage its chairship to enhance intra-BRICS trade, promote development finance cooperation through the New Development Bank (NDB), and amplify the collective voice of emerging economies in global forums.
The inaugural Sherpa meeting laid the groundwork for a series of ministerial engagements, working group discussions, and the BRICS Leaders’ Summit scheduled later in the year. Through its presidency, India seeks to further consolidate BRICS as a platform for constructive dialogue, economic partnership, and sustainable global development.
3. Which two countries have started the joint air exercise named ‘Buddy Squadron’?
Answer : The United States of America and South Korea
United States and South Korea Launch Joint Air Exercise ‘Buddy Squadron’
The United States of America and South Korea have commenced a joint air exercise titled ‘Buddy Squadron’, reinforcing their long-standing military alliance and commitment to regional security. The exercise is designed to enhance interoperability, operational readiness, and coordinated response capabilities between the two allied air forces.
‘Buddy Squadron’ focuses on advanced aerial combat training, strategic coordination, and joint tactical operations. The drill includes participation from fighter jets, surveillance aircraft, and support units from both nations, enabling real-time operational cooperation and mission planning exercises.
The exercise reflects the continued defense partnership between Washington and Seoul, particularly amid evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Through such joint drills, both countries aim to strengthen deterrence capabilities, improve air defense coordination, and ensure preparedness against potential regional threats.
Military officials from both sides have emphasized that ‘Buddy Squadron’ is a defensive exercise, intended to maintain peace and stability while promoting collective security objectives. The initiative further underscores the strategic importance of the US–South Korea alliance, which has been a cornerstone of regional stability for decades.
The launch of ‘Buddy Squadron’ highlights the growing emphasis on joint military preparedness and collaborative defense strategies in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
4. Who has written the books ‘A Mati Katha Kahe’ and ‘Bakshi Jagbandhu: The Great Commander’?
Answer : Biswabhushan Harichandan
Biswabhushan Harichandan: Author of ‘A Mati Katha Kahe’ and ‘Bakshi Jagbandhu: The Great Commander’
Biswabhushan Harichandan, a distinguished political leader, former Governor, and noted author, has written the books ‘A Mati Katha Kahe’ and ‘Bakshi Jagbandhu: The Great Commander’. Through these works, he has contributed significantly to Odia literature and historical discourse.
‘A Mati Katha Kahe’ is an autobiographical work that reflects Harichandan’s personal journey, political experiences, and ideological perspectives. The book provides insights into his life in public service and his commitment to social and cultural values rooted in Odisha’s heritage.
‘Bakshi Jagbandhu: The Great Commander’ is a historical account that highlights the life and legacy of Bakshi Jagabandhu Bidyadhar Mohapatra Bhramarbar Rai, a prominent freedom fighter who led the Paika Rebellion of 1817 against British rule in Odisha. The book sheds light on the courage, leadership, and patriotic spirit of Jagabandhu, presenting him as one of the early heroes of India’s resistance movement.
Biswabhushan Harichandan’s literary contributions complement his long career in public life. His works reflect a deep respect for history, culture, and national pride, making valuable additions to contemporary Indian political and historical literature.
5. Who won the gold medal at the Asian Indoor Athletics Championship 2026?
Answer : Tejaswin Shankar
Tejaswin Shankar Wins Gold at Asian Indoor Athletics Championship 2026
Indian athlete Tejaswin Shankar secured a prestigious gold medal at the Asian Indoor Athletics Championship 2026, delivering an outstanding performance in the men’s heptathlon event. The championship, held in Tianjin, China, witnessed participation from top athletes across the continent, making the victory a significant achievement for Indian athletics.
Tejaswin Shankar demonstrated remarkable consistency and versatility across the seven disciplines of the heptathlon, which include the 60m sprint, long jump, shot put, high jump, 60m hurdles, pole vault, and 1000m race. His cumulative performance not only earned him the top podium finish but also resulted in a new national indoor record, further cementing his reputation as one of India’s leading multi-event athletes.
