Current Affairs 17/02/2026
1. What is the theme of the India Al Impact Summit 2026 held in New Delhi?
Answer : For the welfare of all, for the happiness of all
The India AI Impact Summit 2026, held in New Delhi, marked a significant milestone in India’s journey toward responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence development. The summit was organized as a high-level platform bringing together policymakers, technology leaders, researchers, industry experts, and global stakeholders to deliberate on the transformative potential of AI across sectors.
The central theme of the summit — “For the welfare of all, for the happiness of all” (Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya) — reflected India’s vision of deploying artificial intelligence for inclusive growth and societal well-being. The theme emphasized the ethical use of AI, equitable access to technology, and leveraging innovation to address critical challenges in healthcare, education, agriculture, governance, and climate resilience.
In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s commitment to developing AI solutions that are transparent, trustworthy, and aligned with democratic values. He underscored the importance of building indigenous AI capabilities while fostering global collaboration to ensure that emerging technologies benefit humanity at large.
The summit also focused on strengthening India’s AI ecosystem through public-private partnerships, skill development initiatives, and research collaborations. Discussions covered areas such as AI regulation frameworks, data governance, digital public infrastructure, and the role of startups in accelerating innovation.
Overall, the India AI Impact Summit 2026 reinforced India’s position as a leading voice in shaping a human-centric, ethical, and development-oriented global AI landscape.
2. Kentish Coomaraswamy Prize 2026 for his book Hindi Hindu Histories?
Answer : Prof. Charu Gupta
In 2026, Prof. Charu Gupta was awarded the prestigious Ananda Kentish Coomaraswamy Prize for her acclaimed book Hindi Hindu Histories: Caste, Ayurveda, Travel, and Communism in Early Twentieth Century India. The prize, presented by the Association for Asian Studies, recognizes outstanding scholarship in South Asian studies and is named after the eminent art historian and philosopher Ananda Kentish Coomaraswamy.
Prof. Gupta’s book offers a nuanced exploration of early twentieth-century North India through the lens of vernacular Hindi writings. It examines how issues such as caste, indigenous medicine (Ayurveda), travel narratives, and communist thought shaped evolving Hindu identities during a period marked by colonial rule, reform movements, and rising nationalist sentiments. By drawing upon rare archival materials, pamphlets, and lesser-known Hindi texts, the work highlights the diversity and complexity of Hindu social and intellectual life beyond elite narratives.
A distinguished historian and faculty member at the University of Delhi, Prof. Gupta is widely recognized for her contributions to modern Indian history, gender studies, and the study of religion and nationalism. The award not only acknowledges the scholarly depth and originality of Hindi Hindu Histories but also underscores the growing importance of regional-language sources in rewriting South Asian historiography.
The conferment of the Coomaraswamy Prize in 2026 reaffirms the global academic community’s recognition of rigorous, interdisciplinary research that deepens understanding of India’s social and cultural past.
3. Who is set to become the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh?
Answer : Tarique Rahman
Tarique Rahman Set to Become Prime Minister of Bangladesh
Tarique Rahman is set to assume office as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, marking a significant development in the nation’s political landscape. A senior leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Rahman has long been an influential figure within the party and is widely regarded as a key architect of its organizational and strategic direction.
The anticipated transition follows the BNP’s strong electoral performance, positioning Rahman to lead the government at a critical juncture for the country. His leadership is expected to focus on economic revitalization, institutional reforms, strengthening democratic processes, and enhancing Bangladesh’s global engagement.
As Bangladesh navigates domestic challenges and regional dynamics, Rahman’s tenure is likely to emphasize governance reforms, investment promotion, and socio-economic development. His assumption of office represents both political continuity within the BNP framework and a new phase in Bangladesh’s evolving democratic trajectory.
4. In which state has the Chief Minister Gramothan Yojana been launched?
Answer : Gujarat
The Chief Minister Gramothan Yojana has been launched in the state of Gujarat as a comprehensive rural development initiative aimed at strengthening infrastructure and improving the quality of life in villages. The scheme reflects the state government’s commitment to balanced regional growth by focusing on the holistic development of rural areas.
Under this initiative, priority is given to upgrading basic infrastructure such as roads, drinking water supply, sanitation facilities, community halls, street lighting, and other essential civic amenities. The scheme also seeks to promote sustainable development practices and enhance local economic opportunities through better connectivity and improved public services.
The Gramothan Yojana is designed to ensure inclusive growth by addressing gaps in rural infrastructure and empowering local governance institutions. By allocating targeted financial resources and encouraging community participation, the programme aims to transform villages into self-reliant and well-equipped units that contribute significantly to the state’s overall development.