Shankar, who has previously represented India at major international competitions including the Commonwealth Games and World Championships, has been instrumental in raising the profile of Indian track and field athletics on the global stage. His success at the Asian Indoor Championship highlights India’s growing competitiveness in multi-discipline events.
The gold medal also contributed significantly to India’s overall medal tally at the championship, reflecting the country’s improving performance in international indoor athletics competitions. Sports analysts have praised Shankar’s technical precision, endurance, and mental resilience, noting that his achievement serves as an inspiration for emerging athletes across the nation.
With this victory, Tejaswin Shankar has reinforced his position as a key contender for upcoming global tournaments, strengthening India’s prospects in international athletics.
6. Who won the silver medal at the Asian Shooting Championship held in New Delhi?
Answer : Manu Bhaker
Manu Bhaker Secures Silver at Asian Shooting Championship in New Delhi
Indian shooting star Manu Bhaker clinched the silver medal at the Asian Shooting Championship held in New Delhi, delivering yet another commendable performance on the continental stage. Competing in the women’s 25m pistol event, Bhaker showcased exceptional composure and technical precision against a highly competitive field of Asia’s top shooters.
The championship, hosted in the national capital, brought together elite shooters from across the continent, making the competition intense and closely contested. Manu Bhaker’s journey to the podium was marked by consistent scoring in the qualification rounds, followed by a strong display in the final. Despite a narrow margin separating her from the gold medalist, her performance reflected remarkable focus and resilience under pressure.
Manu Bhaker, one of India’s most accomplished shooters, has previously earned accolades at the Commonwealth Games, Youth Olympics, and ISSF World Cups. Her silver medal at the Asian Shooting Championship further strengthens India’s reputation in international shooting sports and highlights the country’s growing dominance in pistol events.
Sports analysts have praised her steady temperament and technical refinement, noting that her performance in New Delhi reinforces her status as a key contender for upcoming global tournaments. The medal also contributed significantly to India’s overall tally at the championship, underscoring the strength and depth of the nation’s shooting contingent.
Manu Bhaker’s achievement continues to inspire young athletes across the country, reaffirming India’s position as a powerhouse in competitive shooting.
7. What is the name of the world’s first doctor-led AI-powered healthcare ecosystem launched in India?
Answer : iLive Connect
iLive Connect: India Launches the World’s First Doctor-Led AI-Powered Healthcare Ecosystem
India has introduced iLive Connect, the world’s first doctor-led, AI-powered healthcare ecosystem, marking a significant advancement in digital and preventive healthcare delivery. The platform is designed to provide continuous, real-time medical supervision outside traditional hospital settings, particularly benefiting elderly patients and individuals with chronic illnesses.
iLive Connect integrates artificial intelligence with round-the-clock clinical oversight by qualified doctors, creating a proactive healthcare monitoring system. Using advanced wearable medical devices such as biosensor patches and smart wrist monitors, the platform continuously tracks key health parameters including heart rate, oxygen saturation (SpO₂), ECG readings, respiratory rate, blood pressure trends, and body temperature.
The collected data is transmitted securely to a centralized medical command center where AI algorithms analyze patterns and detect early warning signs of potential health complications. Unlike conventional telemedicine platforms that operate on-demand, iLive Connect emphasizes predictive and preventive care, enabling early intervention before medical conditions escalate into emergencies.
The ecosystem aims to reduce hospital admissions, enhance post-surgical recovery monitoring, and provide comprehensive home-based care under expert supervision. By combining human medical expertise with intelligent data analytics, iLive Connect represents a transformative model in healthcare delivery.
Healthcare experts view this initiative as a milestone in India’s digital health ecosystem, aligning with the country’s broader push toward technological innovation and accessible healthcare services. The launch of iLive Connect underscores India’s growing leadership in leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance patient outcomes and modernize medical infrastructure.