Through the Chief Minister Gramothan Yojana, Gujarat continues to reinforce its focus on rural transformation, infrastructure modernization, and socio-economic upliftment at the grassroots level.
5. The national biobank for LSD is mainly associated with what?
Answer : Genetic Mutation
The National Biobank for Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSD) is primarily associated with the study of genetic mutations that cause these rare inherited metabolic conditions. Lysosomal Storage Disorders are a group of genetic diseases resulting from defects in lysosomal enzymes, leading to the accumulation of undigested molecules within cells. This accumulation disrupts normal cellular function and can affect multiple organs, including the brain, liver, heart, and skeletal system.
The biobank serves as a centralized repository for biological samples such as blood, DNA, plasma, and tissue specimens collected from affected individuals and their families. By preserving and cataloguing these samples, the facility supports advanced research into the molecular and genetic basis of LSDs. The identification of specific gene mutations helps in accurate diagnosis, carrier detection, genetic counseling, and the development of targeted therapies.
In addition to facilitating research, the national biobank plays a crucial role in strengthening early screening programs and promoting personalized medicine approaches. It provides valuable data that can guide clinicians in understanding disease progression and improving treatment outcomes, including enzyme replacement therapy and emerging gene-based interventions.
Overall, the National Biobank for LSD represents a significant step toward enhancing rare disease research infrastructure, fostering scientific collaboration, and improving patient care through a deeper understanding of genetic mutations underlying these complex disorders.
6. Where is the headquarters of CTF-154 located?
Answer : Bahrain
The headquarters of Combined Task Force 154 (CTF-154) is located in Bahrain, operating under the broader framework of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF). Bahrain serves as the central hub for CMF operations, providing strategic oversight and coordination for multiple task forces working to ensure maritime security in key international waterways.
CTF-154 focuses primarily on maritime security operations, particularly in safeguarding commercial shipping lanes and countering illicit activities such as arms smuggling and trafficking. Its mandate contributes to maintaining stability in vital sea routes across the Middle East region, including areas of high strategic importance for global trade and energy transportation.
As part of a multinational naval collaboration, CTF-154 brings together personnel and assets from participating member nations. The task force enhances interoperability, intelligence sharing, and coordinated patrol efforts. Its presence in Bahrain underscores the country’s importance as a regional maritime security center and reflects the broader commitment of CMF member states to ensuring freedom of navigation and regional stability.
7. Which state/UT announced the resumption of the Tulbul Project?
Answer : Jammu and Kashmir
The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has announced the resumption of the Tulbul Navigation Project, a long-pending water infrastructure initiative located on the Jhelum River near Wular Lake.
Originally conceived in the 1980s, the Tulbul Project aims to regulate the flow of the Jhelum River to improve inland navigation and ensure better water management during lean seasons. The project involves the construction of a control structure designed to maintain a minimum draught in the river, facilitating the movement of boats and enhancing connectivity in the region. Additionally, it is expected to support irrigation, strengthen flood control measures, and improve overall water resource utilization.
The project had remained suspended for several decades due to objections raised by Pakistan under the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan. The renewed announcement signals the administration’s intent to revive infrastructure development while adhering to treaty obligations and addressing regional needs.
The resumption of the Tulbul Project is viewed as a strategic step toward enhancing economic activity, boosting tourism, and improving water management systems in Jammu and Kashmir, thereby contributing to sustainable regional development.
8. Which organization launched the Arctic Sentry mission?
Answer : NATO
The Arctic Sentry Mission was launched by the NATO as part of its broader strategy to strengthen security and strategic presence in the Arctic region. The initiative reflects NATO’s growing focus on the High North, an area of increasing geopolitical importance due to climate change, emerging sea routes, and expanding military activity.
The Arctic Sentry mission aims to enhance surveillance, improve interoperability among allied forces, and ensure readiness in extreme weather conditions. As melting ice opens new maritime passages and access to natural resources, the Arctic has become a critical arena for strategic competition. NATO’s mission underscores its commitment to safeguarding freedom of navigation, protecting member states’ interests, and maintaining regional stability.
The operation involves coordinated exercises, intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and joint training activities among member countries with Arctic proximity. It also emphasizes environmental awareness and sustainable operational practices in the fragile Arctic ecosystem.
Through the Arctic Sentry mission, NATO seeks to reinforce collective defense principles while adapting to evolving security challenges in one of the world’s most sensitive and strategically vital regions.